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Best Microsoft Entra ID alternatives in 2026

Looking for an alternative to Microsoft Entra ID? Whether you've outgrown it, find the pricing steep, or just want to weigh your options, these are the strongest authentication & identity alternatives in 2026 — ranked on pricing, features, and who each one fits best. Microsoft Entra ID itself has a free tier, so we've flagged where each option is cheaper, simpler, or more specialized.

  1. 1
    Duo Security
    Best for: smb

    Multi-factor authentication and device trust A popular authentication alternative to Microsoft Entra ID with a genuinely usable free tier — free – $3/user/mo. Particularly strong for smb.

  2. 2
    Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
    Best for: enterprise

    If Microsoft Entra ID feels like overkill or over-budget, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a leaner option. Enterprise endpoint detection and response Pricing: from $5.50/user/mo.

  3. 3
    Delinea
    Best for: smb

    Delinea goes head-to-head with Microsoft Entra ID on features. Privileged access management made seamless Best suited to smb. Custom.

  4. 4
    CyberArk
    Best for: enterprise

    A well-rated authentication pick. Identity security and privileged access management CyberArk starts at custom, making it a credible Microsoft Entra ID replacement.

  5. 5
    Ping Identity
    Best for: enterprise

    Enterprise identity and access management A popular authentication alternative to Microsoft Entra ID — custom. Particularly strong for enterprise.

  6. 6
    BeyondTrust
    Best for: enterprise

    If Microsoft Entra ID feels like overkill or over-budget, BeyondTrust is a leaner option. Privileged access and remote support security Pricing: custom.

  7. 7
    SailPoint
    Best for: enterprise

    SailPoint goes head-to-head with Microsoft Entra ID on features. Identity security platform for the enterprise Best suited to enterprise. Custom.

  8. 8
    RSA SecurID
    Best for: enterprise

    A well-rated authentication pick. Hardware and software MFA for the enterprise RSA SecurID starts at custom, making it a credible Microsoft Entra ID replacement.

Still considering Microsoft Entra ID itself? Read our Microsoft Entra ID review →

Frequently asked questions

What is the best Microsoft Entra ID alternative?

Duo Security is our top-rated Microsoft Entra ID alternative for 2026. Multi-factor authentication and device trust Free – $3/user/mo.

Is there a free Microsoft Entra ID alternative?

Yes — Duo Security offers a free tier you can start on without a credit card.

Why switch from Microsoft Entra ID?

Common reasons are price, a simpler feature set, better fit for a specific use case, or platform support. Each tool above notes where it has an edge over Microsoft Entra ID.