Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Bitwarden9.5
Open-source clients and server with regular independent security audits.
Security & audits
30% weight
1Password9.0
Secret Key design plus published third-party security assessments.
Bitwarden7.5
Works everywhere, though autofill and design are plainer than premium rivals.
Ease of use
20% weight
1Password9.5
Highly polished apps and reliable autofill on every platform.
Bitwarden9.0
Premium remains low-cost even after the 2026 increase.
Value for money
20% weight
1Password7.0
Priced above most rivals with no free tier.
Bitwarden9.5
Unlimited passwords on unlimited devices at no cost.
Free tier
15% weight
1Password2.0
No free plan; only a time-limited trial.
Bitwarden8.0
Passkeys, secure sharing and two-factor codes on Premium; self-hosting option.
Features
15% weight
1Password9.5
Passkeys, Watchtower alerts, travel mode and strong sharing tools.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Bitwarden | 1Password |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Open-source clients | Yes | No |
| Passkey support | Yes | Yes |
| Trial or refund | Free plan available | 14-day free trial |
| Free-plan devices | Unlimited | Not published |
| Company base | United States | Canada |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Bitwarden if…
You want something best for anyone who wants a capable free or low-cost manager.
- + Generous free plan
- + Open source with regular audits
- + Low Premium price
Choose 1Password if…
You want something best for families and people who want a premium experience.
- + Excellent apps and autofill
- + Secret Key adds protection
- + Strong family plan
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Bitwarden vs 1Password: quick answers
Is Bitwarden better than 1Password?
Bitwarden leads 1Password by 1.1 points overall (8.8 vs 7.7). Bitwarden scores higher on security & audits, value for money, free tier. 1Password scores higher on ease of use, features.
Who should choose 1Password over Bitwarden?
1Password is best for families and people who want a premium experience. Bitwarden is best for anyone who wants a capable free or low-cost manager.
How were Bitwarden and 1Password scored?
Both were scored on the same 5 weighted criteria for password managers, using public information such as published plans and terms. We do not lab-test products.