Semgrep vs Checkmarx: Head-to-Head Comparison

Quick Verdict

Semgrep is the better pick for security teams writing custom rules. Checkmarx is the better pick for large enterprises with compliance needs.

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At a Glance

Feature	Semgrep	Checkmarx
Best For	Security teams writing custom rules	Large enterprises with compliance needs
Pricing	Free tier with paid plans	Custom enterprise pricing
Free to Start	Yes	No
License	Open-core	Proprietary
Deployment	Self-hosted or managed cloud	Self-hosted or managed cloud
Link	Visit Semgrep	Visit Checkmarx

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Detailed Breakdown

Semgrep

Fast, rule-based static analysis

Pros:

• Easy custom rules
• Fast scans
• Supply chain and secrets scanning

Cons:

• Advanced features in the paid platform
• Rule tuning needed

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Checkmarx

Enterprise application security testing

Pros:

• Broad SAST and SCA coverage
• Enterprise reporting
• Compliance features

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slower scans

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Key Differences

• Positioning: Semgrep — fast, rule-based static analysis. Checkmarx — enterprise application security testing.
• Licensing differs: Semgrep is open-core while Checkmarx is proprietary.
• Semgrep can be started for free, while Checkmarx requires a paid plan. Checkmarx pricing: custom enterprise pricing.
• Signature strength: Semgrep — easy custom rules. Checkmarx — broad SAST and SCA coverage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Semgrep better than Checkmarx?

It depends on your requirements. Semgrep is a strong fit for security teams writing custom rules, while Checkmarx suits large enterprises with compliance needs.

Is Semgrep free to use?

Yes, you can start with Semgrep for free. Pricing model: Free tier with paid plans.

Is Checkmarx free to use?

Checkmarx does not have a permanent free plan. Pricing model: Custom enterprise pricing.

Can I self-host Semgrep or Checkmarx?

Semgrep can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud. Checkmarx can be self-hosted. Deployment options: self-hosted or managed cloud.

What are the main drawbacks of Semgrep and Checkmarx?

Semgrep: advanced features in the paid platform; rule tuning needed. Checkmarx: expensive; slower scans.