Chainguard vs Torq
Which for Cyber Defense AI tool is better in 2026?
Chainguard
Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains
Torq
Agentic AI platform for the autonomous SOC
Side-by-side
Torq is the more established option (raised $332M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Chainguard | Torq |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | Secure, minimal container images for software and AI supply chains | Agentic AI platform for the autonomous SOC |
| Foundedi | 2021 | 2020🏆 |
| HQi | Kirkland, United States | Portland, US |
| Employeesi | — | 201-500🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 75🏆 | 64 |
| Total fundingi | $256M | $332M🏆 |
| Latest roundi | Series C · Jul 2024 | Series D · Jan 2026 |
| Valuationi | $1.1B | $1.2B🏆 |
| 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 Torq.
| Capability | Chainguard | Torq |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✓ | ✓ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✓ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✗ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Chainguard
- Higher Neuron score (75 vs 64)
- Offers a free plan
- Offers a free trial
- Newer company (2021)
🔵 Strengths of Torq
- Has raised more capital ($332M vs $256M)
- More mature (2020)
Which should you choose?
Choose Torq if price matters most — it starts at Enterprise · 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 Torq if you want the most established option — it has raised $332M, 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 Torq — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Chainguard is the leaner option; Torq has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Chainguard cheaper than Torq?
No — Torq's cheapest paid plan is Enterprise · Contact sales, while Chainguard's is Free.
Do Chainguard and Torq offer free plans?
Chainguard: Yes, has a free plan. Torq: Paid only.
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