External Secrets vs 1Password Secrets: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between External Secrets and 1Password Secrets 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
External Secrets
Synchronize secrets from external providers into Kubernetes.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need container orchestration features specifically
- • Synchronizes secrets from external providers into Kubernetes.
- • Enhances security by centralizing secret management.
1Password Secrets
Secrets management for developers integrated with 1Password
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need ci/cd features specifically
- • 1Password Secrets is a secrets management solution for developers and DevOps teams
- • It injects API keys, tokens, and credentials into CI/CD pipelines securely without hardcoding
| At a Glance |  1Password Secrets | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Container Orchestration | CI/CD |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | External Secrets | 1Password Secrets |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Container OrchestrationIdentity & Access | CI/CDIdentity & Access |
Understanding the Differences
Both External Secrets and 1Password Secrets solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.External Secrets positions itself as "synchronize secrets from external providers into kubernetes." while 1Password Secretsfocuses on "secrets management for developers integrated with 1password". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose External Secrets
External Secrets makes sense if you're looking for a completely free solution.
When to Choose 1Password Secrets
1Password Secrets is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 85/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, External Secrets lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: External Secrets
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. 1Password Secrets is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: 1Password Secrets
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. 1Password Secrets takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: 1Password Secrets
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Nothing at all? External Secrets is completely free.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated 1Password Secrets higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted 1Password Secrets more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What 1Password Secrets Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider External Secrets If
- You need a completely free solution
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with 1Password Secrets (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. 1Password Secrets scores higher in our analysis, but External Secrets might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is External Secrets or 1Password Secrets better?
Based on our analysis, 1Password Secrets scores higher with 85/100. External Secrets isfree while 1Password Secrets is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from External Secrets to 1Password Secrets easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do External Secrets and 1Password Secrets offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. External Secrets is completely free.1Password Secrets is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.