Chainguard vs Chalk
Which Infrastructure AI tool is better in 2026?
Chainguard
Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains
Chalk
AI data platform delivering real-time context for models and agents
Side-by-side
Chainguard is the more established option (raised $256M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Chainguard | Chalk |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains | AI data platform delivering real-time context for models and agents |
| Foundedi | 2021🏆 | 2022 |
| HQi | Kirkland, United States | San Francisco, US |
| Employeesi | — | 11-50🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 75🏆 | 55 |
| Total fundingi | $256M🏆 | $60M |
| Latest roundi | Series C · Jul 2024 | Series A · May 2025 |
| Valuationi | $1.1B🏆 | $500M |
| 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 | Enterprise · Contact sales |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Chainguard and Chalk.
| Capability | Chainguard | Chalk |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✓ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Chainguard
- Has raised more capital ($256M vs $60M)
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 55)
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
🔵 Strengths of Chalk
- Newer company (2022)
Which should you choose?
Choose Chalk if price matters most — it starts at Enterprise · Contact sales, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Infrastructure 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 Chalk — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Chainguard has raised more capital and is the more established option; Chalk has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Chainguard cheaper than Chalk?
No — Chalk's cheapest paid plan is Enterprise · Contact sales, while Chainguard's is Free.
Do Chainguard and Chalk offer free plans?
Chainguard: Yes, has a free plan. Chalk: Paid only.
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