Best Authenticator App for 2026: Reviewed, Ranked & Compared

Futuristic biometric authentication technology concept. Man is touching a fingerprint scan with icons of secured access, data protection, network cyber security in digital interface.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

The best authenticator apps secure your accounts by providing a way to verify that the person logging in to your account is actually you. Passwords can be guessed, stolen, and brute forced - but by adding an additional step to your login, you can effectively prevent access to a hacker who has your password.

Two-factor authentication and multi-factor authentication often use one-time passwords (OTPs), which are unique codes sent to a trusted secondary device or account that refresh after a short amount of time. Others use push-notifications on your phone or biometric identification such as a facial scan or fingerprint to verify a login.

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The best authenticator apps of 2026 in full:

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Best authenticator app overall

(Image credit: Google)

1. Google Authenticator

Best for simple, no-frills 2FA

Reasons to buy

+
Optional cloud sync if you want it
+
Zero learning curve for beginners
+
Extremely simple setup and interface
+
Works fully offline for maximum reliability

Reasons to avoid

-
Manual transfers are tedious when switching devices
-
Lacks advanced features found in newer authenticators

Google Authenticator is the classic, bare-bones authenticator app that focuses on one thing: generating reliable 2FA codes. It works offline, needs almost no setup, and stays out of your way. If all you want is quick, dependable TOTP codes without cloud features, this is it.

Google Authenticator’s appeal lies in how little effort it takes to secure your accounts. I opened the app, scanned a QR code, and it was already doing its job. There’s nothing to configure, no tutorial screens to swipe through, and no hidden menus. It generates TOTP codes instantly, even offline, and that reliability is why so many people use it as their “set it and forget it” solution.

The minimal experience is also why it consistently shows up in lists of best authenticators. You can reorder accounts, search by username, or edit entries on Android, but the app still feels light and quick.

The biggest recent change is the option to sync your codes through your Google account. It’s available if you want easier phone upgrades, but it never gets in the way. If you prefer keeping everything offline, choosing device-only mode keeps all codes stored locally with nothing saved online.

Google Authenticator cloud syncing feature

(Image credit: Google)

If you do enable sync, your codes are encrypted before they’re backed up, and restoring them on a new device takes only a few seconds. In practice, it turns the old multi-step transfer process into a simple sign-in-and-sync flow.

But if you switch phones without sync, you pay the price for simplicity. You’ll need to manually transfer every code, and that process feels more cumbersome compared with newer competitors.


Best authenticator app for security

NordPass Authenticator app

(Image credit: NordPass)
Best built-in secure authenticator app

Reasons to buy

+
Integrated with NordPass Business
+
Admin controls
+
Biometric support
+
Secure XChaCha20 encryption
+
Free version for personal use
+
Plenty of extensions for web browsers

Reasons to avoid

-
Not a standalone app
-
Free version doesn't allow simultaneous devices

NordPass authenticator app is a built-in feature of the popular NordPass pasword manager. The authenticator is provided in both personal and business tiers, with the authenticator also being available as part of the free personal tier. The authenticator generates 2FA codes directly within the app and support biometric authentication with Windows Hello, FaceID, and fingerprint scanning.

One thing that I found that makes NordPass an attractive option for authentication is its unique encryption algorithm. NordPass uses XChaCha20 encryption which is widely considered to be a quantum safe encryption algorithm, meaning it is fairly future proof for when Q-Day inevitably arrives.

For personal users, the authenticator is included as part of the free tier, making it a great option for those looking to boost account security on the cheap. If you already use the password manager then there is no need to download an additional authenticator app.

Business users get even more control over their authentication. TOTP codes can be generated and used directly in the NordPass authenticator through the NordPass Business vault, reducing the friction in switching between multiple apps and devices to authenticate logins.

Admins gain additional control over how 2FA is used within your organization thanks to 2FA enforcement policies, access log monitoring, and visible metrics on how 2FA is being used to secure employee accounts.

NordPass Authenticator has also made strides in adding backup and recovery options. Previously, NordPass authenticator provided zero cloud backup or syncing options. Outside of now including full cloud backup and synchronization options, NordPass business plans also allow admins to approve account recovery via the Admin Panel.

Business plans start from $2.49 per user/month, but there are usually significant discounts available for one and two year commitments. For example, as of February 2026, the two year Teams plan reduces the per user cost to $1.79.


Best authenticator app for Microsoft

Microsoft Authenticator app

(Image credit: Microsoft)
Best for seamless Microsoft logins

Reasons to buy

+
One-tap approvals that feel faster than code entry
+
Smooth experience on both Android and iOS devices
+
Support for tools like Apple Vision, Dropbox, and LinkedIn

Reasons to avoid

-
Not very useful outside the Microsoft ecosystem
-
Limited customization compared with other authenticators

Microsoft Authenticator delivers the smoothest Microsoft login experience thanks to passwordless sign-ins, fast approvals, and automatic setup for Microsoft accounts. Biometrics add an extra layer of protection, making it ideal for anyone using Microsoft 365 or Entra ID.

Unlike the basic 2FA tools that simply generate codes, Microsoft Authenticator feels more like a shortcut into your Microsoft account. The moment you sign in, the app links and sets up 2FA automatically. After that, most logins work the same way: you enter your email, your phone lights up, and a prompt appears asking you to approve the sign-in.

If you’ve got a Microsoft account for work or school, you’ll see how well the authenticator fits into Outlook, Teams, and the rest of your workflow. The login process is trimmed down to a quick approval on your phone. For anyone on an Entra ID setup, it’s even easier. The app recognizes your work profile as soon as you sign in and sets everything up with no extra steps needed.

Because every approval is tied to your biometrics or PIN, someone can’t simply pick up your phone and access your accounts. And while most people don’t expect their phone to be tampered with, the chances are never zero. That’s why Microsoft is rolling out a check that instantly disables work and Entra accounts if the app detects a rooted or jailbroken device. The feature is still being built and is scheduled for 2026.


Best authenticator app for enterprise

(Image credit: Duo Mobile)

4. Cisco Duo Mobile

Best for enterprise-grade MFA control

Reasons to buy

+
Comes with a 30-day free trial
+
Phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication
+
Policies based on role, location, and device health
+
Works with cloud services, VPNs, and internal systems

Reasons to avoid

-
Too complex for individual use
-
Requires admin setup to see its full benefits

Duo Mobile is designed for workplaces that need strong control over who signs in and from what device. It pairs with Duo’s admin dashboard to give IT teams real insight and flexible policies across cloud apps, VPNs, and on-prem systems.

Cisco’s Duo Mobile works with the Duo Admin Panel, where IT teams review sign-ins, enforce device rules, and secure apps. It acts as an authenticator built into a full workplace security system.

If you are a managed service provider, Duo’s multi-tenant console is one of the easiest ways to manage MFA for several clients at once. Imagine onboarding three new companies in a week. Things can get cluttered fast, even with separate dashboards, right? But with Duo, you can create accounts, set policies, and assign admins from a single place. Access tags made it easy for me to limit which technicians can see which client environments. If you manage multiple companies, this helps prevent permissions from getting mixed up.

Now, if you put the technical stuff aside, Duo is also useful for a day-to-day user. Duo Restore lets you back up both Duo-protected accounts and third-party OTP entries, so you are not stuck reconfiguring everything when you switch devices. As long as you enable backup and set a recovery password, restoring your accounts to a new phone stays simple.

Duo Mobile identity intelligence

(Image credit: Duo Mobile)

And when you log into a protected app on the web, the Universal Prompt takes over. It chooses the most secure login method available, supports over 20 languages, and trims the whole approval process to a simple tap.


Best authenticator app for backups

(Image credit: Authy)

5. Authy

Best for effortless multi-device backups

Reasons to buy

+
Smooth offline functionality
+
App access protected by Face ID
+
Easy restoration across multiple devices

Reasons to avoid

-
Setup feels slower due to phone-number verification

Authy is the easiest authenticator to recover on a new device because of its opt-in encrypted backups. Everything is encrypted on your phone before it hits the cloud, so you get multi-device sync without giving Authy access to your data.

Most authenticators leave you on your own when you switch phones, but Authy avoids that by letting you turn on encrypted backups. You set a backup password, the app encrypts your 2FA data locally, and only the encrypted version is stored in Authy’s cloud. Since Authy never sees your password, only you can decrypt your codes.

Let’s say you use a phone, a tablet, and an Apple Watch. Authy keeps them in sync without much effort. Install it, verify your number, enter your backup password, and your codes return instantly. The same process works on every device, and the app still gives you a code even if you are offline.

A quick look at Reddit shows a mix of experiences with Authy. Some users share that they lost a phone and still restored their codes easily because the encrypted backup worked as intended. Others ran into issues when their old device was barely functional, or their phone number had changed, which made recovery feel more complicated.

None of the threads point to security problems, but they do highlight one thing: Authy’s recovery process works best when your number is active and your settings are up to date.


Best built-in authenticator app

(Image credit: Bitwarden)

6. Bitwarden Authenticator

The best authenticator app for enterprises

Reasons to buy

+
Decent free plan for solo users
+
Autofill support for quick logins
+
Part of Bitwarden’s larger zero-knowledge security ecosystem
+
An open-source codebase gives you full transparency and community oversight

Reasons to avoid

-
Full integration features require a Bitwarden Premium upgrade

Bitwarden Authenticator is ideal for users who already rely on Bitwarden’s password manager and want their 2FA codes protected with the same zero-knowledge encryption. It supports advanced TOTP parameters, secure local storage, and the option to manage passwords and codes in one encrypted vault.

Bitwarden already has a strong reputation for security. It is open source, independently audited, and built around a zero-knowledge model where only you can access your data. The standalone Bitwarden Authenticator follows the same philosophy. It generates codes locally, encrypts everything on your device, and never uploads your 2FA secrets to Bitwarden’s servers. For anyone who prefers keeping authentication data fully local, this app fits that mindset well.

But here’s the thing, Bitwarden’s Authenticator feels more familiar if you are already using the Bitwarden Password Manager. The premium tier adds an “Integrated Authenticator,” which lets you store passwords and TOTP codes in the same encrypted vault. That pairing makes everyday logins smoother.

Bitwarden Authenticator app integrations

(Image credit: Bitwarden)

But I really like how Bitwarden has shifted its focus to detailed TOTP parameter customization. This matters if you work with services that use non-standard formats. For example, you can switch from SHA-1 to SHA-256, extend the code length, or change the rotation time to match systems like Azure, Office 365, or even Steam Guard. These options are niche but extremely helpful for developers, sysadmins, or anyone who manages different authentication environments.

Before you make a final call, remember that Bitwarden Authenticator is less focused on multi-device backup convenience and more on local, device-level control.


Best open source authenticator app

(Image credit: 2FAS)

7. 2FAS

Best for open source authentication

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight app that runs smoothly on older devices
+
Sleek UI and easy navigation for both Android and iOS devices
+
Supports a wide range of platforms through its open-source community
+
Works well for users who want a simple authenticator without account creation

Reasons to avoid

-
Paid tier is required if you want features like sync or auto-fill
-
Not suited for workplaces that need admin controls or device policies

2FAS is a simple, open-source authenticator with a beginner-friendly ecosystem. The mobile app handles your 2FA codes, the browser extension speeds up logins, and the free plan covers most everyday users without ads or clutter.

2FAS feels easy to get started with, partly because the team runs an active YouTube channel with short, clear walkthroughs for connecting services like X (Twitter), Twitch, Shopify, Binance, and Snapchat. If you are setting up 2FA for the first time or switching from SMS codes, having official tutorials for all the big platforms makes the process much less intimidating.

Facebook and Reddit are the two apps I hop on when I’m not testing tools or writing reviews, so I tried 2FAS on both. I opened each service’s security settings, scanned the QR code, and entered the 6-digit code. The setup clicked into place without any fuss.

Install the 2FAS browser extension, and your codes appear right in the web browser, so you don't have to reach for your phone or retype digits. It works on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Brave, and others, and it’s a quiet time-saver if you mostly work on a laptop.

2FAS authenticator app device compatibility

(Image credit: 2FAS)

Choosing a plan is simple. The free version is enough for most users who need a clean authenticator and a single browser extension. The Unlimited tier adds sync, auto-fill, unlimited extensions, and no item limits for under a dollar a month. If you jump between devices or manage many accounts, the paid plan feels worth it. If not, the free tier has everything you need.


Best authenticator app for privacy

(Image credit: Ente Auth)

8. Ente Auth

Best for encrypted, privacy-first backups

Reasons to buy

+
Strong privacy setup backed by open-source code
+
Syncs securely across desktop, web, and mobile apps
+
Helpful for shared accounts or small teams that need controlled access

Reasons to avoid

-
You need an Ente account to unlock cloud sync
-
The feature set may feel more advanced than what basic 2FA users need

Ente Auth is a fully open-source authenticator with end-to-end encrypted sync across every major platform. It is simple to use, but built for people who want strong privacy, flexible organization, and secure sharing without giving up convenience.

Ente Auth works like a standard authenticator, but everything sits on top of an end-to-end encrypted cloud system that syncs across phones, desktops, and the web. The entire project is open source and publicly audited. This means your data leaves your device only in encrypted form. If you want Google Authenticator’s simplicity but with secure cloud sync, this is the middle ground.

From my experience, Ente’s everyday usefulness comes from its small features. For example, the next-code preview saves time when you’re switching between accounts, and the icons make each entry easy to spot without scanning line by line.

Once you start adding more services, you can also try the Tags feature, which helps you keep things grouped, work in one place, finance in another, and personal logins separate. And for backup codes or those small account quirks you don’t want to forget, you use the notes field.

Ente Auth github

(Image credit: Github)

Ente is also built for people who manage accounts with others. You can share access securely with a teammate or family member without exposing the underlying secret key. It is a small feature, but for joint accounts, support teams, or shared workflows, it saves a lot of awkward workarounds. Pair it with a strong free password manager, and you have a simple, privacy-focused setup that still feels easy to use.


Best authenticator app for Android

(Image credit: Stratum Authenticator)

9. Stratum

Best for customizable Android authentication

Reasons to buy

+
Wide icon pack support for cleaner navigation
+
Offline support with backup and restore options
+
Easy imports from Google Authenticator, Authy, Steam, and more

Reasons to avoid

-
Android-only
-
No encrypted cloud sync for device switching

Stratum (formerly Authenticator Pro) is an open-source Android authenticator built for people who want privacy, flexibility, and full control over how their 2FA codes are stored, organized, and displayed. It supports imports, strong encryption, Wear OS, and extensive customization.

Stratum might look minimal, but it is fully open source and keeps all your data stored locally with no server contact. That suits anyone who wants full control over their 2FA, and it becomes even more practical when you begin importing codes from other apps. It avoids cloud syncing on purpose, and if you like a local, customizable, and transparent authenticator, it is one of the best Android options.

I imported my Google Authenticator and Authy entries while testing, and Stratum handled both sets better than I expected. It recognized the files instantly, asked me to confirm the formats, and then rebuilt my list without any fixing on my part. If you have years of scattered 2FA entries, watching everything fall into place feels like a small victory.

Stratum gives you plenty of room to shape the app around your habits. Icon packs, like default, Aegis-style, extra logos, and Font Awesome, make it easier to scan a large list. You can also group entries into categories, reorder them, adjust density, and choose your own accent colors.

Stratum authenticator icon packs

(Image credit: Stratum)

There is also a Wear OS version of Stratum for Android smartwatch users. Once paired, the watch mirrors your authenticator list and lets you view codes directly from your wrist. It all syncs locally from your phone and works offline, which keeps the setup secure but convenient.


Best authenticator app for Apple users

2Stable Authenticator App

(Image credit: 2Stable)

10. 2Stable Authenticator

Best for premium iCloud-synced 2FA

Reasons to buy

+
Clean UI that feels native on every Apple device
+
Responsive and helpful customer support
+
Reliable import options (QR or URL) if you’re moving from another authenticator

Reasons to avoid

-
Not ideal for users who want advanced customization
-
No Android app, so cross-platform users are better off elsewhere

2Stable Authenticator is built for people who want a smooth, well-designed two-factor app that fits naturally into the Apple ecosystem. It supports Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, syncs cleanly through iCloud, and also works across major browsers.

If you use Apple devices every day, 2Stable Authenticator feels instantly familiar. The app supports iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch, and everything syncs over iCloud without any manual setup. You add a code on your phone, and it appears on your Mac within seconds, which is exactly what you want if your workflow is already built around Apple’s Handoff and Continuity features. On macOS, you even get a lock-screen widget to see codes on a lock-screen as pop-ups.

The browser experience is just as smooth. The extension works on Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, and Opera. When you log in to a site, your 2FA code shows up inside the browser, so you’re not reaching for your phone or retyping digits. It just trims the friction out of everyday logins.

2Stable Authenticator app web browser extensions

(Image credit: 2Stable)

Along with the YouTube tutorials, 2Stable has a full Guides section on its website. The written walkthroughs show you exactly where to tap when setting up 2FA on GitHub, TikTok, OpenAI, Instagram, and a long list of others. Everything is broken down step by step with annotated screenshots.

And if you want quick logins, the Apple Watch app helps a lot. Your codes sit on your wrist, and checking them takes a second.


Best for LastPass teams

LastPass authenticator app

(Image credit: LastPass)

11. LastPass Authenticator

Best for teams using LastPass

Reasons to buy

+
Integrates directly with the LastPass admin console
+
Push and biometric authentication reduce password fatigue
+
Strong policy controls for IP, location, and time-based access
+
Passwordless workstation login improves employee workflow

Reasons to avoid

-
Overkill unless your team already uses LastPass
-
Not suited for individual users or small personal setups

LastPass Authenticator best suits companies already using LastPass for password management. It plugs directly into the LastPass admin console, supports passwordless logins, and gives IT teams control over when, where, and how employees authenticate.

LastPass Authenticator is designed for teams that already rely on LastPass for passwords, shared vaults, and SSO. Organizations prefer it because everything ties back to the admin dashboard. IT can roll out workstation MFA, enforce policies, manage user onboarding, and secure access points like VPNs and cloud apps, all without touching each employee’s device.

Most logins can go passwordless, so employees simply approve a push notification or use biometrics to get into their vaults or workstations. The system can also factor in location or IP address, helping filter out risky login attempts without slowing people down. It’s the kind of setup that keeps security tight but still lets teams work quickly.

LastPass Authentication is built for teams that want all their access rules in one place. Admins can restrict logins to office networks, block unknown locations, set login hours, and connect LastPass to older in-house systems so employees can authenticate the same way across everything they use.

And with that, you get pricing transparency, too. LastPass splits its business plans into Teams at $4.25/user/month, Business at $7/user/month, and Business Max at $9/user/month. Teams works for small groups that just need basic controls, while Business Max is the plan that gives you the advanced MFA features across workstations, VPNs, and SSO apps.

If you're still a little uneasy about the security of LastPass since its data breach in 2022, the company has taken steps to address the security failings responsible and has made significant investments and improvements to its cybersecurity.


Best authenticator app comparison

Swipe to scroll horizontally

App Name

Best For

Pricing

Backup & Sync Options

Multi-Device Support

Works Offline

Google Authenticator

Simple, no-frills 2FA

Free

Optional cloud sync

iOS, Android

Yes

NordPass Authenticator

Secure authentication for personal and team use

Free + paid personal/enterprise tiers

Encrypted cloud sync

iOS, Android, Browser

Yes

Microsoft Authenticator

Seamless Microsoft logins

Free

Cloud backup via Microsoft account

iOS, Android

Yes

Duo Mobile

Enterprise-grade MFA control

Free plan + paid enterprise tiers

Duo Restore + admin-managed backups

iOS, Android

Yes

Authy

Effortless multi-device backups

Free

Encrypted cloud backups

iOS, Android, Desktop, Apple Watch

Yes

Bitwarden Authenticator

Built-in password manager 2FA

Free + Premium for integration

OS-level backups only (local)

iOS, Android

Yes

2FAS

Free, ad-free authentication

Free + $9.99/year Unlimited

Sync available on paid plan

iOS, Android, Browser

Yes

Ente Auth

Encrypted, privacy-first backups

Free + paid storage tiers

Cloud sync with E2EE

iOS, Android, Desktop, Web

Yes

Stratum

Customizable Android authentication

Free

Local encrypted backups

Android + Wear OS

Yes

2Stable Authenticator

Premium iCloud-synced 2FA

Free + in-app upgrades

iCloud sync

iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Browser

Yes


Recent updates

February 2026: In this update, the rankings have changed significantly due to fresh comparisons on new features, ease of use, and availability. I have updated all the statistics, prices, and features to ensure they are up to date in 2026, and I have made the FAQ section more helpful and easier to navigate.


How to switch authenticator apps

Switching authenticator apps sounds risky, but the process is straightforward if you follow the right order. Here is a simple walkthrough you can follow without worrying about losing access to your accounts:

  1. Install your new authenticator app first: Get the new app ready before touching anything on your old one. This gives you a safe place to move codes one by one and keeps everything under your control.
  2. Open your old authenticator and list the accounts you want to move: Most people forget how many services they have set up with 2FA. Take a moment to scroll through your list so you do not miss anything important.
  3. Sign in to each service and go to its security settings: Every service has a 2FA or login security page. You will usually see an option to turn off 2FA or replace an existing authenticator.
  4. Scan the QR code with your new app: Disable 2FA temporarily if needed, then re-enable it to generate a fresh QR code. Scan that code using your new authenticator. Once the new app shows a working code, you are safe to move on.
  5. Verify the new code and save backup codes: Enter the new 6-digit code to confirm the switch. Many services also show backup codes at this step. Download or save them somewhere secure.
  6. Repeat the process for every other account: Move everything one at a time. It keeps the process clean and prevents lockouts.
  7. Double-check that all accounts work before uninstalling the old app: Once everything is moved and tested, only then should you remove the old authenticator.

Things to avoid:

  • Do not remove 2FA without adding the new app first
  • Do not rush important accounts like email or banking
  • Do not switch apps without saving your backup codes
  • Do not wipe your old phone before migrating everything

Authenticator app FAQs

If you are new to authenticator apps or switching from SMS codes, the basics can feel confusing. So I’ll break down the most common questions readers have in simple, practical terms. Think of it as a quick guide to help you choose the right setup without getting lost.

1. Is an authenticator app safer than SMS?

An authenticator app is safer than SMS because it generates codes directly on your device and does not rely on your phone number. SMS codes can be intercepted through SIM swaps, forwarded, or delayed. With an app, the code never leaves your device and usually requires Face ID, fingerprint, or a PIN to unlock. Even if your phone is stolen, the thief still cannot access your accounts without unlocking the app. For most people, moving from SMS to an authenticator app is the biggest jump in everyday security.

2. Open source vs proprietary: which is more secure?

Open source vs proprietary security depends on what kind of trust you prefer. Open source authenticators are transparent, meaning the code can be audited by anyone, which appeals to privacy-focused users who want full visibility into how their data is handled. Proprietary apps come from major companies and often offer smoother sync, better ecosystem integration, and consistent updates.

3. What happens if you lose your phone?

What happens if you lose your phone depends entirely on how your authenticator app handles backups. Apps with encrypted cloud sync let you restore your codes on a new device with a password or account login. Local only authenticators require you to use backup codes you saved earlier. If you never enabled backups or saved recovery codes, you may need to contact each service individually to regain access. The safest approach is enabling backups and keeping recovery codes somewhere secure before anything goes wrong.

4. Can you use multiple authenticators at once?

You can use multiple authenticators at once as long as the service you are securing supports adding more than one 2FA method. Some platforms let you scan the same QR code using two apps, which is useful if you want a primary authenticator and a fallback. Others only allow one active app, in which case you must rely on recovery codes or switch your 2FA method manually. It is possible, but it depends on what each service allows.

5. When should you switch to a hardware key?

You should switch to a hardware key when you want the highest level of protection against phishing, account takeovers, and targeted attacks. Hardware keys cannot be intercepted or cloned, and they stop almost all fake login attempts. They are ideal for people who manage sensitive accounts, store crypto, run a business, or simply want the strongest security available. If you are already comfortable with 2FA apps, a hardware key is the next logical upgrade.


What is an authenticator app & why do I need one?

An authenticator app is a security application that generates time-based, one-time passwords (TOTPs) for two-factor authentication (2FA), requiring you to use a code from your phone along with your password to log in to online accounts. This second layer of verification is crucial because passwords remain one of the most vulnerable targets for attackers to steal, reuse, or phish, especially when the same password is used across multiple services.

SMS codes add some protection, but they remain vulnerable to issues like SIM swapping, number-porting fraud, and interception through social engineering. Recent threat research from Google Cloud’s team showed how attackers were able to take over Salesforce instances through login flows that relied on weaker MFA checks. Incidents like these highlight why SMS is not enough and why more resilient factors matter.

Authenticator apps step in as a stronger, more private option because they generate codes locally on your device. They work offline, they do not depend on your phone number, and they make phishing significantly harder because attackers cannot intercept a TOTP the way they can with a text message.

For high-risk users, including journalists, administrators, and anyone handling sensitive corporate access, hardware security keys may be an even safer choice. They remove codes entirely and use cryptographic verification tied to the device in your hand.

How do I choose the best authenticator app?

When deciding which authenticator app to use, first consider what your actual needs are, as sometimes free and budget software may only provide basic options, so if you need to use advanced tools you may find a paid service is much more worthwhile. Additionally, higher-end software can really cater for every need, so do ensure you have a good idea of which features you think you may require from your authenticator app.

How do authenticator apps work?

Without fail, one of the easiest ways to begin using 2FA is by using your smartphone's camera and scanning a QR code provided by the company or website. Once you do, the authentication app gets to work by issuing an ever-changing unique code. That code is valid as the second form of identification for just a few seconds before the authentication app refreshes it.

You only have to scan the QR code once on a device. If you're using sync and backup, you probably won't have to scan a QR code during setup on another device. Otherwise, you will.

The codes are generated using a standard HMAC-Based One-Time Password (HOTP) algorithm developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). However, at no time does the IETF gain access to the codes.

Is 2FA all the protection we need?

When 2FA options first arrived, many thought online vulnerability would finally end in the tech world. But, unfortunately, that isn't the case. 2FA, like every other form of online security, isn't 100% secure. Try as they might, hackers will figure out a way to gain access to something they shouldn't. In January 2022, for example, Crypto.com was attacked. Nearly 500 accounts were compromised, and the thieves made off with more than $31 million in cryptocurrencies.

Despite its imperfections, 2FA still provides better protection than passwords alone.

What is the safest authenticator app?

Google Authenticator is the most familiar option, but the safest authenticator app depends on how you prefer to secure your data. Open source options like Aegis, Bitwarden and Ente offer strong encryption and full local control. If you want ecosystem security, Microsoft Authenticator and 2Stable are reliable. In practice, the safest choice is the one you will consistently use.

Do authenticator apps work offline?

Authenticator apps work offline because they generate codes using your device’s clock. You’ll still get fresh codes every 30 seconds without Wi Fi or mobile data. Only optional cloud sync or backups rely on the internet. The core authentication step never needs a connection, which makes authenticator apps far more reliable than SMS based 2FA.

Can I migrate code between apps?

You can migrate codes between apps by re-scanning QR codes in each service’s security settings. Some authenticators also support import files that make the process smoother. The safest method is moving accounts one at a time, verifying each login and saving your backup codes before deleting the old authenticator from your device.

Which authenticator supports Apple Watch?

Authenticators that support Apple Watch include 2Stable, Step Two and the Bitwarden ecosystem on iOS. These apps put your 2FA codes directly on your wrist for quick logins when your phone is not nearby. If you’re already used to Apple’s ecosystem, these watch compatible options feel faster and more natural than reaching for your phone every time.

Does Google Authenticator use end-to-end encryption?

Google Authenticator uses end to end encryption only when you enable cloud sync with your Google account. Local mode keeps everything stored on your device with no upload at all. The sync feature encrypts your codes before backing them up, but it is optional. You can use Google Authenticator entirely offline if you prefer.

Is Microsoft Authenticator passwordless?

Microsoft Authenticator is passwordless for Microsoft accounts, letting you sign in with a tap using biometrics or a PIN instead of typing your password. It works with Outlook, Teams, Microsoft 365 and Entra ID logins. The experience feels faster and reduces weak password reuse, making it a strong fit for workplace and school environments.

What’s the best free authenticator for Android?

The best free authenticator for Android depends on what you value. Aegis and Stratum are ideal for privacy and full local control, with no cloud dependency. If you want secure sync across devices, Ente offers end to end encrypted backups at no cost. All three outperform basic SMS codes in both safety and reliability.


How we tested the best authenticator apps

Most people only think about authenticator apps when they’re setting up a new account or recovering an old one, so I wanted my testing to reflect exactly those situations. I ran every app on an iPhone 17 Pro (iOS 26) and a Pixel 8 (Android 16), and checked login flows on Chrome, Safari, and Edge to see how well each one handled real-world use.

  1. Setup and Core Functionality: I installed each app, added accounts through QR codes and manual keys, and timed how long it took from initial launch to the first successful 2FA login. I checked how quickly each app generated TOTPs, whether they worked consistently offline, and how well they handled passkey-style approvals.
  2. Backup, Sync, and Recovery: To measure reliability, I created encrypted cloud backups where supported, switched devices, and performed full resets to see how easily I could restore access. I also tested multi-device sync and looked for clear warnings before deleting, exporting, or transferring accounts.
  3. Privacy and Data Handling: For apps claiming strong privacy, I reviewed their permission requests, data collection policies, and any analytics sent during use. This helped confirm whether their privacy positioning matched actual behavior.
  4. Verification and Transparency: Screenshots were taken during setup and recovery for documentation. This testing took place in December 2025.

Read how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.


Guide maintained by
Benedict Collins
Guide maintained by
Benedict Collins

Benedict has been with TechRadar Pro for over two years, and has specialized in writing about cybersecurity, threat intelligence, and B2B security solutions. His coverage explores the critical areas of national security, including state-sponsored threat actors, APT groups, critical infrastructure, and social engineering.

Reviewed by
Pawan Singh
Reviewed by
Pawan Singh

Pawan Singh is a tech writer at TechRadar Pro, where he contributes fresh how-to guides, product reviews, and buying guides within the tech industry. Apart from his writing duties, Pawan offers editorial assistance across various projects, ensuring content clarity and impact.


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Benedict Collins
Senior Writer, Security

Benedict has been with TechRadar Pro for over two years, and has specialized in writing about cybersecurity, threat intelligence, and B2B security solutions. His coverage explores the critical areas of national security, including state-sponsored threat actors, APT groups, critical infrastructure, and social engineering.

Benedict holds an MA (Distinction) in Security, Intelligence, and Diplomacy from the Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies at the University of Buckingham, providing him with a strong academic foundation for his reporting on geopolitics, threat intelligence, and cyber-warfare.

Prior to his postgraduate studies, Benedict earned a BA in Politics with Journalism, providing him with the skills to translate complex political and security issues into comprehensible copy.

With contributions from