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Suppose you were Stefan Thomas, a San Francisco-based German programmer who is left with two guesses to figure out a decade-old password to access his $321M fortune. In that case, you’d probably be banging your head against the wall trying to figure out why you didn’t use a password manager back then.
These days password managers are an everyday essential. Choosing the right one for you — out of all available options — can be tricky, especially if you have no experience with password managers. And that’s when we often turn to review sites.
This post is your shortcut to understanding how to use review and comparison sites to your advantage so you can make the best possible decision.
What makes a reliable password manager comparison site?
Transparency of evaluation and methodology
The cornerstone of any reliable review site is openness about its editorial integrity and review criteria. Such sites should be transparent about what they value in a password manager or any other app in terms of features or functionalities. This also includes being frank about their evaluation methodologies and review timelines.
Up-to-date information
Any reputable comparison site should update its reviews to reflect how a product or service has changed. The reviewers should look to include the latest features or any other disclosures that may determine the user’s choice in either buying or avoiding the product.
Disclosure of conflicts of interest
A comparison site that wants to be taken seriously or considered as trustworthy should be open about its connections and relationships with various developers. Ultimately, the site stands more to gain than lose when it comes to disclosure of conflict of interest.
Key password manager features to consider
Not all password managers are created equal. When choosing the best fit for your needs, here are the essential features you should consider.
Encryption
The foundation of any password manager worth its salt is encryption. Put simply, encryption scrambles data into a code that only the correct key can decode. Strong encryption means that the likelihood of hackers accessing your passwords in the password manager’s vault is essentially zero.
Device sync
We live in a multi-device world, where switching between smartphones, tablets, and computers is a fact of life. A password manager that is worth your buck should offer seamless sync across devices and platforms.
Password generation
Weak passwords are the leading cause of unauthorized access. It’s no secret that we—humans are terrible at password creation. Machines, on the other hand, usually excel there. When considering a password manager, look for a built-in password generator.
Extra features
Password managers come packed with a variety of advanced security features. To get the best bang for your buck, look for a password manager that offers email mask creation, allows you to add emergency contact, and notifies you if your data ever appears in a data breach.
Secure sharing
There are times when you need to share a password with a family member or colleague. There’s no way around it. So be sure to look for a password manager that provides a secure way to share passwords and other sensitive information that you might keep in its encrypted vault.
Built-in Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is another feature that you might want to look for in a password manager because it adds an extra layer of security. You likely already know what MFA is, but just to recap, it’s a security method that requires users to present multiple proofs of identity. So with MFA enabled along with a master password you’d need to enter an additional code that might be sent to you via text, email, or an authentication app.
User-friendly interface
Security tools are most effective when used consistently. And so that’s exactly where a clean, intuitive user interface can make or break a product—a good user interface will not dissuade you from using the app.
Top review sites for password managers
Here, we've presented you with some of what we consider leading review sites. Each of them offers unique insights that can help you decide on a password manager:
TechRadar is known for its balanced approach, offering detailed comparisons and honest takes on products that caters to both tech enthusiasts and everyday users. They focus on usability, security features, and the overall value.
CyberNews focuses more on cybersecurity. They tend to test encryption strength and privacy protections. It is an ideal comparison site for those who are more into the technical details of what’s going on behind the hood.
Forbes Advisor as the brand name suggests, blends financial and tech insights, assessing password managers through the lens of security and cost-effectiveness.
VPNOverview seems to emphasize user experience, ease of use, compatibility, and daily application. Their reviews offer readers straightforward, practical advice on choosing a password manager for their daily online routines.
All About Cookies focuses more on privacy and data protection. It also tends to explore how password managers handle and secure user data. Its reviews cater for the privacy-conscious.
The Wall Street Journal provides in-depth analysis of software utility with a consumer electronics spin to it. Their thorough reviews and comparisons are meant for readers seeking expert opinions.
How-To Geek is known for making technology accessible. They break down the features and functionalities of password managers and so many other apps into easy-to-understand reads. Their approach is perfect for those new to password manager or those looking for a down-to-earth explanation.
Engadget provides a variety of reviews, offering a broad overview of password managers on the market. Their generalist approach is ideal for readers starting their search and looking for a list of available options.
FrAndroid provides detailed reviews for the French-speaking audience, focusing on the user interface, features, and language support. Their reviews and comparisons are invaluable for French users seeking a password manager that meets their specific needs.
Tom’s Hardware Italia offers comprehensive coverage tailored to Italian users. Their reviews are meticulously crafted to address the unique things Italians value in password security.
Wrapping up
Choosing a password manager that’s right for you can be tricky. With so many options and opinions out there, we hope this article made it a little bit easier for you to make an informed choice on which reviews sites to consider.