Bitwarden vs 1Password 2024: which is better?

Bitwarden and 1Password are among the most popular password managers in today’s market. They’re also on our list of the best password managers because of their excellent overall quality. But which one is better?

To give you a glimpse, Bitwarden is an open-source tool that excels in its security by being transparent with its source of code. 1Password, though, is a proprietary product that implements a zero-knowledge policy, provides uncrackable security standards, and is superior in features and usability.

I compared Bitwarden vs 1Password in numerous categories: security, features, pricing, ease of use, customer support, and more. With this information, you can choose the password manager that best caters to your needs.

Bitwarden vs 1Password – overall comparison

1Password and Bitwarden both offer solid security with AES-256 encryption, guaranteeing your data is well-protected. 1Password has a higher overall rating and provides a 14-day free trial, while Bitwarden offers a more affordable price point and even a free version. Both support a wide range of platforms, but Bitwarden has a slight edge with more browser extensions available.

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Bitwarden vs 1Password: which is more secure?

I have reviewed and tested how secure each provider is by analyzing their encryption protocols, authentication methods, audits, security features, and more.

1Password wins against Bitwarden when comparing the security implementations of each provider. Both password managers use virtually unbreakable 256-bit AES encryption and multi-factor authentication. However, 1Password has more flexible data storage and enables using a virtually uncrackable Secret Key.

Wrapping up

1Password offers better security and more features than Bitwarden. Users can take advantage of the Secret Key technology and a more confidential privacy policy. Moreover, 1Password users have automatic backups, more biometric authentication options, and can use an automatic generator for PINs.

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Password importing

When it comes to password importing, both 1Password and Bitwarden offer easy bulk imports for your passwords. However, while 1Password’s process is more seamless and user-friendly, Bitwarden provides more import options.

This is important because whenever you start using a password manager (or switch to a new one), the password import process must be as easy and smooth as possible.

I really like the fact that you can import passwords to 1Password from browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Safari), password managers (Dashlane, KeePass, KeePassX, Delinea Secret Server, LastPass, RoboForm, and others), and files (CSV, 1pux, or 1pif).

You can also import passwords to Bitwarden from browsers, and other password managers, as well as CSV and JSON files.

The downside I found with Bitwarden is that file attachments can only be migrated manually because they aren’t included in Bitwarden’s bulk import operations. I think this could be improved to ease the process.

Encryption

1Password and Bitwarden did impress me as they both use 256-bit AES encryption – one of the strongest encryption algorithms on the market. They also both employ the PBKDF2 password hashing to protect your master password and support a zero-knowledge architecture, which means that no one within the company has access to the passwords and other data stored on the password managers.

Multi-factor security

Both 1Password and Bitwarden have taken a security-first approach and are pretty much equal when it comes to MFA options. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an additional layer of security and I always look for it when reviewing password managers. It requires further identity verification beyond just username and password during logins.

1Password enables you to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) using authenticator apps (e.g., Authy or Google Authenticator), physical security keys (e.g., YubiKey or Titan), and by pushing notifications to your mobile phone using Duo Security.

Bitwarden Free users can set up a two-step login with email and authentication apps. Meanwhile, Bitwarden’s Premium users can also use Duo Security, YubiKey, and FIDO U2F security keys.

Both providers also enable common biometric authentication methods – facial and fingerprint recognition. However, 1Password also has the iris recognition option, which is another type of biometric recognition that uses cameras to perform a scan of your iris, which is unique in its high accuracy.

Privacy policy

Although both 1Password and Bitwarden support zero-knowledge architecture to maintain password privacy, both still collect some user data. 1Password records the account’s type, payment method, IP address, account holder’s name, and email address. Bitwarden records the same data, but it additionally logs the user’s home address and some employment information – and I don’t think this is necessary.

Although both services might share data with the government and law enforcement if there's a valid reason, 1Password’s privacy policy is more favorable to users because the provider doesn’t easily share information with third parties.

Third-party security audits

Both 1Password and Bitwarden have been independently audited numerous times, which is what you should be looking for in a provider to confirm its claims. Here’s more information about 1Password security audits and the Bitwarden security audits.

Independent third-party audits are crucial for any company that aims to protect users’ data, that’s why I always check if these are implemented.

Hence, the security operations of both password managers have been validated by SOC (Security Operation Center). Compliance with SOC 2 requirements is important because it proves a company prioritizes information security.

1Password is SOC 2 Type 2 certified and Bitwarden is SOC 2 Type 2 and SOC 3 compliant. This certifies both can ensure security, confidentiality, availability, privacy, and processing integrity.

Account and password recovery

Whether you use 1Password or Bitwarden, both require you to create a master password that unlocks all of your logins, payment card details, and other sensitive information you might choose to keep locked up. But what if you forget the master password? I noticed many users worry about this. Fortunately, both providers offer password recovery options.

1Password’s Emergency Kit is a PDF document that includes your account details and password. I want to add that it’s important to keep both digital and printed copies of the Emergency Kit stored safely. I find this especially handy, as you can recover your password and account details ASAP. To compare it to Bitwarden, I like 1Password’s password recovery more, since Bitwarden only offers several steps on how to recover your password instead of having a feature like an Emergency Kit.

What I also like, is that 1Password’s Families, Teams, Business, or Enterprise plan users can request a family organizer or team administrator to restore their access. This is also a quick process, obviously depending on how prompt the organizer or administrator will be.

To recover your account access to Bitwarden, you will get a recovery code when you set up 2FA. Alternatively, you can get a Bitwarden master password hint emailed to your inbox – but that’s only if you have a hint set up. Either way, it takes minutes or even seconds to get the code and recover your data, so you don’t need to worry about long waiting times.

Password generator

Fortunately, both 1Password and Bitwarden provide user-friendly password generators. Let’s now see how they differ from one another. First off, the 1Password Strong Password Generator enables you to generate random passwords, passphrase passwords (memorable passwords), or PINs. Additionally, you can tweak password lengths, capitalization, and types of characters. Hopefully, you know by now that using passwords like password123, qwerty, or trustno1 will not protect your accounts. Instead of easily guessable combinations, you want to create passwords that are long and have both upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols.

Bitwarden’s password generator generates both passwords and passphrases. I found that you can customize it more than with the 1Password password generator. The default password length is 14 characters, but you can easily push it up to 128 characters. Unfortunately, I didn’t find an option to generate PINs.

You can also try the Bitwarden Password Strength Testing Tool to see how long it would take to crack your password and whether it is weak or strong.

Password sharing

1Password and Bitwarden provide reliable secure password-sharing methods, ensuring you don't risk your accounts or sensitive information by sharing passwords via unsafe methods like messengers or SMS texts.

With 1Password, you can share passwords as well as saved items with others using a single link. I tested it and found you can specify who to share the link with and when it expires. I also liked that users of Families, Team Starter, and Business plans can share entire vaults – very handy when more information needs to be shared.

I found Bitwarden’s password-sharing feature a bit more finicky. The free plan doesn’t allow password sharing. On Premium accounts, users can only share passwords with one other user. You’ll need to upgrade to Families to share passwords with up to 6 other users.

Nonetheless, I really like the Bitwarden Send tool, as it offers end-to-end encryption for top-notch confidentiality. The files you share have randomly generated and secure links that you can share via text, email, or another convenient communication channel.

Bitwarden vs 1Password: features

While both 1Password and Bitwarden offer the same basic password management functionalities, I looked for advanced features, such as encrypted file storage, travel mode, self-hosting, weak password monitoring, and automatic backups. I’ve have put these features to the test, checking their functionalities and ease of use.

Both 1Password and Bitwarden have features that allow importing, recovering, generating, sharing, and autofilling passwords. However, I’ve found that 1Password’s features are more developed, user-friendly, and flexible compared to what you get with Bitwarden.

Wrapping up

1Password wins in this category with its advanced features like 5GB encrypted storage, Travel Mode, automatic backups, and seamless weak password monitoring. While Bitwarden offers self-hosting and basic functionalities, 1Password's user-friendly, comprehensive toolset makes it the superior choice for robust password management.

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Encrypted file storage

Both password managers offer encrypted file storage, but 1Password is the clear winner here. It offers up to 5GB of encrypted storage – one of the biggest I’ve seen among password managers, while Bitwarden only offers up to 2GB, which also comes in a combination of 1GB of personal storage and 1GB of organization storage.

Travel mode

Unlike Bitwarden, 1Password stood out for me as it has a Travel Mode – protection of your data while traveling. This mode allows storing selected credentials in a separate vault, protected with an additional layer of security. Until you disable the Travel Mode, those protected vaults will be hidden from anyone who accesses your device.

Unfortunately, Bitwarden doesn’thave a travel mode feature, and I find this as a massive disadvantage.

Weak password monitoring

Both 1Password and Bitwarden have a way to monitor weak passwords and other vulnerabilities. Bitwarden has a Vault Health feature, responsible for monitoring passwords and creating reports about reused, exposed, and weak passwords. It also notifies you of unsecure websites, inactive two-step logins, and whether any of your data has been breached.

1Password, on the other hand, has an equivalent tool, called Watchtower. It’s a suite of security tools that alerts you of passwords that need changing or strengthening, compromised logins, and security updates from websites where your credentials are stored.

Automatic backups

Only 1Password offers automatic backups, which gives it extra points in this comparison. 1Password backs up all the vaults and items on your account daily. So, in case you lose your device or you accidentally delete anything, you’ll be able to access all the backed-up data via your 1Password account. I find this feature especially handy in this day and age.

Sadly, Bitwarden cannot compete in this section as it simply does not offer automatic backups. Something to work on!

Self-hosting

Where Bitwarden leads is its self-hosting feature, as 1Password doesn’t offer such a tool. The Self-hosting add-on is especially handy for organizations, as it gives more control over how data is managed and controlled, as well as keeps everything in one place for added security.

Autofill

Both 1Password and Bitwarden come equipped with the autofill feature to simplify and speed up the login and payment processes.

When testing 1Password’s desktop app, I found the autofill feature requires you to first click on the 1Password icon and then choose the login item before you can sign in. If it suggests more than one item, you also need to scroll down and search through the saved credentials.

When I was using Bitwarden’s autofill feature via a browser extension, I had to right-click the box, click on Bitwarden’s icon, search for the right login entries, and then click Autofill.

Overall, I think that both Bitwarden and 1Password’s autofill features could be significantly less cumbersome and more effective.

Bitwarden vs 1Password: Plans and pricing

Both 1Password and Bitwarden offer 4 different pricing plans – 2 for individuals or families, and the remaining 2 for businesses. You can also consider Bitwarden’s free plan as the 5th option.

It’s clear that Bitwarden is cheaper than 1Password. Bitwarden’s personal plans start at $0.83/month and go up to $3.33. The Premium plan enables sharing files with one other user, while you can share files with six other users on a Families plan. Both come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

1Password’s tiers range from $2.99/month for the Individual plan to $0.83/month for the Families package with a 14-day free trial. While you can use both on all your devices, you can only share data with five other users using the Families plan.

Unsurprisingly, business plan prices will vary based on your needs and the organization’s size. Bitwarden Enterprise costs $6/month per user, and the Teams Starter plan is $20/month per 10 users. 1Password asks $7.99/month per user for the Business plan and $19.95/month per 10 users for the Teams Starter Pack. You also have the option to contact the sales team and bargain for something befitting your needs.

Wrapping up

Both Bitwarden and 1Password offer competitive pricing tiers for personal and business plans. However, Bitwarden is considerably cheaper than 1Password, and it also provides a free plan.

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Platforms, interface, and ease of use

Both 1Password and Bitwarden are compatible with various widely used platforms and devices. Bitwarden offers more browser extension options. However, 1Password has more intuitive and developed interfaces.

Wrapping up

Both 1Password and Bitwarden are compatible with the most popular operating systems and browsers. However, 1Password grants a better user experience than Bitwarden because all versions of the service’s apps are easy to use and offer the features you need. Meanwhile, Bitwarden grants a well-rounded experience only on its web app.

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Desktop apps

Both password managers offer desktop apps that ensure compatibility and ease of use across multiple operating systems.

1Password’s desktop app also works on Windows, macOS, and Linux devices. I liked how its minimalistic and straightforward interface prevents overwhelm and allows customization of the vault into categories to fit your storage needs. Essential features are readily accessible without needing to delve deep into menus.

For me, the 1Password menu felt easy to navigate. You have All Items, Favorites, and Watchtower menus on the left. You can also easily access Logins, Secure Notes, and Identities from the same menu.

Similarly, Bitwarden’s desktop app is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, and is designed for ease of use from setup to management. Installation was quick and simple for me, taking only a few minutes. The interface was also clean and user-friendly, with all features clearly organized and easily accessible.

However, I noticed that the web app is the most feature-rich version.

On Windows, for example, the navigation menu felt very minimalist and easy to use.

In the menu on the left, I could navigate to All Items, Favorites, Login, Card, Identity, and Secure Note folders.

Browser extensions

When it comes to browser extension compatibility, both 1Password and Bitwarden offer extensive support across various browsers. Both provide extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Brave. However, I found Bitwarden even more versatile, as it also supports Opera, Vivaldi, and Tor, making it a great choice for users who prefer these browsers.

In terms of functionality, Bitwarden’s extension includes features such as autofill, password generator, and basic vault management. While these features are standard and sufficient for everyday use, I found myself needing to access the web or desktop app for more advanced tasks, which was a bit inconvenient.

On the other hand, 1Password’s extension impressed me with its comprehensive feature set, rivaling its standalone apps in capability. I was able to perform nearly all tasks available in the desktop app, including password imports, using Travel Mode, and locking the extension for added security. This made the 1Password extension exceptionally powerful and convenient, and I appreciated not having to switch between the extension and the desktop app for most tasks.

Mobile apps

Both 1Password and Bitwarden excel in mobile device compatibility, offering robust apps for Android and iOS devices. Bitwarden’s mobile apps, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, impressed me with their intuitive and fully functional design, mirroring the core features of its browser and desktop apps.

1Password's mobile apps also stood out with their sleek, user-friendly interface and availability on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The apps are highly customizable – I could easily add or remove preferred sections from the home page. You can also pin desired items to the app's home page for quick but secure access.

I particularly liked that they include nearly all the functionalities of the desktop version, including advanced features like Watchtower and secure sharing options. This makes the 1Password mobile app a powerful tool for managing passwords on the go, and I found it incredibly convenient.

1Password vs Bitwarden: Customer support

1Password and Bitwarden have multiple customer support options, including support via email, community forums, resource databases, and social media. Unfortunately, it surprises me that neither offers live chat or phone support.

Both 1Password and Bitwarden offer well-stocked knowledge bases with guides that address the most frequent questions.

For assistance with less frequent questions and problems, you can contact both 1Password and Bitwarden support agents via email, social media, or community forums. I have tested both providers’ customer support and the difference was obvious. I messaged 1Password via X and received a reply stating, “We provide short-form assistance over social media with email being our primary support platform for anything more complex or investigative”. They replied to me within 15 minutes, but it’s clear they want you to use email support for more serious issues. When I tried contacting Bitwarden on X, there was no option to send a message at all.

When I contacted 1Password’s support by email, first time it took only 8 minutes to get a response, but on another occasion I had to wait for about 6 hours to get a reply. Bitwarden’s email support was also not as fast – I only received a reply after more than one hour.

Although I didn’t get immediate replies while contacting both support agents, they did resolve my problems professionally.

All in all, there’s no winner when it comes to 1Password vs Bitwarden support, as I’d like both providers to offer either live chat or phone support for immediate action. Both provide the same level of support.

Wrapping up – it's a draw

1Password and Bitwarden both offer multiple customer support options and both lack real-time assistance; therefore, it's a tie in this category. Our overall recommendation, however, is 1Password.

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1Password vs Bitwarden: user reviews

It appears users like 1Password more than Bitwarden. The password manager has a solid 4.7/5 rating on g2.com, with 1,300+ mostly positive reviews. It has the same rating on trustpilot.com and has been reviewed by 11,700+ users.

While user reviews are often subjective to personal experiences, when a tool has that many reviews, you can trust the general consensus – 1Password is a great password manager.

On both websites, users rave about 1Password’s ability to store and easily manage not just passwords but also other sensitive information, like API keys and database credentials. Also, users point out that 1Password has great customer support, which is essential if you run into any problems using the service.

In comparison, Bitwarden also has great g2.com ratings and trustpilot.com ratings (4.6/5 and 4.0/5, respectively); however, the password manager hasn’t been reviewed by many users. Nonetheless, the generally positive reviews indicate that the service is comparable to 1Password.

Video review

Check our dedicated 1Password vs Bitwarden video comparison to see the services in action if you want more details.

Bitwarden vs 1Password – which one to choose?

To sum up, both 1Password and Bitwarden are good password managers with exceptional features. However, 1Password is better than Bitwarden. You can pick 1Password because it has advanced security, easier data import and export than Bitwarden, and more password-sharing options than what Bitwarden offers. Moreover, 1Password’s extensive array of features, including Travel Mode, Watchtower, and domain breach reports, surpass Bitwarden's offerings. Even 1Password's browser extensions outshine Bitwarden's functionality and ease of use.

Even though Bitwarden offers an adequate free plan, Bitwarden disadvantages include fewer features, cumbersome data exporting, and slower customer support.

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How we compared 1Password vs Bitwarden

Our comprehensive comparison between 1Password and Bitwarden involved password manager testing and analysis to determine which password management tool is the winner in this case. Here’s a breakdown of how our evaluation process went:

1. We assessed their overall security practices by analyzing encryption standards, privacy policies, and third-party audit findings to ensure adequate account protection.
   
2. We downloaded the apps of both 1Password and Bitwarden and evaluated essential password management features like autosave and autofill. At the same time, we also noted the overall user experience and ease of use.
   
3. We checked for any additional security features to identify benefits unique to each password manager.
4. Contacting customer service allowed us to gather more information about the providers and evaluate response times and quality.
5. Summarizing our results, we evaluated whether the overall package of each password manager justified its subscription price.

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