Bitwarden vs 1Password
1Password vs Bitwarden represents the premium vs open-source debate in password management. I've used both as my primary vault for extended periods. 1Password offers the most polished experience; Bitwarden offers remarkable value (including a genuinely useful free tier). Both are excellent choices for different reasons.
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Quick Answer
1Password beats Bitwarden for most users. It scores 9.4/10 vs 9.2/10 and beautiful, intuitive interface. Choose Bitwarden if you need generous free tier.
Bitwarden
Open-source password manager with generous free tier
Starting from
$0.83/mo
1Password
WinnerPremium password manager with excellent family features
Starting from
$2.99/mo
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| Starting Price | $0.83/mo | $2.99/mo |
| User Reviews | ||
| Capacity | ||
| Password Limit | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Devices | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Security | ||
| Two-Factor Auth | ||
| Security Audit | ||
| Breach Monitoring | ||
| Features | ||
| Password Sharing | ||
| Password Generator | ||
| Autofill | ||
| Browser Extension | ||
| Mobile App | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Bitwarden
- Generous free tier
- Open-source and audited
- Self-hosting option
- Excellent cross-platform support
- Very affordable premium
- Send secure notes and files
- Interface less polished
- Autofill can be inconsistent
- No dedicated desktop app (web vault)
1Password
- Beautiful, intuitive interface
- Excellent family and team plans
- Watchtower security dashboard
- Travel mode for border crossings
- Secret key adds extra security
- 14-day free trial
- No free tier
- Slightly more expensive
- No monthly billing option
Key Difference
1Password is closed-source with no free tier ($3-5/month). Bitwarden is open-source with a generous free tier and $10/year premium. 1Password prioritizes UX; Bitwarden prioritizes accessibility and transparency.
Which Should You Choose?
Bitwarden
Choose 1Password if you value polish and ease of use, want the best family sharing experience, need Travel Mode for crossing borders, or prefer a company focused solely on password management.
1Password
Choose Bitwarden if you want the best free password manager, value open-source transparency, want the option to self-host, or need an excellent solution at minimal cost ($10/year premium).
Our Verdict
1Password wins on user experience with its beautiful interface, Watchtower security monitoring, and Travel Mode. Bitwarden wins on value and transparency with its open-source code, $10/year premium tier, and self-hosting option. Neither is wrong.
Thinking of Switching?
Both support standard export formats. Export from your current manager as CSV, import to the new one, verify everything transferred correctly, then delete the CSV securely. Allow a week to adjust to interface differences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitwarden better than 1Password?
1Password scores higher in our testing (9.4/10 vs 9.2/10). 1Password excels at beautiful, intuitive interface, while Bitwarden is better for generous free tier.
Which is cheaper, Bitwarden or 1Password?
Bitwarden is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $2.99/mo. Bitwarden offers 100% savings.
Bitwarden vs 1Password: which should I choose?
Choose Bitwarden if you prioritize generous free tier. Choose 1Password if you need beautiful, intuitive interface. Both are solid password managers options.
What's the main difference between Bitwarden and 1Password?
The main difference is Bitwarden offers open-source password manager with generous free tier, while 1Password focuses on premium password manager with excellent family features.