Auth.js vs Clerk

Auth.js and Clerk are both auth tools. Auth.js: Framework-agnostic auth library formerly NextAuth.js supporting 80+ providers Clerk: Drop-in authentication with pre-built UI components optimized for React and Next.js

Auth.js

Framework-agnostic auth library formerly NextAuth.js supporting 80+ providers

Category: Auth
Subcategory: Auth Library
Pricing: Open Source
Tier: open-source

authauth libraryide

Full profile Visit site →

Clerk

Drop-in authentication with pre-built UI components optimized for React and Next.js

Category: Auth
Subcategory: Auth Provider
Pricing: Free (10K MAU) / Pro $25/mo
Tier: free

authauth provider

Full profile Visit site →

Key differences

Dimension	Auth.js	Clerk
Pricing Model	Open Source (open-source)	Free (10K MAU) / Pro $25/mo (free)
Platform	Auth Library	Auth Provider
Capabilities	auth library, ide	auth provider

Choose Auth.js if...

Auth.js fits your specific workflow and team preferences

Choose Clerk if...

Clerk fits your specific workflow and team preferences

Trade-offs at a glance

Derived from each tool's pricing tier, category, and tags.

Auth.js

Pros

Lower pricing barrier for trying it early.
Fits directly into coding workflows inside an editor.
Open-source footprint can improve flexibility and control.

Clerk

Pros

Lower pricing barrier for trying it early.

Frequently asked questions

Is Auth.js or Clerk better for beginners?: Both tools are accessible. Auth.js and Clerk are similar in approachability — try both and see which workflow clicks.
Which is cheaper, Auth.js or Clerk?: Auth.js (Open Source) is the more affordable option. Clerk (Free (10K MAU) / Pro $25/mo) costs more but may offer additional features.
Can I use Auth.js and Clerk together?: Auth.js and Clerk serve similar roles, so most teams pick one. However, some developers prototype in one and build production code in the other.