KeePass
Free, open-source, lightweight password manager that stores everything locally.
Overview
KeePass is a free, open-source, lightweight password manager that stores everything locally. It handles local storage, plugins, portable, and open source, and it's best suited for privacy-focused users wanting full control. It has been around since 2003, giving it a 23-year head start in building out integrations and refining the product.
The core product is entirely free. Since it's open-source, you can self-host for free with no user limits. It's aimed at individual users, so it's fast to set up but may lack team-management features if you scale.
Strengths
- Open source and transparent
- Includes Local Storage as a core feature, purpose-built for password manager workflows
- Fully open-source — you can self-host, audit the code, and avoid vendor lock-in
- The core product is free with no paywalled essentials
Weaknesses
- May lack some advanced features
- Self-hosting is free but requires server maintenance and DevOps knowledge
- Fewer built-in features means you may need additional tools to cover gaps
- If you forget your master password, recovery options are limited by design
Quick info
- Category
- Password Manager
- Starting price
- Free
- Free tier
- Fully free
- Open source
- Yes
- Best for
- Individuals
- Founded
- 2003
Last updated 2026-04-12
Top alternatives to KeePass
KeePass comparisons
vs
1Password vs KeePass
KeePass is the free option; 1Password charges $2.99/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
vs
Bitwarden vs KeePass
Bitwarden is built for privacy-conscious users who want free or self-hosted password management. KeePass is built for privacy-focused users wanting full control. Pick the one that fits.
vs
Dashlane vs KeePass
KeePass is the free option; Dashlane charges $4.99/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
vs
NordPass vs KeePass
KeePass is the free option; NordPass charges $1.49/mo but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
vs
KeePass vs Proton Pass
KeePass is built for privacy-focused users wanting full control. Proton Pass is built for proton ecosystem users wanting integrated password management. Pick the one that fits.
vs
KeePass vs Enpass
KeePass is the free option; Enpass charges $23.99/yr but may offer more polish. Here is how they compare.
More Password Manager tools
1Password
Password manager for individuals and teams with secure sharing and developer tools.
Bitwarden
Open-source password manager with free personal plan and self-hosting option.
Dashlane
Password manager with dark web monitoring, VPN, and automatic password changer.
NordPass
Password manager from the makers of NordVPN with zero-knowledge encryption and passkey support.
Proton Pass
Open-source password manager with end-to-end encryption from the makers of ProtonMail.
Enpass
Password manager that stores data locally or in your own cloud — no centralized server.
Stay sharp
New password manager tools, price changes, and honest takes — weekly.