Side by side
Ghost Auth vs SelfHostAuth
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 AndroidExtensioniPhone
Ghost Auth combines TOTP code generation with encrypted storage, backups, and synchronization across supported devices and extensions. Its current desktop availability is limited because Windows, macOS, and Linux apps are still forthcoming.
Visit Ghost Auth Free plan AndroidAPIExtension+6
SelfHostAuth brings authenticator codes and cross-device sync to infrastructure you control, with offline code generation and several client options. It is a fit for people prepared to operate the server; there is no hosted option.
Visit SelfHostAuthThe facts
| Ghost Auth | SelfHostAuth | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Extension, iPhone | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Ghost Auth | Not published |
| Website | ghostauth.org | github.com |
| On authenticator apps | #25 of 111 | #21 of 111 |
Ghost Auth: what it does well
- Free TOTP authenticator
- Encrypted storage and local backups
- End-to-end device and extension sync
- Imports from four listed authenticator apps
- Supports 79 languages
What to know first
- Desktop apps are listed as coming soon
- Device sync requires the same Wi-Fi network
- No Windows, macOS, or Linux desktop app yet
SelfHostAuth: what it does well
- Generates TOTP and HOTP codes across multiple standards.
- Clients support offline TOTP generation.
- Syncs account changes and deletions across devices.
- Free and MIT-licensed.
What to know first
- No hosted version is available.
- Requires managing a self-hosted server.
- No push approvals.
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