The Best Password Managers of 2025
Log in securely anywhere, on any device for under $3 per month with our top-rated password manager 1Password.
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Last Updated on Apr 21, 2025
- Family plan administrator controls double as parental controls
- Innovative security features for traveling
- All apps receive regular updates
- Excellent password security
- Easy to use on mobile devices
- No price increase at renewal
- Supports passkeys on all devices for passwordless login
- Built-in authenticator that can support third-party verification codes
- Automated form filling to easily create new accounts
We all have plenty of online accounts. Using the same password for all of them isn’t safe; if one gets hacked, all our accounts are compromised. Don’t write passwords down on a piece of paper either. It’s too easy to lose. The best solution to this common problem is a password manager that can store your unique passwords securely in an encrypted vault and then let you autofill them when needed.
There are more than a dozen password managers on the market, so we rolled up our sleeves and tried them. After hundreds of hours of testing, we found that 1Password, at $2.99 per month after discounts, is the most secure, convenient, and affordable. But we also recommend Keeper RoboForm, NordPass, Total Password, Aura, and Dashlane. We’ll explain why below.
Comparison of the Best Password Managers of 2025
| System |
1Password
|
Keeper
|
RoboForm
|
NordPass
|
Total Password
|
Aura
|
Dashlane
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th |
| Ratings | 9.8/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Cross-platform compatibility | OS, macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave | iOS macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera | iOS macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera | iOS macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera | iOS macOS, Windows, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera | iOS, macOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge | iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera |
| Free version | 14-day free trial | Lifetime | Lifetime | 30-day free trial | Lifetime | 60-day money-back guarantee | Lifetime |
| Pricing | Premium plans start at $2.99 per month | Premium plans cost $1.67 per month | Premium plans start at $0.99 per month | Premium plans start at $1.99 per month | Premium plans start at $1.99 per month | Premium plans start at $4 per month | Premium plans start at $4.99 per month |
| Read Review | 1Password Review | Keeper Review | RoboForm Review | NordPass Review | Total Password Review | Aura Review | Dashlane Review |
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1. 1Password - Best Analytics
View Packages Links to 1PasswordProduct Specs
App store rating 4.5 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, Linux Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login No Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan No, only a 14-day free trial Pricing Premium plans start at $2.99 per month
What We Like
- Highly capable administrator controls for the family plan
- Month-to-month plans are available
- All third-party security audits are publicly available
- Dedicated Apple Watch app
What We Don’t Like
- Premium plans are relatively expensive
- Limited digital protections
- Family plan only supports five users
- Limited 14-day trial
1Password Overview
Testing out 1Password’s Watchtower feature When we reviewed 1Password, we found a versatile password manager with some pretty interesting features like a travel mode that can temporarily remove select partitions of your vault from your devices. This travel feature is particularly useful if you travel to countries with strict data privacy laws, as it enhances your security by reducing the amount of sensitive information accessible on your devices.
1Password also offers a 14-day free trial of the full version, which makes it an interesting option for people looking for short-term use. The trial allows users to explore its extensive features, like password generation and secure sharing, without having to give payment details. Keep in mind, though, once the trial expires, you’ll have to pay to continue using the service.
Is 1Password Easy to Use?
1Password is user-friendly and makes it easy to import passwords and keep up with updates across multiple devices. Its intuitive interface simplifies the process of managing your passwords, and the browser extension seamlessly integrates with most major browsers for autofill functionality.
FYI: When we signed up for 1Password, it told us that it works best on browsers. We tested 1Password on a Chrome browser, but you can also get extensions for Safari, Firefox, Edge and Brave.
It’s true that 1Password has shipped a few updates for the iPhone that left some users a little frustrated. But in general, we found that using 1Password was a smooth experience. Helpful tutorials and prompts also ensure that even those less tech-savvy can navigate the program confidently.
>>Learn More: The Best Password Managers for Chrome
1Password’s apps and browser extensions gave us tutorials after we set them up. Is 1Password Expensive?
Smack in the middle of our top three picks, 1Password is competitively priced starting at $2.99 per month for the first year. While this pricing reflects its robust feature set and high level of protection, it’s also important to consider the value it provides in terms of convenience.
1Password also offers family and business plans (unlike Total Password and Aura) that provide more extensive features, making it a flexible option for different user needs. Given its comprehensive security measures and ease of use, we’d definitely say the pricing is reasonable, especially when compared to potential costs associated with data breaches or identity theft. Here’s a quick breakdown of 1Password’s prices.
1Password Subscriptions Price per Year Free (1 device) Free for 14 days Premium (1 user, unlimited devices) $35.88 ($2.99 per month) Family (max. 5 users, unlimited devices) $59.88 ($4.99 per month) FYI: You don’t need a credit card to sign up to 1Password, and you can take advantage of the 14-day free trial on family plans, which isn’t something that NordPass and Dashlane offer.
Is 1Password Secure?
1Password uses secure AES-256 encryption, similar to Total Password, Aura, Dashlane, and most other password managers. It also submits to third-party audits and publishes the results. This kind of transparency is very good for users, who can verify the security measures 1Password takes to protect their sensitive data.
We should also point out that 1Password’s dual-layer protection system, which combines your account password with a unique Secret Key, guarantees that even if your password is compromised, your data remains protected.
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2. Keeper - Best Password Security
View Plans Links to KeeperProduct Specs
App Store rating 4.9 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, Linux Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login Yes Data breach scans Yes, but at an extra cost Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan Yes, for one user and 10 passwords Pricing $1.67 per month 
Keeper Overview
Keeper securely saves passwords, personal information, and payment details. Keeper is a wickedly secure password manager that’s also easy to use. It comes with a bunch of unique safety features not offered by other top brands we reviewed, though a few of them cost extra. Keeper isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t charge more at renewal like many of the other names on this list.
What We Like
- Tightest password security of any manager we tested
- Fast login mode signs and logs you in on mobile devices
- Security audit identifies vulnerable passwords for you
- Offers big discounts for students, first responders, and military
What We Don’t Like
- Free plan only works on one mobile device and stores 10 passwords
- Importing passwords was quick but not completely accurate
- Keeper’s premium options are a bit pricier than the competition
- Useful add-ons like data breach monitoring cost extra
Is Keeper Easy to Use?
Uploading our info to our Keeper vault. Installing and using Keeper as our everyday password manager was pretty simple. Importing contacts was quick, though for some reason Keeper put our email addresses and passwords in the wrong fields; we had to fix those manually. Other than that, everything was straightforward. Once we had our Chrome browser extension installed, Keeper went to work, automatically suggesting passwords in our vault.
Pro Tip: Keeper’s Fast Login Mode didn’t just autofill login fields for us, it signed us into our accounts. In other words, we didn’t even have to hit the login button.
Is Keeper Expensive?
At first glance, paying $3.33 per month for Keeper might look expensive compared to the other premium password managers on this list. Even 1Password only costs $2.99 per month and RoboForm has premium plans starting at $1.66 per month; both NordPass and Total Password are $1.99. However, Keeper is currently offering its password manager for 50-percent off, reducing the average cost to $1.67 per month and putting its pricing on par with other brands.
One area where you can expect to pay more with Keeper is security add-ons. Though Keeper’s Security Audit is free (and recommended), when we ran their dark web BreachWatch, the scan itself was free, but accessing the results cost extra. That wasn’t great since dark web threats are real and pervasive. That said, if you’re a student, first responder, or in the military, Keeper offers substantial discounts.
Keeper Subscriptions Price Per Year Free (1 device, 10 passwords) Free Personal (1 user, unlimited devices) with 50-percent discount $19.99 ($1.67 per month) Family (max. 5 users, unlimited devices) with 50-percent discount $42.49 ($3.54 per month) Is Keeper Secure?
We toggled on Self-Destruct and Fast Login on our Keeper mobile app for extra safety and convenience. Keeper is one of the most secure password managers we’ve tested. That security comes in two forms. Keeper uses AES-256 encryption, which is virtually unhackable. On top of that, their apps use Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for extra protection. ECC is lighter than traditional RSA encryption so its quicker, especially on mobile devices. Keeper also submits to independent third-party audits to test for vulnerabilities, which we always like to see.
FYI: Keeper comes with a unique Self-Destruct feature that erases your (Keeper) data after five failed login attempts. We recommend toggling this on.
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3. RoboForm - Best for Passwordless Logins
View Packages Links to RoboFormProduct Specs
App Store rating 4.7 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, Linux Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login Yes Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan Yes, for one user Pricing Premium plans start at $0.99 per month 
RoboForm Overview
We created a unique password that we could remember for our RoboForm vault. One of the oldest password managers on the market, RoboForm had the time to finetune their features. They make it easy to manage passwords, create and share accounts, and autofill authentication codes, which is why we think it’s among the best password managers right now. It’s more than just easy to use, though; we found during testing that RoboForm takes advantage of the latest technology to secure our passwords. That includes user-friendly passwordless login.
What We Like
- Import verification codes from third-party authenticator apps
- Supports passkeys for passwordless login
- Easily and securely share passwords and accounts
- Widespread support for all major platforms and browsers
What We Don’t Like
- Only an executive summary of the third-party audit is available
- Free plan limits access to the web portal for advanced settings
- Live chat and phone support requires a subscription
- Family plan only supports five accounts
Is RoboForm Easy to Use?
It was easy to get set up with RoboForm’s browser extensions. RoboForm’s user experience is on point. Even the tiny Chrome extension window let us access almost all features. We particularly like the way it manages passwordless logins. We typically use the Microsoft and Google Authenticator for two-factor authentication. RoboForm let us add both authenticators to their app so we wouldn’t need to switch back and forth and still use all our passwordless logins.
The desktop apps also do what they’re meant to, although some features don’t always work. When we signed into a new Steam account, for instance, RoboForm failed to auto-capture the login credentials the first time. We also had to take extra steps to “attach” RoboForm to our Steam app so that it could fill in our login credentials next time. We still think the desktop app works great, though; it’s just that we prefer using the browser extension. We really liked the Chrome extension, and RoboForm is also one of the best password managers for Firefox.
FYI: Password managers in general can’t log you into third-party apps on macOS and Windows, but RoboForm makes that possible even though it requires extra setting up.
Is RoboForm Expensive?
Given that there’s a lifetime free plan that can store unlimited passwords (just like NordPass), we don’t consider RoboForm expensive. In fact, premium plans start at just under $12 in the first year, or about $0.99 per month. That’s definitely affordable.
Here’s a breakdown of RoboForm’s prices for their consumer password manager:
RoboForm Subscriptions Price Free plan (1 device) Free Premium plan (1 user) $11.90 per year ($0.99 monthly average) Family plan (max. 5 users) $19.10 per year ($1.59 per month) >>Need a Family Plan? The Best Password Managers for Families
Is RoboForm Secure?
RoboForm’s Security Center helped us strengthen the passwords on all of our accounts. RoboForm uses AES-256 military-grade encryption to encrypt stored passwords. It’s the industry standard. Plus, they use a zero-knowledge infrastructure, which means they themselves can’t read the passwords and data you store in your vault.
Of course, we have no way of confirming any of that, but just like NordPass, which comes bundled in with NordVPN’s premium plans, RoboForm has gone through an independent audit. The audit found some vulnerabilities, but the executive summary says that RoboForm has addressed all of them. In our book, it’s always best to trust a service that has been audited by an independent third party.
Lastly, we appreciate that RoboForm helps users improve their digital security. We had access to RoboForm’s Security Center, which showed us which accounts we had duplicate passwords for, as well as passwords that had been potentially compromised in data breaches.
Pro Tip: We created a free password strength checker you can use for free. You’ll need to test your passwords one-by-one with it, but it’s a free alternative to the password strength assessment provided with RoboForm’s premium plans.
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4. NordPass - Best Price-to-Feature Ratio
View Packages Links to NordPassProduct Specs
App Store rating 4.7 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android, Linux Encryption standard XChaCha20 Cross-device login Yes Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan Yes, for one user Pricing Premium plans start at $1.99 per month
NordPass Overview
Our NordPass testing setup NordPass is a user-friendly password manager that works seamlessly across your devices and offers premium features like persistent login and strong security. It’s an all-around reliable choice for managing all of your sensitive information.
When we reviewed NordPass, we were impressed with its sleek interface and intuitive design. As such, NordPass caters to both tech-savvy users and those new to password management.
Users can easily create, store, and autofill passwords at home or on the go. Beyond basic password storage, NordPass offers features such as a data breach scanner, email masking, and password health assessment, which make it a comprehensive digital safety tool.
What We Like
- Zero-knowledge security architecture audited by an independent party
- Uses the most advanced encryption protocol, ChaCha20
- Premium plans are affordable
- High-quality apps for nearly any device
What We Don’t Like
- Plans are considerably more expensive at renewal
- No monthly plan
- Automatically logged out of browser extensions periodically
- Premium plans require a subscription to try their features
Is NordPass Easy to Use?
When we reviewed NordPass, we found it was really easy to use after it was all set up, but importing passwords was a little challenging. After that initial hurdle, we found the interface was really straightforward.
Importing passwords into NordPass took less than five minutes. The Chrome browser extension provided immediate access to features like autofill and password generation, streamlining our login process across various websites. The ability to generate strong, unique passwords with customizable options adds to the convenience.
Did You Know: Our recent report on password habits revealed that 64 percent of Americans are using between 8 to 11 characters in a typical password. It might be a sign people are catching on to the dangers of shorter passwords.
We were also impressed by the app’s email masking feature that allowed us to create temporary email addresses when we signed up for new services, further enhancing our privacy. Overall, NordPass dramatically improved our online convenience and safety. Its user-friendly design and useful security features let us manage all of our sensitive information without feeling overwhelmed.
Is NordPass Expensive?
We’d say NordPass’ prices are affordable, with premium plans starting at $1.99 per month for the first year. NordPass also offers a free lifetime option and family plans, providing excellent value compared to other password managers.
The free tier gives users access to essential features, making it one of the most generous offerings in the industry — and our favorite free password manager. The premium plan unlocks additional features, such as the data breach scanner and password health assessor, which makes it a lot easier to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
NordPass’s data breach scanner identifies a potential security risk for us. If you’re not ready to pull the trigger, NordPass offers a 30-day free trial for its premium features, allowing users to experience the full range of benefits without any upfront costs. Family plans, which accommodate up to six users, make it easy to share premium features with loved ones without breaking the bank. Here’s a quick cost breakdown:
NordPass Subscriptions Price First Year Price at Renewal Free (1 device) Free N/A Premium (1 user, multiple devices) $23.88 ($1.99 per month) $35.88 ($2.99 per month) Family (max. 6 users, multiple devices) $44.28 ($3.69 per month) $71.88 ($5.99 per month) FYI: NordPass also offers two-years plans, which offer substantial savings. A two-year plan, for example, will cut your monthly bills down to $1.49 per month for the Premium plan and $2.79 for the Family plan.
Is NordPass Secure?
Yes, NordPass employs top-tier security protocols, ensuring that sensitive information is well-protected. While most password managers use AES-256 encryption, NordPass uses the XChaCha20 standard. Both are extremely secure, but XChaCha20 is a little better when it comes to simplicity and speed.
This innovative encryption method allows NordPass to run efficiently on a variety of devices, including smartphones in battery-saving mode. Like RoboForm, NordPass also uses a zero-knowledge architecture, meaning only you have access to your passwords; Nordpass can’t even see them. Also worth pointing out — NordPass has never been hacked, and the company itself has a stellar reputation for digital security. All of this made us feel that we were in good hands during our tests.
Just in case you didn’t know, NordPass was created by NordVPN, one of the best virtual private networks available today, making their password manager a trustworthy choice for managing sensitive information in an increasingly perilous digital world.
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5. Total Password - Best Cross-Device Capabilities
View Packages Links to Total PasswordProduct Specs
App Store rating 2.9 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login Yes Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan No, only a 30-day free trial Pricing Premium plans start at $1.99 per month 
Total Password Overview
We downloaded Total Password for macOS, but it runs on all major OS, too. TotalAV, our favorite antivirus software, makes Total Password, so we weren’t surprised to find that their password manager is secure, easy to use, and feature-rich. Total Password is also one of the cheapest premium password managers we’ve tested with plans starting at $1.99.
>>Learn More: Total AV Review and Pricing
What made Total Password special for us is its cross-device capabilities. Since it relies on browser-based password management, we could use our passwords on all of our devices without resaving them. So, when we made new accounts on our laptop, those passwords automatically synced to our iPhone. It worked that same way when we updated our passwords too.
What We Like
- Automatic password syncing across devices
- Strong data breach scanning
- Remotely log out of accounts from any device with Total Password
- Single price point at $1.99 per month
What We Don’t Like
- No desktop app
- No free trial or free lifetime plan
- One-year subscription required
- Not much support documentation or tutorials
Is Total Password Easy to Use?
We’ll be honest, we were surprised to see that Total Password doesn’t have a desktop app. That’s usually how we use password managers since it’s easier to create passwords in a full-window than in a small browser extension panel. But a password manager without a desktop app isn’t completely new to us. Dashlane and Aura worked the same way when we tested the best Windows password managers. In any case, for all three services, you can still access your passwords on your desktop via the web app.
With our extension ready to go on Safari, it was time to import our passwords. This is one of the spots where Total Password shines. We could easily import our passwords from any password manager we used. In our case, we imported them from the built-in Apple password manager, iCloud Keychain. In a few seconds, those passwords appeared on our Android phone. The process also worked the other way: any accounts we created on our phone were automatically synced to our laptop.
>>A Closer Look: The Best Password Managers for Safari
FYI: When we tested Total Password, we found that importing our passwords to our mobile devices was really quick and easy. That’s because Total Password is optimized for use on mobile devices.
Total Password let us view and manage all of our devices with the app installed. Needless to say, using Total Password was easy. The only drawback is that we had to download the extension for each browser we used. But that didn’t take more than a minute or two.
Is Total Password Expensive?
When buying Total Password on its own, there’s only one option at $1.99 per month for an annual plan. But, there’s another way to get Total Password and that’s by bundling it with an antivirus through the TotalAV site. And while there’s no option for a free plan with the password manager, both the bundled version and Total Password on its own comes with a 30-day free trial.
Logging into our Total Password account with the Chrome extension. Total Password has only one plan — $1.99 per month for the first year, then $119.40 at renewal), which breaks down to an eye-popping 10 bucks per month. But there’s another way to get Total AV’s password manager that’s a lot better value for money. That’s by bundling the password manager in with TotalAV’s antivirus. Check out the table below to see what we mean. While there’s no free plan, both the bundled version and the standalone password manager come with a 30-day free trial.
>>Learn More: The Best Antivirus/VPN Bundles of 2025
Here’s how much you can expect to pay for Total Password whether you bundle it with TotalAV (antivirus) and Total VPN or buy it on its own:
Total Password Subscriptions Price First Year Price at Renewal Premium (1 user, multiple devices) $23.88 ($1.99 per month) $119.40 ($9.95 per month) Total AV Bundle (8 devices) $49 ($4.08 per month) $149 ($12.42 per month) We do want to point out that Total Password’s $1.99-per-month rate is for the first year only. Renewals will cost you more — way more. That’s not unusual for password manager subscriptions, as NordPass also increases the rate after the introductory period. But with Total Password, the cost increases by nearly five times. That’s something to consider if you’re looking to use it long-term.
We also didn’t like that there are no options for families. While there are no limits to the number of devices and browsers you can use Total Password on, we don’t recommend sharing your master password and vault, not even with family members, and especially kids and teenagers. Our pick for families here – Dashlane – lets you add up to 10 members per plan with separate vaults and master passwords.
Pro Tip: All Total Password plans are billed annually. There are no monthly billing options like with 1Password (see below). If paying monthly better suits you, see our comparison of Total Password and 1Password.
Is Total Password Secure?
Like most password managers, Total Password uses AES-256 encryption to keep your passwords safe.1 That’s the same encryption protocol the U.S. government uses to keep classified documents safe. In our opinion, that’s plenty secure for our passwords and yours.
Total Password’s security report showed us our current password security status. Total Password also let us log out of our accounts remotely, which was a security feature we really appreciated. For example, if we forgot to sign out of an online banking session on our MacBook Pro, we could do it via the Total Password Android app from the car. It might not seem like much of a perk, but image if you used a friend’s laptop to log in to your email but accidently forgot to sign out. Total Password’s remote log out feature would come in very handy.
>>Learn More: Our Favorite Password Managers for Android
FYI: We’re actually familiar with remote locking. It’s the same way our favorite smart locks work when we forget to lock the door on our way out of the house!
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6. Aura - Best Online Account Protection
View Packages Links to AuraProduct Specs
App store rating 4.7 stars Supported platforms iOS, Android, Windows, macOS Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login Yes Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan No, only a 60-day money-back guarantee Pricing Premium plans start at $1.99 per month Aura Password Manager Overview
If you’ve heard of Aura before, it’s probably from identity theft protection circles. We ranked Aura as our #1 identity theft protection service, and one big reason are all the cybersecurity features it includes that comprehensively protect users’ digital personal information. Those features include a password manager that we tested when we reviewed Aura’s identity protection service.
Aura helped us block spam calls and junk emails. If you’ve heard of Aura before, it’s probably because of its identity theft protection service. Aura was our #1 pick for identity theft protection, primarily because of all the cybersecurity features it includes to protect our personal information. Those features include a password manager that we tested when we reviewed Aura.
>>Check Out: Our Top Identity Theft Protection Picks
You don’t need a full identity protection subscription to use the password manager either. You can get it for as low as $4 per month with Aura’s Antivirus Plus plan, which includes antivirus software and a VPN. That’s a pretty good deal, especially compared to Dashlane, which charges $4.99 per month and only throws in a VPN.
We also like that Aura offers features that can directly protect your online accounts from getting hacked or compromised. Aura can generate email aliases to hide your real email address. It gives you spam and phishing protection, and if you upgrade to the mid-tier plan or higher, you’ll get basic identity monitoring as well.
What We Like
- Cybersecurity plans starting at $1.99 per month
- Option to buy a full identity theft protection package for $12 per month
- Includes phishing and scam protection
- 60-day money-back guarantee
What We Don’t Like
- Entry-level subscription for three devices only
- Lacks desktop apps; browser extensions offer limited functionality
- Auto-fill doesn’t always work
- Confusing subscription options and no free trial
Is Aura Easy to Use?
Choosing an Aura plan was a little tricky. As we moved up in pricing, the line between device security and identity protection became more blurred. At a point we were wondering if we should just switch to a full-blown Aura identity protection plan.
We settled on Aura’s mid-tier Antivirus Plus plan. Once we made our selection, installing Aura on our five devices was easy. Just FYI, we installed Aura’s browser extension on our PC and our MacBook Pro because there is no desktop app.
FYI: Like Total Password and Dashlane, Aura doesn’t have a desktop app or a full-screen web app, but there’s an online dashboard for Aura where we managed our passwords.
Our Aura password manager browser extension running in Chrome Our experience importing passwords into our Aura vault was similar to NordPass. It took just a couple of minutes once we had our .csv file from Chrome. All our devices synced as well. The one thing we noticed is that the auto-fill feature sometimes didn’t work. In those instances, we had to open the browser extension, search the site we were filling details into, and copy/paste the username and password manually. This happened about 10-percent of the time. It’s no biggie, but we hope Aura will fix it.
Is Aura Expensive?
At $3-5 per month for the first year, Aura is fairly expensive. And keep in mind that Aura bills annually. Also remember that like with Total Password, prices do increase substantially upon renewal. Aura’s mid-tier Antivirus Plus plan, for instance, will shoot up to $8.33 per month, or $100 per year. Here’s the full breakdown:
Aura Subscriptions
Price First Year Price at Renewal Antivirus Plus (5 devices) $48 ($4 per month) $100 ($8.33 per month) Ultimate (10 devices) $60 ($5 per month) $130 ($10.83 per month) Aura’s device limit is something we hadn’t seen from other password managers we tested. Most would let you install the app or extension on as many devices and browsers as you wanted. With Aura, you can use the password manager on up to 10 devices. There are no family plans either; if you’re buying for the whole household, your only real option is to get an Aura identity protection family plan. It’s the best family identity protection on the market, but it does come at a cost of $32 per month. That’s for a maximum of five users.
Important: Most of Aura’s identity protection features don’t work outside the United States. If you’re not a U.S. resident and you’re looking for comprehensive password management and online protection, take a look at our #5 pick Dashlane.
Is Aura Secure?
This is the one thing you can count on from Aura. Security is front and center since the brand specializes in protecting personal information. At the very least, you’ll get 256-bit AES encryption for the passwords, credit card information, and insurance and medical documents you store in your vault.
Beyond that though, all Aura’s plans include scam and phishing protection. Aura can recognize fake phishing sites that ask you to enter your login credentials and won’t auto-fill for those. And when signing up for new accounts, you can also generate email aliases like you can with NordPass.
>>Look Deeper: Common Online Scams and How to Avoid Them
With Aura, you also get antivirus software and a VPN, spam and junk mail removal (in the Password Plus and Ultimate plans), and of course, basic identity and credit monitoring in the Ultimate plan. So definitely secure, and for a maximum of $5 per month for the first year, pretty reasonably priced. Count us in!
Pro Tip: While Aura calls the identity protection features included in the Ultimate plan “premium,” they’re not as comprehensive as the features included in Aura’s actual identity protection plans. For example, the Ultimate plan monitors only one credit bureau, while Aura’s full identity protection plans monitor three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
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7. Dashlane - Best for Families
View Packages Links to DashlaneProduct Specs
App Store rating 4.7 stars Supported platforms iOS, macOS, Windows, Android Encryption standard AES-256 Cross-device login No Data breach scans Yes Passwordless login Yes Lifetime free plan Yes Pricing Premium plans start at $4.99 per month
Dashlane Overview
When we tested Dashlane, we quickly realized this password manager prioritizes ease of use. It offers straightforward password importing, keeping it simple and user-friendly. It also includes a passwordless login feature for added convenience.
Getting set up with Dashlane was straightforward and quick. One standout aspect is Dashlane’s Friends & Family plan, which allows you to include up to 10 members, making it an excellent choice for households. The premium subscription also bundles in Hotspot Shield VPN, providing additional online privacy and security. This combination of features positions Dashlane not just as a password manager, but as a comprehensive digital security tool.
FYI: Dashlane’s Friends & Family plan lets you add up to 10 people. NordPass only allows six, and 1Password is just five. It’s one of the reasons why Dashlane made our list of best password managers for families.
What We Like
- Premium plan includes various online protections
- Unlimited sharing of passwords, 2FA codes, and notes on the free plan
- Renewal prices don’t suddenly increase
- The family plan supports up to 10 user accounts
What We Don’t Like
- Paid plans are expensive starting at $4.99 per month
- Free plan doesn’t store unlimited passwords
- Family plan includes limited features for most users
- Security methods have not been third-party audited
Is Dashlane Easy to Use?
Dashlane is very easy to set up and use. Most functions are available on the home screen, which is really intuitive and well designed. It only took us a few minutes to organize everything. Then we were browsing the web, logging into our accounts in no time.
We tested Dashlane’s autofill feature on Android Overall, we found the integration across devices was pretty seamless using Dashlane. This meant we could manage our passwords effortlessly whether we were at home on our desktops or on the go using our mobile devices.
Is Dashlane Expensive?
Like NordPass, Dashlane plans are pretty inexpensive. They have a free plan that doesn’t require a credit card and secures up to 25 passwords, which you can safely share with family and friends if you want, though we don’t recommend sharing passwords with anyone. Dashlane’s premium plan costs $5 per month. While that’s considerably more than what NordPass and 1Password charge, we’d argue it’s still pretty budget-friendly because Dashlane throws in a quality VPN and unlimited password storage.
Dashlane Subscriptions Price per Year Free (1 device) Free Premium (1 user, unlimited devices) $59.88 ($4.99 per month) Family (max. 10 users, unlimited devices) $89.88 ($7.49 per month) Is Dashlane Secure?
Dashlane uses AES-256 encryption, so it’s definitely secure. It’s just not as cutting-edge as NordPass’s XChaCha20. However, Dashlane does follow a zero-knowledge principle, ensuring that only users can access their information.
Dashlane also enhances security through features like dark web monitoring, alerting users to any compromised passwords. This proactive approach was an additional layer of security we liked.
FYI: When Dashlane found our details on the dark web, it marked our login credentials as compromised on the Password Health page. It’s not something NordPass or 1Password did when they found our breached passwords. This approach meant we could fix the issue before hackers did any damage.
That said, Dashlane has not undergone third-party audits, relying instead on self-audits. While the results of these tests are readily available, we would really prefer them to be coming from third parties. We’re dinging them a bit for that.
Honorable Mentions
While the top five contenders on our list check pretty much every box for us, there are two more password managers we think are worth mentioning.
Bitwarden
Bitwarden is an open-source password manager designed for individuals and organizations, offering secure password generation, storage and management. It uses 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge architecture, meaning only users can access their data. It has never experienced a significant security breach; however, it did face a notification about a potential vulnerability in its autofill feature. The resolution of this issue remains a little fuzzy. Bitwarden starts at just 83 cents per month, but also has a free plan with almost complete functionality.
LastPass
LastPass is a widely used password manager known for its user-friendly interface and useful features, but it’s also had some security concerns in the past. It operates on a freemium model, providing basic features for free while offering premium plans for enhanced functionality. It also uses AES-256 encryption, but also adds two-factor authentication (2FA). However, its history of data breaches — 2015, 2021 and 2022, for those keeping score — raises concerns about user data safety. Their premium plan costs $3 per month.
Understanding Password Managers
Password managers are tools designed to help people store, generate, and manage their passwords securely. Using them not only helps keep your passwords safe; it means you don’t have to remember all your login credentials.
So what exactly is a password manager? And will they really help improve and streamline your digital security? Let’s start with the first question: what is a password manager?
What Is a Password Manager?
A password manager is a software application that securely stores and organizes your passwords in a vault. That means you don’t have to rely on your memory or on insecure, inconvenient methods like paper and pen. Your password manager does it for you, keeping all your logins securely in one place with bank-level encryption.
Understanding Encryption
At its core, encryption transforms readable information into a coded format, making it inaccessible to prying eyes. When you create an account with a password manager, you’ll be asked to generate a master password. This master password isn’t stored; it’s actually used to encrypt your password vault, locking it down so only you can access it.
FYI: One of the most interesting findings from our password manager industry report was that 1 in 4 password manager users reuse their master password. This dangerous practice means if a hacker guesses the master password, they’ll have access to everything inside the vault.
Without going too deep into the weeds, the encryption process itself utilizes complex algorithms that render your stored passwords completely unreadable. Only the correct master password can decrypt this data, allowing you to access your passwords securely. This means that even if a hacker or some other digital ne’er-do-well were to somehow breach the password manager’s servers, they would only see garbled, encrypted data that’s virtually impossible to decipher.
Reputable, reliable password managers are going to employ strong encryption standards. The majority of the time, you’ll see the acronym AES-256, which is widely regarded as completely secure. It’s the same level of encryption that the majority of the military uses, as well as a good portion of the banking industry.
What Else Can Password Managers Do?
Once logged in with your master password, you can access your vault, where all your passwords are securely stored. That’s pretty much their basic functionality. A lot of password managers go a step further, though. They also let you store additional types of information like secure notes, IDs, and credit card information.
Many password managers will also include a password generator feature that creates strong, complex, and unique passwords and passphrases. Once you start using one, we highly recommend using this feature to start replacing your old 1234 passwords with virtually unhackable ones you don’t have to remember.
So that’s the security side of the house. On the convenience side, password managers automatically fill in your login credentials on websites and apps, which makes your day-to-day digital comings and goings a lot more streamlined. Most modern solutions can also synchronize data across devices, which means you’ll be able to access your vault from all of your devices — desktops, smartphones, tablets, you name it.
Why Do People Use Password Managers, and Do I Need One?
Like it or not, a huge portion of our lives are online. Our banking, our shopping, our socializing — a good chunk of it is digital. And the really important information? Well that’s all password protected, of course.
But as our lives became increasingly digital, so too did the threats. Hackers, scammers and other digital criminals can smash through weak passwords in seconds, so if the only thing standing between your money and some guy wearing a hoodie in an internet cafe in Bulgaria is the word “Password123,” you might as well consider yourself cooked.
Like it or not, a huge portion of our lives is now online — banking, shopping, socializing, etc. But as our lives have become increasingly digital, so too have the threats. Hackers, scammers and other digital criminals can smash through weak passwords in seconds, so if the only thing standing between your money and a cyberthief is the word “Password123,” you’re in trouble.
Here are a few more good reasons to use a password manager:
- Phishing protection: By autofilling credentials only on recognized sites, password managers minimize the chances of entering passwords on malicious websites by mistake.
- Cross-device synchronization: Most password managers enable access across multiple devices, ensuring your passwords are always available no matter where you are.
- Secure storage of sensitive information: Many password managers allow secure storage of credit card information, notes, IDs, and documents.
- Password strength audits: Many password managers include features that check for weak passwords and alert you if your accounts are vulnerable to hackers.
So this begs the question — do you actually need to use one? To definitively answer that, you should consider these questions:
Do you have a bunch of online accounts? If you frequently use various services, a password manager can simplify credential management.
Do you forget passwords easily? If you often forget passwords or find yourself using easily guessable ones, a password manager can help.
Are you concerned about online security? If protecting your personal information is a priority, a password manager is a good start.
Do you share passwords? If you need to share access with family or colleagues, many password managers have secure sharing options that will allow you to provide access to services without sharing your actual log in credentials.
Learn More: Best Password Managers for Safari
At the end of the day, using a password manager is a smart choice for improving your online security and streamlining digital life. If you’re managing multiple accounts or interested in prioritizing your security — which, by the way, is becoming increasingly important — investing in a password manager can greatly improve your online experience.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Using a Password Manager?
In a world absolutely filled with cyber threats, password managers are one way to minimize threats from specific attacks. While they offer a lot of advantages, there are a few potential downsides to using them as well. Understanding both can help you make an informed decision.
Single point of failure: Storing all passwords in one place can be risky. If someone gains access to your master password, it could compromise all your accounts. One way to mitigate against this is to create a strong master password that only you have access to.
Cost: While free versions exist, premium features typically require a subscription. Generally speaking, though, a decent, functional password manager should only run you a couple of bucks a month.
Learning curve: Hey, we get it. Some people may find it challenging to navigate new software, especially if they are less tech-savvy. Most of the time, though, password managers are pretty easy to use.
Dependency on software: Relying on a password manager means trusting the software and its developers, which introduces risk. If the password manager you choose isn’t reputable or is misrepresenting the security measures they’re taking, you could find yourself in trouble. Make sure you’re only using a password manager recommended by experts.
Limited offline access: Some managers require an internet connection for optimal functionality, which can make access without connectivity a little challenging. Make sure you understand the ins and outs of the provider’s functionality and your own needs before you click purchase.
Potential for data breaches: While reputable password managers use strong encryption, they are not immune to digital threats. You should always select a password manager that performs regular security audits and is evolving to meet threats as they arise.
>> Learn More: Best Password Managers for Chrome
So with all of that in mind — how they work, how they’re used, what their drawbacks are and how to mitigate them — you might be wondering if password managers are expensive. Let’s talk about that a little bit.
Are Password Managers Expensive?
For software that makes spending time online easier and safer and that doesn’t require a whole lot of work on your part to use, password managers aren’t that expensive. Here’s a ballpark idea of what you can expect to pay and how you can get the best value for your money.
Free options: A lot of password managers offer free versions with basic features. These free plans usually include essential functionalities like password storage and autofill but may lack the advanced features that premium plans have.
Premium plans: If you want more robust security features, you can opt for a premium plan, which will typically run you about $2 to $6 per month. Depending on the service, these may include the following:
- Cross-device synchronization
- Advanced security features like two-factor authentication
- Secure sharing options
- Encrypted storage for sensitive documents
Family and group plans: Many password managers offer discounted family or group plans, allowing multiple users to share a subscription, making them cost-effective for families or small businesses.
Keep in mind, though, that depending on the provider you select, there might be a few hidden costs and considerations that you might need to factor in. Some providers charge for specific features, which can increase your overall costs.
How to Use a Password Manager Effectively
Password managers are really easy to use — they take about 10 minutes or so to set up and get running. But if you really want to get the most out of them, here are a few steps to take to ensure you’re maximizing your manager’s benefits.
Choose a strong master password: Your master password is the gateway to all your stored credentials. Create a strong, unique password or passphrase that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and at least one special character. Avoid using easily guessable information, but don’t make it so complex that you can’t remember it. You’ll need it whenever you want to open your vault and can’t use your fingerprint.
Enable two-factor authentication: If your password manager provides it, you should enable 2FA for an added layer of security. This requires a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone, making unauthorized access a heck of a lot harder.
Organize your vault: Most password managers allow you to categorize your passwords and notes. Take advantage of this feature to group related accounts, making it easier to find what you need quickly.
Regularly update passwords: If your password manager has an auditing feature, you should schedule periodic reviews of your stored passwords. Change weak or reused passwords and take advantage of the password generator feature to create strong alternatives.
Use autofill with caution: While autofill saves time, be cautious when using it on public or shared computers. Always ensure you’re on legitimate websites before allowing the manager to fill in your credentials.
Back up your data: Regularly backup your password vault according to your password manager’s guidelines. This ensures you won’t lose access if your device fails.
Final Thoughts on Password Managers
At the end of the day, password managers make a lot of sense for most of us. They’re affordable, easy to use, and a lot more convenient than searching for a scrap of paper buried somewhere in your desk.
But investing in a password manager isn’t just about convenience; it’s about taking control of your online safety. As digital threats continue to evolve, it’s becoming increasingly important to proactively equip yourself with the right tools to defeat scammers and crooks. While password managers aren’t a silver bullet, they will go a long way in making sure your sensitive data is as secure as it can be.
Password Manager FAQ
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How do password managers enhance security?
They generate strong, unique passwords for each account, store them securely, and autofill login credentials when needed, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
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Are password managers safe to use?
Yes, reputable password managers use strong encryption methods to protect your data, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access your passwords.
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Can I access my passwords on multiple devices?
Most password managers offer cross-device synchronization, allowing you to access your passwords on various devices, such as computers, smartphones and tablets.
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What happens if I forget my master password?
If you forget your master password, many password managers have recovery options, but some may not allow you to recover your vault, highlighting the importance of choosing a password you can remember.
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Are there any free password managers?
Yes, many password managers offer free versions with basic features, although premium versions typically include additional functionality you may want.
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National Institute of Standards and Technology. (2024). Cryptographic Standards and Guidelines.
csrc.nist.gov/projects/cryptographic-standards-and-guidelines/archived-crypto-projects/aes-development
