Top 10 Security Orchestration Automation & Response (SOAR): Features, Pros, Cons & Comparison

Introduction

Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) refers to a stack of compatible software programs that allow an organization to collect data about security threats and respond to low-level security events without human assistance. The primary goal is to improve the efficiency of physical and digital security operations. SOAR platforms act as the “connective tissue” of a security stack, pulling together inputs from SIEMs, firewalls, endpoint protection tools, and threat intelligence feeds.

The importance of SOAR lies in its ability to mitigate “alert fatigue.” By automating the triage and remediation of routine incidents—such as phishing emails or failed login attempts—SOAR allows human analysts to focus their intellectual energy on complex, high-stakes investigations. Key real-world use cases include automated indicator enrichment, vulnerability management orchestration, and rapid incident containment (e.g., automatically isolating a compromised host).

When evaluating SOAR tools, users should look for Integration Breadth (how many third-party tools it supports), Playbook Flexibility (how easily you can build and edit workflows), Case Management (how well it tracks incidents), and Threat Intelligence Integration (how it pulls in external data).

Best for: Large enterprises with a complex security stack, Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) handling multiple clients, and highly regulated industries like finance and healthcare that require strict audit trails and rapid response times.

Not ideal for: Small businesses with minimal security tooling or teams that lack the internal bandwidth to build and maintain automation playbooks. In such cases, a Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service might be a more efficient alternative.

Top 10 Security Orchestration Automation & Response (SOAR) Tools

1 — Palo Alto Networks Cortex XSOAR

Cortex XSOAR is often cited as the market leader in the SOAR space. It evolved from the acquisition of Demisto and has since integrated advanced threat intelligence management directly into its orchestration engine. It is designed for high-end SOCs that need a collaborative “war room” environment and deep automation.

• Key features:
  • Collaborative War Room for real-time investigation and chat-based operations.
  • Over 900+ out-of-the-box integrations with a vast community marketplace.
  • Integrated Threat Intelligence Management (TIM) for scoring and managing indicators.
  • Machine learning-assisted playbooks that suggest next steps to analysts.
  • Unified case management with a highly customizable dashboard.
  • Native “Remote Controller” for managing security across distributed networks.
• Pros:
  • Unrivaled community support and a massive library of pre-built playbooks.
  • The collaborative investigation features significantly reduce the time to resolve complex incidents.
• Cons:
  • Licensing and pricing are at the premium end of the spectrum.
  • Steep learning curve for teams not familiar with advanced Python-based automation.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, and FIPS 140-2.
• Support & community: Extensive documentation, dedicated customer success managers, and a very active community marketplace.

2 — Splunk SOAR (formerly Phantom)

Splunk SOAR is a powerhouse in the data-driven security world. Designed to work seamlessly with Splunk SIEM, it focuses on “automation first,” helping teams execute thousands of actions per minute to neutralize threats at scale.

• Key features:
  • Visual Playbook Editor (VPE) that allows for drag-and-drop automation building.
  • Multi-tenancy support, making it a favorite for MSSPs.
  • Advanced case management with task-oriented workbooks for analysts.
  • Mobile app support for managing incidents on the go.
  • “On-poll” and “Action-run” triggers for real-time data ingestion and response.
  • Support for Python 3 for high-level custom scripting.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional performance in high-volume environments where speed is critical.
  • Deep, native integration with the Splunk ecosystem provides a seamless “detect-to-respond” loop.
• Cons:
  • Can be complex to set up if you are not already a Splunk user.
  • Documentation for advanced custom integrations can sometimes be sparse.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS.
• Support & community: Backed by Splunk’s global enterprise support and a large user base (Splunk Answers).

3 — Microsoft Sentinel (SOAR capabilities)

Microsoft Sentinel is a cloud-native SIEM + SOAR platform. While it is a full SIEM, its SOAR capabilities—built on Azure Logic Apps—allow users to create highly scalable automated workflows across both Microsoft and third-party environments.

• Key features:
  • Playbooks built on Azure Logic Apps, providing a massive library of connectors.
  • Automation Rules for simplified triage and incident assignment.
  • Native integration with Microsoft 365, Azure, and Microsoft Defender.
  • Kusto Query Language (KQL) for deep data analysis during investigations.
  • Watchlists for tracking high-value assets and users.
  • Integrated threat hunting using Jupyter Notebooks.
• Pros:
  • Incredibly easy to deploy for organizations already using Azure.
  • The “pay-as-you-go” pricing model can be very cost-effective for smaller initial deployments.
• Cons:
  • High dependency on the Azure ecosystem can lead to vendor lock-in.
  • KQL has a steep learning curve for analysts used to standard SQL or SPL.
• Security & compliance: FedRAMP, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and SOC 1/2/3.
• Support & community: Benefit from the vast Microsoft developer community and comprehensive Azure documentation.

4 — IBM Security QRadar SOAR

Formerly known as Resilient, IBM’s SOAR platform is built around the philosophy of “Guided Response.” It excels in helping analysts follow strict regulatory frameworks and organization-specific incident response plans.

• Key features:
  • Dynamic Playbooks that adapt in real-time as new information is uncovered.
  • Privacy Module that tracks over 180 global privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA, etc.).
  • Red Dot award-winning user interface designed for analyst efficiency.
  • Integrated “Breach Response” simulation and preparation tools.
  • Advanced task management that keeps teams aligned during long investigations.
  • Robust reporting for executive-level compliance reviews.
• Pros:
  • Best-in-class for regulated industries that need to prove “by-the-book” responses to auditors.
  • The UI is highly intuitive and reduces the “noise” seen in many other platforms.
• Cons:
  • Can feel a bit rigid for teams that prefer free-form, ad-hoc investigations.
  • Higher total cost of ownership (TCO) due to licensing and implementation requirements.
• Security & compliance: ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, and HIPAA.
• Support & community: Backed by IBM’s elite X-Force threat intelligence and global support network.

5 — Google Security Operations (Chronicle SOAR)

By integrating the Siemplify platform into its Chronicle Security Operations suite, Google has created an analyst-centric SOAR that focuses on “threat-centric” case management rather than just alert-centric workflows.

• Key features:
  • Threat-centric case management that groups related alerts into a single incident.
  • Gemini AI-powered assistant for case summarization and natural language search.
  • Visual investigation graphs that map out the lifecycle of an attack.
  • Playbook simulator for testing automations before they go live.
  • 300+ out-of-the-box integrations with major security vendors.
  • Tight integration with Google’s massive threat telemetry data.
• Pros:
  • The grouping of alerts into “cases” dramatically reduces alert fatigue.
  • Cloud-native scale and speed, backed by Google’s infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • Primarily focused on users of the broader Google Security Operations stack.
  • Some of the more advanced AI features require specific Google Cloud licensing tiers.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and FedRAMP.
• Support & community: Expanding ecosystem with strong technical support from Google Cloud teams.

6 — Fortinet FortiSOAR

FortiSOAR is a highly customizable, enterprise-grade SOAR platform that serves both large internal SOCs and MSSPs. It stands out for its flexibility and its “Content Hub” which provides hundreds of solution packs.

• Key features:
  • 500+ connectors and 300+ pre-built playbooks.
  • Role-based dashboards that can be tailored for analysts, managers, and CISOs.
  • Multi-tenancy support with strict data isolation for service providers.
  • Native “War Room” for high-priority incident collaboration.
  • SLA tracking and performance metrics built into the core case management.
  • Support for OT (Operational Technology) and IoT security orchestration.
• Pros:
  • Extremely high degree of customization; you can build almost any workflow imaginable.
  • Very competitive pricing for the level of features provided.
• Cons:
  • The sheer amount of customization options can lead to “configuration paralysis.”
  • Initial setup and training can be more time-consuming than with “plug-and-play” tools.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, SOC 2, GDPR, and HIPAA.
• Support & community: Very strong support for Fortinet customers; extensive library of videos and training in the Fortinet NSE Institute.

7 — Swimlane Turbine

Swimlane Turbine is a modern, low-code security automation platform. It is designed to go beyond the SOC, automating workflows across the entire organization, including IT, HR, and DevOps.

• Key features:
  • Low-code “Canvas” for building complex automation logic without writing code.
  • Autonomous Integrations that can connect to any REST API in real-time.
  • High-performance ingestion engine capable of handling massive alert volumes.
  • Distributed architecture for managing security across multi-cloud environments.
  • Flexible data model that doesn’t force you into a specific incident structure.
  • Remote “Hero AI” assistant for script generation and case help.
• Pros:
  • The most flexible platform for teams that want to automate beyond just “security alerts.”
  • The low-code interface is one of the most powerful and intuitive in the market.
• Cons:
  • Lacks some of the “built-in” threat intelligence management found in Cortex XSOAR.
  • Requires a proactive team to define and build custom business-logic workflows.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, and GDPR.
• Support & community: High customer satisfaction scores; very responsive technical support team.

8 — Rapid7 InsightConnect

InsightConnect is a cloud-based SOAR tool that emphasizes speed and ease of use. It is part of the Rapid7 Insight platform and is designed to help teams automate repetitive tasks without a steep learning curve.

• Key features:
  • No-code workflow builder with 300+ plugins.
  • Native integration with InsightIDR (SIEM) and InsightVM (Vulnerability Management).
  • Automated “Human-in-the-loop” steps to ensure critical actions require approval.
  • Pre-built “Automation Recipes” for common use cases like phishing and malware.
  • Cloud-native architecture with lightweight “Orchestrators” for on-prem connectivity.
• Pros:
  • One of the fastest SOAR tools to get up and running.
  • Ideal for smaller security teams that need “quick wins” with automation.
• Cons:
  • Less forensic depth and case management features than enterprise-heavy rivals.
  • Highly optimized for the Rapid7 ecosystem; less value for non-Rapid7 users.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, and HIPAA.
• Support & community: Excellent documentation and customer success programs.

9 — Tines

Tines is a unique entrant in the SOAR space. It is a “no-code” automation platform that isn’t strictly limited to security but has become a favorite for high-growth security teams due to its infinite flexibility and simplicity.

• Key features:
  • No-code interface based on seven basic “Actions” that can be combined into any workflow.
  • Environment-agnostic; it doesn’t care what SIEM or EDR you use.
  • Direct API interaction without the need for pre-built “apps” or “plugins.”
  • Storyboards for visualizing and documenting complex business processes.
  • Rapid prototyping capabilities for new security use cases.
• Pros:
  • The most “unrestricted” automation tool; if an app has an API, Tines can automate it.
  • Extremely fast and lightweight; users can build functional playbooks in minutes.
• Cons:
  • Lacks built-in case management (though it integrates easily with Jira or ServiceNow).
  • Requires an “automation mindset” as there are fewer “canned” playbooks than with legacy SOAR.
• Security & compliance: ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, and HIPAA.
• Support & community: Exceptional support and a very high-quality library of community “stories.”

10 — D3 Security Smart SOAR

D3 Security is a “pure-play” SOAR vendor known for its deep focus on the incident lifecycle and its ability to manage complex, multi-stage investigations across distributed teams.

• Key features:
  • Advanced Case Management with automated evidence collection and timelines.
  • Integrated MITRE ATT&CK framework mapping for every incident.
  • 500+ deep integrations that go beyond simple “block IP” actions.
  • Automated “Smart Triage” that dismisses false positives before an analyst sees them.
  • Native forensics and e-discovery capabilities built-in.
  • Flexible deployment options (Cloud, On-prem, or Air-gapped).
• Pros:
  • The best tool for organizations that prioritize the “Response” and “Investigation” parts of SOAR.
  • Exceptional out-of-the-box alignment with global security frameworks.
• Cons:
  • Can be complex to master for teams that only want simple “alert triage.”
  • Pricing reflects its status as a high-end enterprise solution.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and FIPS 140-2.
• Support & community: Strong engineering-led support and professional services.

Comparison Table

Evaluation & Scoring of SOAR Tools

To determine which SOAR tool is truly “best,” you must weigh various technical and business factors. The following rubric represents how an enterprise might score these solutions:

Which SOAR Tool Is Right for You?

Selecting the right SOAR tool is a strategic decision that depends on your current security maturity and long-term goals.

• Solo Users & Small Teams: Most small teams should start with a tool like Tines (for pure automation) or Rapid7 InsightConnect. These tools offer “quick wins” without requiring a team of full-time automation engineers.
• The “Ecosystem” Buyer: If your entire stack is already Microsoft or IBM, the native SOAR capabilities of Sentinel or QRadar SOAR will offer the smoothest experience and the best “bang for your buck.”
• The High-End Enterprise SOC: If you have a 24/7 SOC with multiple analysts and a need for deep investigation, Cortex XSOAR or D3 Smart SOAR are the heavyweights. They provide the collaboration and forensic tools that cheaper alternatives lack.
• The Service Provider (MSSP): For organizations managing dozens of customers, FortiSOAR or Splunk SOAR provide the multi-tenancy and high-speed execution needed to remain profitable at scale.
• The “Automation Beyond Security” Visionary: If you want to use your security automation tool to also fix IT tickets, onboard users, or manage cloud costs, Swimlane Turbine or Tines are your best bets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between SIEM and SOAR?

A SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is primarily for collecting and analyzing logs to detect threats. A SOAR is for acting on those detections through orchestration and automation.

2. Can I use a SOAR tool without a SIEM?

Yes, but it’s more difficult. SOAR tools usually need a “triggering” event, which typically comes from a SIEM, EDR, or email security tool. However, modern SOARs can ingest data directly from APIs.

3. Does SOAR replace security analysts?

No. SOAR replaces manual tasks. It frees up analysts from the “boring” parts of the job so they can focus on higher-level threat hunting and strategic security improvements.

4. How long does it take to implement a SOAR tool?

A basic setup can be done in days, but building a mature automation library takes 3–6 months. It is a journey of continuous improvement, not a one-time “install.”

5. What are the most common SOAR use cases?

Phishing investigation, suspicious login triage, endpoint malware containment, vulnerability prioritization, and automated threat indicator enrichment.

6. Do I need to know how to code to use SOAR?

Many modern tools are “no-code” or “low-code” (like Tines or Swimlane), but having some Python or JSON knowledge is still highly beneficial for building complex, custom logic.

7. Is SOAR expensive?

Enterprise SOAR platforms are a significant investment, often costing $50k to $250k+ per year. However, the ROI comes from reducing the need for additional hires and shortening the “time-to-remediate.”

8. What is “Orchestration” in the context of SOAR?

Orchestration is the ability to make different security tools (like a firewall from Vendor A and an EDR from Vendor B) work together in a single, coordinated workflow.

9. Can SOAR help with regulatory compliance?

Yes. Tools like IBM QRadar SOAR have specific modules to track data breach notification laws and ensure that every step of a response is documented for auditors.

10. What is “Human-in-the-loop” automation?

This is a safeguard in SOAR where the automation stops at a critical step (like “Delete User Account”) and waits for a human analyst to click an “Approve” button before continuing.

Conclusion

The evolution of SOAR represents a fundamental shift from manual security to “Security-as-Code.” As we move into late 2026, the integration of AI agents and low-code builders is making these platforms more accessible than ever. Whether you choose the market-leading power of Cortex XSOAR, the cloud-native ease of Microsoft Sentinel, or the no-code freedom of Tines, the goal remains the same: outpace the adversary through intelligent automation. Remember, the best tool isn’t the one with the most features—it’s the one that your team will actually use every day to keep your organization safe.