The Best Authenticator Apps of 2024

In today’s digital age, online security is more crucial than ever. With the rise of cyberattacks and data breaches, it’s essential to have an additional layer of protection for your online accounts. This is where authenticator apps come in. These apps generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) or HMAC-based one-time passwords (HOTPs) to provide an extra layer of security for your online accounts.

What Makes a Good Authenticator App?

When choosing an authenticator app, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the app should be easy to use and set up. It should also be compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms. Additionally, the app should have robust security features, such as biometric authentication and encryption.

The Best Authenticator Apps of 2024

After conducting extensive research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best authenticator apps of 2024.

1. Authenticator App by 2Stable

The Authenticator App by 2Stable is our top pick for the best authenticator app overall. It offers a mix of great features, including biometric authentication, sync and backup options, and full encryption for your 2FA content.

2FA security is crucial in today’s digital age.

2. NordPass Business

NordPass Business is our top pick for the best authenticator app for security. It’s equipped with multi-factor authentication, uses the XChaCha20 encryption algorithm, and has a zero-knowledge approach.

NordPass Business offers robust security features.

3. Authy

Authy is our top pick for the best cross-platform authenticator app. It’s available on Windows, Mac, Android, and Apple devices, including the Apple Watch.

Authy is a great option for those who use multiple devices.

4. Duo

Duo is our top pick for the best authenticator app for enterprise. It provides developers with essential features like multi-user deployment.

Duo is a great option for businesses.

5. Google Authenticator

Google Authenticator is our top pick for the best authenticator app for ease. It’s easy to set up and use, but lacks some advanced features.

Google Authenticator is a great option for those who want a simple authenticator app.

6. LastPass Authenticator

LastPass Authenticator is our top pick for the best authenticator app for LastPass users. It’s a small extension of the popular password app.

LastPass Authenticator is a great option for LastPass users.

7. Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator is our top pick for the best authenticator app for organizations. It offers 2FA through phone sign-in or code generation.

Microsoft Authenticator is a great option for organizations.

8. Step Two

Step Two is our top pick for the best authenticator app for Apple users. It’s only available on Apple devices.

Step Two is a great option for Apple users.

9. TOTP Authenticator

TOTP Authenticator is our top pick for the best premium authenticator app. It offers similar features to the solutions above but with some extras.

TOTP Authenticator is a great option for those who want advanced features.

Authenticator App FAQs

How to Choose the Best Authenticator Apps

When deciding which authenticator app to use, first consider what your actual needs are. If you need advanced features, you may find a paid platform is more worthwhile.

How Do Authenticator Apps Work?

Authenticator apps work by using your smartphone’s camera to scan 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.

Is 2FA All the Protection We Need?

Unfortunately, 2FA isn’t 100% secure. It’s essential to use a combination of security measures to protect your online accounts.

How We Tested the Best Authenticator Apps

To test for the best authenticator apps, we first set up an account with the relevant platform. We then tested the service to see how the software could be used for different purposes and in different situations.