Security: a close call
Both use AES-256 encryption and publish independent audit results. 1Password adds a Secret Key — a long, randomly generated value stored only on your devices — as a second factor baked into the account architecture itself. Bitwarden counters with fully open-source clients, so its encryption code has been reviewed by anyone who cares to look, not just a hired auditor.
Price: no contest
1Password has no free tier for individuals; plans start at $2.99/mo. Bitwarden’s free plan covers unlimited passwords across unlimited devices, and Premium is $10 for the entire year — less than one month of most rivals.
Everyday use
1Password’s interface is more polished: cleaner autofill prompts, a nicer browser extension, and Watchtower’s breach alerts feel more actionable. Bitwarden has closed most of the gap in recent updates, but small friction points remain in sharing and org management.
Our verdict
Choose 1Password if you want the best day-to-day experience and don’t mind paying for it. Choose Bitwarden if budget matters or you want your password manager’s code to be publicly auditable. Either is a safe upgrade from browser-saved passwords. See the full side-by-side at 1Password vs Bitwarden, or read the individual reviews.