1Password vs Proton Pass: Which Is Better for Privacy in 2025?

1Password is the established leader in password management with a polished interface and business features. Proton Pass is the newcomer focused on transparency with open-source code and Swiss privacy protections. Both offer strong encryption, but which one truly keeps your passwords private?

In this detailed comparison, we'll examine 1Password vs Proton Pass on security architecture, transparency, features, pricing, and trust to help you choose the right password manager.

The Transparency Divide

1Password: Audited But Closed Source

1Password uses strong end-to-end encryption and has been independently audited by security firms. Their architecture encrypts your passwords before they leave your device, which is good.

However, 1Password's apps are closed source. You cannot examine the code to verify their security claims yourself. You must trust their audits and company promises.

In 2019, 1Password raised concerns when they added telemetry and analytics without clear disclosure. While they later clarified their privacy practices, it highlighted the challenges of closed-source trust.

Proton Pass: Open Source & Audited

Proton Pass's entire codebase is open source and available on GitHub. Security researchers, privacy advocates, and anyone can audit the code to verify encryption is implemented correctly and there are no backdoors.

This provides trust through verification, not just promises. Proton Pass has also been independently audited by Cure53, combining both open-source transparency and professional security audits.

Encryption Architecture

Both password managers use end-to-end encryption with strong cryptographic standards. 1Password uses their proprietary Secret Key in addition to your master password, which adds an extra layer of security.

Proton Pass uses standard end-to-end encryption with your master password as the only key. Passwords are encrypted locally on your device before sync. The architecture is similar to 1Password's but with the advantage of being fully auditable.

Feature Comparison

Business & Team Features

1Password has a significant advantage for businesses. Their Business plan includes advanced admin controls, activity logs, SCIM provisioning, and integrations with identity providers like Okta and Azure AD.

Proton Pass is newer and their business features are still developing. For enterprise deployments with complex requirements, 1Password is currently more mature.

Pricing Comparison

Proton Pass is cheaper and offers a genuine free tier with unlimited passwords. 1Password doesn't have a free plan, only a 14-day trial.

Platform Support

Both password managers support all major platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.

1Password has more mature integrations with third-party apps and services. Proton Pass's platform coverage is excellent but the integrations ecosystem is still growing.

User Experience

1Password has a polished, intuitive interface that's been refined over many years. The autofill is reliable, the browser extensions work smoothly, and the overall experience is professional.

Proton Pass offers a clean, modern interface that's easy to use. The autofill works well and the UI is straightforward. While newer, it doesn't feel immature or buggy.

Security Track Record

1Password has a strong security track record with no major breaches. Their architecture has held up well over time, though being closed source means we're trusting rather than verifying.

Proton Pass is newer but benefits from Proton's established reputation in privacy. The open-source code means any vulnerabilities can be found and fixed by the security community.

Who Should Choose 1Password?

1Password is the right choice if you need mature business features, advanced admin controls, or extensive third-party integrations. For enterprise environments, 1Password's maturity is a significant advantage.

It's also good for users who don't care about open source and just want a polished, reliable password manager with a proven track record.

Who Should Choose Proton Pass?

Proton Pass is ideal for privacy-conscious users who value transparency and verifiability. The open-source code, Swiss jurisdiction, and significantly lower price make it perfect for:

Privacy advocates, security researchers, journalists, or anyone who believes password manager security should be verifiable through code audits, not just trust in a company.

The free tier is also excellent for anyone who wants unlimited password storage without paying anything.

Final Verdict

1Password wins on maturity, business features, and ecosystem integrations. Proton Pass wins on transparency, price, open-source code, and the free plan.

For businesses needing advanced features, 1Password is currently the better choice. For individuals who value privacy and transparency, Proton Pass offers better value and verifiable security.

The decision comes down to whether you prioritize enterprise features (1Password) or transparent, auditable security (Proton Pass). Both provide strong encryption, but only Proton Pass lets you verify it yourself.