Expert note
Pros
- The free level supports unlimited devices and passwords
- Good safety
- Support passkeys
- Multiplateform
Disadvantages
- The instructions could be clearer
- May feel clumsy
Our verdict
If you want a cheap or free password manager, Bitwarden has enough features and security to satisfy most people.
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Bitwarden Premium (annually)
$ 10
Regarding password managers, we generally recommend that you opt for a paid service, as they have a financial incentive to maintain their safety and high levels of functions or may lose funds from customers. Bitwarden, however, recalls this philosophy, having formed a tremendous reputation over the years as a secure and trustworthy service, but which does not ask you to pay. So, is there really one thing like a free lunch?
Software and features
- Free apparatus and passwords with free level
- Automatic filling for websites
- Cross-platform
Bitwarden follows the familiar model to anyone who has used a password manager in recent years. The interface is clean and modern, with an easy learning curve that makes it instinctive rather than understanding the complexities of Internet safety (which can be absolutely confusing).
When you open the application for the first time, you have the possibility of selecting the region that your data will be stored-United States, Europe or self-hosted. This is an important choice, so be sure to choose the one who, in your opinion, is the most reliable (this will obviously vary depending on where you live and the governments you judge in safety).
Martyn Suprely and Dominick Tomaszewski
Once you have created a free account, macOS and iOS applications take you to the My Vault page, where your passwords live (in addition there are also options to access secure messaging, password generator and application setting sections).
When opening the application for the first time, there are obviously no passwords. If you use another password manager, you can export your existing passwords (usually as a .csv or similar file – the service will tell you how to do it) then import them in Bitwarden. On the Mac, this is reasonably simple, the iOS application forces you to use the Bitwarden servers which then synchronize with the mobile application.
Unlike most other password managers, the free Bitwarden level allows you to synchronize on unlimited devices, and you are also allowed to unlimited passwords, making it a complete solution if you do not look for all the bells and whistles.
This does not mean that Bitwarden is sterile, far from it, you can also store the details of the credit card for payments, secure tickets, as well as identification identification information so that you can access anywhere. The SEND function also means that you can quickly share encrypted messages to other people (and if you register at the Premium level, you can also do the same with the files). There is also the standard password generator, which also allows the creation of pass sentences and user names.
Martyn Suprely and Dominick Tomaszewski
This is all that most people will have to intensify their security from free browser -based services or if you just want to be able to organize things a little more effortless.
There are a few elements that do not shine so brilliant. The configuration of the functionality such as the automatic filling can be confusing, because you should know that it is there to start (as it is not on by default), and if you have used other password managers (including Apple passwords (previously Keychain) and Google Password Manager), you will have to deactivate these first – which is not as simple as possible. It is not complicated, but it is not explained as clearly as possible by the application.
Some of the most advanced features are reserved for paid levels (which to be just is very cheap), including the encrypted attachments to messages, an integrated authenticator and emergency access (if you fall sick or leave, you can designate a particular person to be able to recover all passwords in your safe). That said, the full price of a one-year subscription is only $ 10 (around £ 7.50) and this can be shared with a second user, so it’s an excellent value for money.
Bitwarden is available on a wide range of platforms, including dedicated macOS and iOS applications, as well as plugins for all main browsers, as well as Windows and Android. The opinions on the App Store highlighted a recent number with the Safari plug-in, and I have encountered a few times when an error message saying that “the failure of failure” appeared. Fortunately, this was not the case most of the time, so it seems that the problem is solved.
Safety and encryption
- Zero knowledge from start to finish 256 bits
- Data violation monitoring
- Open source
- Passkeys support
Security is an important part of any password manager and Bitwarden has all the levels of protection that you will find on many of its rivals. The company operates a zero knowledge policy, so it cannot read your passwords because they are encrypted on your device and stored in this state on the Bitwarden servers.
As is standard, 256 -bit encryption is used to protect your data from hackers, Bitwarden also providing constant monitoring from any data violation on other sites that may include your connection details. On the paid level, you also get an analysis of your safe to help you know how much your existing passwords are secure against attacks.
Martyn Suprely and Dominick Tomaszewski
If you don’t want passwords at all, Bitwarden supports the creation and storage of Passkeys, which all become rage these days, so the application appears somewhat to the test of time.
To further lock the safe, you can configure a 2-factor permission through which you will be sent to SMS to your phone when you want to access your safe. Alternatively, there is a care of hardware safety keys as well as the option of the integrated authenticator which is delivered with the paid level.
Bitwarden is open source, which means that the source code can be examined so that the community can, hopefully, identify potential problems before pirates are aware of it. It is not a security guarantee, but transparent nature offers another level of security.
Price and availability
Bitwarden’s basic level is available completely free and is probably enough for most people who start their trip with password managers. If you want additional features such as secure file sharing, full password security reports, plus emergency access for a designated person, the premium level includes them for $ 10 (£ 7.50) per year and you can share this safe with a second user.
There is also a family plan that offers you up to 6 premium accounts for $ 40 (around £ 30) per year.
Bitwarden is available for iOS, MacOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and has plug-ins for Chrome, Safari, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Duckduckgo, Vivaldi, Brave and Tor Browsers.
Should you buy Bitwarden?
If you are looking to dip your toe in the waters of password managers, Bitwarden is an excellent starting point. You get a lot of features without having to pay anything at all. Yes, the premium plan has its advantages, and fortunately it is very affordable, but the free account is enough to move you forward. Bitwarden does not have the varnish to rationalize certain rivals, and the documentation could be better, but it is a robust and reliable service that will make the management of your passwords much easier than to try to remember everyone.
To consult the other services that we currently recommend, read our overview of the best password managers. In addition, for some tips on how to avoid using combinations that are easy to put on pet names and birthdays, take a look at our advice on how to strengthen your passwords.
