Zitadel vs Hanko: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zitadel and Hanko 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:
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • Zitadel is an open-source identity management platform
- • It provides authentication, authorization, and user management
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Best for you if:
- • Hanko is an open-source authentication solution with passkey support
- • It provides passwordless login using WebAuthn with drop-in authentication UI
| At a Glance |  Zitadel |  Hanko |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Zitadel | Hanko |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsHosting & Deployment | API ToolsPassword Managers |
How Zitadel and Hanko Compare
Zitadel
Open-source identity management
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Hanko
Open-source authentication with passkeys
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zitadel
Want the highest-rated option?
Zitadel: 82/100. Hanko: 80/100.
Go with: Zitadel
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zitadel
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 api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Zitadel scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Zitadel
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Hanko
The Bottom Line
Zitadel (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zitadel or Hanko better?
Zitadel scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Zitadel and Hanko used for?
Zitadel: Open-source identity management. Hanko: Open-source authentication with passkeys.
What does Zitadel cost vs Hanko?
Zitadel is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hanko is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.