UpGuard vs Socket: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between UpGuard and Socket comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
UpGuard
The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.
Best for you if:
- • Provides unified cyber risk management across vendors, attack surface, workforce, and trust.
- • Leverages AI for continuous monitoring, rapid assessments, and automated remediation.
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Secures software supply chains by detecting malicious and vulnerable dependencies.
- • Uses AI and reachability analysis to reduce false positives and prioritize real risks.
| At a Glance |  UpGuard |  Socket |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | —/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | UpGuard | Socket |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring | Vulnerability ScanningSecurity Monitoring |
How UpGuard and Socket Compare
UpGuard
The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.
Free tier available
Socket
Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence.
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: UpGuard
Want the highest-rated option?
Socket scores 89/100. UpGuard is unrated.
Go with: Socket
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Socket
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are vulnerability scanning tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Socket
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
UpGuard
The Bottom Line
Socket (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UpGuard or Socket better?
Socket scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are UpGuard and Socket used for?
UpGuard: The #1 Cyber Risk Posture Management Software Platform for comprehensive risk clarity.. Socket: Secure your dependencies and ship with confidence..
What does UpGuard cost vs Socket?
UpGuard is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Socket is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.