Best Static Analysis Tools for Mobile App Security

Before the introduction of static code analysis tools, securing mobile applications often felt like playing catch-up. Development teams would spend months building features, only to discover critical vulnerabilities late in the release cycle. This last-minute scramble to fix security issues delayed product launches and stretched resources thin—adding more pressure on developers and security teams.

Security assessments have often been reactive, relying on manual reviews or dynamic tests that could only be performed once the app was fully developed. This approach left blind spots, with vulnerabilities lurking in the code that went unnoticed until the app was live, potentially exposing sensitive data to attackers.

SAST tools transformed this process by shifting security left, allowing teams to detect vulnerabilities directly within the code early. 

Scanning source code before the app is even executed, SAST tools allow organizations to fix issues long before they become significant risks, ultimately saving time, money, and reputation.

How to choose the best SAST tool for your mobile app security?

When evaluating static analysis tools, it’s essential to consider factors that directly impact your organization’s security posture, operational efficiency, and long-term risk management. Here are the top factors to prioritize:

1. Accuracy of vulnerability detection

The core purpose of a SAST tool is to effectively identify security vulnerabilities. Look for tools with a strong record of detecting relevant issues while minimizing false positives. This ensures time is spent addressing real security risks rather than sifting through noise.

2. Language & framework support

It's vital that the tool supports the mobile development languages and frameworks your team uses, whether that's Java, Swift, Kotlin, or others. Comprehensive language support ensures that all code is properly scanned for vulnerabilities, regardless of the tech stack.

3. Scalability for enterprise environments

The chosen tool must scale with your organization as the number of applications and developers grows. Ensure it can handle large, complex codebases and multiple scans at once, which is essential for companies with fast-release cycles or expansive app portfolios.

4. CI/CD integration

Automated security checks within your CI/CD pipeline are critical for maintaining speed and security in development. The SAST tool should seamlessly integrate with your existing CI/CD workflows (Jenkins, GitLab, Azure, etc.), allowing developers to address security issues early and continuously.

5. Compliance and reporting capabilities

Meeting regulatory requirements like PCI-DSS, GDPR, and HIPAA is a top priority. The tool should support these standards with built-in compliance checks and robust reporting features, providing clear insights into risks, vulnerabilities, and compliance gaps across your mobile apps.

6. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Consider both the upfront pricing and the long-term cost of ownership. While the initial price matters, factor in ongoing maintenance, integration efforts, and how much time the tool saves through automation. The overall value should lead to reduced risk, faster remediation, and lower long-term costs.

7. Pricing and budget

While cost shouldn't be the sole deciding factor, ensure the tool fits your current budget and can scale with your organization's growth. Look for flexible pricing models that accommodate your needs now and in the future without compromising security.

Top 9 SAST tools for mobile app security testing

We’ve compiled a list of the top SAST tools for mobile app security testing, breaking down their best features, limitations, pricing, and G2 ratings to help you choose the right tool for your needs.

Free SAST tools

MobSF

MobSF (Mobile Security Framework) is an open-source, free tool designed to perform static and dynamic analysis on Android, iOS, and Windows apps. It's widely used for its ability to detect vulnerabilities during the early development stages.

Best features:

• Supports both static and dynamic analysis for mobile apps.
• Provides detailed vulnerability reports for mobile applications.
• Easy integration with CI/CD pipelines.
  
  

Limitations:

• May require additional configuration for advanced security checks.
• Limited to mobile platforms only.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Free (open-source).
• Enterprise edition pricing available upon request.
  
  

G2 rating: Unavailable

Paid SAST tools

HCL AppScan

HCL AppScan is a comprehensive security testing platform that identifies web, mobile, and desktop application vulnerabilities. It provides dynamic and static analysis with robust integration capabilities, making it suitable for enterprises with diverse application environments.

Best features:

• Supports both SAST and DAST for complete security coverage.
• Extensive reporting features with compliance support (PCI-DSS, GDPR).
• Integration with CI/CD tools for seamless security automation.
  
  

Limitations:

• High resource consumption during scans.
• Can be complex to configure for mobile-specific vulnerabilities.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 4.1/5

NowSecure

NowSecure is a mobile-first security platform that provides real-time vulnerability detection and compliance. It’s designed to secure mobile applications with deep analysis and automation, offering CI/CD integrations to maintain continuous security.

Best features:

• Mobile-focused vulnerability detection and compliance tracking.
• Automated testing with CI/CD pipeline integration.
• Detailed reporting for mobile-specific vulnerabilities.
  
  

Limitations:

• Limited to mobile apps, reducing flexibility for non-mobile environments.
• High costs for smaller teams or organizations.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 4.6/5

Data Theorem

Data Theorem provides end-to-end security testing for mobile, web, and API applications. With a focus on real-time threat analysis and compliance, it automates the identification and remediation of vulnerabilities, especially in mobile and cloud environments.

Best features:

• Comprehensive mobile, web, and API security analysis.
• Automated vulnerability discovery and remediation.
• Strong compliance support with detailed security reporting.
  
  

Limitations:

• Complexity in initial setup and configuration.
• Can be expensive for small to mid-sized businesses.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 4/5

Veracode

Veracode offers a cloud-based platform for static code analysis, focusing on enterprise applications. It’s known for its ease of use and robust security scanning, helping companies ensure compliance with various standards.

Best features:

• Comprehensive support for PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and other compliance standards.
• Easily integrates into existing DevOps environments.
• Detailed reporting and compliance metrics.
  
  

Limitations:

• Can be slow when scanning larger codebases.
• Limited customization options for specific mobile app needs.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 3.7/5

Zimperium

Zimperium focuses on mobile threat defense, providing real-time, on-device protection against mobile-specific threats. It uses a unique machine-learning approach to identify and prevent security risks in real-time, offering a strong solution for mobile security.

Best features:

• Real-time mobile threat detection with machine learning.
• Provides protection for both iOS and Android platforms.
• Comprehensive mobile vulnerability detection.
  
  

Limitations:

• Primarily focused on mobile security, limiting the use for non-mobile apps.
• Can be costly for smaller organizations.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 3.9/5

Ostorlab

Ostorlab is an advanced mobile application security platform that performs static and dynamic analysis to uncover vulnerabilities. It offers automated scans and reports on security risks, making it a valuable tool for securing mobile apps.

Best features:

• Combines static and dynamic analysis for comprehensive coverage.
• Focused on mobile app security with automated vulnerability scanning.
• Provides easy-to-understand reports on security risks.
  
  

Limitations:

• Limited to mobile applications, restricting broader use.
• Customization can be complex for some users.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: Unavailable

ImmuniWeb

ImmuniWeb delivers security testing and compliance monitoring for web, mobile, and API applications. It provides a mix of SAST, DAST, and manual penetration testing to ensure a complete security solution for enterprises.

Best features:

• SAST and DAST for web, mobile, and APIs.
• Comprehensive compliance support (GDPR, PCI-DSS, HIPAA).
• Integrates easily into CI/CD pipelines.
  
  

Limitations:

• Can be expensive for smaller businesses.
• AI-based insights may require manual review for complex cases.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Contact sales for pricing details.
  
  

G2 rating: 4.8/5

Appknox

Appknox is a mobile-first security platform offering various security testing capabilities, including static analysis. It is specifically designed to detect vulnerabilities in mobile applications and offers deep integration into CI/CD workflows.

Best features:

• Specialized in mobile app security testing.
• Automated and auto-triggered testing 
• Advanced binary-based static analysis for mobile-specific vulnerabilities.
• Full integration with primary CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitLab, and Bitbucket.
• Comprehensive compliance support, including PCI-DSS, GDPR, and HIPAA.
  
  

Limitations:

• Customization can be limited in some areas.
  
  

Pricing tiers:

• Pricing is based on the number of applications and scans. Contact sales for details.

G2 rating: 4.5/5

Comparison of the top static code analysis tools for mobile app security

Here's a quick breakdown of how leading static analysis tools stack up across critical factors like vulnerability detection, framework support, scalability, CI/CD integration, compliance, and overall cost.

Download the full tool list now!

Choosing the right SAST tool for mobile app security is critical. While each tool has strengths and limitations, the key lies in aligning the tool’s capabilities with your organization’s unique needs. Whether you prioritize comprehensive language support, seamless CI/CD integration, or strict compliance, a well-chosen solution can significantly reduce security risks while boosting development efficiency.

Why Appknox?

At Appknox, we’re building an automated, binary-based, mobile-first security assessment tool that addresses the challenges faced by CISOs with not just manual open-source workflows but also with most paid tools that are legacy in nature.

Appknox is designed to integrate seamlessly into your existing workflows. It provides real-time insights and robust vulnerability assessment for your mobile apps in under 60 minutes, making it a perfect SAST tool for organizations of all sizes.

TD;LR

How SAST transformed application security

Securing mobile apps used to be reactive and often delayed product releases. SAST tools changed that by enabling vulnerability detection early in the development cycle, saving time and minimizing risks.

Best static analysis tools for mobile

Top SAST tools like MobSF, HCL AppScan, NowSecure, Data Theorem, Zimperium, Ostorlab, ImmuniWeb, and Appknox reviewed, highlighting their features, limitations, and pricing to help you make the best choice for mobile app security.

Parameters for choosing the best SAST tools

Key factors include accuracy of vulnerability detection, language support, scalability, CI/CD integration, compliance features, and total cost of ownership. Prioritize tools that align with your organization’s tech stack and security requirements.

Why Appknox?

Appknox stands out as a mobile-first solution with comprehensive static analysis capabilities, strong CI/CD integration, and extensive compliance support. It offers a scalable and cost-effective option for businesses of all sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is static analysis?

Static analysis involves examining source or binary code for vulnerabilities without executing the program, making it a crucial practice in mobile app security testing. By utilizing top SAST tools, developers can identify issues early in the development cycle, enhancing the overall security of mobile applications.

2. Which is the best static code analysis tool?

The best static code analysis tool often depends on specific project requirements, but tools like Appknox consistently rank among the top SAST tools for mobile security. These tools offer comprehensive features and support for various programming languages, making them ideal for developers and security researchers alike.

3. List a few free static analysis tools for mobile app security.

One of the best free static analysis tools for mobile is MobSF. It provides essential features for vulnerability detection. This tool can be valuable to a developer's toolkit, particularly for those looking to enhance mobile app security on a budget.

A few other free SAST tools are SonarQube and Reshift.

4. How are open-source static code analysis tools different from paid ones?

Open-source static code analysis tools typically offer flexibility and customization but may lack the comprehensive support and advanced features of paid SAST tools. While free SAST tools are effective for basic security checks, organizations often prefer paid solutions for robust capabilities and dedicated support.

5. What is the benefit of using SAST tools during code review?

Integrating SAST tools during code review streamlines vulnerability detection, significantly reducing the time and effort required for mobile app security testing. By identifying issues early, developers can enhance code quality and compliance, leading to more secure mobile applications.