Linux doesn’t enjoy a market share as big as Windows or macOS. But there is no shortage of great password managers on this platform.
Many developers give Linux a high priority, in line with other operating systems. The open-source community is active as well and has put out several awesome projects.
Here are some great recommendations for the password manager Linux users should run on their system.
Best Open-Source Password Manager Linux
The landscape of Linux is dominated by Free and open-source software (FOSS). After all, Linux itself is open-source and many people are using it because of this nature.
Open-source password managers are free to install and use. As their source code is publicly available, you can download the software without a license.
Anyone can audit it and find any issues within an open-source application as well. This is critical for important security applications like password managers.
Bitwarden
Bitwarden has a huge market share in the Linux world. In addition to its open-source roots, it also features quality and well-made features.
The company behind Bitwarden operates it as a Software as a Service (SaaS). But you can always grab a copy of its source code and host it yourself.
The free offering is unbeatable. You can sync your password with an unlimited number of devices without any subscription. If you want the bells and whistles of the premium plans, the prices are affordable too.
KeePassXC
This is a great choice for advanced Linux users. Every feature is available after installation, and no account registration is required.
KeePassXC is a completely offline solution with no cloud-based syncing built-in. If you want to bring your passwords across different devices, you’ll have to use additional software.
Buttercup
Buttercup is another community project like KeePassXC. But the intuitive user interface makes it more beginner-friendly.
For syncing, this password manager supports a wide range of third-party cloud services. You can use Google Drive, Dropbox, and other providers to keep your vault in sync on all your devices.
Padlock
The German software maker MaKleSoft creates Padlock with Bitwarden as its main competitor. Their business model is similar. You can always pull their source code off the Internet and install it on your device. But a license will be required to unlock premium features.
Padlock has a competitive edge over Bitwarden with its modern interface. The paid plans are cheap and it supports most platforms too.
Best Proprietary Password Managers For Linux
Almost every password manager Linux diehard fans are using is open source. But proprietary solutions have their benefits too.
These password managers for Linux are typically easier to use. The registration processes are straightforward and you usually have direct support from their makers.
1Password
1Password introduced its beta app for Linux in October 2020. This version offers the same experience users of other platforms enjoy.
This solution can cover both your personal and business use. 1Password supports password auto-filling and sharing among family members. There is no free plan, but you can enter a 14-day trial to check out its features.
LastPass
This leading password manager has made Linux an officially supported platform for a long time. The Linux app works great in most distros without a hitch.
The premium versions of LastPass come with a slew of advanced features. You can save secure notes, monitor your accounts on the Dark Web, or grant access to another person.
Keeper
Keeper has been a veteran in the password manager Linux market and popular among individuals and organizations alike. It’s a full-featured service that allows you to store documents and files besides passwords.
The Linux app is solid with a simple interface. You should have no problem coming from another platform. The features it provides are in line with other Keeper apps.
Keeper has no free plans. But it does offer cheaper subscriptions for students, families, as well as medical and military workers.
NordPass
The popular VPN service NordVPN entered the fray in 2019 with NordPass. Right from the get-go, it supports all major platforms, including Linux.
NordPass offers an impressive array of features in its free plan. You can only install it on one device. The bright side is that autofill and secure notes are supported without charge.
Premium plans for personal and business uses are attractive too. NordPass was independently audited by Cure53 in 2020 without major issues.
Enpass
With a different pricing scheme, Enpass is a strong alternative solution for Linux users.
The desktop applications are completely free if you’re okay with its lite version. You can sync your passwords across your Linux, Windows, and macOS systems at no cost.
Enpass handles everything locally and doesn’t upload your passwords to its services. It requires you to tinker with your own syncing solution.
Final Words
Whether they want to stick with only FOSS or not, there’s always a great password manager Linux users can enjoy.
They offer the same level of security and convenience other platforms provide. Many mature solutions exist, and new players debut once in a while. As a result, you should never have a problem with password management on this platform.
