What is a api gateway?

A server that acts as a single entry point for a group of backend services. It handles tasks like request routing, authentication, rate limiting, and logging, abstracting these concerns away from the individual services.

Who uses one?

Engineering teams and platform architects building, securing, and monitoring APIs

What does it cost?

Pricing varies. The cheapest provider in our Top 11 starts around $—/mo. See the cheapest providers ranked.

How do I pick one?

Read the full methodology for our 9.4-point scoring framework, then look at the canonical The 11 Best API Management Tools and Platforms (2026). If you want a slice of the ranking by price, fit, or compliance, jump to: cheapest · highest-rated · fastest onboarding.

Source: Top 11 The 11 Best API Management Tools and Platforms (2026), verified June 29, 2026.