Intro
If you are still reusing passwords (or relying on your browser to remember everything), you are basically betting your accounts on one slip-up. A password manager fixes that in a way that actually sticks: one strong master password, unique logins everywhere else, and far fewer “reset password” spirals.
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre has been recommending password managers for exactly this reason: they make it realistic to use strong, unique passwords across your accounts.
The other big shift in 2026 is passkeys. More sites are rolling them out because they are harder to phish and much easier to use once set up.
So a good password manager now is not just about storing passwords — it is also about handling passkeys properly.
How we ranked these password managers
We prioritised the stuff that matters in real life:
- Security posture and transparency (audits, compliance, clear documentation)
- Passkey readiness (can it store and use passkeys smoothly?)
- Everyday usability (autofill that does not fight you, good mobile apps, sharing that is not painful)
- Value (pricing that makes sense for individuals, families, or teams)
Ranked Password Managers
1) 1Password
Best for: the “just works” option you can stick with long-term
1Password is the one you recommend to a friend who is not interested in fiddling. Setup is smooth, autofill is reliable, and sharing logins with a partner or team is simple without feeling risky.
It is also taking passkeys seriously: you can save and sign in with passkeys using 1Password, which is exactly where password managers are heading.
On the trust side, 1Password publishes its approach to security assessments and SOC 2 information for customers who need the reassurance.
Pros
- Passkeys are properly supported (not bolted on)
- Strong transparency signals (security assessments + SOC 2 info)
- Excellent day-to-day experience for most people
Cons
- Not the cheapest, especially if you only need the basics
2) Bitwarden
Best for: best value, plus the comfort of open source
Bitwarden is the sensible pick if you want something robust without paying “premium UI” prices. It is widely trusted, has a strong free tier, and is particularly popular with people who care about transparency — it is open source, with code visible on GitHub.
Bitwarden also covers passkeys in a very practical way: it supports storing and autofilling passkeys, and it also supports logging in to Bitwarden with a passkey (so you can reduce reliance on your master password over time).
For assurance, Bitwarden documents audits and SOC 2 certification.
Pros
- Open source, strong transparency
- Passkeys: store/use for sites + passkey login to the vault
- Clear audits/compliance info
Cons
- Interface is more functional than “polished”
3) Dashlane
Best for: passkeys-first convenience with a modern feel
Dashlane is a good choice if you want a slick experience and you are actively moving towards passkeys. Dashlane supports saving and managing passkeys across its apps, and it has published details about how it adds extra protection for passkeys using a secure enclave approach.
If you want to future-proof without thinking too hard, Dashlane’s “passwordless direction” is one of its main strengths.
Pros
- Strong passkey support with clear documentation
- Extra protection approach for passkeys explained plainly
- Great for people who want a modern UI
Cons
- Value depends heavily on the plan you pick
4) Proton Pass
Best for: privacy-focused users (especially if you already use Proton)
If you are already in the Proton ecosystem, Proton Pass is the neat “keep it all together” move. Proton supports passkeys (with guidance on how to use them and where they work), and it frames passkeys as a safer alternative to passwords that reduces phishing risk.
This is the pick for people who prioritise privacy branding and want one provider for mail/VPN/passwords.
Pros
- Passkey support is included, with clear “how to” guidance
- Good fit if you already trust Proton’s privacy approach
Cons
- Still evolving fast, so features can feel less “settled” than older rivals
5) Keeper
Best for: businesses and compliance-heavy environments
Keeper is built for organisations that take compliance seriously. Keeper highlights a long list of certifications (including SOC 2 and ISO certifications, and FIPS validation claims) and sells strongly into enterprise use cases.
If you need admin controls, policy enforcement, and procurement-friendly security language, Keeper belongs on the shortlist. Independent reviews also tend to frame it as a strong business-grade option.
Pros
- Very certification-forward for regulated environments
- Strong enterprise feature set (admin/policy controls)
Cons
- Can feel like “too much product” if you just want a personal vault
Final thoughts
If you want the easiest recommendation for most people: 1Password.
If you want maximum value (and you like transparency): Bitwarden.
If you are actively moving to passkeys and want a modern experience: Dashlane.
If you already live in Proton: Proton Pass.
If you are buying for a business and compliance matters: Keeper.
And whichever you choose, the real upgrade is simple: unique passwords everywhere + passkeys where available. Passkeys are designed to reduce phishing and make logins easier, which is why adoption keeps climbing.
