Best 6 1Password alternatives

Choosing the right password manager has become just as important as choosing the right email or cloud storage provider. With so many logins to manage, relying on memory or unsecured notes is no longer realistic. 

A reliable tool not only protects sensitive data but also streamlines how people and teams access accounts every day.

1Password has become one of the most recognized names in this space, but it may not fit every situation when compared to other password managers. Some users feel limited by the lack of a free plan, while others want more flexible deployment options or a lower price point as their organizations grow.

For individual users, even small differences in how a password manager handles syncing, sharing, or recovery can determine whether it feels convenient or restrictive. These trade-offs have created demand for alternatives that match different needs more closely.

Many of these competitors now provide comparable security along with varied pricing models, cross-platform support, and customization options. That competition has raised the bar across the industry and given people more ways to find a solution that feels right for them.

Given these challenges, I ran my own comparisons and found several products that work well as alternatives to 1Password — from Rippling to Zoho Vault — offering options that may suit different teams and individual users.

What is 1Password, and what are its disadvantages?

1Password is a password manager that stores credentials, payment details, secure notes, and other sensitive information in encrypted vaults. Security is enforced through a dual-layer model: your account password combined with a unique secret key, designed to protect data. 

The service supports two-factor authentication for added security alongside the master password, and it is widely recognized for its ease of use and broad device support. Users can access their vaults through browser extensions, desktop apps, and iOS and Android apps. Families and teams can also share credentials with granular permissions that control who sees what.

Despite these strengths, several limitations explain why many users consider alternatives:

1. No free tier for personal use

1Password does not offer a free password manager version. Instead, all tiers start with a 14-day free trial before requiring payment. By comparison, Bitwarden provides unlimited password storage and cross-device sync for free, and Zoho Vault also maintains a free version with unlimited storage.

2. Closed-source architecture

1Password is proprietary software, so its code is not publicly available. Open-source alternatives, by contrast, combine zero-knowledge encryption with code that can be independently reviewed. Without that outside scrutiny, users must trust that encrypted data remains secure on remote servers and that the provider's implementation of security features is sound. For security-sensitive organizations, this difference in visibility can be a deciding factor.

3. Higher pricing compared to competitors

At $19.95/month for a 10-user starter pack and $7.99/user/month (Business), 1Password can be more expensive than many alternatives. NordPass Teams is priced at $3.59 per user per month, while Zoho Vault’s professional plan costs just $4.50 per user per month. For larger organizations, these differences scale quickly into significant cost gaps.

Scale password management as part of workforce security

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Methodology: How I chose these 1Password alternatives

I didn't just grab the first password managers that came up in search results. Here's my methodology for selecting and evaluating these alternatives that matter for both individuals and teams:

• Security standards: A password manager must start with strong protection. I looked for advanced security features such as end-to-end encryption, zero-knowledge architecture, and evidence of independent security audits. 

• Usability: Tools in this category should make daily tasks effortless, not frustrating. I assessed how well autofill worked across browsers, whether credentials could be shared smoothly, and how intuitive permission management felt. 

• Pricing clarity: Subscription models can hide costs behind feature tiers or upgrade requirements. I compared real costs, noting whether plans were straightforward or whether scaling up introduced hidden limits.

• Compatibility: A password manager should work reliably across every major environment. Each option was reviewed for performance on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, as well as across leading browsers. 

• Business features: Finally, I evaluated availability of admin controls, compliance tools, SSO integration, and user management features. Platforms that supported team growth with scalable options stood out from those that mainly repackaged consumer products.

Quick comparison: Best 1Password alternatives at a glance

Top 6 1Password competitors to consider

1. Rippling

Rippling approaches password management differently from traditional solutions by treating it as part of a broader identity and access management system. Rather than just storing passwords, it connects directly to your HR data to create intelligent security policies that adapt automatically as your team changes.

Why it stands out: What makes Rippling exceptional is how it leverages employee information you already maintain. When someone changes departments, gets promoted, or moves into a new role, their app access and password permissions update automatically based on rules you’ve set. This removes the manual work most IT teams face when managing secure access at scale.

The password manager component (Rippling’s RPass) is tied into device management and identity controls, so you can create sophisticated policies. For example, you can allow access to finance apps only from managed devices during business hours, or block access to customer data from certain regions. Because Rippling understands organizational structure, it can flag truly suspicious behavior while recognizing expected activity.

Where it falls short: Rippling can feel complex for small teams that only need basic password storage, because of its broader capabilities which includes HR and device management features.

Is it right for you? Rippling is a strong fit for growing businesses and enterprises that want password management connected directly with HR and device data. It works well for organizations that prefer handling workforce changes and security policies in one place instead of juggling multiple tools.

Lock down logins with role policies

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2. Bitwarden

Bitwarden shows that an open-source model can provide enterprise-grade password management without losing usability. It combines transparency with a broad feature set designed for both individuals and organizations.

Why it stands out: Every account includes unlimited password storage, syncing across unlimited devices, and strong encryption based on AES-256 with a zero-knowledge design. 

Business plans expand further with SSO support, SCIM provisioning, directory integration, detailed event logs, and enterprise policies. 

Where it falls short: Bitwarden’s interface can feel plain compared to other competitors. Autofill works, but users often report it can be inconsistent across browsers and mobile apps.

Is it right for you? Bitwarden works well for security-conscious users who value transparency and flexibility. It’s especially appealing to businesses that want self-hosting, strong integration options, and open-source credibility at good prices.

3. Dashlane

Dashlane has shifted from being a standard password manager into what it now markets as a credential security platform. Its newer Omnix features are designed to move beyond reactive password storage toward proactive threat prevention.

Why it stands out: Dashlane’s risk detection scans across your entire organization, flagging compromised passwords even if they’re stored outside its vaults. Its phishing protection analyzes sites in real time and it offers dark web monitoring to flag weak passwords and exposed credentials.

Where it falls short: The pricing structure can become expensive quickly, particularly if you want access to the full Omnix feature set at $11/user/month. For companies mainly seeking reliable password storage, this can feel steep compared to leaner tools. 

Is it right for you? Dashlane works best for security-focused organizations that want proactive threat protection beyond basic password storage. Its nudging system helps improve user password hygiene and can strengthen overall security posture.

4. NordPass

NordPass brings Nord Security's reputation for strong encryption to password management. Built by the team behind NordVPN, it focuses on providing enterprise-grade security at accessible prices.

Why it stands out: NordPass uses the XChaCha20 encryption algorithm, a modern alternative to the AES-256 standard common in most password managers. It also includes breach monitoring that scans the dark web for exposed domains or email addresses and alerts administrators when compromised credentials are found.

Where it falls short: Key admin features such as SSO with Entra ID, Okta, and ADFS, along with the Sharing Hub, sit behind the Enterprise tier. Users on G2 also mention hiccups like inconsistent autofill, extensions that log out or feel sluggish, Chrome crashes, and small sync delays between devices.

Is it right for you? NordPass offers good value for businesses seeking reliable security without premium costs. It integrates smoothly for teams already using Nord Security products and scales well as organizations grow. 

5. KeePassXC

KeePassXC represents the opposite philosophy from cloud-based password managers. Everything stays on your devices, giving you complete control but requiring more technical knowledge to manage effectively.

Why it stands out: Complete offline operation keeps your database local, removing cloud-based risks and giving you full control. It provides cross-platform access, running on Windows, macOS, and Linux. The software is entirely free and open-source under the GPL license, with every feature available to all users regardless of organization size.

Where it falls short: KeePass looks and behaves like older software, which can feel clunky beside more modern managers. Because it isn’t SaaS-based, there’s no native cloud sync or sharing. Relying on plugins or external services adds extra steps and sometimes leads to conflicts, limiting its appeal for teams that need smoother collaboration.

Is it right for you? KeePassXC is best for technically skilled users or teams that value maximum privacy and control over convenience. It fits well in environments with strict data sovereignty requirements or for individuals who prefer a free, offline solution. 

6. Zoho Vault

Zoho Vault provides one of the most generous free tiers among business-focused password managers, making it an attractive entry point for individuals and small teams. It also benefits from integration with Zoho’s wider business software ecosystem.

Why it stands out: The free plan includes unlimited password storage, unlimited device access, and basic sharing. Paid plans start at just $1 per user/month and add fine-grained sharing controls that let admins decide exactly how each user or group can access and use shared passwords.

Where it falls short: Zoho Vault runs only in the cloud, with no self-hosted deployment for organizations that require local control. Its deep integration with the Zoho ecosystem is an advantage for current Zoho customers, but can make it less attractive as a standalone solution.

Is it right for you? Zoho Vault works for individuals or small businesses who want budget-friendly password management. If you're already using other Zoho products, the integration benefits make it even more attractive. 

What to look for in 1Password alternatives

Choosing a password manager is not just about comparing features. Here are five more factors to focus on:

1. Transparent security architecture

It’s not enough for a service to claim strong security; they should show how it works. Open-source tools make their code available for review, while proprietary ones should provide clear documentation and regular third-party audits. Look for published details about encryption methods, key management, and what data the provider can or cannot see. Regular audits and public bug bounty programs are good indicators of strong security practices.

2. Free or affordable pricing tiers

A free plan can be more than just a marketing tool if it provides meaningful features for individuals or small teams. When reviewing pricing, check what is included at each level and whether the same features like SSO or audit logs are only available on expensive enterprise plans. Consider the long-term costs, including add-ons or integrations, and avoid services with unclear or frequently changing pricing.

3. Cross-platform compatibility

Your password manager should work consistently on desktop, mobile, and across major browsers. Mobile apps should include the same protections as desktop clients, and browser extensions should handle auto-fill without lag or errors. If you often work offline, make sure the service still functions without internet access and securely stores your login credentials, syncing smoothly once you reconnect.

4. Easy migration tools

Switching providers can be difficult, especially for teams with shared vaults. Look for import tools that preserve not just login data but also folder structures, notes, and permissions. Good export options matter as well; you should always be able to take your data with you if you need to move again. Larger organizations may benefit from providers that offer assisted migration services.

5. Strong encryption and zero-knowledge design

End-to-end encryption is standard, but the implementation details are critical. Providers should never have access to your encryption keys, and the system should be resilient even if their servers are compromised. Support for multi-factor authentication methods, including modern options like FIDO2 or WebAuthn, adds another safeguard, while backup authentication methods reduce the risk of being locked out.

Your best 1Password alternative: Rippling identity and access management software

Rippling approaches password management as part of a bigger picture. Instead of living in a silo, passwords sit inside a platform that also handles identity, devices, and HR data. 

That means access isn’t fixed in a vault. It adjusts automatically when someone joins, changes roles, or leaves the company, reducing the risk of accounts slipping through the cracks.

Where 1Password can securely store and share logins, Rippling adds the missing layer of context. Credentials are tied directly to the systems that already run payroll, benefits, and app provisioning. The outcome is less manual work for IT and stronger alignment between security and everyday operations.

Alongside these broader capabilities, Rippling includes RPass, its built-in password manager. RPass delivers the essentials of secure storage and sharing, while benefiting from the same lifecycle automation and policy controls that govern the rest of the platform. 

All of this is managed through a user-friendly interface, so admins can set policies quickly and employees can access tools without friction. This connection turns a basic password tool into part of a coordinated security system and ensures seamless access for employees.

For a growing organization, this means fewer tools to manage, less time spent on repetitive IT tasks, and stronger security by default. Passwords are only one piece of the puzzle, and Rippling is designed to bring all those pieces together in one place.

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