The Best Password Managers in 2024

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It’s common to have to deal with an overwhelming number of passwords for different apps and accounts, nowadays. Having to remember a unique password for each one is just too much, though, and nearly 85% of people reuse passwords across their accounts. This means cybercriminals who crack just one password can potentially hack all your accounts. The best password managers can help you stay safe, however.

They’ll save you having to remember all your logins and will help you securely create, store, and access all your passwords. Based on our comprehensive assessment methodology, I’ve tested, compared, and reviewed over 20 password managers for security, usability, and value for money to help you find the best solution for your needs.

The Best Password Managers Tested by Our Experts

NordPass – Overall Best Password Manager

Free-Forever Plan
VISIT SITE

1Password – Best Password Manager for Families

14-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

ByePass – Best Password Keeper for Online Purchases

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
VISIT SITE

Dashlane – Best Password Management for Beginners

Free-Forever Plan
VISIT SITE

Keeper – Best Password Manager for Business Use

30-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

RoboForm – Best Password Manager for Form-Filling

30-Day Free Trial and Free-Forever Plan
VISIT SITE

Enpass – Best Password Tool for Local Data Storage

Free-Forever Plan
VISIT SITE

Total Password – Best Browser Password Manager

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
VISIT SITE

The Top 8 Password Managers Ranked

  1. NordPass – Overall best password manager
  2. 1Password – Best password manager for families
  3. ByePass – Best password keeper for online purchases
  4. Dashlane – Best password management for beginners
  5. Keeper – Best password manager for business use
  6. RoboForm – Best password Manager for form-filling
  7. Enpass – Best password tool for local data storage
  8. Total Password – Best browser password manager

Best Password Manager Software Reviewed

I rigorously tested and evaluated a wide range of products to identify the top password managers on the market today. Using our comprehensive testing methodology, I assessed the security, usability, and cross-compatibility offered by each password manager.

I’ve also considered the value of features like two-factor authentication, secure sharing, and password generation. In this section, I’ll provide in-depth password manager reviews for each product on my shortlist.

1. NordPass – Overall Best Password Manager

NordPass password manager logo

Starting Plan $1.39/month
Free Version / Trial Free plan, 30-day trial
Key Features XChaCha20 Encryption, Email Masking, Emergency Access
Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅
Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
Why We Picked It

NordPass is the best password manager if you want advanced security features to protect your passwords and data. It offers robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and proactive monitoring tools that go far beyond basic password management.

Features
  • Secure Encryption – NordPass uses advanced XChaCha20 encryption to securely store user passwords and employs a zero-knowledge architecture. This ensures your master password is never transmitted or stored on the company’s servers, so only you can access your data. The password software has undergone independent security audits with firms like Cure53, confirming the integrity of the firm’s security practices.
  • Double Authentication – The platform includes biometric authentication functionality, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring fingerprint or facial recognition to access your password vault. This is especially useful for those who access their passwords on mobile devices, as it prevents unauthorized access if the device is lost or stolen.
  • Compatibility – In addition to desktop and mobile apps for all major platforms, NordPass offers browser extensions that enable you to quickly and easily auto-fill logins. The provider also offers an offline mode for accessing passwords without an internet connection and an impressive 3GB of secure file storage, which I found to be a great feature.
  • Security Scans – The password health scanner is a great feature and proactively identifies weak, reused, and compromised passwords, enabling you to update logins before fraudsters get their hands on them. This incorporates a data breach scanner that monitors the dark web and other databases for leaked usernames and passwords associated with the user.
  • Email Masking – This allows you to generate working dummy email addresses for signing up for services. This saves you from sharing your real address, shielding you from spam and phishing attempts, and stopping your details from being exposed in breaches.

The password manager is also included with NordVPN‘s Plus plan, which costs $4.39/month.

Pricing

NordPass offers affordable pricing, with plans starting at $1.39/month with a two-year subscription. This supports unlimited devices and provides unlimited password storage. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee and a limited free plan available, so you can test NordPass.

2 years 1 year
NordPass Premium $1.39/month $1.89/month
NordPass Family $2.79/month $3.69/month
Business Teams $1.79/user/month $1.99/user/month
Business $3.59/user/month $3.99/user/month
Business Enterprise $5.39/user/month $5.99/user/month
Who It's Best For

NordPass is an excellent choice for individuals who want a secure solution to protect their digital lives and for businesses handling sensitive data, with its audited, zero-knowledge architecture and advanced encryption.

It’s frequently recommended by security experts and is arguably also the best Windows password manager available today.

Pros

  • Advanced XChaCha20 encryption
  • Biometric authentication
  • 3GB of encrypted file storage
  • Proactive password health and data breach scanning
  • Secure password sharing

Cons

  • Free plan limited to one device
  • No phone support
NordPass
9.6
Review

2. 1Password – Best Password Manager for Families

1Password password manager logo

Starting Plan $2.99/month
Free Version / Trial 14-day trial
Key Features Robust Family Sharing Options, Emergency Kit, Travel Mode
Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅
Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
Why We Picked It

I rate 1Password as the best password manager for families. It offers an expansive set of features to keep your loved ones’ digital lives safe, secure, and organized.

It also enables easy sharing of passwords, credit card details, and other sensitive information with family members while maintaining tight controls over access.

Features
  • Security – 1Password can generate strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts and supports Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for your password vault. It can also serve as an authentication tool for your individual accounts, and there’s even integration with YubiKey hardware security keys.
  • Watchtower – This feature provides an overview of your family’s digital security, alerting you to potential breaches or vulnerabilities with weak or duplicated passwords. If a vulnerability is detected, you’ll get an immediate alert so you can change your details before any damage is done. One family member can act as an admin to manage the shared vault, control access rights, and monitor activity. They can also help members regain access to their accounts.
  • Emergency Kit – 1Password provides a downloadable PDF that lists essential account information and a secret key, so designated individuals can retrieve critical information if needed. This can be a lifesaver if individuals lose or forget their master passwords.
  • Travel Mode – Travel Mode adds an extra layer of protection by allowing you to temporarily lock down your accounts and remove sensitive data from your devices. This ensures your information remains secure when crossing borders – and it’s the only password manager I’ve seen that offers this feature.
  • Secure Notes – 1Password also allows your family to store and share notes and files, such as documents, identity information, and bank details. Each family member gets 1GB of secure document storage, with end-to-end encryption to ensure your data remains secure, even when it’s being shared.
Pricing

1Password’s individual annual plan starts at $2.99/month. The family plan is $4.99/month and covers five users, with the option to add more for $1/month per user.

While 1Password doesn’t have a money-back guarantee, it offers a 14-day free trial to test the service before you commit to a paid plan.

Individual $2.99/month
Families – 5 users $4.99/month
Teams Starter Pack – 10 users $19.95/month
Business $7.99/user/month
Who It's Best For

1Password is the ideal solution for families seeking a secure and efficient way to manage their digital lives, and it makes secure sharing simple.

Its robust sharing and collaboration tools make it perfect for keeping your family’s details organized and protected, and it’s often cited as the most secure password manager today. It also offers what I rate as the best password manager app for Android today.

Pros

  • Comprehensive family features
  • 1GB file storage per user
  • Strong emergency recovery feature
  • Two-factor security and security key support
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Travel Mode for vault control

Cons

  • No free version
  • No refund policy
1Password
9.5
Review

3. iolo ByePass – Best Password Keeper for Online Purchases

iolo / Byepass logo

Starting Plan $1.33/month
Free Version / Trial 30-day money-back guarantee
Key Features Secure Credit Cards, Leaked Password Check, Login Guardian
Audited / Zero Knowledge ❌ / ❌
Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
Why We Picked It

ByePass stands out as the best password manager for protecting your identity while shopping online, and its security tools put it a step ahead in safeguarding your online presence.

Features
  • Unlimited Password Storage – The ByePass password locker offers unlimited password storage and enables you to generate complex, unique passwords for your accounts. The autofill function is also a time-saver, and I found it smoothly enters credentials when logging into websites and apps.
  • Virtual Card Security – ByePass also helps keep your identity secure with its virtual credit card functionality, which isn’t something most password managers offer. This feature prevents vendors from accessing or storing your card information, greatly reducing the risk of credit card fraud and unauthorized transactions.
  • Leaked Password Check – To proactively combat data breaches, ByePass includes a leaked password check feature. This scans the dark web and public databases for instances of your passwords and account details. If your data is found, you’ll get an immediate alert so you can take action.
  • Inactivity Lock and Remote Logouts – The product also comes with an intelligent inactivity lock, which adds another layer of protection by automatically logging you out after a period of inactivity, preventing access from unattended devices. ByePass also helps you secure your account with its one-click remote logout feature. If you forget to sign out of your account on a shared or public device, you can view and instantly log out, ensuring no one can access your details.
Pricing

ByePass offers a single, affordable annual plan that costs $1.33/month and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

ByePass is well-suited for those who frequently make purchases online. It ensures passwords, personal information, and financial details all remain secure and protected.

While ByePass may not have as many features as NordPass or 1Password, it’s very affordable and has some great online security tools.

Pros

  • Virtual cards for secure transactions
  • Leaked password detection
  • Inactivity lock and remote logout
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • No free plan
  • No dedicated desktop apps

4. Dashlane – Best Password Management for Beginners

Dashlane password manager logo

Starting Plan $4.99/month
Free Version / Trial Free plan, 30-day trial
Key Features Security Dashboard, Secure Digital Wallet, VPN
Audited / Zero Knowledge ❌ / ✅
Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
Why We Picked It

Dashlane is the most user-friendly password manager around, with an intuitive interface that makes protecting your online accounts a breeze. It ensures your saved passwords remain secure while making access and management simple. In addition, it’s one of the few password products that comes with a VPN.

Features
  • Ease of Use – Dashlane makes capturing and storing your login credentials across devices easy, and the auto-fill functionality is smooth and effective.
  • Digital Wallet App – The digital wallet securely stores payment information, such as credit card details and shipping addresses. This effectively streamlines the online shopping process, enabling you to make purchases with just a few clicks.
  • Password Health Score – The feature further enhances security by analyzing the strength of each saved password and providing personalized recommendations to improve password strength and online safety.
  • Dark Web Monitoring and Identity Theft Protection – Dashlane’s data breach monitoring tool scans the dark web for signs of your personal information being compromised, keeping you informed of potential threats to your online accounts. The Security Dashboard, meanwhile, allows you to monitor your credit score and get alerts for suspicious activity, adding an extra layer of protection against identity theft.
  • VPN – Dashlane also notably offers Virtual Private Network (VPN) functionality powered by Hotspot Shield. This is something few other password managers offer and ensures your internet connection remains encrypted and secure.
    Pricing

    Dashlane’s paid plans start at $4.99/month (annual) or $7.49/month for a Family plan for ten users. The provider also has a limited free tier, a 30-day trial, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test out the service.

    Dashlane Premium $4.99/month
    Dashlane Friends & Family – 10 users $7.49/month
    Dashlane Business Standard – 10 users $20/month
    Dashlane Business $8/user/month
    Dashlane Enterprise Custom quote
    Who It's Best For

    Dashlane is great for beginners, families, and non-tech-savvy users – and anyone who values simplicity and efficiency when managing their passwords. It’s also great for users looking for privacy solutions with its VPN functionality.

    Pros

    • Built-in VPN for privacy
    • Secure sharing feature
    • Credit scoring and protection and breach alerts
    • Excellent security dashboard
    • User-friendly interface

    Cons

    • 25-password limit on free plan
    • Relatively expensive
    Dashlane
    9.3
    Review

    5. Keeper – Best Password Manager for Business Use

    Keeper password manager Logo

    Starting Plan $2.92/month
    Free Version / Trial Limited free plan, 30-day trial
    Key Features Role-Based Access Controls, One-Time Sharing, Advanced Reporting & Alerts Module
    Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅
    Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
    Why We Picked It

    Keeper is the best password manager for business and enterprise use based on my testing. It has a broad feature set and is highly scalable, and its advanced security controls and reporting capabilities make it ideal for organizations with complex security requirements and large user bases.

    Features
    • Security Features – Keeper offers unlimited password storage and sharing across unlimited devices, with 24/7 support included. I was impressed by its range of features, which include password generation, auto-fill, cross-device synchronization, two-factor authentication, and biometric login options.
    • Strong Business Features – The Admin Console provides centralized management and control over user access, security policies, and audit logs, making it easy for IT administrators to enforce security protocols and maintain compliance.
    • Secure Sharing – This feature allows teams to safely share passwords, files, and other sensitive information with specific individuals or groups, enabling collaboration while maintaining strict access controls. There’s also a One-Time Share feature for individuals who don’t have Keeper accounts.
    • BreachWatch and KeeperChat – Keeper proactively monitors for compromised credentials and alerts administrators to take immediate action. There’s also the password manager’s encrypted messaging feature, which adds an additional layer of security for internal communications. It allows employees to securely share sensitive information, minimizing the risk of data leaks.
    Pricing

    Keeper’s Personal plan starts at $2.92/month. The Business Starter plan costs $2/user/month for teams of up to ten. Keeper also offers a 30-day trial for its Personal plan and a 14-day trial for its Business and Enterprise plans.

    Keeper Personal $2.92/month
    Keeper Family – 5 users $6.25/month
    Keeper Business Starter $2/user/month
    Keeper Business $3.75/user/month
    Keeper Enterprise Custom quote
    Who It's Best For

    Keeper is a great pick for businesses and enterprises that require advanced features for managing and protecting their data. Its feature set makes it an excellent choice for organizations with demanding requirements and large numbers of users.

    For additional commercial recommendations, see our guide to the best business password managers.

    Pros

    • Advanced security features for businesses
    • Up to 1TB of secure file storage
    • Encrypted messaging service
    • Concierge service
    • Role-based access controls and secure sharing
    • Flexible deployment options

    Cons

    • No money-back guarantee
    • Limited free plan
    Keeper
    9.2
    Review

    6. RoboForm – Best Password Manager for Form-Filling

    RoboForm password manager logo

    Starting Plan $2.49/month
    Free Version / Trial Free plan
    Key Features Form-Filling, One-Click Logins, Security Center
    Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅
    Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
    Why We Picked It

    RoboForm’s powerful form-filling functionality sets it apart from other password managers. With just a few clicks, users can automatically fill out online forms, saving time and reducing the need for manually inputting data.

    Features
    • Form-Filling Focus RoboForm was originally built for form-filling, and its one-click login feature makes the login process even easier. The tool securely stores details like addresses and credit card details and is capable of fast and accurate form completion.
    • Security Features RoboForm uses AES-256 encryption and a zero-knowledge architecture and supports multi-factor authentication to provide extra security for your account. The company’s security claims are also backed up by third-party security audits.
    • Security Center – This provides a comprehensive overview of your passwords, alerting you to weak or repeated logins. It also includes a dark web monitoring feature that looks for leaked password information, and it offers actionable advice on improving overall account security.
    • Emergency Access Feature – Notably, RoboForm’s emergency access feature is available with free accounts, ensuring all users have a backup plan for their vault. The feature allows users to designate contacts who can access their accounts in case of an emergency.
    • Bookmark Management – This gives users an intuitive and efficient way to organize and access encrypted bookmarks across their devices.
    Pricing

    RoboForm’s plans start at $2.49/month (annual), and there’s also a functional free plan and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Business users, meanwhile, can take advantage of a 14-day trial to explore the service’s features.

    RoboForm Premium $2.49/month
    RoboForm Family $3.98/month
    RoboForm Business 1-10 users (5 years) $2.50/user/month
    Who It's Best For

    RoboForm is a great choice for individuals who use multiple devices and frequently need to fill out online forms. Many users will also want to check out the free plan.

    Pros

    • One-click logins
    • Emergency access available for all users
    • Free plan
    • Powerful form-filling tool

    Cons

    • No free trial for home users
    • Lacks some advanced features
    RoboForm
    9.1
    Review

    7. Enpass – Best Password Tool for Local Data Storage

    Enpass password manager logo

    Starting Plan $1.99/month
    Free Version / Trial Free offline plan
    Key Features Secure Offline Access, Portable Option, Customizable Fields
    Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅
    Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
    Why We Picked It

    Enpass is the best password manager for local data storage, ensuring your information remains securely stored on your device. This makes it available offline and immune to being compromised in server breaches.

    Features
    • Data Encryption Enpass encrypts and stores your password vault directly on your device, guaranteeing your data remains under your control and accessible without an internet connection. It also means your encrypted data can’t be exposed in a breach, as it’s not stored on a centralized server. You can also sync your vault with popular cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and iCloud so you can access your vault across multiple devices while keeping it secure.
    • Portable Password Option – The password manager also offers a portable option, enabling users to carry their password vault on a USB drive for easy access without leaving any data trail or needing installation.
    • Customization The platform is very flexible and includes customizable fields, enabling you to organize and store information – beyond usernames and passwords – in a way that works for you.
    • Breach Monitoring– This feature keeps an eye out for any leaks involving your accounts, alerting you if your data has been compromised. In addition, there’s a password audit tool that analyzes the strength and security of your existing passwords, offering tips on how they can be improved.
    • Compatibility – The password saver supports various platforms and browsers with dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. However, it can’t import passwords directly from browsers, which may require some manual setup.
    Pricing

    Enpass offers an annual Individual Plan for $1.99/month with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime license for $99.99. The free plan, Enpass Lite, includes unlimited vaults on desktop but limits mobile devices to 25 items.

    Enpass Individual $1.99/month
    Enpass Family $2.99/month
    One-Time Plan $99.99
    Business Starter Plan – 10 users $9.99/month
    Business Standard Plan $2.99/user/month
    Business Enterprise Plan $3.99/user/month
    Who It's Best For

    Enpass is ideal for individuals who want an additional layer of security and for people who frequently work offline or in environments with limited internet connectivity, as it allows access to passwords and data directly from the device.

    Pros

    • Local data storage for full user control and offline access
    • Portable vault option
    • Passkey support
    • Customizable data fields
    • Affordable lifetime license

    Cons

    • Free plan limited to 25 items on mobile
    • No free trial

    8. Total Password – Best Browser Password Manager

    Total Password Logo

    Starting Plan $1.99/month
    Free Version / Trial 30-day money-back guarantee
    Key Features Security Report, Two-Factor Authentication, Data Breach Scanner
    Audited / Zero Knowledge ❌ / ✅
    Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited
    Why We Picked It

    Total Password is a great password manager for comprehensive security on a browser. Its streamlined interface allows beginners to password managers to quickly use and navigate its features, and it’s very easy to get started with.

    Features
    • Secure Password Storing Total Password employs robust encryption and includes a built-in password generator that helps you create secure passwords for each of your accounts and keeps them in sync across your devices. The provider is relatively young and employs a zero-knowledge architecture but hasn’t yet conducted independent security audits.
    • Breach Alerts – These notify you if any of your accounts have been compromised so you can take fast action. In addition, there’s an invaluable security report that assesses the strength of your passwords and recommends changes.
    • Remote Logout – It enables you to securely log out of your account on any device, providing an extra layer of protection if your device is lost or stolen.

    The Total Password product is also available with the TotalAV Total Security plan, which costs $4.08/month.

    Pricing

    Total Password has one plan, billing at $1.99/month. There’s no free plan, but there is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    Who It's Best For

    Total Password is often rated as the best online password manager for those looking for an easy-to-use password manager that offers comprehensive protection.

    Pros

    • Simple and intuitive interface
    • Affordable plan
    • Advanced encryption
    • Allows remote device log-out
    • Breach alerts

    Cons

    • No free plan
    • No password-sharing options
    Total Password

    Top Password Manager Solutions Compared

    In the password manager comparison table below, I’ve laid out details on the features, pricing, and security measures for the best password protection tools on the market so you can compare them head to head.

    Password Manager NordPass 1Password Byepass Dashlane Keeper RoboForm Enpass Total Password
    Starting Price $1.39/month $2.99/month $1.33/month $4.99/month $2.92/month $2.49/month $1.99/month $1.99/month
    Max Devices / Password Storage Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited Unlimited, Unlimited
    Encryption XChaCha20 AES-256 AES-256 AES-256 AES-256 AES-256 AES-256 AES-256
    Security features XChaCha20 Encryption, Email Masking, Emergency Access Robust Family Sharing Options, Emergency Kit, Travel Mode Secure Credit Cards, Leaked Password Check, Login Guardian Security Dashboard, Secure Digital Wallet, VPN Role-Based Access Controls, One-Time Sharing, Advanced Reporting & Alerts Module Form-Filling, One-Click Logins, Security Center Secure Offline Access, Portable Option, Customizable Fields Security Report, Two-Factor Authentication, Data Breach Scanner
    Password Generator
    Audited / Zero Knowledge ✅ / ✅ ✅ / ✅ ❌ / ❌ ❌ / ✅ ✅ / ✅ ✅ / ✅ ✅ / ✅ ❌ / ✅
    Compatibility Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Browsers Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, Browsers iOS, Android, Browsers Mac, iOS, Android, Browsers Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Browsers Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chromebook, Browsers Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Browsers Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Microsoft Edge
    Money-Back Guarantee 30 days 14-day trial 30 days 30 days 30-day trial 30 days 30 days 30 days
    Free Plan

    How I Tested the Best Password Managers

    To identify the best password managers today, I’ve put a wide range of password solutions through a rigorous testing process. My evaluation methodology focused on the following criteria:

    • Privacy – I’ve examined each password manager’s privacy practices, including their data collection policies, use of encryption, and commitment to protecting user information.
    • Security Features – I’ve assessed each password manager’s security features, focusing on their overall ability to protect user data and how the password managers work.
    • Ease of Use and Compatibility – I’ve evaluated the user-friendliness of each password manager’s interface and tested their compatibility across a range of devices and platforms.
    • Customer Reviews – I’ve analyzed customer feedback from various sources to gain insights into real-world user experiences, considering factors such as security, ease of use, and customer support.
    • Pricing – I’ve compared the pricing structures and value propositions of each password manager, taking into account the cost of plans, the number of devices supported, and the availability of additional features.

    Why Do You Need a Password Manager?

    Using weak or common passwords makes it easy for hackers to gain entry to your accounts. If you reuse passwords, a single breach can provide fraudsters with the keys to your entire digital ecosystem.

    There are even off-the-shelf hacking tools, like Facebook Password Sniper, which claim to enable even unskilled hackers to take over accounts. Given that recent attacks have seen 50m+ Facebook accounts being compromised, you should take the threat very seriously.

    Because of all this, it’s essential to use strong passwords, use different logins for every account and app, and enable multi-factor authentication whenever you can.

    Password management software takes the pain out of this process by helping you generate hard-to-crack passwords and then providing a secure password vault that’s nevertheless easy to access.

    How Do Password Manager Apps Work?

    Password manager apps provide a secure and efficient platform to manage your login details across multiple websites and services. These applications can generate, store, and automatically enter complex, unique passwords for your accounts.

    To access your passwords, you only need to remember your master password, which unlocks your encrypted password vault.

    Many password managers also offer biometric authentication options, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, for added security and can incorporate two-factor authentication to require a One-Time Password (OTP) for entry.

    Password managers employ advanced encryption algorithms, such as AES-256, to secure your information, which is inaccessible without your master password.

    Many password solutions employ a zero-knowledge architecture. This guarantees that the provider doesn’t store your master password on its servers and that only you are able to access your passwords. This ensures your password vault is secure while still being easy for you to access.

    In addition to storing passwords, the best password apps often include features like secure password sharing, password strength auditing, which identifies weak or exposed passwords, and dark web monitoring, which searches for your details online to detect if they have been compromised.

    How Safe are Password Managers?

    Password managers are widely regarded as being a very safe and secure way to manage your details. These apps prioritize security and implement multiple levels of protection.

    A reported 80% of breaches are caused by “weak, reused, or stolen passwords,” and there are more than 24 billion stolen logins for sale on the dark web – so it’s critical that you have protection in place.

    The best password managers use strong encryption to shield your data. In the unlikely event that a password manager’s servers are compromised, your passwords will remain protected, as the encryption ensures only you can access your information.

    Some password managers also offer local storage options for those who prefer even greater control over their data. In this case, your encrypted password vault is only stored on your devices or on a controlled cloud drive rather than on the password manager’s servers. This means your information cannot be exposed in a breach. If you’re interested in an open-source password manager, meanwhile, you may want to consider Bitwarden.

    Password managers often also incorporate secure backup and recovery methods, ensuring that you can access your passwords even if you lose a device or forget your master password – protecting you from the risk of losing access to your vault.

    This is a far better solution than reusing the same password across accounts or attempting to remember simple individual passwords.

    How To Choose the Best Password Manager

    When selecting the best password software for your needs, it’s important to consider a number of factors that contribute to the overall security and usability of the product. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

    EncryptionCompatibilityUsabilityTwo-factor authenticationPassword sharingValue for Money

    Encryption and security – Prioritize password managers that use robust encryption, follow a zero-knowledge architecture – ensuring they cannot access your confidential data – and publish the results of independent security audits.

    Cross-platform compatibility – Opt for a password protector that can sync across all your devices and systems, including smartphones, tablets, and browsers, allowing you to access your passwords wherever you need them.

    For further recommendations, see our guides to the best password managers for Windows, the best password managers for Android, and the best password managers for Mac.

    Ease of use – Look for a password manager that offers intuitive navigation, a simple password generator, and convenient autofill functionality.

    Browser integration is very important for vault accessibility and autofill. See our guides to the best Chrome password manager, the best Firefox password manager, and the best password manager for Opera for more recommendations.

    Two-factor authentication – Choose a password manager that supports two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security, protecting your account even if your master password is compromised.

    Integrating with multi-factor authentication tools for your accounts is also extremely useful.

    Password sharing – If you often need to share passwords with family members or colleagues, look for a password manager that offers secure password-sharing features.

    Price – Evaluate the plans offered by the password manager, along with free offers and trials, and ensure that they provide good value for money based on the features and security provided.

    What are Passkeys?

    Passkeys are a more secure alternative to traditional passwords that are designed to simplify and strengthen online authentication. Developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), the technology generates unique digital keys for each website or service.

    When you create a passkey for an account, your device generates a pair of keys. The public key is stored on the website’s server, while the private key remains on your device.

    During authentication, your device proves possession of the private key without revealing it, ensuring your login credentials remain safe even if the website’s server is compromised. Passkeys are designed to be widely compatible with devices and platforms, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops.

    Leading technology companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft have already incorporated passkey support into their products, including Apple’s iCloud Keychain, Google Password Manager, and Microsoft Authenticator.

    Many popular password managers, like NordPass, 1Password, and Dashlane, have begun integrating passkey support into their applications, allowing users to transition from traditional passwords to this more secure authentication method.

    One of the primary benefits of passkeys is their resistance to phishing attacks and other common forms of online fraud. Because passkeys are uniquely tied to specific services and your device, attackers cannot deceive you into disclosing your login credentials with fake websites.

    Can You Use a Free Password Manager?

    You can use a free password manager to secure your login credentials and improve your online security. Many reputable password management systems, such as NordPass, Dashlane, and Keeper, offer free plans, which provide basic features like password generation, storage, and autofill functionality.

    However, it’s worth considering the potential risks associated with using any free password manager. One of the primary concerns with free password managers is the lack of advanced security features such as secure password sharing and emergency access, which can make it harder to access and recover your details.

    LastPass has a strong free offering, but the provider has a history of major breaches, which has led many users to look for the best LastPass alternatives.

    Many free plans provide very limited capacity for storage or only allow you to access your passwords on a single device and are better categorized as trial services. Upgrading will get you far more features and more comprehensive security. For example, NordPass‘ cheapest plan includes data breach monitoring, 3GB of encrypted storage, emergency access features, and Email Masking.

    See our guide to the best free password managers for more recommendations.

    Can You Use Your Browser to Manage Passwords?

    While most modern web browsers, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, offer some built-in password management features, relying on your browser to manage your passwords isn’t the best or most secure option.

    One of the primary concerns with using browser-based password managers is that they’re more vulnerable to hacks and security breaches than dedicated password management solutions. If a hacker gains access to your browser or device, they could potentially steal all your stored passwords. At the same time, Google Password Manager, for example, doesn’t claim to operate with a zero-knowledge architecture.

    Another limitation is that they may not provide access to your passwords across devices. For example, if you save your passwords in Google Chrome on your desktop, you’ll need to be logged in on a synced account to get access elsewhere. Given this, a dedicated password manager account is likely to be a better solution.

    Conclusion – What’s the Best Password Manager? NordPass

    Around 80% of breaches today are due to weak, reused, or stolen passwords, so it’s critically important to use strong, unique logins and implement double verification wherever possible. While this might sound like a chore, the best password management tools make it simple.

    Following extensive testing of the best password keepers on the market, I rank NordPass as the top solution available today. It makes accessing your passwords fast and easy, and its security has been independently tested and confirmed, so you can have complete confidence in the service.

    The provider offers advanced encryption for your vault, and it offers a range of excellent security features, including a password health checker and email masking. Given all this, it’s my most recommended password manager of the year.

    It’s also one of the most affordable providers on the market and offers a 30-day trial, a free plan with unlimited passwords, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so it’s simple to test it out.

    NordPass
    9.6
    Review

    FAQs

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    Jerry Makenzie
    Technology Journalist
    Jerry Makenzie
    Technology Journalist

    Jerry is a technology writer with over four years of experience, complemented by a CompTIA Security+ certification and a Bachelor's degree in English Language & Literature. His expertise covers cybersecurity, cloud computing, emerging tech trends, and digital transformation. Jerry's background as a Technology Writer at U Green has sharpened his ability to effectively communicate technical information, ensuring that even the most complex subjects are presented with clarity. Jerry's passion for technology stems from his curiosity about how things work. He loves deconstructing new products, apps, and services to understand their inner workings and impact on users' lives. When he's not…

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