YubiKey 5 Series is a hardware security key for two-factor, multi-factor, and passwordless authentication and authorization. It supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, U2F, PIV smart cards, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, OpenPGP, and secure static passwords. Connector options vary by model and include USB-A, USB-C, NFC, and Lightning. The keys are IP68 rated, crush resistant, have no moving parts, and require no batteries. Yubico Authenticator can generate two-step verification codes on mobile or desktop while credentials remain on the key. Yubico lists compatibility with Google and Microsoft accounts, password managers, and services including Facebook, Salesforce, Dropbox, 1Password, AWS IAM, Duo Security, and Okta. The series is described for personal and business use, including remote workforces, privileged users, and shared workstations. Yubico says the physical key is designed to help protect against phishing. The 5C NFC model supports tap-and-go use with NFC-enabled Android and iOS devices. Listed models range from 58.00 USD per once to 85.00 USD per once. There is no free plan or free trial.
Who it is for
The series suits people and organizations seeking hardware-based authentication, including remote workforces, privileged users, or shared workstations. Choose a model based on its connector and NFC needs.
What is good
- Supports multiple authentication standards and methods.
- IP68 rated and crush resistant.
- Requires no batteries and has no moving parts.
- Authenticator codes keep credentials on the YubiKey.
- Listed models start at 58.00 USD per once.
What to know first
- No free plan or free trial.
- Connector options vary by model.
- Biometric unlock is not supported.
- NIST validation is listed as not applicable for 5C NFC.
Verdict
YubiKey 5 Series offers a range of authentication protocols and connection types across its hardware models. Check the connector and compliance requirements for your environment before choosing a key.
Get started with YubiKey 5 Series
- Open the YubiKey 5 Series product page.
- Choose a model based on its listed connector and price.
- Purchase the key for a one-time fee.
- Use the key with a compatible account or service.
- Use Yubico Authenticator for verification codes on mobile or desktop, if needed.
Limits to know first
There is no free plan or trial. Listed models cost $58.00 to $85.00 USD per one-time purchase, and available connector types depend on the model.
Questions about YubiKey 5 Series
How much does a YubiKey 5 Series key cost?
Listed models range from $58.00 to $85.00 USD per one-time purchase. The 5C NFC and 5 NFC cost $58.00; the 5C costs $65.00; the 5 Nano and 5C Nano cost $68.00; and the 5Ci costs $85.00.
Is there a free plan or trial?
No. The series is paid, with no free plan or free trial.
Which platforms are supported?
Listed platforms include Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, Windows, and ChromeOS.
Which authentication standards does it support?
It supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, PIV smart card, and OpenPGP.
Does it work with NFC-enabled phones?
The 5C NFC model supports tap-and-go use on NFC-enabled Android and iOS devices.
Is there an enterprise purchase option?
Yubico says businesses with 500 or more users qualify for YubiEnterprise Subscription.
YubiKey 5 Series plans and pricing
All plansCompared on security keys
- Free plan
- No
- Paid from
- 58 one-time
- Authentication standards
- FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, PIV smart card, OpenPGP
- NFC support
- Yes
- Biometric unlock
- No
- USB connector
- usb-a
- Device management
- vendor app
- Operating systems
- Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, ChromeOS
