Home Password Manager Guides The Ultimate Guide to the Best Password Manager in 2024
Anwesha Roy Tech Writer Author expertise
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Raise your hand if you’ve ever paused for a minute trying to log into an app you haven’t accessed in a few months. Now raise your other hand if you’ve ever had to reset your password because you typed in incorrect credentials too many times. 

The best password managers prevent these situations from cropping up – so you can browse the internet in peace and with confidence. These tools allow you to create new accounts, avail of online services, make transactions, and access data, ensuring that your passwords are safe. 

In this article, we take you through the best in password management in 2024. Besides discussing the top tools in this segment, we’ll also look at the best free password managers you can try if paid tools aren’t the right fit. 

So grab a coffee, and let’s explore password management, a technology that can be a lifesaver in today’s threat-riddled cyber world.

The 10 Best Password Managers Ranked

Password management is a $2.74 billion market, but not every tool deserves your attention. There are a lot of products out there propped up by marketing and big promises, which don’t really live up to your expectations. 

That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you to help select a trustworthy password manager. Here are our picks:

  1. NordPass – The best password manager overall
  2. 1Password – Best password manager for families
  3. Dashlane – Best choice for PC users
  4. Keeper – Best for Mac and iOS devices
  5. Roboform – Best password manager for ease of use
  6. Enpass – Best for encrypting existing storage
  7. Password Boss –  Best for remote device security and analytics 
  8. Total Password – Best for simplicity and strong password generation 
  9. Norton – Best for using via browser extensions
  10. Bitwarden – Best open-source password manager with strong authentication

What is a Password Manager?

A password manager is a tool businesses or individuals can use to manage and store all their passwords in one secure location. It eradicates the need to remember multiple passwords for every different website or account you have.

Instead, users just need to remember one password, often called the ‘master password,’ which grants them access to their vault of safe and secure individual passwords. Some password managers allow you to store personal data, documents, and credit card information, adding a blanket of security over sensitive information.

What Makes the Best Password Manager in 2024?

The definition of the ‘best’ password manager will vary widely from one user to another, but broadly speaking, it’s an affordable cloud-based tool with strong encryption that lets you access your passwords from any location, on any device, and using any browser. 

As you can see, compatibility is what differentiates a great password manager from an ‘okay’ one, giving users the flexibility to use any platform they’d like.

The best password managers in 2024 will also take advantage of the latest, most powerful advancements in authentication technology

For example, passkeys now allow users to log in without even knowing the password and are almost impossible to break. As online services become more expensive (and useful), you may want to share your account with others – there are advancements for that too.

Users may also want to consider their individual needs when selecting the best password manager. Are you going to use it for work? Do you own multiple devices? What’s your favorite browser? (See the buyer’s guide section of this article for more.)

Based on these preferences, you can find a strong but convenient and user-friendly tool that works for you. That said, we found that NordPass addresses most of your common login requirements and much more. Read on for our complete findings and recommendations. 

The Top 10 Password Managers in 2024: Tested and Reviewed

Let’s now take a closer look at the password Management tools that won the top spots in our reviews. Starting with NordPass, these include:

1. NordPass – The Best Password Manager Overall

Our number one pick for the best password manager in 2024 is NordPass. It combines cutting-edge features with military-grade encryption and is finished with a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for business or individual use.

Using NordPass is simple. It synchronizes all data across devices and protects your vault with a master password. On other devices, you can utilize Fingerprint, Touch ID, or Face ID (iOS-only). You will require the authentication app for 2FA and an email address where a 6-digit number will be issued whenever a new device is added.

Why NordPass?

NordPass goes above and beyond by providing next-generation XChaCha20 encryption with Argon2 used for key derivation. Although the rivals’ AES 256-bit is perfectly acceptable, XChaCha20 is more user-friendly and less prone to configuration errors.

NordPass Password Manager

This encryption method is substantially faster, especially on machines with AES hardware acceleration. It is also safer because XChaCha20 uses two alternative key lengths, including 256-bit encryption.

Furthermore, this password manager uses zero-knowledge architecture, which encrypts the data on your device before it is sent to the service provider’s servers. Therefore, there is no potential for data breaches.

This password manager has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. You can also use NordPass on various browsers through extensions such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge.

NordPass has all the functionality a typical user may want and is incredibly user-friendly. You can create passwords, assess their strength, use autofill and autosave, and distribute login information.

A real-time data breach scanner, which checks leaked databases for your passwords and credit card information, is also available. You are quickly informed if any of your information is discovered online via an email or an in-app message.

Last up is the support team, which we found to be incredibly knowledgeable and could solve countless problems via the 24/7 live chat or the ticketing system via email. They also have a vast database of FAQs and helpful guides for those who like to self-diagnose.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$1.49/month 1. Password Sharer
2. Offline Mode
3. Emergency Access
No Unlimited 6

Pricing

NordPass Pricing

NordPass offers a generous ‘free forever’ plan with a bundle of useful features, including autofill passwords and unlimited password storage.

However, to get the most out of NordPass, we recommend signing up for a premium plan. You’ll get access to the full set of features, like a Dark Web scanner and weak password detection.

Prices start from as little as $1.49/month, making NordPass excellent value for money.

NordPass – Pros and Cons

NordPass covers all the bases when it comes to password management, and it’s one of the most affordable tools on our list. However, it’s not without a few limitations.

Pros

  • Groundbreaking XChaCha20 encryption
  • Uses multi-factor authentication
  • Excellent free version available
  • Accepts anonymous payment methods
  • 24/7 Data breach scanner

Cons

  • The free version only supports one device

2. 1Password – Best Password Manager For Families

1Password is an incredibly effective tool for managing, generating, and storing passwords. It has plenty of features and is reasonably priced, making it one of the best password managers in 2024.

You only need one password to operate across all your accounts—your Master Password. If you prefer, you can utilize a biometric login that accepts either Face ID or a fingerprint. A one-time password generator you can use on your phone is also an option as another 2FA solution.

Why 1Password?

1password | password storage

1Password tops the list for its ease of use, especially when it comes to creating family accounts.

One of our favorite features that sets it apart from some of its competitors is the useful ‘Travel Mode’ setting, which allows you to mark specific passwords and documents as safe for travel, should you ever be questioned at border control.

Using the autofill feature, this password manager syncs your data between all your devices. Establishing guest accounts also makes it simple to share passwords. In contrast to some of its rivals, 1Password does not cap the number of users who can share a single account.

1Password supports all popular platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS, as well as other web extensions, notably Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$2.99/month 1. Authentication App
2. Travel Mode
3. Psst! Item Sharing
No Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

1Password is priced slightly on the higher side at $2.99/month for the annual plan. The family plan, however, turns out to be extremely cost-effective at $4.99/month for five accounts – that’s less than $1 per person.

You also get an admin dashboard to manage your family’s accounts. If you’re switching from a different password manager, 1Password will even give you credits for any remaining time on your old plan.

Pros and Cons

If you’re considering using 1Password in 2024, here are the top pros and cons to consider.

Pros

  • Can check if any of your passwords have been compromised
  • Affordable pricing
  • Excellent customer support
  • Useful 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • No free plan

3. Dashlane – Best Choice for PC Users

Dashlane is one of the best password management tools, especially if your main device is a PC. However, it does come at a price, as Dashlane costs more than the usual competition, but its extensive feature set more than makes up for it.

Dashlane Password Manager Dashboard

Why Dashlane?

Dashlane’s USP is its patented security architecture, where it uses a technology called the User Device Key to establish your identity and send a trusted authentication link to its servers, even if you use a master password to log in. 

You can access your password vault using biometrics, such as Touch ID, Face ID, or your master password. However, the biometric login won’t replace your master password. When using a new device to access Dashlane, you will need to enter your master password, not biometrics.

Notable features include a Dark Web scanner, a built-in VPN, a password health checker, and secure share, which enables you to safely share any passwords or sensitive documents with family or friends.

The setup process is straightforward, making it great for first-time users. Browser extensions support Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, and Edge, and it works seamlessly on mobile devices.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$2.00/month 1. Dark Web Scanner
2. Built-in VPN
3. Secure Share
Yes Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Dashlane Plans

Dashlane seems a little expensive at first glance, but when you consider the built-in VPN, it’s definitely worth it. It also has one of the most affordable family plans, which works out to just $0.75/month for each family member.

Pros and Cons

While Dashlane’s pros definitely outweigh its cons, here’s our objective analysis to help you make an informed decision:

Pros

  • Easy-to-use
  • Excellent auto-fill feature
  • Dark Web scanning
  • VPN included in the price

Cons

  • Quite expensive

4. Keeper – Best for Mac and iOS Devices

Keeper is a trustworthy password manager with a zero-knowledge strategy. This means that your data is encrypted at the device level before moving to the provider’s servers. Your master password is also required to access this tool.

Keeper makes it to our top password managers’ list because of its powerful autofill capability. It is powered by artificial intelligence (specifically heuristics), which can recognize the type and structure of a webpage or app screen. It then mimics your actions to autofill data; this is a trademarked feature called KeeperFill.

Why Keeper?

Keeper | best password managers in 2023

All password managers require two-factor authentication, and Keeper offers a variety of choices. You can utilize SMS, Duo Security, Google and Microsoft authenticator, KeeperDNA, and more.

Some unique features include KeeperChat, a special function accessible exclusively through Keeper. It has a secure messaging platform with self-destructing messages and a media gallery for personal photos.

Apps are available on all major platforms, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The browser extensions are excellent; you can generate passwords, add new ones, adjust security settings, and have your credentials auto-filled. Supported browsers include Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Edge.

A functional free version that incorporates 2FA protects one of your chosen devices, lets you store an infinite number of passwords and much more. But we’d recommend trying a premium plan and taking advantage of all the features.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$24.49/year 1. KeeperChat
2. Secure File Storage
3. Breach Watch
Yes Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Keeper Pricing

Keeper offers users a very useable free forever plan with bundled two-factor authentication and a password exporting tool.

For more advanced users, we’d recommend trying the Unlimited plan if it’s just your devices you need to be covered, but there is also a Family plan for extra users.

You can even try Keeper hassle-free with the provider’s 30-day free trial on the Unlimited plan.

Pros and Cons

Keeper offers an overwhelming set of advantages; however, you’re advised to also consider potential cons before purchasing the software:

Pros

  • Private messaging app
  • Multiple options for 2FA
  • Useful free trial
  • Great customer support

Cons

  • Limited export options

5. Roboform – Simple-to-use Password Manager with Two-Factor Authentication

Roboform is one of the founding password manager providers, and its popularity has remained intact for years. They combine top-notch security features with a simple-to-use UI, making them one of the best password managers in 2024.

Why Roboform?

What impressed us about Roboform was its local-only mode. You can set up the tool to only store passwords and credentials on your device without backing it up to the cloud. This gives you an extra layer of protection, especially on your work device or machines where you regularly access sensitive data.

RoboForm password protection

To ensure that nobody can access your vault, even if they manage to get their hands on your master password, two-factor authentication (2FA) is an option. It’s also important to note that all the data you upload is protected by AES-256 military-grade encryption.

Other key features include an industry-standard password generator, secure sharing, Dark Web monitoring, and one-click log-in.

There is a simple-to-use Roboform app for Android and iOS; however, because it receives more frequent and better updates on desktop software, it’s advised that desktop users should utilize the web platform. RoboForm is also available on Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Microsoft Edge, and Safari as a browser extension.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$1.99/month 1. Password Generator
2. One-click Login
3. Dark Web Monitoring
Yes Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

RoboForm Pricing

Roboform is another provider with an excellent free forever plan. It’s ideal for individual users who want to try out the service before signing up for a Premium plan.

For the best experience, we recommend upgrading to the Everywhere plan, which costs just $1.99/month and gives you access to One-click login, Dark Web monitoring, and the useful Password Generator tool.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at Roboform’s pros and cons so you know exactly what it has to offer:

Pros

  • Industry-standard password generator
  • Can be cloud-hosted or self-hosted
  • Simple password sharing
  • Affordable plans

Cons

  • No live chat option on free plans

6. Enpass – Best for Encrypting Existing Storage

Enpass is a password management tool launched in 2019 for both individual users and businesses. To simplify team deployments, it integrates with Azure Active Directory, Okta, OneLogin, JumpCloud, and Microsoft 365. The company launched a passkeys feature in 2023, adding to its powerful capabilities.

Why Enpass?

Enpass Dashboard

Enpass makes our list of the best password managers because of its unique premise—it doesn’t offer any mandatory storage. There’s no vault where you can keep your passwords and no central location where you can store your sensitive information.

Instead, Enpass takes advantage of the tools you already use, like iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive, Box, Dropbox, NextCloud, and WebDAV. It creates encrypted vaults inside your existing cloud storage space and syncs them so you can log into your accounts on any device.

You could also store passwords locally on your device(s) and sync them using Wi-Fi. This keeps your credentials entirely offline, although your devices will need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for this feature to work. 

Moreover, Enpass makes it easier to store your other sensitive data like credit card details, insurance documents, and driving licenses. It has a library of 80+ templates you can use to enter your information into integrated security vaults. 

Apart from this, Enpass has all the features you’d expect from a top password manager. It seamlessly auto-fills all your details when you log into websites. It’ll conduct a data breach scan in the background and help you secure weak or compromised passwords. As we mentioned previously, it also supports passkeys. 

We liked that you can categorize your virtual vaults into segments like personal, family, or work to organize them better. Another nifty feature we found in our tests was the ability to access your passwords from a smartwatch. 

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$1.99/month billed annually 1. 3rd Party Cloud Support
2. Sensitive Data Storage Templates
3. Automatic User Provisioning for Businesses
Free desktop app for Windows, MacOS, and Linux Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Enpass pricing

Enpass costs $1.99/month for an annual contract, at par with industry standards. The family plan costs $2.99/month for the first year and $3.99/month upon renewal

Enpass offers a one-time purchase option—another rare feature—that costs $99.99. This can save you a lot of money in the long term, but be aware that it may not be able to keep up with a changing threat landscape. 

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at what Enpass has to offer and why you might want to consider using it in 2024

Pros

  • Lifetime licensing option
  • Use your existing cloud storage 
  • Different vaults for organization 
  • Automated password audits
  • Smartwatch support 

Cons

  • Complicated password-sharing process

7. Password Boss –  Best for Remote Device Security and Analytics 

Password Boss is one of the few password management tools for managed service providers (MSPs), which are companies that handle security and IT tasks for other companies that outsource them. Password Boss is now part of a security firm called CyberFOX, a 2021 brand based in the US.

Why Password Boss?

Password Boss Dashboard

Password Boss makes our roundup of top password managers because of its free mobile app and powerful security features. Despite being an MSP-focused brand, anyone can use the tool to store passwords and protect their accounts from data breaches, making it a highly versatile tool.

It offers a number of unique capabilities in addition to core features like a master key, password autofill, bank-grade encryption, and cross-device syncing. 

For example, you can run a remote wipe on a lost or stolen device so that your data doesn’t get into the wrong hands. It also assigns scores to your weak passwords, so you know which ones are the weakest and need your urgent attention. Password Boss even has built-in anti-malware technology to protect you from suspicious websites.

Our tests found that Password Boss is one of the few platforms in this category that offers emergency access (NordPass is another). You can designate someone as your preferred contact, and they’ll be able to access your vault in case of an emergency. When it’s business as usual, you retain full control over your account.

The tool’s password-sharing feature is also impressive. With just a few clicks, you can share sensitive information with your family or team members and set an expiration date for the items you share.

Moreover, since Password Boss is a business-focused company, you can choose which data center you want to keep your data in from 11 regions worldwide. You can also move your data anytime you like and change your data jurisdiction.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$29.99/year 1. Nested Folders for Organization
2. Password Change Reminders
3. Phishing Protection
Free mobile app Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Password Boss plans

When you sign up for Password Boss, you’ll essentially kickstart a 30-day free trial. Once this period is over, you’ll be prompted to upgrade your account – Password Boss costs $29.99/year for the annual plan. If you sign up for two years, this comes down to $22.50/year. 

Pros and Cons

Here are some of the most notable pros and cons of Password Boss that’ll help you make an informed decision:

Pros

  • Clears copied passwords after 1 minute 
  • Browser verification before auto-filling data
  • 2FA with Google Authenticator
  • Unlimited Dark Web scanning for leaked passwords
  • Free mobile app

Cons

  • Limited documentation and resources

8. Total Password – Best for Simplicity and Strong Password Generation 

Total Password is a password management tool from a UK-based company, Total Security. It’s better known for its popular antivirus product TotalAV, but we found its password manager equally competent. While Total is primarily meant to be used as a browser extension, it also offers a mobile app. 

Why Total Password?

Total Password Dashboard

Total Password makes it to our list due to its sheer simplicity. It is a great choice for newbies or those of us looking to move up from browser-based password managers. It has all the features you need, but the learning curve isn’t overwhelming, and the tool sits discreetly on your browser without disturbing the user experience. 

Total’s password generator is particularly strong. It gives you the flexibility to create a password with 4-32 characters, complete with random alphanumeric combinations that are impossible to break. You can even double-check your previous passwords to avoid reusing your credentials, which can be risky. 

Total Password has a handy notes feature as well. It’s color-coded for your convenience; however, unlike a few of the other top password managers, you won’t be able to organize them into nested folders. 

Like most tools in its category, Total Password enforces zero-knowledge and local encryption. Even the company won’t know what you’ve stored in its vaults, making it doubly secure. 

We liked that you can remotely log out of a device with Total Password installed. This ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot access your passwords in case your device is lost or stolen. You can also delete your browser history remotely.

When you purchase Total Password, you may be able to access one of the company’s other security services for free. For instance, it was running a promo when we were testing the app, and as a result, Total Adblock was included with our password management subscription. 

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$1.99/month 1. Simple UI
2. Credit Card Storage
3. Remote Device Logout
30-day free trial  Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Total Password follows a simple, straightforward pricing model, with only one plan that costs $1.99/month. It’s priced as per industry standards, neither formidably expensive nor suspiciously cheap. The company offers a 14-day money-back guarantee in addition to a free trial.

Pros and Cons

To understand whether Total Password is the best password manager for your needs, take a look at its pros and cons:

Pros

  • Powerful mobile apps
  • Dedicated app for Chromebook 
  • Security and password leak reports
  • Comprehensive ‘Total Security’ package
  • Seamless browser experience

Cons

  • No desktop apps, only browser extensions

9. Norton – Best for Using via Browser Extensions

Originally known as Identity Safe, Norton’s password manager has been around since 2012. It’s an add-on utility in its larger security suite or available as a free password management tool. Its primary interface is the mobile app, with only browser extensions in place for desktop use. 

Why Norton?

Norton Password Manager Interface

We’ve ranked Norton among the best password managers in 2024 because it packs several useful features into its fully free platform. It works with browsers like Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Safari, as well as Android and iOS devices. The Android app is tailored for smartphone, tablet, and Chromebook use.

We liked that Norton shows you real-time alerts whenever a password is a little weak. For example, if you use the same credentials for your master key as well as your email account, it’ll immediately tell you that your master key isn’t unique. 

The password generator is also quite useful. You can create very long passwords with 30+ characters, which makes it almost immune to brute-force attacks. Norton will even share an estimate of the time it’d take someone to guess the password you have generated—ranging from a few minutes to billions of years.

Norton supports multi-factor authentication using your device’s biometrics. This means that instead of only signing in through the master key, you’ll also be required to complete fingerprint or facial recognition. That way, even if someone gets a hold of your master password, your data will be safe.

Bear in mind that since this is a free app, it doesn’t offer advanced authentication options like hardware-based USB authentication. For that, you’ll have to turn to a paid app like NordPass.

In addition to storing passwords, you can use your phone’s camera to scan your credit and debit cards. Norton will sync passwords across any device where you’ve logged into your vault, including browser extensions. It’ll also autofill any information you store, including user ID and passwords, addresses, and payment details.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
Free 1. Safety Dashboard
2. Strong Password Generator
3. Auto-Update for Passwords
Yes, free forever Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Norton Password Manager Pricing

While Norton’s password manager is free, you might want to sign up for the company’s antivirus plan. It’ll cost $19.99 for the first year and $29.99 for renewal. 

This comprehensive and affordable security solution includes a password manager, 2 GB of cloud backup, and protection from hacking, malware, and viruses. Upgrade to Norton 360 and you also get a virtual private network (VPN) service built right in. 

Pros and Cons

Norton offers one of the best free password managers available in 2024, but it isn’t without its limitations. Here is a quick breakdown:

Pros

  • Passwordless sign-in 
  • Completely free to use
  • Powerful mobile apps
  • Easy password import process
  • Available as part of Norton’s security suite

Cons

  • Limited features and no desktop app

10. Bitwarden – Open-Source Password Manager With Outstanding Free Version

Bitwarden is a stalwart in the realm of the best password managers, and for good reason. With robust features, including YubiKey- and FIDO2-enabled 2FA, its open-source nature, and a best-in-class free version, it’s a secure and efficient way to manage your online credentials.

Why Bitwarden?

Bitwarden Password Manager Dashboard

One of Bitwarden’s main selling points is its implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA) through YubiKey and FIDO2.

While traditional 2FA requires users to provide a second verification factor, such as a fingerprint or time-based one-time password (TOTP), YubiKey and FIDO2 add an extra layer of security by necessitating a specific piece of hardware before users can access their vaults. This significantly enhances the overall security of users’ accounts, protecting them against unauthorized access.

Moreover, Bitwarden is an open-source password manager, which means cybersecurity professionals and developers can audit the software, ensuring that there are no hidden vulnerabilities or backdoors. ​​This commitment to openness fosters trust and reassurance among users concerned about the security of their sensitive information.

All in all, Bitwarden is a stellar password manager. Its distinct 2FA integrations add an extra layer of protection, its open-source nature instills trust, and its free version competes with many of the paid plans on this list.

Starting Paid Plan Top Features Free Plan? Number of Passwords Number of Devices Supported
$3/month/user 1. 2FA via YubiKey and FIDO2
2. Open-Source
3. Unlimited Passwords & Devices on Free Version
Yes Unlimited Unlimited

Pricing

Very few free password managers allow for unlimited password storage, but Bitwarden is one of them. Plus, the free version also allows for unlimited device syncing. With Bitwarden, you can store passwords for all your accounts, even ones you seldom use, on all your devices—all without paying a cent.

If you’re interested in unlocking premium features, Bitwarden offers two paid plans:

Bitwarden pricing plans

Pros and Cons

Here are the highlights of Bitwarden to round off our list of the best password managers in 2024.

Pros

  • Impressive free version
  • Reasonably priced paid plans
  • First-class 2FA integrations

Cons

  • No dark web monitoring
  • Lacks address autofill
  • Limited storage

Bonus: Best Free Password Managers that Don’t Compromise Security 

With so many software subscriptions, from Netflix to project/resource management apps, you may not want another paid tool adding to your monthly costs. While we always recommend paying for password management software since you’ll be entrusting it with sensitive data, we also understand that it may not be possible for everyone.

In that case, it’s better to use a free (reliable) password manager than entirely bank on your memory, which can lead to weak or reused passwords and bad habits like writing passwords down where anyone can see them.

Luckily, we’ve put together a list of the best free password managers you can use in 2024 for real. They are completely free of cost, globally renowned, and offer plenty of useful features. Some of them also have paid versions, which you can check out in our main list above.

  • NordPass Free: NordPass’ free plan includes all its core features like unlimited credentials, password generation, import and export, and multi-factor authentication. It’ll also autofill and auto-sync across devices. 
  • Dashlane Free: You can save up to 25 passwords, but Dashlane Free gives you 1 GB of secure notes storage as well. You can also set up passwordless login on a mobile device or Mac computer, besides core features.
  • Bitwarden Free: Bitwarden’s free plan offers the core features plus two extras – the ability to use passkeys and password sharing with one other user. Both these features are hard to come by in free password managers.
  • Zoho Vault Free: Zoho Vault is another top password manager with a free version. It supports unlimited credentials, multiple passwordless login options (including passkeys), offline access, and an audit trail. 
  • Proton Pass Free: This free tool is from the same privacy-focused company as ProtonVPN. Besides the core features, it lets you create 10 aliases for email masking (a paid feature in most apps) and share passwords with three people. 

As we already discussed, Norton’s password management platform is also a strong contender when it comes to free password managers. All of these companies are compliant and certified according to the latest security standards, and despite being free, the tools will suffice for all your daily secure login needs.

How We Test Password Managers

At TechReport, we’ve been bringing you the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology since 1999. Our team of expert reviewers is committed to rigorously testing each software product’s functionalities, user experience, and compatibility to arrive at reliable insights. 

For our roundup of top password managers, we conducted market research and selected 30 platforms. Based on their core functionalities, encryption strength, customer sentiment, and cross-device use, we shortlisted 10 password managers for testing

We then proceeded to install the entry-level plan for each tool to share our hands-on experience with you. 

The insights we’ve shared are also informed by our broader industry understanding of password management and security. Our team has authored detailed guides on double-blind passwords and how good Android’s default password manager really is, among other topics. We’ve also reviewed popular password managers like 1Password and Keeper in-depth, which bolsters our findings in this roundup. 

Finally, we have referred to independent user forums such as G2, Capterra, Trustpilot, Reddit, and Gartner Peer Insights to find out what real-world users are saying about the top password managers we’ve discussed. This is crucial to helping us present unbiased insights. 

Why Do You Need a Good Password Manager? Key Benefits

There are several benefits to using a password manager; for example, you no longer need to remember individual passwords for multiple accounts. Instead, you just need to remember one master password to access your stored account details. Other benefits include:

1. Save Time

Many of the best password management tools come with auto-fill features, and this basically means you don’t have to manually enter your username, email, or password to log in, thus saving you precious minutes.

Some also allow for biometric authentication for additional security, so your data is already entered. You’ll need your fingerprint or Face ID to fully log in to your account. This means that even with stored account details, you still need to be present to sign in.
Stronger Passwords

By adding random symbols to your password and uppercase and lowercase characters, you can make it more secure. Creating different passwords for each account is made more accessible by using a password manager.

You or your staff can select stronger passwords and generate unique passwords for each access point without memorizing complex passwords. This leaves you less vulnerable to potential breaches and provides additional security to yourself or your business.

2. Generate Stronger Passwords

Password managers allow you to quickly generate complex passwords for every account you have. Random passwords are always more robust than those you think up on the spot since password-cracking software is designed to first try the most popular passwords.

NordPass Password Generator

3. Change Your Password With Ease

Password managers make it simple to modify or reset passwords. If a website where you have an account has been compromised, you can keep safe by creating a new password using the built-in password generator.

Some password managers even offer the option to instantly reset your passwords. You can toggle a setting that will automatically update your passwords regularly for maximum security.

4. Share Passwords Securely

Passwords for joint accounts can be shared with family members or coworkers. Obviously, revealing your personal passwords is not advised, but if you have shared accounts, a password manager allows you to manage password access.

5. Store Other Sensitive Data

A good password manager will also allow you to secure personal information like credit card details, membership details, photos, videos, and even medical prescriptions. This way, your personal data is out of reach for potential hackers and snoopers.
Improve Business Practices

If you’re a business owner, you can use a password manager to enroll new employees far more efficiently. Using a master password also reduces the risk of a data breach, as your staff won’t need to remember countless passwords or have weak passwords for your business accounts.

Password Manager Buyer’s Guide: What to Remember

Just like when it comes to choosing payroll software, some password managers may be more suited to you than others. Below are some essential factors to consider when choosing the best password manager for you:

How is it encrypted?

The key to any good password manager is military-grade encryption. You’ll want it to have AES 256-bit cypher as a minimum, or even better, XChaCha20 next-gen. These make them far less susceptible to cyberattacks or snoopers.

What’s your use case?

Finding the right password manager for your needs is another important factor. For individuals, you might just want some basic features, in which case a free plan might be sufficient. However, for larger businesses that want all their employees covered, a more advanced plan with strong encryption and tighter security is more viable.

Do you need extra features?

Any additional security features are a bonus and help keep you safe. Look for add-ons such as Dark web scanning, 2FA, a built-in VPN, and safe share features are especially important.

What is the authentication mechanism?

A decent password manager should provide multiple alternative authenticators besides its own. Biometric logins, such as Touch ID and Face ID, for all devices are also favorable.

NordPass Multi-factor authentication

How easy is it to import/export passwords?

A password manager is only useful if you can’t import your vault from another service or browser. Being able to export all of your passwords is also crucial if you decide to switch password managers.
Support Devices

You want your password manager to be compatible with all the popular devices, such as Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as multiple browser extensions like Chrome, Safari, and Opera. This means you can keep your passwords secure across all of your gadgets.

Can it support unlimited devices?

Some password managers only allow you to access their systems on a limited number of devices. To ensure you can cover all of your tech, look for providers that allow unlimited simultaneous connections to ensure you’re always kept safe.

What’s the cost?

No one wants to break the bank for all this, so a good password manager will have affordable pricing alongside its premium features. Prices vary significantly from provider to provider, so it’s important to weigh up what features you deem essential against the total cost.

Can you trust customer support?

Sometimes, things can go wrong, and if that happens, you need a good support team to rely on. Look for providers who offer 24/7 live support through a chat or phone service. Most will already have a ticket system in place. Bonus points for those with detailed guides and a strong community support presence.

Comparison of the 10 Best Password Managers in 2024

The good thing about password managers is that there’s no vendor lock-in. You can always export your passwords to a new platform with very little effort. So, if you’re in the market for a new password manager in 2024, here’s how the top 10 contenders stack up:

Top Password Manager Starting Price Free Plan or Trial Key Features
NordPass $1.49/month Yes, free plan – Password Sharer
– Offline Mode
– Emergency Access
1Password $2.99/month Yes, free trial  – Authentication App
– Travel Mode
– Item Sharing
Dashlane $4.99/month Yes, free plan – Dark Web Scanner
– Built-in VPN
– Secure Share
Keeper $24.49/year Yes, free plan – KeeperChat
– Secure File Storage
– Breach Watch
Roboform $1.99/month Yes, free plan – Password Generator
– One-click Login
– Dark Web Monitoring
Enpass $1.99/month billed annually  Free desktop app for Windows, MacOS, and Linux  – 3rd Party Cloud Support
– Sensitive Data Storage Templates
– Automatic User Provisioning 
PasswordBoss $29.99/year Free mobile app  – Nested Folders for Organization
– Password Change Reminders
– Phishing Protection
TotalPassword $1.99/month  Yes, free trial – Simple UI
– Credit Card Storage
– Remote Device Logout
Norton Free NA – Safety Dashboard
– Strong Password Generator
– Auto-Update for Passwords
Bitwarden $10/year Yes, free plan – 2FA via YubiKey and FIDO2
– Open-source
– Unlimited passwords and devices on free version

Final Thoughts: Switching From Your Browser to a Reliable Password Manager

As cybersecurity awareness grows, our use of password managers is also growing. Pew Research found that 32% of Americans used password managers in 2023 compared to just 19% in 2019. However, bad password habits persist—41% still write passwords down, and 34% save them in their browsers, both of which are extremely risky. 

The data stored in your browser isn’t always encrypted and if the browser software code has a vulnerability, then you’re open to exploits. Moreover, anyone who manages to physically access your device can log in from your browser using autofill since, typically, there’s no extra authentication. 

Password managers are a much better alternative. They come with specially designed security measures and offer the added convenience of sharing passwords, generating credentials, and giving a friend or family member emergency access.

The top password managers we reviewed in this guide are more than up to the task. Specifically, NordPass has all the bases covered for individual, family, as well as team requirements in this increasingly risky digital world.  

FAQs

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Anwesha Roy Tech Writer

Anwesha Roy Tech Writer

Anwesha is a technology journalist and content marketer based out of India. She started her career in 2016, working for global MSPs on their thought leadership and social media before branching out in 2018 with her own team. 

She writes on technology and its intersections with communication, customer experience, finance, and manufacturing and has her work published across a wide range of journals. In her downtime, she enjoys painting, cooking, and catching up with the latest in media and entertainment.

Anwesha has a Master’s degree in English literature from one of India’s top universities.