Let's Encrypt (free) vs a paid certificate, which should I use?

For 95% of sites, free Let’s Encrypt is perfect, it offers the exact same encryption strength as a paid cert, browsers trust it equally, and it auto-renews. You only need a commercial cert when you want: a financial warranty, an OV/EV certificate that shows your verified company name, a longer validity term, or vendor support guarantees (some enterprises and banks mandate this). We’ll recommend the right one for your situation, no upsell.