1Password and NordPass are leading contenders in the password manager arena. Both significantly outperform built-in password solutions from tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, and Google. This comparison, based on 2025 versions, dives into their differences, pricing, and features to help you determine the best fit.
Features and Functionality
1Password showed a helpful tutorial when I installed the browser extension.1Password offers a smooth onboarding experience with helpful tutorials upon installation. While the browser extension provides access to most features, the desktop app allows convenient biometric unlocking of your password vault.
The NordPass browser extension has nearly all the features of the desktop app.NordPass boasts a robust standalone browser extension, rendering the desktop app optional. Setting up is straightforward, with seamless password importing and syncing across devices. Biometric login setup is readily accessible in the settings.
NordPass autofill worked as expected.Both 1Password and NordPass excel in core functionalities like autofill and cross-platform syncing. They reliably store and fill login credentials across devices, leveraging biometrics like facial recognition and fingerprint readers for seamless access. Both also offer password strength monitoring and breach alerts.
1Password lets me limit shared logins with links that expire and are only accessible once.1Password shines with its flexible password sharing. You can set expiration times, limit views, and grant access to specific 1Password users via email. Uniquely, 1Password also allows sharing with non-users via shareable links, a feature rivaled only by Keeper.
NordPass offers similar sharing, but recipients require a NordPass account. However, it provides granular control over access levels, allowing you to specify editing, sharing, or read-only permissions.
Pricing Plans
1Password and NordPass prices appear side-by-side in a split-screen.NordPass offers enticing initial pricing for two-year plans. However, renewal costs increase significantly. Long-term, the prices become comparable to 1Password. The primary price difference lies in family plans: 1Password supports five accounts for $60 annually, while NordPass supports six for $72.
Support and Assistance
NordPass live chat support is available 24 hours a day, every day.NordPass provides 24/7 live chat support, offering quick and helpful responses. 1Password utilizes an AI chatbot for immediate assistance with common issues. While effective, it can’t replace human support for complex account problems. 1Password’s email support is reasonably fast, typically responding within a day.
Security and Privacy
Both 1Password and NordPass prioritize security, employing robust encryption (AES-256 for 1Password and ChaCha20 for NordPass) and maintaining a clean track record regarding breaches.
The Verdict
Both 1Password and NordPass are excellent password managers. 1Password’s universal sharing and user-friendly interface are appealing. However, NordPass offers more granular sharing control within families and boasts 24/7 live chat support. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific priorities and needs.
