Chainguard vs TENEX.AI
Which for Cyber Defense AI tool is better in 2026?
Chainguard
Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains
TENEX.AI
AI-native, human-led managed detection and response
Side-by-side
Chainguard is the more established option (raised $256M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Chainguard | TENEX.AI |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains | AI-native, human-led managed detection and response |
| Foundedi | 2021🏆 | 2024 |
| HQi | Kirkland, United States | Sarasota, United States |
| Employeesi | — | — |
| Neuron scorei | 75🏆 | 70 |
| Total fundingi | $256M🏆 | $27M |
| Latest roundi | Series C · Jul 2024 | Series A · Jan 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 | Managed service subscription (contact sales) |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Chainguard and TENEX.AI.
| Capability | Chainguard | TENEX.AI |
|---|---|---|
| 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 $27M)
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 70)
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
🔵 Strengths of TENEX.AI
- Newer company (2024)
Which should you choose?
Choose TENEX.AI if price matters most — it starts at Managed service subscription (contact sales), 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 TENEX.AI — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Chainguard has raised more capital and is the more established option; TENEX.AI has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Chainguard cheaper than TENEX.AI?
No — TENEX.AI's cheapest paid plan is Managed service subscription (contact sales), while Chainguard's is Free.
Do Chainguard and TENEX.AI offer free plans?
Chainguard: Yes, has a free plan. TENEX.AI: Paid only.
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