KeePassXC vs Bitwarden
Both are free antivirus & security tools. Here is how they actually differ.
KeePassXC and Bitwarden at a glance
| Feature | KeePassXC | Bitwarden |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | KeePassXC Team | Bitwarden, Inc. |
| Licence | Open Source | Free tier |
| Cost | Free | Free tier |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile | No | Yes |
| Source code | Public | Closed |
KeePassXC: what it's good at
KeePassXC stores your passwords in a strongly encrypted database file that stays on your own machine, with no account, subscription or cloud service involved. For anyone who does not want their credentials held by a third party, it is the reference option.
- Fully offline encrypted vault
- No account or subscription required
- Browser integration extension
- Built-in password generator and TOTP
Bitwarden: what it's good at
Bitwarden is an open-source password manager with an unusually generous free tier that includes unlimited passwords synced across unlimited devices. It is the standard recommendation for people who want cloud convenience without the closed-source trust problem.
- Unlimited passwords and devices, free
- Open-source client and server
- Apps and browser extensions for every platform
- Optional self-hosting
Which should you choose?
Both are free, so the honest answer is that you can install either and decide for yourself — that is the advantage of free software over a paid trial.
Both run on Windows, macOS, Linux. Only Bitwarden supports Android, iOS. If open source matters to you, KeePassXC publishes its source code and Bitwarden does not.
We deliberately do not publish a star rating for either. We have no way to verify a rating that would be honest at scale, and an invented one would be worse than none — so we give you the facts and let you decide.
Frequently asked questions
Is KeePassXC better than Bitwarden?
Neither is universally better. KeePassXC offline password manager — your vault never leaves your disk, while Bitwarden open-source password manager that syncs across all your devices. The right pick depends on your platform and workflow.
Are both really free?
KeePassXC is open source and Bitwarden is free tier. Both can be downloaded without paying.
Can I install both?
Yes. Since neither costs anything, installing both and comparing them on your own files is usually the fastest way to decide.