Bitwarden
FreemiumOpen-source password manager with end-to-end encryption. Sync across all devices for free — browser extension and desktop app.
By Bitwarden Inc. v2025.11.0 15M+ installs Updated
Password ManagerEncryption2FAOpen SourceCross-Platform WindowsmacOSLinuxChromeFirefoxEdge Security & Privacy
Pros
- End-to-end encryption with zero-knowledge architecture
- Free tier is genuinely generous — unlimited devices
- Open source — auditable codebase
- Self-hosting option with Vaultwarden
- Built-in TOTP 2FA authenticator (Premium)
Cons
- UI is functional but not the most polished
- TOTP requires Premium ($10/yr)
- Emergency access feature only on paid plans
Overview
Bitwarden is the leading open-source password manager that doesn’t compromise on features or privacy. Unlike LastPass or 1Password, Bitwarden’s free tier works across unlimited devices — making it the obvious choice for security-conscious users.
Security Architecture
- AES-256 encryption for vault data
- PBKDF2 SHA-256 or Argon2id for master password hashing
- Zero-knowledge design: Bitwarden cannot see your passwords
- Regular third-party security audits published publicly
Self-Hosting with Vaultwarden
Deploy your own Bitwarden-compatible server using Vaultwarden (a lightweight Rust re-implementation):
docker run -d --name vaultwarden \
-v /vw-data/:/data/ \
-p 80:80 \
vaultwarden/server:latestTechnical Specs
- Category
- Security & Privacy
- Platform
- Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge
- Pricing
- Freemium
- Version
- 2025.11.0
- Developer
- Bitwarden Inc.
- Released
- Aug 2016
- Updated
- Nov 2025
- Installs
- 15M+