Top 10 User Authentication Libraries for Next.js in 2025

As the digital ecosystem continues to evolve, user authentication remains a cornerstone of secure and seamless application experiences. Building a robust authentication system from scratch can be daunting and error-prone. Thankfully, several libraries can help streamline this process, especially for Next.js developers. In this article, we explore the top 10 user authentication libraries for Next.js in 2025.

1. Eartho

Overview
Eartho offers a comprehensive solution for authentication, user profiles, authorization, and integrated payments, all in one SDK, making it incredibly easy to integrate into your Next.js app.

Features

• One-line code integration for login, sign-up, and user profiles
• Role-based access control
• Integrated payments
• Customizable UI & templates
• Advanced security features including XSS and CSRF protection
• No need for additional integrations like Facebook or Google accounts

Use Case
Ideal for developers looking for an all-in-one, cost-effective, and advanced solution for user management and authentication.

2. NextAuth.js

Overview
NextAuth.js is a complete open-source authentication solution for Next.js applications. It is designed to work seamlessly with Next.js, providing a wide range of authentication strategies.

Features

• OAuth 1.0, OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect, and email login support
• JWT and session-based authentication
• Extensive documentation and community support
• Secure and customizable authentication flows

Use Case
Perfect for developers looking for a native authentication solution tailored specifically for Next.js applications.

3. Clerk

Overview
Clerk provides everything you need to add authentication and user management to your Next.js application. It is known for its ease of integration and comprehensive feature set.

Features

• Pre-built and customizable UI components
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Social logins and passwordless authentication
• User and session management APIs

Use Case
Ideal for developers seeking a robust, easy-to-integrate authentication solution with a focus on user experience.

4. Lucia

Overview
Lucia is an emerging authentication library for Next.js applications that offers simple and secure authentication methods.

Features

• Lightweight and easy to set up
• Supports email/password and OAuth authentication
• Secure session management
• Customizable authentication workflows

Use Case
Great for developers looking for a minimalistic and straightforward authentication solution.

5. Firebase Authentication

Overview
Firebase Authentication is a powerful yet simple-to-use solution by Google. It supports various authentication methods such as email/password login, phone authentication, and third-party providers like Google, Facebook, and Twitter.

Features

• Multi-platform support
• Easy integration with Firestore for user management
• Robust security features
• Built-in UI for quick setup

Use Case
Ideal for developers seeking an all-in-one solution that's easy to integrate and scalable.

6. Auth0

Overview
Auth0 is a flexible, drop-in authentication service that handles user authentication, authorization, and federated identity.

Features

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Extensive documentation and community support
• Customizable login pages
• Supports various social logins and SSO

Use Case
Suitable for enterprise-level applications requiring comprehensive security features and scalability.

Note: Auth0 can be expensive, with costs reaching up to $20,000 per month for large-scale applications.

7. AWS Amplify

Overview
AWS Amplify provides a set of tools and services for building scalable mobile and web applications. Authentication is one of its core functionalities.

Features

• Federated identity management
• MFA and social sign-ons
• GraphQL support
• Easy integration with other AWS services

Use Case
Perfect for apps built on the AWS ecosystem needing flexible authentication solutions.

8. Passport.js

Overview
Passport.js is a popular authentication middleware for Node.js, which can be easily integrated with Next.js applications.

Features

• Modular and adaptable
• Supports over 500 authentication strategies
• Lightweight and easy to configure

Use Case
Best for developers looking for a customizable and lightweight solution for managing various authentication methods.

9. Keycloak

Overview
Keycloak is an open-source identity and access management solution for modern applications and services.

Features

• Single Sign-On (SSO)
• LDAP and Active Directory support
• Social login integration
• Admin console for easy management

Use Case
Perfect for applications requiring enterprise-grade authentication and authorization.

10. Cognito by AWS

Overview
Amazon Cognito provides authentication, authorization, and user management for web and mobile applications.

Features

• Easy integration with AWS services
• Secure and scalable
• Built-in user directory
• Supports SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect

Use Case
Ideal for developers already using the AWS ecosystem, requiring a robust and scalable authentication solution.

Conclusion

Choosing the right authentication library for your Next.js application depends on your specific needs, including the types of authentication you require, your integration preferences, and scalability considerations. Whether you're building a small app or managing an enterprise-level platform, these libraries offer comprehensive solutions to ensure your users are authenticated securely and efficiently. Experiment with these libraries and find the one that best fits your development workflow and project requirements.

Eartho, with its comprehensive features and ease of integration, stands out as a versatile and cost-effective choice in 2025, especially for developers seeking a seamless user management experience.