1Password is one of the most popular password managers, but it’s not for everyone. Some users feel the subscription cost is too high, others want open-source transparency, and many look for tools that better fit family or business needs. That’s why so many people are searching for 1Password alternatives.
There are plenty of secure, feature-rich options to choose from, but you must choose the one that best suits your needs. In this guide, we’ll compare five top alternatives and discuss their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right decision.
Why Do People Switch from 1Password?
1Password is a solid password manager, but it doesn’t check every box for everyone. Here are the most common reasons people look for alternatives:
- No free version: 1Password doesn’t offer a free tier, which turns off users who want to test the service or use basic features without paying.
- Closed-source design: Some security-conscious users feel uneasy trusting a tool they can’t independently verify. Open-source managers offer more transparency with regular audits.
- Family and team plans don’t scale well: Adding more users quickly gets expensive. Alternatives often provide more affordable group or family-friendly packages.
- Harder to migrate: 1Password creates a sense of “vendor lock-in,” making it less flexible if you want to export and switch to something else. Competitors usually offer easier import/export tools.
5 Top 1Password Alternatives in 2025
Here’s a quick snapshot before diving deeper:
| Alternative | Best For | Highlights | Starting Price |
| PureVPN Password Manager | Privacy-first users | Zero-knowledge encryption, VPN integration, dark web monitoring | ~$2.96 / mo |
| Bitwarden | Open-source enthusiasts | Transparent, audited, generous free plan | Free / $10 yr |
| Dashlane | Premium features | VPN bundle, polished UI | ~$3.33 / mo |
| Keeper | Teams & enterprises | Granular admin controls, audit logs | ~$3.75 / user / mo |
| NordPass | Everyday users | Modern UI, passkey support, fair pricing | ~$2.99 / mo |
Detailed Comparison of 1Password Alternatives
To make your decision easier, we’ve compared the top contenders side by side. This detailed breakdown highlights what each tool does best so you can pick the perfect fit.
1. PureVPN Password Manager
PureVPN Password Manager is one of the most privacy-centric alternatives to 1Password. It’s part of a larger privacy suite that lets users manage passwords and stay protected with VPN security. It offers AES 256-bit encrypted vaults, cross-device sync, password health checker, autofill functionality, a password generator, and even lets you store your notes, payment details, and crypto recovery phrases.
What makes PureVPN Password Manager stand out is its deep integration with PureVPN’s ecosystem. You get a built-in VPN for encrypted browsing, a tracker and ad blocker to stop invasive ads and hidden trackers in their tracks, and dark web monitoring to instantly alert you if your data ever surfaces on the deepest corners of the dark web, making it a true all-in-one privacy suite.
Pros:
- Combines password manager + VPN + dark web monitoring in one app.
- Best-in-class encryption with zero-knowledge architecture.
- Seamless cross-device sync and easy migration from 1Password.
Cons:
- Still relatively new compared to long-established competitors.
- Free version is expected to launch soon.
2. Bitwarden
Bitwarden is the go-to choice for open-source enthusiasts and users who prioritize transparency over everything else. Unlike many closed-source tools, Bitwarden’s entire codebase is publicly available and independently audited, ensuring maximum visibility and community trust. It’s also one of the most affordable options, offering a free plan with unlimited passwords and device sync, plus a low-cost premium upgrade for extra features like TOTP and secure file storage.
Its flexibility is another major draw. Bitwarden runs on all major platforms, web, mobile, and desktop, and even allows self-hosting, giving advanced users full control over their data. For businesses, it provides shared vaults and access management tools, making it suitable for teams as well.
Pros:
- Fully open-source and independently audited.
- Free plan supports unlimited passwords and sync.
- Optional self-hosting for full data control.
- Simple, clean interface with good cross-platform support.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features like VPN or identity protection.
- Interface feels less polished than premium rivals.
3. Dashlane
Dashlane is a sleek, premium 1Password alternative designed for users who value convenience and automation. Its standout feature is the built-in VPN, giving you both password protection and encrypted browsing without juggling multiple apps. Dashlane also offers dark web monitoring, password health reports, and one-click autofill, making password management effortless even for beginners.
Beyond looks, Dashlane’s real strength lies in how smoothly it integrates across browsers and mobile devices. The dashboard is intuitive, guiding you to improve weak passwords, monitor exposure risks, and maintain strong online hygiene. However, while its design and extras are impressive, Dashlane’s pricing sits on the higher end, especially for families or teams.
Pros:
- Built-in Hotspot Shield-powered VPN for encrypted browsing.
- Excellent user experience and password health tracking.
- Powerful dark web monitoring and breach alerts.
- Seamless autofill across web and mobile.
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to competitors.
- No offline mode, requires cloud connectivity.
4. Keeper
Keeper is a top choice among enterprise users and teams that require advanced administrative controls and compliance support. Known for its zero-knowledge encryption and SOC 2/FedRAMP certifications, Keeper is built for businesses that handle sensitive information daily. It includes encrypted file storage, detailed reporting, and powerful role-based access controls to keep large teams secure and compliant.
Despite its enterprise focus, Keeper also suits individuals who want an extra layer of security. The platform offers personal vaults, breach monitoring, and secure password sharing, though its interface can feel more technical than consumer-friendly tools like Dashlane or PureVPN Password Manager.
Pros:
- Enterprise-grade encryption and compliance certifications.
- Strong admin controls and reporting tools.
- Secure file vaults and sharing features.
- Proven reputation in business security.
Cons:
- Premium pricing, especially for personal use.
- Interface less intuitive for casual users.
5. NordPass
NordPass, developed by the team behind NordVPN, is one of the most beginner-friendly alternatives to 1Password. It focuses on simplicity and usability without compromising on security. Using the modern XChaCha20 encryption protocol and a strict zero-knowledge model, NordPass ensures that even its own team can’t view your stored data.
Its clean interface, quick autofill, and cross-platform support make it ideal for users transitioning from other managers. While NordPass doesn’t bundle a VPN or data privacy tools, it pairs well with NordVPN for a complete security setup. It’s an excellent pick for everyday users seeking simplicity and reliability.
Pros:
- Modern encryption (XChaCha20) with zero-knowledge design.
- Intuitive, beginner-friendly interface.
- Smooth cross-platform experience.
- Built by a trusted cybersecurity brand.
Cons:
- No bundled VPN or offline mode.
- Not open-source, limiting transparency.
Switching from 1Password to Other Password Manager
Switching can feel intimidating, but it’s straightforward if you plan it out.
- Export your 1Password vault securely.
- Install your chosen manager (PureVPN PM, Bitwarden, etc.).
- Import vault and verify key logins.
- Test autofill on critical sites.
- Enable sync and sharing.
- Delete the exported file and close your old 1Password account.
Frequently Asked Questions
While 1Password is considered secure and reliable, its closed-source model and lack of a free plan turn some users away. Others find its higher subscription cost and cloud-dependent setup limiting compared to more flexible or open alternatives.
1Password is secure but has drawbacks: it’s not open source, lacks a free plan, and can be pricey compared to alternatives. Users often face setup friction, sync or autofill glitches, and inconsistent features across platforms. Some users also express concerns over occasional platform inconsistencies and reliance on cloud storage.
If you want more transparency, lower pricing, or open-source control, switching can make sense. Many alternatives offer comparable security like AES-256 encryption and zero-knowledge protection, while adding flexibility through free tiers or privacy extras.
When comparing replacements, focus on zero-knowledge encryption, cross-platform compatibility, and independent audits. Extra features like password health checks, 2FA, and secure file storage improve both usability and overall protection.
Conclusion
Moving on from 1Password is simpler than it seems. With a range of privacy-driven, transparent, and budget-friendly options available, you can find a password manager that aligns with your needs and keeps your data firmly under your control.
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Anas Hasan
October 7, 2025
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