Which is cheaper, Ory or Stack Auth?

Stack Auth is 1.4x cheaper than Ory. Ory starts at $0/mo, Stack Auth starts at $0/mo.

Does Ory have a free tier?

Yes, Ory offers a free tier with .

Ory has moderate switching cost. Stack Auth has drop-in switching cost. Stack Auth is easier to switch away from.

Auth

Ory

Open-source identity and auth infrastructure with aDAU-based pricing

Switching Cost: moderate

Stack Auth

← More affordable

Open-source Auth0/Clerk alternative with managed hosting or free self-hosting, built for Next.js

Switching Cost: drop-in

You're paying a premium for Ory — expect around a 1.4x higher bill compared to Stack Auth.

Pricing philosophy differs — Ory charges hybrid, but Stack Auth takes a per-seat approach.

{winner} wins on flexibility — easier switching means less lock-in and more options for your long-term strategy.

{winner} wins on flexibility — easier switching means less lock-in and more options for your long-term strategy.

Price Difference

1.4x

Stack Auth is cheaper by $21/mo

Pricing Model

Different

Tools charge using different pricing philosophies

Switching Costs

Stack Auth

Lower switching costs for easier migration