iOS 18 Password App vs Bitwarden? Which Is the Best One

by Sophie Green   Updated on 2024-09-18 / Update for  iOS 18

Choosing the best password app is crucial for maintaining security and ease of access. With Apple introducing the iOS 18 Passwords App, you might wonder how it compares to popular third-party tools like Bitwarden.

This guide will help you evaluate both options: iOS 18 Passwords App vs. Bitwarden, based on essential criteria for selecting a password manager. You can also find an alternative tool: 4uKey Password Manager.

Part 1. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Password Manager

When selecting a password manager, consider the following features:

  • Security: End-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and protection against breaches.
  • Ease of Use: User-friendly interface, easy password entry, and autofill options.
  • Cross-Platform Support: Availability across devices and platforms.
  • Password Sharing: Ability to share passwords securely with others.
  • Advanced Features: Password health checks, passkey storage, and integration with other apps.

Let’s compare the iOS 18 Passwords app and Bitwarden based on these factors.

Also Read: 1Password vs iOS 18 Apple Passwords App 2024

Part 2. iOS 18 Passwords App vs. Bitwarden

1. Security

iOS 18 Passwords App

The iOS 18 Passwords app builds on Apple’s iCloud Keychain. It uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring your passwords stay private. Apple’s integration of Face ID and Touch ID adds an additional layer of security. The app also includes a Security section, which warns users about weak or compromised passwords.

Bitwarden

Bitwarden offers top-tier security, including end-to-end encryption, and the added benefit of being open-source. This transparency allows experts to audit and verify its safety. Bitwarden also provides advanced two-factor authentication options (email codes, YubiKeys, authenticator apps) and generates strong, unique passwords for every account.

bitwarden

Winner: Bitwarden

While both apps are secure, Bitwarden’s open-source nature and advanced two-factor options give it a slight edge.

2. Ease of Use

iOS 18 Passwords App

Apple’s Passwords app is deeply integrated into the iOS ecosystem. It automatically generates and stores passwords, and users can easily manage them through a clean interface. Additionally, it’s built into iOS 18, making it instantly accessible and user-friendly for iPhone users.

ios 18 passwords app on mac

Bitwarden

Bitwarden is intuitive, but not as integrated into the iOS ecosystem as Apple's app. It offers an easy-to-navigate vault where users can store passwords, secure notes, and even credit card details. Bitwarden also provides autofill across browsers and mobile devices, but the setup process may take slightly more effort than Apple's native solution.

Winner: iOS 18 Passwords App

Thanks to its seamless integration with iOS, the Passwords app is extremely convenient for Apple users.

3. Cross-Platform Support

FeatureiOS 18 Passwords AppBitwarden
iOSYesYes
iPadOSYesYes
macOSYesYes
WindowsLimited (iCloud for Windows)Yes
AndroidNoYes
Web Browser SupportNoYes (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

Winner: Bitwarden

Bitwarden supports a wider range of platforms, including Android and multiple web browsers, making it ideal for users with mixed-device ecosystems.

4. Password Sharing

iOS 18 Passwords App

With the iOS 18 Passwords app, you can create password groups and share them with family members or friends. It’s a simple and secure way to manage shared accounts.

Bitwarden

Bitwarden allows users to create Family Vaults where multiple members can store and manage shared passwords. The "Bitwarden Send" feature also lets users securely share encrypted text and files via a link.

Winner: Bitwarden

While both apps support password sharing, Bitwarden’s options are more robust, particularly for family or team use.

5. Advanced Features

iOS 18 Passwords App

Apple’s Passwords app includes Passkey storage, aligning with Apple’s vision of a passwordless future. The app also offers password health checks and syncing across iCloud.

Bitwarden

In addition to passkey support, Bitwarden provides a Vault Health Report, which checks for weak, exposed, or reused passwords. Bitwarden also offers integrations with email alias services, enhancing privacy.

Winner: Bitwarden

Bitwarden’s advanced reporting tools and broader integration make it a more feature-rich option.

Part 3. Final Verdict: iOS 18 Passwords App vs. Bitwarden: Which Is Best?

CriteriaiOS 18 Passwords AppBitwarden
SecurityGoodExcellent
Ease of UseExcellentGood
Cross-PlatformLimitedExcellent
Password SharingGoodExcellent
Advanced FeaturesGoodExcellent

Choose iOS 18 Passwords App If:

  • You’re an iOS user looking for a simple, native solution.
  • You prefer deep integration with Apple’s ecosystem.

Choose Bitwarden If:

  • You need cross-platform support or use non-Apple devices.
  • You’re looking for advanced security features and family-sharing options.

If security is your top priority, Bitwarden's open-source platform might be your best bet. However, for Apple users who want simplicity and seamless integration, the iOS 18 Passwords app is an excellent choice.

Part 4. Unlock and Manage Passwords Safely with 4uKey Password Manager

If you're searching for a more comprehensive way to manage and recover passwords on your iPhone or iPad, 4uKey Password Manager is an excellent alternative. It goes beyond just recovering or unlocking Apple ID and iOS passwords.

Key Features of 4uKey Password Manager

  • Retrieve All Stored Passwords: Easily scan and recover Wi-Fi, app, email, website, and credit card passwords from your iPhone or iPad.
  • Recover Apple ID: Quickly recover or remove your forgotten Apple ID password for uninterrupted access to Apple services.
  • Remove Screen Time Passcode: Effortlessly view or remove forgotten Screen Time passcodes, perfect for resetting parental controls.
  • Secure Password Storage: Manage and access all your passwords in one secure place.
  • Unlock Passcode: Unlock your locked iPhone/iPad, including passcode/PIN/Face ID, and bypass MDM without passcode.

Easy steps to use 4uKey Password Manager

  • Free download and run Tenorshare 4uKey Password Manager on your computer and choose "Password Manager".
  • free download ios 18 passwords app alternative 4ukey
  • Connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer with a USB cable. Click on "Start Scanning" for passwords. You can also click "View Scan History >>" to check every scanned record.
  • start finding passwords on ios devices
  • Click Start Scanning for passwords and enter your backup password. If you don’t have one, the program will use “a” as a temporary password.
  • enter backup password to start scanning password
  • Wait for the program to scan and analyze the accounts and passwords on your devices.
  • analyzing passwords
  • Then you can see all the accounts and passwords without resetting it, including credit card information, screen time & Apple ID passwords, and more.
  • see password without resetting it

Part 5. FAQs about iOS Password Manager

Q1: 1. Can't log in to Bitwarden after upgrading to iOS 18?

Some users have reported issues logging into Bitwarden after upgrading to iOS 18, with login attempts timing out during password validation. If you're facing this issue, try enabling autofill for Bitwarden by going to Settings > Apps > Passwords > View Autofill Settings and allowing Bitwarden. After that, restart the app and attempt to log in again.

If the issue persists, it could be related to server-side problems, which have been resolved for some users after a short time.

Q2: Does Bitwarden work on iPhone apps?

Yes, Bitwarden works seamlessly with iPhone apps. It offers an iOS app that integrates with autofill, allowing you to securely manage and fill passwords across apps and websites.

Q3: What is the difference between iOS 1Password and Bitwarden?

The main difference lies in pricing and features. 1Password offers a more polished user interface with advanced features like Travel Mode and family sharing, but it requires a paid subscription. Bitwarden, on the other hand, has a free version with essential features and open-source security, making it a budget-friendly option.

Q4: What is the drawback of Bitwarden?

The main drawback of Bitwarden is its user interface, which may not be as polished or intuitive as other paid password managers like 1Password. Additionally, some advanced features, such as emergency access, are available only in the paid version.

Q5: Is Bitwarden actually secure?

Yes, Bitwarden is highly secure. It uses end-to-end encryption to protect your data, and since it is open-source, its code is publicly reviewed by security experts, making it a trustworthy option for password management.

Conclusion

In the debate between iOS 18 Passwords App and Bitwarden, both tools offer strong security features and convenient password management. The choice depends on your specific needs.

If you're looking for an even more comprehensive password management tool, consider 4uKey Password Manager. It not only manages passwords but also helps you recover forgotten Apple ID, remove Screen Time passcodes, and unlock your device effortlessly.

Remove Any Password in Minutes