Side by side
Microsoft Authenticator vs TwoFac
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 AndroidiPhone
Microsoft Authenticator provides mobile sign-in approvals, codes, and supported Entra passkeys. Its smartphone-only availability and account-specific push notification support are important limits to consider.
Visit Microsoft Authenticator Free plan AndroidExtensioniPhone+4
TwoFac combines offline code generation with broad platform support, encrypted backups, and a free plan. Check the CLI installation details if you use Windows.
Visit TwoFacThe facts
| Microsoft Authenticator | TwoFac | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone | Android, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | support.microsoft.com | twofac.app |
| On authenticator apps | #13 of 111 | #17 of 111 |
Microsoft Authenticator: what it does well
- Free iOS and Android app.
- Verification codes work offline.
- Supports Microsoft personal, work, school, and other accounts.
- Entra passkeys are device-bound where supported.
What to know first
- Not available for PC or Mac.
- Push notifications do not work for third-party accounts.
- Sign-in notifications and responses require internet access.
- Autofill was discontinued in mid-August 2025.
TwoFac: what it does well
- Generates both TOTP and HOTP codes.
- TOTP generation works offline on the device.
- Encrypted backups and multi-device sync are supported.
- Free plan with no ads or premium tiers.
- Imports accounts from several supported authenticator exports.
What to know first
- Hosted CLI installer supports macOS and Linux x86_64.
- Windows CLI binaries are separate direct downloads.
Alternatives to Microsoft Authenticator Alternatives to TwoFac The whole list