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Best password managers for Linux


People use Linux because of its supposed benefits regarding security, privacy, performance, and overall freedom. However, the operating system is by no means flawless in these areas and requires extra software for maximum benefit.

Having the best password manager for Linux is one of the most critical aspects. It securely stores your online credentials in one place for added convenience and swift logins to your favorite websites. It also empowers you to use strong and unique passwords on all your accounts, which is a vital cybersecurity practice nowadays. In short, you won’t have to worry about data leaks or memorizing many passwords.

Together with the Cybernews team, I tested and compared the best Linux password managers so you’d have an easier time finding the perfect service for your needs.

Top 6 best Linux password managers

Best password managers for Linux – our detailed list

Firstly, a well-rounded password manager must be compatible with a wide range of devices, not just computers running Linux. After all, you’ll likely want to access your passwords on the go using your phone.

Secondly, I looked at the abundance of features included in the apps, such as auto-complete capabilities, password generation, dark web monitoring, and more. And most importantly, I evaluated the overall security and privacy practices that the following Linux password managers offer.

1. NordPass – the top password manager

NordPass banner
Cloud storage:Up to 2TB (with NordLocker app)
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge
Current deal:Get NordPass, now 53% OFF and 2 months FREE

I believe that NordPass is the best password manager for Linux. The service perfectly balances affordability, feature variety, device compatibility, and ease of use.

The NordPass vault combines XChaCha20 encryption and zero-knowledge architecture to ensure your passwords are for your eyes only. While reviewing NordPass, I had no trouble using the app to generate strong passwords swiftly, assessing existing ones, and checking for data leaks on the dark web. Meanwhile, the login process was convenient and secure once we enabled biometrics.

As discussed in our NordPass review, the password manager is compatible with all major desktop and mobile operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS). Moreover, it offers extensions for Chromium-based browsers, Firefox, Opera, and even Safari. Best of all, one account permits unlimited device connections.

Users on a budget can utilize the free version if they don’t mind a few limitations. For example, they won’t benefit from data breach monitoring, secure password sharing, file storage, or limitless connections. These features are exclusive to premium subscriptions, which start at only $1.38/month and include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. 1Password – top provider for families

1password new banner
Cloud storage:1-5GB
Free version:No
Browser plugins:Chrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge
Current deal:Get 1Password, now up to 50% OFF

1Password is a great choice if you need an easy-to-use service with excellent cross-platform compatibility. Besides Linux, the password manager works with Windows, Mac, numerous browsers, and supports command-line integration.

With 1Password, you can save and autofill your passwords. Stored item sharing is comfortable since you can create a list of guest accounts. And if you wish to access your vault from another device, that’s completely fine because you can sync your items across all devices.

To increase your security and comfort, 1Password allows you to categorize your passwords into form fills, passwords, secure documents, and credit card information. And whenever you travel, you can use the travel mode feature to protect selected vaults. After crossing the border, selected vaults can’t be reached.

Instead of a free plan, 1Password offers a 14-day free trial to get acquainted with the service. Once you’re ready to dive in, subscriptions start at only $1.99/month. Learn more about your subscription options by checking our 1Password review.

3. RoboForm – trustworthy password manager classic

RoboForm banner
Cloud storage:No
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Edge, Firefox
Current deal:Get RoboForm, save up to 60%

RoboForm doesn’t have a dedicated app for Linux devices. Still, you can use its powerful Chrome and Firefox browser extensions to fulfill all your password management needs.

The service is reinforced with strong AES-256 encryption to keep your data safe. You can stay with the free plan, take advantage of 2FA access to your vault and cloud backups, and monitor the web for compromised passwords. Meanwhile, premium subscribers gain a few exclusive perks (which we cover in-depth in our RoboForm review) that should appeal to Linux users.

For starters, you can enable local-only mode to disable web sync and keep your passwords exclusively on your device. You can also securely share logins with other RoboForm users and synchronize changes. Moreover, the service is compatible with other desktop and mobile operating systems and supports limitless device connections.

RoboForm is quite affordable, starting at only $0.99/month if you need the personal plan. Customers with more significant needs can also opt for family and business-oriented plans to protect more users.

4. Keeper – secure password manager for Linux

Keeper banner
Cloud storage:10GB
Free version:No
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Edge
Current deal:Limited-Time offer! Get 50% OFF Keeper Personal and Family plans

Keeper is a great password manager for Linux, boasting a dedicated app with all the same features as other OS applications. That means it’s also an equally impressive password manager for Windows. It has a password generator, unlimited password storage, password import, and many other compelling perks.

Regarding security, Keeper is enhanced with AES-256 encryption to fight malicious hackers. It also supports passwordless logins for improved security and convenience. You can pick between authenticator apps, biometrics, and hardware security keys, such as YubiKey.

Keeper supports a wide range of methods of sharing passwords securely with other users. For example, you can make them accessible only once or for a limited time. If that wasn’t enough, the app evaluates your passphrases and uses BreachWatch to ensure they’re not circulating on the web.

The service is suitable for single users and massive organizations due to its diverse pricing plan. We reviewed Keeper and its personal plan, which starts at only $1.79/month. You can also warm up with the 30-day free trial before committing.

5. Dashlane – versatile Linux password manager

Cloud storage:1-5GB
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge
Current deal:Get Dashlane, save up to 25%

Dashlane guarantees strong security and an impressive selection of bonus features. Unfortunately, the service lacks a dedicated Linux desktop app and accommodates them with mobile apps and browser extensions instead. Still, that doesn’t get in the way of being a worthwhile password manager for Mac.

The service includes a perk that many other password managers overlook – a built-in VPN. This tool encrypts all your online activities and masks your IP address for well-rounded privacy. Besides that, Dashlane also offers Dark Web Monitoring, a strong password generator, two-factor authentication, and security alerts.

Opting for the free plan limits you to 1 device connection and strips away the aforementioned security features. Still, you can utilize 1GB of encrypted file storage to safeguard your most precious documents.

Dashlane is suitable for businesses and average users alike. The latter can begin their secure password journey using the free plan or the premium one, starting at $4.07/month. Learn more about the subscription plan variety by visiting our Dashlane review.

6. Passwarden – feature-rich free password manager

Passwarden banner
Cloud storage:Unlimited
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Safari
Current deal:Get Passwarden

Passwarden is another secure and well-rounded password manager suitable for Linux OS. You can utilize it on your computer using the web app or browser extension.

Passwarden includes a password generator, a security dashboard that informs you of the status and strength of your passwords, and duress mode provides extra security for your personal information. No need to worry about third-party snooping because the data is masked with top-of-the-line AES-256 encryption.

Additionally, there’s secure password-sharing so you can share the login details with your closest people, be it family, friends, or coworkers. The autofill feature eases the hassle of logging into pages, and data imports allow you to add old passwords quickly.

Passwarden has an extensive free plan. It limits the device connection number to 2 per account. Otherwise, it’s an excellent version of the app. But if you need unlimited devices, you need to upgrade to a premium plan starting at $1.66/month. Check our Passwarden review if you’d like to learn more about what’s in store.

7. LastPass – password manager with lots of security features

Lastpass banner
Cloud storage:1GB
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
Current deal:Get LastPass for just $3.00/month

LastPass is a well-known password manager that has been on the market for a while. It’s a good option for Linux devices if you don’t mind accessing it via browser extensions.

As expected, you can only access your account via a master password that LastPass doesn’t log. For additional security, there’s 2FA and multi-factor authentication. Other great features included are a password generator, a one-time password, which allows you to generate one-time passwords when accessing your password vault from a device that isn’t your own.

Additionally, there’s a credit monitoring feature that informs you about changes in your credit scores. Also, the security challenge tool keeps track of your password security and complexity.

LastPass offers a free version, but this plan grants only the bare necessities. To have the best protection and additional features like dark web monitoring or file sharing, you have to move on to the premium plan starting at $3.00/month. See what else is included by visiting our LastPass review.

8. Enpass – minimalistic, flexible, and secure

Enpass banner
Cloud storage:No
Free version:Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, Opera
Current deal:Get up to 40% OFF Enpass

Consider Enpass if you’re looking for a genuinely zero-knowledge Linux password manager. The service is offline by default and doesn’t store data on its servers. However, you can sync it with third-party cloud storage solutions if you require web access.

Firstly, you can enable Enpass to collaborate with services like iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, and WebDAV for online access. The service also provides a portable mode if you want to avoid long-term installation and would prefer to use the service on something like a USB memory stick.

You can delegate password brainstorming to the strong password generator. After that, continued quality assurance is done with password audit scans, which notify you if something needs changing. And don’t worry about breaches because your vault is protected using an AES-256 cipher with the SQLCIPHER extension.

Security enthusiasts on a budget can use the free desktop version on Linux, Windows, or Mac. Alternatively, you can choose premium plans from personal, family, and business options. Prices start at only $1.19/month, so don’t hesitate to try the premium route. See what it entails in our Enpass review.

9. Bitwarden – very secure open-source password manager

Bitwarden banner
Cloud storage:1GB
Free version: Yes
Browser plugins:Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, Opera, Tor, DuckDuckGo
Current deal:Get Bitwarden for just $1.65/month

Bitwarden should appeal to Linux fans who only want open-source apps on their device. This trusted service offers a worthwhile free plan and impressive device compatibility, which includes CLI support.

This password manager is here to help you monitor your passwords and offers you vault health reports. There you can see if the password is reused or not strong enough, what websites are insecure, and which data has been breached.

Bitwarden neatly auto-fills your passwords. You can use this feature on websites and applications. Each time you have to fill in the credentials, you are suggested to automatically fill in the information with a click on Bitwarden’s icon.

The vault you use to store sensitive information and passwords is encrypted with AES-256 encryption. While reviewing Bitwarden, we noticed it uses zero-knowledge architecture, which is a must to respect your privacy.

You can try Bitwarden risk-free using its free plan. If you like how it feels, upgrading to premium subscriptions costs merely $1.65/month.

How we selected the best Linux password managers

A good password manager must offer a particular list of features. These include an encrypted password vault, password generator, auto-fill feature, synchronization across devices, and 2FA.

However, some services don’t put their best effort into their Linux applications. That’s why, together with the Cybernews team, I tested 20 password managers for Linux OS. After thorough testing, I created the list of the 8 best according to specific criteria:

  1. Suitability for Linux OS (20%). Sometimes, password managers for Linux might be poor and not well adapted to the OS. A poorly developed software can be a bigger headache than a malicious hacker in the system. That’s why I thoroughly check the program’s compatibility with the Linux OS.
  2. Encryption (20%). The standard in the market is AES 256-bit cipher. And the following trustworthy option – the next-gen XChaCha20. I wouldn’t go for other types of encryption.
  3. Extra features (15%). Besides the main features, it’s great to have a built-in VPN, password health tool, and dark web scanning. I also evaluated import and export functionality. Flexible compatibility with other password managers is a bonus for your comfort and safety.
  4. Multi-factor authentication (15%). Putting some extra security layers into your account is a must. Whether it’s biometrics or unique authentication from a provider.
  5. Apps and browser extensions (10%). I evaluated whether password managers work seamlessly with apps and browser extensions. Easy installation is a must here.
  6. Value for money (10%). I also checked whether the cost of services is equal to what you get.
  7. Customer support (10%). Live chat, phone support, and a ticketing system are crucial, even better if there is 24/7 support.

Comparison of the best Linux password managers

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of all the viable Linux password managers and their key features.

RatingStarting priceFree versionCloud storagePlatformsBrowser plugins
NordPass
4.9
$1.38/month✅ YesUp to 2TBWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSChrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Brave, Vivaldi, and Edge
1Password
4.8
$1.99/month❌ No1-5GBWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSChrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge
RoboForm
4.8
$0.99/month✅ Yes❌ NoWindows, macOS, Android, iOS, LinuxChrome, Edge, Firefox
Keeper
4.6
$1.79/month❌ No5GBWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSChrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, Edge
Dashlane
4.5
$4.07/month✅ Yes1-5GBWindows, macOS, Android, iOS, LinuxChrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge
Passwarden
4.2
$1.66/month✅ Yes❌ NoWindows, macOS, Android, and iOSChrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Safari
LastPass
3.8
$3.00/month✅ Yes1GBWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSChrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
Enpass
4
$1.19/month✅ Yes❌ NoWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidChrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, Opera
Bitwarden
4.2
$1.65/month✅ Yes1GBWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSChrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, Opera, Tor, DuckDuckGo

How to choose the best Linux password manager?

Consider these factors before deciding which password manager is the right fit for your needs:

  1. Compatibility with your Linux distribution. Although my recommended password managers work with Linux, there might be some discrepancies if you use an obscure or specialized Linux distribution.
  2. Other OS support. Check if the password manager you’re eyeing offers apps for other operating systems and devices you’re using.
  3. Included features. You shouldn’t bother with Linux password managers that don’t offer the bare minimum regarding security and convenience features. To be precise, you should prioritize 2FA support, top-grade encryption, strong password-generating and checking capabilities, and auto-fill. Naturally, everyone’s priorities are different.
  4. Simultaneous connections. Take note of how many simultaneous connections a service permits and if that’s enough for your needs. After all, you’ll benefit from a more significant number if you own many devices.
  5. Affordability. Digital products come in varying price ranges, and Linux password managers are no exception. Get one that fits your budget, or stick with a free option if you’re unwilling to commit to a premium provider.

I considered these conditions when deciding that NordPass is the best password manager for Linux. The service offers well-rounded benefits in all areas, both on the free and premium plans. But don’t hesitate to check our other provider suggestions so you can make the best decision for your situation.

Snag the best Linux password manager
Use the most robust Linux password vault by signing up for NordPass. Customers can get started with the worthwhile free plan or unlock exceptional cybersecurity perks with affordable premium options.
cybernews® score
4.9 /5

What is the best free password manager for Linux?

It shouldn’t surprise you that I nominate NordPass as the best free password manager for Linux as well. After all, its free plan is quite robust and grants the essentials regarding security and privacy. Moreover, finding reliable and well-performing free software, in general, is no easy task.

NordPass’s free version offers a desktop application that is attractive to the eye, user-friendly, and, most importantly, supports Linux. The following features found on the free version are enough to keep your device protected:

  • Autosave and autofill
  • Import and export
  • Save notes and credit cards
  • Autofill forms
  • Generate strong passwords
  • Synchronize automatically across devices
  • Secure your vault with multi-factor authentication
  • 24/7 customer support (live chat, email, social media platforms)

What’s great about NordPass is that you can use a free version as long as you want. Yet, you can have only one active session at the same time. Meaning, logging in to your account on another device would log you out of a previous session.

Check what other free password managers are available if you’d like to peruse more options. There’s no point sticking with the first service you encounter when you can easily switch at no cost.

Does Linux have a built-in password manager?

Yes, Linux devices have a built-in password manager for enhanced account security. It’s called Linux keyring, and it’s included by default in almost every Linux distribution.

Keyring is fairly bare-bones compared to conventional password managers. Most notably, the service isn’t cloud-based but integrated with your device’s Linux user. That means it’s unlocked whenever you log in to your Linux computer. Luckily, you can change this behavior if you share your device with others.

The keyring stores and automatically inputs your passwords into various apps. You can also use the service for other sensitive data, such as encryption keys and certificates.

How to manage keyring on Linux?

You can review your keyring by opening the Passwords and Keys app (previously known as Seahorse). The simple app allows you to check what data is saved and manually add new passwords or other keys.

Linux keyring interface
Linux offers keyrings for secure password management

There’s no explicit option to export the passwords. However, you can work around this limitation by opening the keyring directory (~/.local/share/keyrings) and copying the files from there. You should also remove the master password in the app to make these files readable. Then you can import the data elsewhere, i.e., on another Linux device.

Is Linux keyring safe?

Generally speaking, Linux keyring is safe. It encrypts all data and doesn’t require an internet connection to work. Additionally, it creates separate vaults for each user if there are multiple accounts on one device.

Naturally, these security measures make the keyring reasonably limited as well. For example, the lack of web support means you can’t use multiple devices with different operating systems to access the same password storage. Plus, there’s no way to securely share information with others or to conveniently export the database.

Conclusion

The password manager market is constantly improving. It’s getting harder to find a provider that wouldn’t offer a version suitable for Linux. However, every password manager app is different to accommodate the varying needs of Linux users.

Overall, I believe that NordPass and RoboForm are ideal for Linux enthusiasts running any distribution. These providers grant comprehensive security and numerous features to fill in the gaps that the default Linux keyring lacks. Plus, you can use them without paying anything if you firmly believe that software should remain free.

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