Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to WorkOS · 🔐 security
WorkOS 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 WorkOS ($6/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Permify is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for WorkOS. Switching from WorkOS ($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
WorkOS vs Permify Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | WorkOS (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 WorkOS 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 WorkOS clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for WorkOS or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 11 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Hanko.
WorkOS vs Permify FAQ
Is Permify a good free alternative to WorkOS?+
Yes. Permify is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for WorkOS. 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 WorkOS to Permify?+
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
How much do you save switching from WorkOS to Permify?+
WorkOS 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 WorkOS?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/permify/permify or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
