SHA-256 vs SHA-512: Which Should You Use?
2 min read
SHA-256 and SHA-512 are both part of the SHA-2 family and share similar design principles. However, they differ in their output size, performance characteristics, and best-use scenarios. Choosing the right one depends on your project’s requirements.
How SHA-256 Works
SHA-256 produces a 256-bit hash value, commonly used in SSL certificates, blockchain, and password hashing. It strikes a balance between performance and security, making it the most widely used hashing algorithm in practice.
How SHA-512 Works
SHA-512 generates a 512-bit hash. Its longer output size makes it theoretically more secure, but the primary advantage lies in its performance on 64-bit systems, where it can run faster than SHA-256 due to CPU optimizations.
Comparison Table
| Feature | SHA-256 | SHA-512 |
|---|---|---|
| Output Size | 256-bit | 512-bit |
| Performance | Faster on 32-bit systems | Faster on 64-bit systems |
| Use Cases | Blockchain, TLS, Password hashing | File integrity, Digital signatures |
Which One Should You Use?
- Use SHA-256 if you need broad compatibility across platforms and applications.
- Use SHA-512 if you are targeting 64-bit systems and want maximum future-proofing.
You can try both with our SHA Hash Generator, which supports SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512 directly in your browser without sending data to a server.
If you’re still running older systems, see our comparison of SHA-1 vs SHA-256. To learn why SHA-256 is used in blockchain, check out our full SHA-256 guide.