Akeyless vs Azure Key Vault -- Secrets Management Compared

Akeyless vs Azure Key Vault

Azure Key Vault is the best choice for Microsoft-centric organizations, offering HSM-backed security and deep Active Directory integration. Akeyless offers cloud-agnostic support and a simpler onboarding experience.

The Verdict

Choose Azure Key Vault if you're invested in the Microsoft ecosystem and need HSM-backed key management with Azure AD integration. Choose Akeyless if you need multi-cloud support or a simpler onboarding experience.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

FeatureAzure Key VaultAkeyless
Cloud IntegrationDeep Azure-nativeMulti-cloud via gateways
Pricing$0.03/10k opsCustom pricing
Key ManagementHSM-backed with BYOKDFC encryption
IdentityAzure AD / Entra IDMulti-provider SAML/OIDC
CertificatesFull lifecycle managementCertificate management
Multi-CloudAzure onlyAWS, Azure, GCP
Secure Remote AccessNot availableBuilt-in SSH/RDP
Setup ComplexityMedium (Azure knowledge required)Low — SaaS onboarding

When to Choose Each Tool

Choose Azure Key Vault when:

  • +You're a Microsoft and Azure-centric organization
  • +You need HSM-backed key storage and management
  • +You want deep Active Directory integration
  • +You need certificate lifecycle management
  • +You prefer per-operation pricing model

Choose Akeyless when:

  • +You use multiple cloud providers beyond Azure
  • +You want a simpler permission model
  • +You need built-in secure remote access
  • +You prefer zero-knowledge encryption over HSM
  • +You want faster onboarding and simpler UI

Pros & Cons Comparison

Azure Key Vault

Pros

  • +Deep Azure and Microsoft 365 integration
  • +HSM-backed security
  • +Low cost for secrets operations
  • +Strong compliance certifications

Cons

  • Azure lock-in
  • Complex permission model
  • Limited multi-cloud support
  • UI can be confusing

Akeyless

Pros

  • +Zero-knowledge SaaS architecture
  • +No infrastructure to manage
  • +Built-in secure remote access
  • +Fast time-to-value and easy onboarding
  • +Multi-cloud out of the box

Cons

  • Proprietary and closed-source
  • Custom pricing lacks transparency
  • Smaller community than open-source tools
  • Vendor lock-in with proprietary DFC
  • Fewer third-party integrations than Vault

Akeyless vs Azure Key Vault FAQ

Common questions about choosing between Akeyless and Azure Key Vault.

What is the main difference between Akeyless and Azure Key Vault?

Azure Key Vault is the best choice for Microsoft-centric organizations, offering HSM-backed security and deep Active Directory integration. Akeyless offers cloud-agnostic support and a simpler onboarding experience.

Is Azure Key Vault better than Akeyless?

Choose Azure Key Vault if you're invested in the Microsoft ecosystem and need HSM-backed key management with Azure AD integration. Choose Akeyless if you need multi-cloud support or a simpler onboarding experience.

How much does Azure Key Vault cost compared to Akeyless?

Azure Key Vault pricing: Secrets: $0.03/10k operations / Keys: from $1/key/month. Akeyless pricing: Custom pricing / Free community tier. Azure Key Vault's pricing model is per-operation, while Akeyless uses custom enterprise pricing.

Can I migrate from Akeyless to Azure Key Vault?

Yes, you can migrate from Akeyless to Azure Key Vault. The migration process depends on your specific setup and the features you use. Both platforms offer APIs that can facilitate automated migration. Consider running both tools in parallel during the transition to ensure zero downtime.

Related Comparisons & Guides