Lacework vs Semgrep
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Lacework and Semgrep are credible application security tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Lacework — Cloud security and CNAPP.
Choose Semgrep if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $40/mo), a free plan to start on and a higher overall rating (4.6/5). Fast static analysis (SAST).
Lacework vs Semgrep: side by side
| Dimension | Lacework | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Custom | Free – $40/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Cloud Security Teams | Developers, Appsec Teams |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Web, Self Hosted, Api |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.6/5Winner |
Lacework key facts
- Vendor
- Fortinet
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Cloud Security Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2015
- Headquarters
- San Jose, CA, USA
Semgrep key facts
- Vendor
- Semgrep
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $40/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Self Hosted, Api
- Best for
- Developers, Appsec Teams
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2017
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Lacework better than Semgrep?
Neither is universally better — Semgrep edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Lacework or Semgrep cheaper?
Semgrep is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $40/mo. Lacework starts at custom; Semgrep starts at free – $40/mo.
Can Lacework replace Semgrep?
Yes for most teams — both are application security tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.