Side by side
Bitwarden vs Proton Authenticator
Both stand on authenticator apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+6
Choose Bitwarden if you want a password manager with a free plan, broad platform coverage, and options for sharing or organizational integrations. The main caveat is that the F-Droid build does not receive live-sync push notifications, so it requires manual vault syncing.
Visit Bitwarden
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
Proton Authenticator provides offline TOTP codes, import and export options, and optional encrypted sync. It is free across the listed platforms, while using sync requires signing in.
Visit Proton AuthenticatorThe facts
| Bitwarden | Proton Authenticator | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Premium: $1.65 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 7 | 2 |
| Maker | Bitwarden Inc. | Proton Authenticator |
| Website | bitwarden.com | proton.me |
| On authenticator apps | #1 of 111 | #2 of 111 |
Bitwarden: what it does well
- Free plan includes unlimited devices and passwords.
- Stores passwords, notes, credit cards, identities, and passkeys.
- Bitwarden Send shares text and files with non-users too.
- Apps cover web, desktop, mobile, and browser extensions.
- Business plans include SSO, directory sync, and SIEM options.
What to know first
- F-Droid build requires manual syncing because live-sync push notifications are unavailable.
- Priority support is reserved for paid users.
Proton Authenticator: what it does well
- Works offline without requiring a Proton Account.
- Imports codes from six listed authenticator apps.
- Offers local or end-to-end encrypted cloud backup.
- Open source, with biometric vault unlocking.
- Free on all listed platforms, with no ads or tracking.
What to know first
- Syncing codes across devices requires optional account sign-in.
- The listed code type is TOTP.
Alternatives to Bitwarden Alternatives to Proton Authenticator The whole list