The best alternatives to 1Password
1Password’s shift to cloud-only storage and US-based jurisdiction pushes privacy-focused teams toward European alternatives. The mandatory Secret Key and Electron framework add friction, while recurring price hikes make cheaper or free options more appealing.
European alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Why do people switch from 1Password?
The most common reasons are recurring price increases, mandatory cloud-only storage, and US jurisdiction concerns. Users also cite friction with the Secret Key, Electron-based apps, and vendor lock-in due to proprietary formats.
Are there European 1Password alternatives with GDPR-compliant hosting?
Yes. Proton Pass, Passbolt, and heylogin are EU- or Swiss-based and store data within GDPR-compliant jurisdictions. Proton Pass, for example, hosts in Switzerland and offers end-to-end encryption.
Can I migrate my passwords from 1Password to another manager?
Yes, most tools support importing 1Password exports (CSV or 1pux). However, complex vault structures or custom fields may not transfer perfectly. Proton Pass and Bitwarden provide dedicated migration tools for smoother transitions.
Do European alternatives offer free plans?
Yes. Proton Pass provides a free tier with core features, while Passbolt and heylogin offer community or open-source editions. Most paid European options start at a lower per-user price than 1Password.
What’s the best European option for teams with strict data residency requirements?
Proton Pass is a strong choice for teams needing Swiss or EU data residency, end-to-end encryption, and GDPR compliance. Passbolt is another open-source option with self-hosting for full control over data location.
Do any European alternatives support self-hosting?
Yes. Passbolt, heylogin, and Psono allow self-hosting, giving organizations full control over their data infrastructure. This is a key advantage for teams avoiding third-party cloud dependencies.