Built-in vs app · checked
1Password vs Bitwarden vs Google Password Manager
The verdict
The verdict: If you only use Chrome and Android, Google Password Manager is free, built in and fine. Bitwarden is the best free choice if you mix browsers or pair an iPhone with a Windows PC, and it is open source. 1Password costs money, but it is the most polished for families and sharing.
Side by side
| Feature | Google Password Manager | Bitwarden | 1Password |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free, Premium is a small yearly fee | Paid |
| Works in | Chrome, Android, and iPhone through Chrome | Every major browser and phone | Every major browser and phone |
| Leaked password check | Password Checkup | Premium reports | Watchtower |
| Sharing with family | Share with your Google family group | Free between two people, more on paid plans | Shared vaults on the family plan |
| Open source | No | Yes | No |
Which one to pick
- Pick Google Password Manager if you live in Chrome and Android and just want it to work.
- Pick Bitwarden if you use more than one browser or an iPhone with a Windows PC and do not want to pay.
- Pick 1Password if you are setting up a whole family and want the least friction.
The options
Google Password Manager
Built into Chrome and Android
Best for: Chrome and Android only.
Good
- Already there, nothing to install
- Password Checkup for leaked passwords
- Passkeys supported
Not so good
- Awkward outside Chrome and Android
- Tied to your Google account
Bitwarden
Free, with a cheap Premium
Best for: Mixed devices on a budget.
Good
- Free plan works on every browser and phone
- Open source and independently audited
- Passkeys supported
Not so good
- Plainer apps
- Breach reports are a Premium feature
1Password
Paid subscription, free trial
Best for: Families and anyone who shares logins.
Good
- Polished on every platform
- Easy shared vaults for family
- Watchtower flags weak and leaked passwords
Not so good
- No free plan
Questions people ask
Is it safe to keep passwords in Chrome?
For most people, yes, as long as the Google account has a strong password and 2-Step Verification. You can add on-device encryption in Google Password Manager settings.
How do I move my passwords out of Chrome?
In Google Password Manager, open Settings and choose Export passwords. Import the file into the new manager, then delete the file, because it is not encrypted.
Do I need a password manager if I use passkeys?
Yes. Passkeys still live in a manager (Google, Apple, Bitwarden or 1Password), and most sites still use passwords.
Related tips
More comparisons and alternatives
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