Chainguard vs Semgrep
Which for Cyber Defense AI tool is better in 2026?
Chainguard
Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains
Semgrep
Autonomous code security and static analysis for developers
Side-by-side
Chainguard is the more established option (raised $256M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Chainguard | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains | Autonomous code security and static analysis for developers |
| Foundedi | 2021 | 2017🏆 |
| HQi | Kirkland, United States | San Francisco, United States |
| Employeesi | — | — |
| Neuron scorei | 75 | 75 |
| Total fundingi | $256M🏆 | $204M |
| Latest roundi | Series C · Jul 2024 | Series D · Feb 2025 |
| Valuationi | $1.1B🏆 | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Free plani | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free triali | ✓ | ✓ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | Free | Free |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Chainguard and Semgrep.
| Capability | Chainguard | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✓ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✓ | ✓ |
| SDK languages | — | 1 (Python) |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✓ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Chainguard
- Has raised more capital ($256M vs $204M)
- Newer company (2021)
🔵 Strengths of Semgrep
- More mature (2017)
Which should you choose?
Choose Semgrep if price matters most — it starts at Free, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI for Cyber Defense tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Chainguard if you want the most established option — it has raised $256M, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Frequently asked questions
Chainguard vs Semgrep — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Chainguard has raised more capital and is the more established option; Semgrep has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Chainguard cheaper than Semgrep?
No — Semgrep's cheapest paid plan is Free, while Chainguard's is Free.
Do Chainguard and Semgrep offer free plans?
Chainguard: Yes, has a free plan. Semgrep: Yes, has a free plan.
Explore more AI for Cyber Defense tools
Contextual paths to related AI startups, deals and rankings.