Knostic vs Semgrep
Which for Cyber Defense AI tool is better in 2026?
Knostic
Need-to-know access controls and security for enterprise AI
Semgrep
Autonomous code security and static analysis for developers
Side-by-side
Semgrep is the more established option (raised $204M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Knostic | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Need-to-know access controls and security for enterprise AI | Autonomous code security and static analysis for developers |
| Foundedi | 2023 | 2017🏆 |
| HQi | New York, US | San Francisco, United States |
| Employeesi | 11-50🏆 | — |
| Neuron scorei | 53 | 75🏆 |
| Total fundingi | $14M | $204M🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Series A · Apr 2025 | Series D · Feb 2025 |
| Valuationi | — | — |
| 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 Knostic and Semgrep.
| Capability | Knostic | Semgrep |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✓ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✓ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✓ |
| SDK languages | — | 1 (Python) |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✓ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Knostic
- Newer company (2023)
🔵 Strengths of Semgrep
- Has raised more capital ($204M vs $14M)
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 53)
- 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 Semgrep if you want the most established option — it has raised $204M, 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
Knostic vs Semgrep — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Knostic is the leaner option; Semgrep has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Knostic cheaper than Semgrep?
No — Semgrep's cheapest paid plan is Free, while Knostic's is Free.
Do Knostic and Semgrep offer free plans?
Knostic: 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.