Side by side
KubeLinter vs PolicyForge
Both stand on infrastructure policy as code tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Choose KubeLinter if you want configurable checks for Kubernetes manifests and findings that can be used in CI. Consider the documented possibility of changes to commands, flags, and configuration formats when building workflows around it.
Visit KubeLinterPick PolicyForge when you need an open scanner for several infrastructure-as-code formats, custom Rego rules, supply-chain outputs, and CI/CD reporting. Plan for a local Helm installation when scanning charts, and assess the portal's unresolved questions before relying on it for enterprise governance.
Visit PolicyForgeThe facts
| KubeLinter | PolicyForge | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted | Linux, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | docs.kubelinter.io | github.com |
| On infrastructure policy as code tools | #11 of 25 | #15 of 25 |
KubeLinter: what it does well
- Checks Kubernetes YAML, Helm, and Kustomize inputs.
- Default checks cover non-root containers and least privilege.
- Custom checks can reflect organizational policies.
- Outputs plain text, JSON, and SARIF.
- Failed checks include remediation advice and a non-zero exit code.
What to know first
- Command usage, flags, and configuration formats may change.
- Runs on Linux and macOS, or as self-hosted software.
PolicyForge: what it does well
- Open-source Apache 2.0 core
- Supports Terraform, Bicep, Kubernetes, and Helm
- Offline scans with embedded OPA evaluation
- Add Rego rules without rebuilding
- Generates an SBOM on every scan
What to know first
- Helm charts require locally installed Helm
- Azure drift checks cover only understood resources and attributes
- Portal retention, attestation verification, and real multi-tenancy remain unresolved
Alternatives to KubeLinter Alternatives to PolicyForge The whole list