Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to AWS Cognito · 🔐 security
AWS Cognito vs Permify
Open-source authorization service for implementing fine-grained access controls. Centralized, scalable solution supporting RBAC, ABAC and ReBAC with Google Zanzibar-inspired architecture. Here is how Permify ($0/mo open source) stacks up against AWS Cognito ($6/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Permify is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for AWS Cognito. Switching from AWS Cognito ($6/mo) saves $72/yr per solo seat, or $360/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Local.
The catch: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Permify
$0.00/mo · Open Source
AWS Cognito vs Permify Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | AWS Cognito (Paid) | Permify (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $6 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $72 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $72) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $360 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $360) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $720 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $720) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Local (on your machine) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | desktopcross-platformone-click install |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 6k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from AWS Cognito to Permify
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
How to deploy Permify
Clone https://github.com/permify/permify or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
Where your data lives
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
Why fork Permify instead of vibe-coding a AWS Cognito clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for AWS Cognito or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 12 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Hanko.
AWS Cognito vs Permify FAQ
Is Permify a good free alternative to AWS Cognito?+
Yes. Permify is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for AWS Cognito. Open-source authorization service for implementing fine-grained access controls. Centralized, scalable solution supporting RBAC, ABAC and ReBAC with Google Zanzibar-inspired architecture.
What is the catch when switching from AWS Cognito to Permify?+
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
How much do you save switching from AWS Cognito to Permify?+
AWS Cognito costs $6/mo ($72/yr) per seat, whereas Permify is $0/mo. Switching saves $72/yr for a solo user, $360/yr for a 5-person team, and $720/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Permify instead of AWS Cognito?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/permify/permify or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
