When it comes to two-factor authentication (2FA), Google Authenticator was the first choice that gave customers the trust and security of their account protection. Customers valued the simple method of creating time-sensitive codes, which increased security against unwanted access to their online accounts. Its shortcomings, like the lack of centralized backup solutions, make it difficult for customers to move their 2FA configuration to another device.
Today, the security paradigm is rapidly evolving due to the dynamic nature of the digital environment and the introduction of new threats and technologies. This blog will discuss the 10 Best Google Authenticator alternatives to help users find solutions to Google Authenticator’s drawbacks and help them navigate their digital spaces safely. For enhanced security, consider using any one of the below mentioned alternatives along with a reliable password manager.
Some of you may also opt for a more private and streamlined browsing experience with two-factor authentication apps and ad blocker extensions for chrome.
10 Best Google Auth Alternatives in 2024
The need for a more flexible, feature-rich, and configurable 2FA experience that transcends Google Authenticator’s original functionality and design is at the core of our research as we navigate the best alternatives to Google Authenticator.
1. KeePass
One of the best Google authenticator alternatives, KeePass is also a safe and cost-free open-source. For those concerned about security and who would rather have complete control over their login information, Keepass is a fantastic choice as it encrypts and saves your passwords on your device instead of cloud servers.
Key Features
Pros
- AES-256 encryption offers extremely robust security.
- KeePass protects your files from unwanted access by using encryption techniques.
- Only a few device resources are used.
- Passwords can be securely shared with friends, family, and coworkers.
Cons
- Doesn’t save auto passwords.
- The auto-filling feature is unreliable and cumbersome.
- Absence of biometric logins.
- Additional features can be added only through third-party apps.
2. Aegis Authenticator
Aegis Authenticator is another alternative that is free and open-source. The app prioritizes protecting sensitive data associated with your 2FA tokens, ensuring that your authentication codes are kept safe on your device. It can be downloaded via the F-Droid app catalogue, which is open-source.
Key Features
Pros
- Use facial recognition or your fingerprint to unlock or log in to your smartphone.
- Aegis also supports the HOTP and TOTP algorithms.
- Aegis is compatible with any website that displays a QR code for Google Authenticator.
- There is no outside advertising of any kind.
Cons
- Lack of cloud backup.
- Potential complexity in recovery scenarios.
- Security Trade-off due to the local storage.
- Overwhelming Interface.
3. Authy
Managing accounts with two-factor authentication is easy with Authy, which is one of the best alternatives to Google authenticator. Authy supports Gmail, Dropbox, LastPass, and many more websites. It’s packed with features and covers all the 2FA bases.
Also Read: Top 10 Free VPNs For Android – Free & Paid Options (2024)
Key Features
Pros
- Allows to access codes on desktop as well.
- Allows Touch ID/Face ID support, emergency access for trusted contacts, and themes.
- Provides flawless synchronization between desktops, tablets, and phones.
- Clear layout and the master password option secure all the Authy codes.
Cons
- Some advanced functions cost a paid subscription.
- The duration of the codes is too short and expires quickly.
- It requires a phone number to set up.
- The Desktop App does not provide the account names.
4. andOTP
For Android smartphones, andOTP is a 2FA app, and one of the best Google authenticator alternatives that is entirely open source. AndOTP is a solution for Android smartphone users who want complete control over their data offline and don’t need the cloud sync feature.
Key Features
Pros
- Aims to encourage organic word-of-mouth promotion.
- andOTP supports dark mode.
- It encourages biometric verification.
- The inclusion of a wide variety of icons to personalize TOTP entries.
Cons
- OTP is a mobile-exclusive party.
- Slightly steeper learning curve to understand for beginners.
- Features like HOTP support are still in beta.
- Absence of built-in cloud synchronization.
Also Read: Free VPNs For Android – Fast, Safe & Secure (2024)
5. Keepass2Android
This open-source password manager is a reliable Google auth alternative. It works easily with .kdbx files, the common database format used by KeePass 2.x Password Safe is a popular password manager that works with Windows and other desktop operating systems.
Key Features
Pros
- Supports cloud services and self-hosting solutions.
- Secure Encryption Options like AES-265, ChaCha20, or Twofish-256.
- Adaptability to opt for Argon2 for enhanced security
- Enhanced security by prohibiting taking screenshots of open databases.
Cons
- Personalization is lacking due to the K2A keyboard.
- Works only on Androids.
- Dependence on Google Play Services.
- The absence of text prediction may slow down the typing process.
6. KeePassDX
It is another alternative that comes with TOTP integration that allows the management of two-factor authentication codes and passwords from within the same program. Its centralized strategy guarantees that all security measures are in a handy location and makes access easier.
Key Features
Pros
- Allows all sorts of password formats to integrate with your existing KeePass ecosystem.
- Secure autofill feature.
- Biometric authentication.
- Intuitive and offers a customizable experience.
Cons
- Absence of built-in tutorials or step-by-step guides.
- Weak support system for any issues.
- Cloud sync requires setup and third-party apps.
- Importing credentials from other password managers is tedious.
7. Okta
It is one of the best Google authenticator alternatives, which assists businesses in adhering to numerous industry rules and data protection legislation. With the aid of audit trails, reporting capabilities, and pre-built compliance configurations, Okta helps you secure and manage user access to various applications and systems.
Key Features
Pros
- Availability of Optimal documentation and integration Guides.
- Simple and intuitive user interface.
- It provides Continuous Improvement based on feedback.
- Okta’s behaviour detection system can be used to customize risk thresholds.
Cons
- Small firms find it difficult to sell Okta due to its contract minimums.
- Frequent user complaints of logging out.
- It has an expensive Paid Subscription.
- Poor Customer Service Support.
8. Free OTP
It is another Google auth alternative that works well with iOS (11 or later) and Android (6 or later) systems and uses one-time password protocols. Tokens can be added quickly and simply by manually entering the token configurator or scanning a QR code.
Key Features
Pros
- It only requires 2–3MB of storage space.
- User-friendly interface.
- Search functionality based on token name in iOS.
- It can also be used for logging into Google services.
Cons
- Allows only QR-code scanning and no option to produce a token based on a secret key.
- FreeOTP does not allow you to set a PIN or restrict app access.
- Export and import of tokens are prohibited.
- Backup and sync are not possible.
9. Microsoft Authenticator
It is one of the best authenticator alternatives to Google, which works with both Microsoft and non-Microsoft accounts, providing a comparable experience to Google Authenticator. Users of iOS devices must link their iCloud account to back up their credentials to the cloud. This option requires a personal Microsoft account.
Key Features
Pros
- It can store tokens in the cloud and conceal codes on screens.
- Additionally, it is useful if you frequently work with Microsoft accounts.
- As long as the cloud backup is off, no account is necessary.
- Instantly integrates personal accounts into the app.
Cons
- To sync or backup data, a Microsoft account login is required.
- iOS and Android backup/sync system incompatibility.
- Not being able to import or export tokens
- Needs comparatively larger(150–200 MB) space.
10. KeeWeb
KeeWeb works both online and offline. It works offline as a desktop application for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux or online with any contemporary browser. Rightly dubbed as one of the best Google authenticator alternatives, KeeWeb works well with well-known file hosting services like OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive.
Key Features
Pros
- It uses tags and folders to arrange your passwords neatly.
- Integrated browser add-on to manage passwords.
- Oversee several password vaults for various uses.
- Utilize extensive search tools to locate particular entries quickly.
Cons
- Compatibility problems arise when shared with other programs that don’t fully support the .kdbx format.
- Limited built-in browser extensions.
- Dependency on browser security.
- Complex interface leading to a steeper learning curve.
Conclusion
Recent thefts and leaks have shown that passwords by themselves are insufficient to safeguard your social network logins, online bank accounts, or online shopping. An additional layer of security is provided by multi-factor authentication (MFA), a.k.a two-factor authentication or 2FA. Today, a whole new world of 2FA possibilities is waiting to be explored. Choosing an app from our curated list of Google auth alternatives can provide a powerful, secure, and transparent option that allows tons of customization. So, play around with these apps to see what works for you, and choose the one that suits your unique needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is better than Google Authenticator?
There isn’t just one “better” choice—it all depends on your priorities and needs. Google Authenticator is the best place to start, but some users may find it lacking in flexibility. For Power users, Authy or Aegis might be ideal. For those who love privacy, KeePassDX would be perfect. One should experiment with many apps to find the one that truly feels better.
Which is the best Authenticator to use?
The “best” will vary depending on your demands. Aegis, Authy, or Okta can be a few ideal options for tech-savvy personas who prefer advanced capabilities and customization. For those seeking a straightforward app, Microsoft Authenticator may be ideal. When handling big teams and intricate security, Okta is the enterprise powerhouse.
Which is better, Okta or Google Authenticator?
Google Authenticator is a straightforward program for individual users, while Okta is a powerful business security platform that helps manage teams and has intricate access requirements.
Which is the strongest 2FA method?
For optimal security, use multiple methods in layers rather than just one:
- A strong password serves as your first level of protection.
- The 2FA app adds an extra layer of authentication.
- Biometrics: For added protection, use facial recognition and fingerprints.
- Hardware tokens: For the strongest security, actual keys.
- Combine these techniques depending on the security you seek.
