I Tested 7 Password Managers: the BEST of 2024 is…

All Things Secured

9 Jan 202405:48

Summary

TLDRThe video script offers a detailed comparison of six popular password managers, focusing on factors like trust, ease of use, features, and pricing. It highlights the security concerns with LastPass, the open-source options of Bitwarden and Proton Pass, and the longevity of RoboForm and 1Password. The comparison includes mobile app usability, the ability to store various data types, and unique features like Proton Pass's email aliasing and 1Password's integration with Privacy.com. The video concludes with recommendations based on user preferences and the importance of investing in a password manager for enhanced security.

Takeaways

🔒 The user compared 7 popular password managers, eliminating LastPass due to multiple security incidents.
📋 Open-source options are limited with only Bitwarden and Proton Pass being open source, while 1Password, NordPass, and RoboForm are closed source, and Dashlane is partially open source.
🛡️ Trust factors such as company transparency and years on the market were considered, with RoboForm and 1Password having the longest track records.
📱 All tested password managers offer easy import managers, good mobile apps, and ease of use across devices.
💡 Bitwarden uniquely allows self-hosting of the password vault, catering to advanced users.
🔑 Password managers can store various sensitive information beyond passwords, such as credit card numbers and encrypted notes.
🔄 RoboForm uniquely offers free storage of 2FA authenticator codes, while others include this in paid plans or not at all.
🌟 Unique features set password managers apart, like Proton Pass's email aliasing and 1Password's integration with Privacy.com for virtual credit card numbers.
💰 Pricing considerations vary, with Bitwarden being the cheapest for individuals and NordPass offering the best value for family plans.
🌐 Dashlane includes a VPN for WiFi protection in their individual plan, while others may offer this through their ecosystems.
👍 The user recommends paying for a password manager, highlighting the value of services like 1Password for its user interface and Proton Pass for its suite of secure apps.

Q & A

How many password managers were initially purchased for comparison?
-The user initially purchased subscriptions to 7 of the most popular password managers.
Why was LastPass removed from the list of password managers being compared?
-LastPass was removed from the list due to multiple security incidents over the past two years, which led to a loss of credibility as a security software.
What are the trust factors used to compare the remaining 6 password managers?
-The trust factors include company transparency, years on the market, ease of setup, and usability of the software.
Which password managers are open source?
-Bitwarden and Proton Pass are open source, while 1Password, NordPass, and RoboForm are closed source. Dashlane is partially open source.
What is unique about Proton Pass in terms of features?
-Proton Pass has a unique feature of native email aliasing, which allows users to create and store secure email usernames and passwords. It also works best when used in conjunction with other Proton security apps.
Which password manager allows self-hosting of the password vault?
-Bitwarden is the only password manager on the list that allows users to self-host their password vault, suitable for advanced users.
How do the password managers handle the storage of 2FA authenticator codes?
-RoboForm offers free storage of 2FA codes, while 1Password, Proton Pass, and Bitwarden include a built-in authenticator on their paid plans. NordPass only offers this feature for business and enterprise plans.
What is the significance of the password managers' years in the market?
-RoboForm and 1Password have the longest track records with 23 and 18 years respectively, indicating their longevity and experience in the market. Dashlane, Bitwarden, and NordPass also have a respectable number of years, while Proton Pass is the youngest, having launched in June 2023.
What are some of the unique features of 1Password?
-1Password offers features like integration with Privacy.com for virtual credit card numbers, a Travel mode for protection on the go, and Watchtower, which alerts users to security breaches and weak passwords.
Which password manager is recommended for advanced users who value control over their password vault?
-Bitwarden is recommended for advanced users due to its open-source nature and the ability to self-host the password vault.
What is the cost range for the recommended password managers?
-The cost range for the recommended password managers is between $1 to $4 a month.
Where can users find a full breakdown of the password manager comparison?
-A full breakdown of the comparison can be found at AllThingsSecured.com/passwordmanagers, which the user will keep updated after the video goes live.