Quick verdict
If you want your passwords on your computer, phone and browser without worrying about anything, choose Bitwarden: it is the closest thing to 1Password and its free plan has no limit on passwords or devices. If you would rather nothing leaves your computer and don’t mind managing copies of the file yourself, KeePassXC gives you full control with no accounts.
Pick Bitwarden if…
- You want everything to sync on its own between computer, phone and browser.
- You are coming from 1Password and want something similar and convenient.
- You want to share some passwords with another person.
- You don’t mind creating an account as long as everything is encrypted.
Pick KeePassXC if…
- You would rather your passwords weren’t in anyone’s cloud.
- You don’t want to create any account.
- You want two-step verification codes included for free.
- You are comfortable using a synced folder or Syncthing to copy the file.
Bitwarden vs KeePassXC: point by point
| Feature | Bitwarden | KeePassXC |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Open Source | Open Source |
| Platforms | WebWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOS | WindowsmacOSLinux |
| Use | Online & offline | Offline |
| Where they are stored | In Bitwarden’s cloud, encrypted on your device (or on your own server) | In an encrypted file (.kdbx) on your computer |
| Syncing | Automatic across all your devices | Up to you, for example with your cloud or Syncthing |
| Mobile | Official apps for Android and iOS | With compatible apps such as KeePassDX on Android or KeePassium and Strongbox on iOS |
| Browser | Official extension that fills in passwords | KeePassXC-Browser extension, connected to the desktop app |
| Account | Required: email and master password | Not needed |
| Verification codes (TOTP) | Built in with the Premium plan | Included for free |
| Sharing passwords | Yes, with organisations (free for two people) | By sharing the file or a separate database |
| Open source | Yes, with external security audits | Yes (GPL licence) |
Key differences
Cloud or local file
This is the big difference. Bitwarden encrypts your passwords on your device and stores that encrypted copy in its cloud, so they are instantly available everywhere. KeePassXC keeps everything in a .kdbx file on your computer: if you want it on your phone, you have to copy or sync it yourself.
Convenience on mobile
Bitwarden has official apps and autofill on Android and iOS. KeePassXC only exists for computers, but its format is standard and third-party apps such as KeePassDX, KeePassium or Strongbox open it.
What is free
Bitwarden’s free plan has no limit on passwords or devices; the optional Premium plan adds built-in TOTP codes, attachments and security reports. KeePassXC has no paid version: everything, TOTP codes included, is free.
Accounts and control
With Bitwarden you rely on an account and its service (or on your own server if you set one up). With KeePassXC there is no account or server: the file and its master password are all you need, and also all you have to protect.
What they have in common
- Both are free and open source.
- Both encrypt your passwords with a master password only you know.
- Both generate strong passwords and fill in forms in the browser.
- Both import passwords from other managers and from the browser.
Try them for free
Step-by-step guide: how to switch from 1Password to Bitwarden
Not convinced by either? See every free alternative to 1Password
Frequently asked questions
Which one is more secure?
Both are secure if you use a long, unique master password. The difference is where the encrypted copy lives: in Bitwarden’s cloud or in a file of your own with KeePassXC. With Bitwarden, also turn on two-step verification for the account.
Can I use KeePassXC on my phone?
KeePassXC is for computers only, but its .kdbx file can be opened by compatible apps such as KeePassDX (Android) or KeePassium and Strongbox (iOS). You need to sync the file, for example through your cloud.
Does free Bitwarden have limits?
Not where it matters: unlimited passwords and devices. Some extras, such as built-in TOTP codes or attachments, are in the Premium plan.
Can I move my passwords from 1Password?
Yes, to either one. Export your data from the 1Password desktop app and import it into Bitwarden (from its web vault) or KeePassXC.
Independent: we have no commercial relationship, sponsorship or affiliation with 1Password or with these alternatives, and nobody pays us to recommend them. Links go to their official websites and are not affiliate links; the site is funded only by Google AdSense ads, which don't influence the selection. Learn more.
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