VaultKeepR vs 1Password
Compare 1Password and VaultKeepR by encryption, storage, access, and export format. The notes below distinguish supported settings and account models.
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| Comparison | VaultKeepR | 1Password |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption and key derivation | XChaCha20-Poly1305 + Argon2id | AES-256-GCM + PBKDF2 + Secret Key |
| Storage location | Local encrypted vault / IPFS sync | 1Password-hosted encrypted vaults |
| Access & Auth | Password + Secret Key / compatible passkey | Account password + Secret Key (unlock options vary) |
| Open-source license | Yes | No |
| Public implementation for review | Public SDK; not an external security audit | No |
| Pricing | Free local vault and IPFS sync; Premium extras | Paid subscription (see official personal plans) |
Why users choose 1Password
- • Travel mode
- • Browser autofill
- • Individual and family plans
What to check with 1Password
- • Subscription for ongoing use
- • 1Password service for hosted sync
- • Keep the account password and Secret Key available
Encryption and key derivation
1Password encrypts vault data with AES-256-GCM. Its password-based model combines PBKDF2-HMAC-SHA256 with a separate Secret Key. That additional key matters when comparing protection against offline guessing; the KDF name alone does not describe the whole model.
VaultKeepR encrypts vault contents with XChaCha20-Poly1305 and uses Argon2id for password-based key derivation. Argon2id raises the cost of offline guessing, but protection still depends on the unlocking secret, KDF parameters, and device security.
Vault copies and remote availability
1Password's hosted service synchronizes encrypted vaults between supported clients. Keeping a local export gives you a separate copy, but an unencrypted export needs its own protection. This page does not assume that cloud hosting gives 1Password access to plaintext.
VaultKeepR keeps an encrypted local vault and syncs an encrypted vault blob through IPFS. Shamir recovery fragments are separate from that blob. Remote access depends on gateways, continued pinning, and the configured storage services, including S3 backup. Keep a local copy or export that you can unlock.
Account and unlocking methods
The account password and Secret Key are used to set up access on a new device. Existing clients can offer other unlock methods. Preserve the Emergency Kit and review the recovery options for your account type before switching.
VaultKeepR does not require an email-based vault account. Unlock methods depend on the app and compatible hardware. Removing email registration does not prevent phishing, compromised-device access, or metadata linkage.
Recovery and independent backups
The local vault and IPFS sync are free. Shamir 3-of-5 fragmented recovery is part of Premium. Set it up before losing access; recovery requires the necessary fragments and recovery information.
If you lose the unlocking secrets without a usable recovery setup or another accessible vault copy, you can lose access to the vault. An email reset cannot recreate a lost encryption key. Test recovery and keep independent backups before relying on them.
Sources and scope
Facts checked on . Features depend on the client, format, KDF settings, and account model. Pricing can change by region, billing period, and promotion. USD prices are not converted to EUR here.
VaultKeepR references: Architecture, threat model, recovery, pricing.
Frequently asked questions
How can I transfer my passwords from 1Password?
Open and unlock the 1Password desktop app. Use the account export action and choose 1PUX (.1pux). CSV exports contain fewer fields. Import the 1PUX file in VaultKeepR's import settings and check the transferred items. An unencrypted export exposes your secrets. Use a trusted device, verify the transferred entries, and delete the unencrypted export after verification.
Can I access my passwords offline?
You can read a local vault without an internet connection once it is available on that device and you can unlock it. Syncing or downloading a remote copy requires network access. A new device needs a vault copy and a supported unlocking method.
Is VaultKeepR really free?
The local vault and IPFS sync are free. Shamir 3-of-5 fragmented recovery is part of Premium. Set it up before losing access; recovery requires the necessary fragments and recovery information.
Does VaultKeepR work with passkeys and biometrics?
VaultKeepR supports WebAuthn passkey unlocking through PRF on compatible browsers and authenticators. Biometric unlocking and autofill depend on the app, device, and OS support. Check your setup before relying on a passkey as your only way back into the vault.
Where is my data actually stored?
VaultKeepR keeps an encrypted local vault and syncs an encrypted vault blob through IPFS. Shamir recovery fragments are separate from that blob. Remote access depends on gateways, continued pinning, and the configured storage services, including S3 backup. Keep a local copy or export that you can unlock.
Switching managers is also a good time to close the accounts you no longer use. Our guides cover how to delete accounts on 15 major services.
Try a local-first vault
Use the transfer method for 1Password above, then verify the imported entries. Keep a backup and your unlocking material available.