VaultKeepR vs Proton Pass
Compare Proton Pass and VaultKeepR by encryption, storage, access, and export format. The notes below distinguish supported settings and account models.
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| Comparison | VaultKeepR | Proton Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Encryption and key derivation | XChaCha20-Poly1305 + Argon2id | AES-256-GCM + bcrypt-protected account key |
| Storage location | Local encrypted vault / IPFS sync | Proton-hosted encrypted vaults |
| Access & Auth | Password + Secret Key / compatible passkey | Proton Account (Email/Password) |
| Open-source license | Yes | Yes |
| Public implementation for review | Public SDK; not an external security audit | Yes |
| Pricing | Free local vault and IPFS sync; Premium extras | Free; paid Plus and Family plans |
Why users choose Proton Pass
- • Open-source apps
- • Integrated email aliases
- • Free plan with unlimited logins and devices
What to check with Proton Pass
- • Proton Account for access and sync
- • Proton service for remote availability
- • Feature limits depend on the plan
Encryption and key derivation
Proton Pass documents AES-256-GCM for vault items. Its published account-key model uses bcrypt-derived protection for the user key, with separate vault and item keys. It should not be described as a PBKDF2-only password manager.
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
Proton Pass stores encrypted vault data on Proton's service after client-side encryption. Proton publishes its end-to-end encryption model and open-source apps. Hosted storage does not by itself mean the provider holds plaintext decryption keys.
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
Access is tied to a Proton Account. Account login, vault unlocking, sharing, and recovery have distinct roles. Compare the settings enabled on your account rather than assuming that an email reset automatically restores encrypted data.
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 Proton Pass?
Export from the Proton Pass extension, web app, or supported desktop app. Choose an unencrypted ZIP export and extract its JSON file on your device. Do not import the ZIP archive itself as a password-vault file. Import that JSON file in VaultKeepR and check the transferred entries. CSV is an alternative for the fields it includes. 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 Proton Pass above, then verify the imported entries. Keep a backup and your unlocking material available.