Password Manager Comparison: Apple, 1Password and Bitwarden

Since iOS 18, Apple has moved password management to a separate app. But is the free solution really sufficient – or is it worth switching to 1Password or Bitwarden? This comparison shows the differences in features, security, price, and platform support.

The question of the right password manager is more pressing than ever for Apple users. With iOS 18, Apple transformed the iCloud Keychain into a standalone passwords app – complete with its own interface, search function, security alerts, and Passkey support. What was previously hidden deep within the settings is now a fully-fledged application.

At the same time, 1Password increased its prices for individual users in Europe by around 38 percent on March 27, 2026. The individual subscription now costs €43.80 per year. Bitwarden followed suit in January 2026, doubling its premium plan from $10 to almost $20 – the free plan, however, remains unchanged.

Many people are therefore asking themselves: Do I even need a third-party provider anymore? And if so, which one? This comparison provides the answer – based on the current features, prices, and platforms of all three services.

What the three password managers have in common

Before we delve into the differences: All three services meet the basic requirements of a modern password manager. They store passwords encrypted using the AES-256 standard, generate strong passwords on request, automatically fill in login credentials, and synchronize data across multiple devices. All three support passkeys, which are considered a more secure alternative to traditional passwords. Apple and 1Password warn users in their basic versions about weak, reused, or compromised passwords. Bitwarden offers advanced security reports only in its paid premium plan.

The crucial differences lie elsewhere: in platform support, in the range of functions beyond passwords, in the price, and in the question of how much control one wants to have over their data.

Platforms and availability

The Apple Passwords app runs on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro. Saved passwords can also be used on Windows PCs via the iCloud for Windows app and browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. There is no support for Android and Linux. Those who exclusively use Apple devices won't notice this limitation. However, those who frequently switch between Apple and Android or Linux will quickly encounter its limitations.

1Password offers native apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, and Safari. This makes 1Password the most flexible of the three services when it comes to cross-platform work.

Bitwarden supports the same operating systems as 1Password – macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux – and goes even further with its browser extensions. In addition to the most common browsers, Vivaldi, Brave, and Tor are also supported. For technically savvy users, Bitwarden also offers a command-line interface (CLI) and the option to run the entire service on your own server (self-hosting).

Features in detail

Passwords and passkeys

All three services store passwords and passkeys and automatically fill them in for apps and websites. However, there are differences in password generation: Apple creates secure passwords but doesn't offer the option to customize their length, character types, or format. 1Password and Bitwarden allow you to adjust the password length and character set. 1Password can also generate passphrases and PINs.

Two-factor authentication (2FA)

All three services can store and automatically fill in one-time passwords (TOTP) for two-factor authentication. In practice, this means you no longer need a separate authenticator app. However, Bitwarden only offers this feature in its paid premium plan. Apple and 1Password have it integrated into their basic versions.

Storage beyond passwords

This is where the biggest difference in functionality becomes apparent. The Apple Passwords app only stores login credentials, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and 2FA codes. Apple manages credit card information separately in the Wallet app. Documents, notes, software licenses, or copies of identification documents cannot be stored in the Passwords app.

1Password stores not only passwords but also credit card information, bank details, ID documents, software licenses, address data, secure notes, and file attachments. Each entry can be extended with custom fields.

Bitwarden stores passwords, credit card information, identity data, and secure notes. The premium version allows file attachments of up to 5 GB to be attached to entries.

Sharing passwords

The Apple Passwords app allows sharing via groups within the app. You can create groups for family, friends, or roommates and store selected passwords there. Prerequisite: All participants must use Apple devices with iOS 17 or later and be saved in your contacts.

1Password offers shared vaults and can also share passwords with people who don't have a 1Password account – via a time-limited link. This is especially useful for one-time sharing with people outside the Apple ecosystem.

Bitwarden allows sharing through so-called organizations. The free plan lets you share passwords with one other person. With Bitwarden Send, encrypted data can also be sent to non-users.

Security warnings

All three services check saved passwords for known vulnerabilities. Apple displays compromised and weak passwords in a dedicated section called "Security." 1Password calls its monitoring feature "Watchtower" and also warns about unsafe websites and expiring credit cards. Bitwarden offers similar reports in its premium version and added password coaching and a browser phishing blocker in 2026.

Security and encryption

All three services encrypt data using the AES-256 standard – the same method used for government and military applications.

Apple encrypts data end-to-end via the iCloud Keychain. Decryption takes place exclusively on the user's own devices. According to Apple, it has no access to the stored passwords. Access is protected via Face ID, Touch ID, or the device passcode. There is no separate master password – password protection is tied to the device security.

In addition to AES-256 encryption, 1Password uses a 128-bit secret key that is stored only on the user's own devices. Even if an attacker gained access to the encrypted data on the servers, the vault could not be opened without this key. 1Password is regularly audited by independent security firms and has not experienced a single known security incident since its founding in 2005.

Bitwarden encrypts all data locally on the device before it is transmitted to the servers. The entire source code is open source and can be viewed by anyone. Bitwarden is regularly audited by independent companies such as Cure53. Bitwarden has also not experienced any known security incidents in its history. For users who do not want to store their data on external servers, Bitwarden offers a self-hosting option.

Price comparison

The prices for 1Password and Bitwarden have been in effect since spring 2026 and include annual billing. Taxes may vary depending on the region.

Comparison table: Features at a glance

Which service is suitable for whom?

Apple Passwords: The obvious choice for Apple-only users

For those who exclusively use iPhones, iPads, and Macs and don't need to share passwords with Android or Linux users, the Apple Passwords app offers a solid solution. The app is free, deeply integrated into the operating system, and reliably performs the core tasks of a password manager. Seamless integration with Face ID and Touch ID, autofill in Safari and other apps, and Wi-Fi password management simplify everyday tasks.

The limitations only become apparent when you want to manage more than just login credentials – for example, credit cards in one central location, software licenses, copies of ID documents, or secure notes. Some security experts also view the lack of a separate master password critically: anyone who knows the device code has access to all passwords.

1Password: The premium solution for the highest demands

1Password is aimed at users who want to do more than just manage passwords and work across multiple platforms. In addition to login credentials, the service also stores documents, credit cards, ID cards, and much more. Features like Watchtower, Travel Mode, and the Apple Watch app set 1Password apart from the competition.

At €43.80 per year, the price is the highest in Europe – and has been a point of discussion since the increase in March 2026. However, for users who utilize the full range of features and work on multiple operating systems, 1Password still offers the most comprehensive feature set.

Bitwarden: The flexible alternative with open-source transparency

Bitwarden combines a robust free plan with open-source transparency. Even without paying, you get unlimited passwords on unlimited devices – including Passkey support and basic security features. The premium version, for around €18 per year, adds 2FA codes, file attachments, enhanced security reports, and the new phishing blocker.

Bitwarden is the right choice for users who value transparency and don't want to be tied to a closed ecosystem. The option for self-hosting is a unique selling point that no other service in this comparison offers. The user interface is functional, but less elegant than that of 1Password or Apple.

• Create and manage secure passwords: The Apple guide
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Password Manager Comparison – Apfelpatient's recommendation

For those who live exclusively within the Apple ecosystem and don't need advanced features, the free Apple Passwords app is a good choice. It performs core tasks securely and conveniently and has been a serious solution since iOS 18.

For those who want more – to store documents, use passwords across platforms, and access advanced security features – the choice is between 1Password and Bitwarden. 1Password offers the most comprehensive feature set and the best user interface, but it's also the most expensive service in this comparison. Bitwarden offers the best entry point with its free plan and the highest level of transparency thanks to its open-source architecture.

Regardless of your choice, any password manager is better than none. If you're still using the same password for multiple services or saving passwords in your browser, you shouldn't put off switching any longer. Apple's Passwords app makes getting started easier than ever – and if you need more features, 1Password and Bitwarden are two proven alternatives. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Alexander Supertramp)

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Frequently Asked Questions: Password Manager Comparison

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