We look at three different kinds of compatibility. Password managers should receive frequent updates, especially after large operating system changes (like the launch of Windows 11 or macOS Monterey), which helps plug any security holes and shows that the developers are regularly working on the app.

Compatibility: A great password manager runs on just about anything, regardless of what hardware and software you and your family use.A good password manager should offer cloud syncing so that your passwords remain accessible anywhere on an unlimited number of devices. Sync between devices (and no limits on the number of devices you can use): You probably have more than one device that you use every day, between your home computer, your work computer, your phone, and your laptop.Unlimited password storage: Any paid password manager should be able to store an unlimited number of passwords and other records, and enough free ones offer unlimited storage that you shouldn’t settle for less.Privacy: A password manager shouldn’t share data with third parties for advertising, so we check both the privacy policies and the mobile apps to confirm that they aren’t sharing data they aren’t supposed to.Security audits aren’t perfect-they offer just a snapshot of the software and infrastructure-but they are a signal of trust and transparency. But those promises of security only go so far, so we require that any password managers we recommend participate in regular third-party security audits (preferably audits that they make public) and have a bug-bounty program. A good password manager needs to use strong encryption to protect your data on your computer, on your password manager’s server, and when your data is moving between the two. Good protection for your passwords: You’re trusting your password manager with your entire digital existence, and your password manager should store your data securely.Regardless of the password manager you use, it’s important to protect your data with a strong master password-we have advice for how to do that below.

Bitwarden works on the same devices as 1Password, so you can use it with any computer, phone, tablet, or browser. But the free version of Bitwarden offers the core features you need in a password manager, including the ability to sync as many passwords as you want across as many devices as you own, support for software two-factor authentication, and sharing between two people with separate logins using a two-person organization. Plus, Bitwarden isn’t as polished overall and lacks the in-app guidance of 1Password, which makes it harder for beginners to get the hang of. The free version of Bitwarden gets the basics right and doesn’t cost a thing, but it lacks a few features that make 1Password such a standout option, such as password checkups and 1 GB of encrypted storage (all features you can find in Bitwarden’s reasonably priced, $10-per-year premium plan).

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