1Password vs Proton Pass: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between 1Password and Proton Pass comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: 1Password is our overall Password Managers pick. Pick Proton Pass if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
1Password
Securely store passwords, cards, and docs with end-to-end encryption
Best for you if:
- • You want excellent security
- • You want easy to use
Proton Pass
Encrypted password manager from Proton
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want secure password manager
- • You want proton ecosystem
| At a Glance | 1Password | Proton Pass |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $2.99/moIndividual | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Password Managers | Password Managers |
Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose 1Password or Proton Pass?
Choose 1Password if
Securely store passwords, cards, and docs with end-to-end encryption
- You want excellent security
- You want easy to use
Choose Proton Pass if
Encrypted password manager from Proton
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want secure password manager
- You want proton ecosystem
| Feature | 1Password | Proton Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 3,945 reviews | ★4.8/5 132 reviews |
| Categories | Password ManagersSecurity | Password ManagersSecurity |
In-Depth Analysis
1Password
Securely store passwords, cards, and docs with end-to-end encryption
1Password is the premium option in password management, no free tier, starting at $2.99/mo (annual).
Watch out
No free tier at all, even personal use starts at $2.99/mo (annual) or $3.99/mo (monthly)
Strengths
- +Excellent security
- +Easy to use
- +Family sharing
- +Watchtower alerts
Weaknesses
- -No free plan
- -Subscription required
- -Can be expensive for families
Key features
Proton Pass
Encrypted password manager from Proton
Proton Pass offers a fair pricing structure, especially with its generous Free tier providing unlimited logins and devices.
Strengths
- +Secure password manager
- +Proton ecosystem
- +E2E encryption
- +Fair pricing
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Newer than competitors
- -Limited features
- -Proton-focused
- -Import limitations
- -Still maturing
Key features
Pricing: 1Password vs Proton Pass
| Plan | 1Password | Proton Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $2.99 Individual | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $4.99 Families | $2.99 month Pass Plus |
| Tier 3 | $19.95 Teams Starter Pack | $9.99 month Proton Unlimited |
| Tier 4 | $7.99 Business | N/A |
| Tier 5 | Free Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on 1Password pricing and Proton Pass pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Proton Pass has a free tier. 1Password is paid only.
Go with: Proton Pass
Want the highest-rated option?
1Password: 4.7/5 (3,945 reviews). Proton Pass: 4.8/5 (132 reviews).
Go with: Proton Pass
Value user reviews?
1Password: 3,945 reviews (4.7/5). Proton Pass: 132 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: 1Password
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
1Password is paid. Proton Pass is freemium. Proton Pass lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are password managers tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Proton Pass is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
1Password
- Larger review base (3,945 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Proton Pass
- Has a free tier
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.7/5
The Bottom Line
1Password is our overall Password Managers pick. Proton Pass has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1Password or Proton Pass better?
1Password is rated in our evaluation. 1Password is paid and Proton Pass is freemium.
What are 1Password and Proton Pass used for?
1Password: Securely store passwords, cards, and docs with end-to-end encryption. Proton Pass: Encrypted password manager from Proton.
What does 1Password cost vs Proton Pass?
1Password is a paid tool. Proton Pass is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.