Bitwarden

Open SourceOtherSelf-hostable

Open-source, end-to-end encrypted password manager with apps on every platform and self-hosting support — the go-to open alternative to 1Password.

Open source alternative to

1Password

Visit Bitwarden View source

About Bitwarden

Bitwarden has become the default open answer to 1Password: an audited, zero-knowledge, end-to-end encrypted password manager with apps and browser extensions on every platform, and a free tier that's genuinely usable long-term rather than a crippled trial.

Self-hosting is supported both officially and through the community-run Vaultwarden project, giving security-conscious individuals and teams a real choice in where their vault lives.

Key features

Zero-knowledge encryption — Vault data is end-to-end encrypted, and Bitwarden itself cannot read your passwords.
Every platform covered — Native apps, browser extensions and a CLI across desktop, mobile and web.
Genuinely usable free tier — Unlimited passwords and devices on the free plan, not just a limited trial.
Self-hostable — Run the official server or the lightweight community Vaultwarden alternative yourself.

The honest read

What we like

Audited, zero-knowledge end-to-end encryption
Genuinely free tier for individuals long-term
Self-hostable (officially or via Vaultwarden)
Apps and extensions for every platform
Long, trusted security track record

Worth knowing

Self-hosting the official server is heavier than community alternatives like Vaultwarden
Some advanced org and enterprise features are paid-only
UI is more utilitarian than 1Password's
Browser extension autofill occasionally needs a manual nudge

FAQ

Is Bitwarden free to use?

Yes — Bitwarden's free tier includes unlimited passwords and devices. Paid plans add features like advanced 2FA options and org administration.

Is Bitwarden's encryption audited?

Yes — Bitwarden undergoes regular independent security audits, and its client and server code is open source.

Can I self-host Bitwarden?

Yes — either the official self-hosted server, or the lightweight community-run Vaultwarden implementation, which is popular for personal and small-team use.

How is Bitwarden different from 1Password?

Bitwarden is open source, audited and offers a genuinely usable free tier plus self-hosting, while 1Password is a closed-source, subscription-only product with a more polished UI.