Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Bitwarden9.5
Open-source clients and server with regular independent security audits.
Security & audits
30% weight
NordPass8.5
XChaCha20 encryption with a published independent security audit.
Bitwarden7.5
Works everywhere, though autofill and design are plainer than premium rivals.
Ease of use
20% weight
NordPass8.0
Simple, clean apps on all major platforms.
Bitwarden9.0
Premium remains low-cost even after the 2026 increase.
Value for money
20% weight
NordPass7.5
Competitive pricing on multi-year terms.
Bitwarden9.5
Unlimited passwords on unlimited devices at no cost.
Free tier
15% weight
NordPass6.0
Unlimited passwords free, but only one active device session at a time.
Bitwarden8.0
Passkeys, secure sharing and two-factor codes on Premium; self-hosting option.
Features
15% weight
NordPass7.5
Passkeys, breach scanner and password health on paid plans.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Bitwarden | NordPass |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open-source clients | Yes | No |
| Passkey support | Yes | Yes |
| Trial or refund | Free plan available | 30-day money-back on paid plans |
| Free-plan devices | Unlimited | One active session at a time |
| Company base | United States | Not published |
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 NordPass if…
You want something best for nordVPN users wanting a matching manager.
- + Clean, simple apps
- + Modern XChaCha20 encryption
- + Free plan with unlimited passwords
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Bitwarden vs NordPass: quick answers
Is Bitwarden better than NordPass?
Bitwarden leads NordPass by 1.1 points overall (8.8 vs 7.7). Bitwarden scores higher on security & audits, value for money, free tier, features. NordPass scores higher on ease of use.
Who should choose NordPass over Bitwarden?
NordPass is best for nordVPN users wanting a matching manager. Bitwarden is best for anyone who wants a capable free or low-cost manager.
How were Bitwarden and NordPass 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.