There is no single best password manager for everyone. This comparison, part of our password managers guide, shows which type suits which person, and it applies the criteria on our how we test page.
What matters most
Before looking at names, these are the features that count:
- Zero-knowledge encryption, so the provider cannot read your vault.
- Published independent audits, recent and easy to find.
- Strong two-factor options, ideally including security keys or passkeys.
- Recovery and emergency access that you understand before you need them.
- Export, so you are never locked in.
- Devices, covering everything you use.
How the main options compare
| Option | Type | Good for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitwarden | Cloud, open source | Most people, including those on a free plan | The interface is plainer than some rivals |
| 1Password | Cloud, closed source | Families and teams who want polish | No permanent free personal plan |
| Proton Pass | Cloud, open source apps | People already using Proton's privacy tools | A younger product |
| KeePassXC | Local file, open source | People who want full control of their data | You handle syncing and backups yourself |
| Apple Passwords or Google Password Manager | Built in | Beginners inside one ecosystem | Weaker across other platforms |
How to choose in two minutes
- You want one safe default: start with a well-audited cloud manager. Bitwarden's free plan makes it easy to try one.
- You want the smoothest family setup: look at a paid plan with shared vaults, such as 1Password.
- You do not want your vault in anyone's cloud: consider KeePassXC, and read about cloud versus offline managers.
- You only use Apple or only use Google: the built-in tool is a fine first step. See browser vs password manager.
Things to be wary of
Be careful with products that make claims you cannot check, such as "military-grade" or "unhackable". Avoid any manager that does not explain its encryption or has no public audit. Look at incident history too. LastPass's 2022 breach, in which encrypted vault data was stolen, is a good reason to read how a company reports its problems. It also shows why a strong master password matters.
Next steps
Pick one and try it for a week. The difference between good options is much smaller than the difference between using one and using none. Our guide on setting up a password manager in an afternoon walks you through it, and free vs paid helps if you are weighing up the cost.