Rownd vs. Auth0: Redefining Authentication for Modern Teams

Auth0 has been a trusted choice for authentication, especially for businesses looking to implement login flows with minimal development effort. However, as companies scale, Auth0’s limitations in flexibility, user experience, and pricing often become roadblocks. With its mobile-first design, advanced authentication features, and a fully customizable platform, Rownd offers a compelling alternative for modern businesses. In this comparison, we’ll explore why Rownd is better suited for teams looking for scalability, adaptability, and hands-on support.

1. Customization & User Interface
Auth0 relies on its “Universal Login” system, a hosted authentication page that requires users to be redirected away from your website or app. While it provides basic customization options, this redirect-based flow can hurt user conversion rates and limit control over the user experience. Additionally, making updates often requires significant developer input.

In contrast, Rownd eliminates redirects entirely, empowering teams to own their login pages with its SDKs (JavaScript, React Native, iOS, etc.) and out-of-the-box UI components. Product and design teams can customize and iterate on authentication flows through Rownd’s self-service platform—no additional coding required. This flexibility allows for quick updates and tailored user experiences that align perfectly with your brand.

2. User Profiles & Data Gathering
Auth0 lacks built-in tools for self-service data gathering or user profiles, leaving teams to build and maintain these features themselves. This requires additional development time and can result in inconsistent user experiences.

Rownd delivers fully functional user profiles that allow users to manage their authentication methods, update their data, or even delete their accounts—all within an intuitive, branded interface. With built-in automations, Rownd helps you collect and manage user data over time, enabling deeper connections with your users while reducing the development burden on your team.

3. Gradual Onboarding & Conversion
Auth0 treats onboarding as a static process: users are either fully onboarded or they’re not. This rigid model can leave opportunities on the table when it comes to gradually introducing users to your app’s features and value.

Rownd takes a progressive approach to onboarding. Instant users are created immediately, and self-service tools guide them to complete their profiles over time as they find more value in your app. This approach has been proven to boost user conversion rates by 2x to 10x compared to traditional methods. For example, companies like Cosmily saw a 102% improvement in conversions after switching to Rownd.

4. Approach to Modern Authentication
Auth0’s roots are in traditional password-based authentication, with modern methods like passwordless authentication and MFA treated as optional add-ons. This outdated approach can create friction for users and slow down your ability to adopt newer technologies.

Rownd, on the other hand, was built with a passwordless future in mind. It prioritizes native biometrics, email magic links, and cutting-edge standards like FIDO2 and Web3 authentication. This forward-thinking design ensures your authentication flow is secure, seamless, and always aligned with user expectations.

5. Pricing
Auth0 offers a free tier for small projects but imposes a strict enterprise threshold of just 10,000 MAUs. Exceeding this limit often forces businesses into a $30K+ annual contract with little room for negotiation. This pricing model can penalize growth and make scaling expensive.

Rownd’s pricing, in contrast, is straightforward and transparent. While Rownd doesn’t offer a free tier, its predictable pricing grows with your business and avoids punishing success. Most customers see a return on investment within two months, thanks to Rownd’s ability to significantly improve user conversion rates.

6. Migration from Auth0 to Rownd
Switching from Auth0 to Rownd is simpler than you might think. Rownd offers detailed step-by-step guidance to ensure a seamless migration, including tools to migrate user data and keep users signed in throughout the process. With Rownd’s SDKs and expert support, you can transition without disrupting your users or your workflows.

Conclusion:
While Auth0 may work well for companies starting with basic login flows, Rownd provides the flexibility, scalability, and advanced features needed for modern businesses to thrive. From eliminating redirects to enabling passwordless authentication, Rownd offers a better, more user-centric approach to authentication.

Ready to make the switch?
Learn more about migrating from Auth0 to Rownd by visiting our Migration Documentation.