Apple is often praised for a seamless software and service experience across its hardware range. One such function is an iCloud Keychain password manager. All your added passwords are synced between Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad and Mac. But there are some issues with iCloud Keychain. Let me explain why.
First, the function is only available on Apple devices. This means that if you plan to migrate to Android or Windows, there is no way to carry password data with you. Setting up a new database in another password manager can be confusing.
Second, similar to other Apple services like Apple Reminder and Apple Mail’s competitors, iCloud Keychain alternatives from the App Store are better in terms of functionality and overall app. This, combined with Apple’s openness to allow third-party password managers as the default autofill option, makes the experience better than ever.
The Apple App Store is full of various third-party password managers. We’ve selected five of the best among them. In this article, we’ll talk about its features, cross-platform availability, price, security, and more. Lets start.
1. Transition
The Enpass password manager has become a well-known alternative to most competitors out there. The greatest strength of software is security. Unlike other password managers, it does not store user data on its servers. It allows the user to save the data offline or in the cloud storage of their choice.
After signing up, the app will take you to the default home that allows you to create entries for Login, Credit Card, Notes, Bank Account, Insurance Policy and more.
You can add categories and tags to each entry from the Group tab. My favorite function is the built-in control. Enpass identifies weak, identical, duplicate and old passwords in the safe and provides you with a detailed report.
The app supports iOS 13 dark theme and one can set it as default autofill option from Settings. Apart from that, Enpass also includes TOTP (Time Based One-Time Password), Apple Watch support, multi-vault functionality, built-in browser and more.
Enpass used to be a one-time purchase, but the company has recently switched to a subscription model. It now costs $1 per month to use on all devices. Supported platforms are Android, iOS, Mac, Windows and even Linux.
2. Final Pass
LastPass is one of the most popular password managers out there. Popularity has been hit by several data breaches over the past few years. But even then, the app remains the default option for the majority out there.
LastPass’ biggest selling point is its unlimited data entry (something competitors charge for) with support for syncing across multiple platforms for free. The premium version is required when you intend to create multiple vaults to share, want priority support and an added layer of security. Most features are available in the free version.
The list of functions includes the ability to create multiple vaults, check password strength, and security issues to warn about duplicate passwords. LastPass also supports a strong password generator and autofill login on iOS.
LastPass stores all data on its servers, which makes them vulnerable to potential hacking and theft. Let’s hope OneDrive/Google Drive integration happens soon. The service is available on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS and all popular browsers. The premium version is $3 per month.
3. 1Password
1Password offers tons of features right out of the box. This has made the service popular among consumers as well as in the business sector. Apple recently distributed 1Password among its 123,000 employees.
The app has one of the best user interface out there. I like the white/blue theme with neat iconography and dark theme support.
With 1Password, you can create multiple vaults, share vaults with family members, generate OTP from default authenticator, attach files to a login, support Apple Watch and most importantly, it is available on all platforms and supports major browsers via extensions.
For security, you can use biometric authentication, opt for a built-in browser for secure login, and the service offers encryption with AES-GCM-256 authentication.
1Password is $3 per month for personal use. You can jump in for the family plan for $5 a month; this allows you to share the service with up to five members, reducing the cost to $1 per user per month.
4. SafeInCloud
SafeInCloud follows a similar path as Enpass. It allows you to store data offline or with your chosen cloud provider. The biggest advantage of SafeInCloud is its pricing policy. Pay once and use for life. Along with this, a free desktop application is also obtained. No subscription required here.
SafeInCloud includes tags to sort entries instantly. You can also create strong passwords, autofill them on iOS and Android, and use the default browser for a secure login experience.
My only issue with SafeInCloud is the UI. It looks old compared to its competitors. The service is available on iOS, Android, Windows and macOS. The Pro version is priced at $10.
5. Firefox Lockwise
Firefox adds useful add-ons like Firefox Send and Firefox Lockwise on top of its browser offering. Firefox Send lets you send files up to 2.5GB, while Lockwise is a cross-platform password manager integrated with the browser.
The process is simple. When you add a website login to the Firefox browser, the service adds the data entry to the Lockwise manager. It’s free and syncs seamlessly with the Firefox account.
The service makes perfect sense for those looking for a secure and free iCloud Keychain alternative. Firefox has done a solid job with mobile apps. Now, it won’t have all the features of LastPass or Enpass, but the app gets the job done with biometric security, autofill login, and built-in browser.
Time to Continue from iCloud Keychain
All options are capable alternatives to iCloud keychain on iPhone. Enpass is feature rich, offers more flexibility in LastPass and 1Password family plans, SafeInCloud is cheaper, Firefox Lockwise is a great choice for Firefox users. Which one would you choose? Share your comments and experiences in the comments section below.
Next: Confused between Enpass and SafeInCloud? Read the comparison below to make a better choice.
