True Key Review 2023

Most password managers are more alike than different, with the little details setting one apart from the next. However, some features are more important than others. These five key features — security and encryption, app compatibility, usability, password sharing, and price — can be important points to consider when picking a password manager like True Key.

Security and encryption are easily among the most important points of consideration when evaluating password managers. As a product of McAfee, one of the leading names in antivirus software, it’s no surprise that True Key capitalizes on security best practices.

True Key is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, a staple in the industry and among the most effective algorithms available. Master passwords are encrypted on company servers as well, ensuring no one else can access account information, even if a breach was to occur. Employees cannot access master passwords, either, keeping accounts as secure as possible.

Each True Key account is protected by a master password that must be at least eight characters using uppercase and lowercase letters, digits and special characters, as well as spaces if desired. Multifactor authentication is also available, and users have the option to choose which avenues they would like to employ. This can include biometrics like face ID or fingerprints where possible, verification on trusted devices with True Key installed or clicking a link sent to the email address associated with the account. At least two factors are required to log in on new devices.

Few people rely on a single device to keep up with email, browse social media, pay bills or check up on bank balances, making app compatibility an absolute must. For most devices, True Key will work just fine, offering compatibility with most major platforms and browsers.

True Key isn’t a standalone desktop app but instead functions as a browser extension across both Mac and PC operating systems. This can be a benefit for those who use a supported browser, but less so for those who prefer alternatives that are not. Safari and Internet Explorer, for example, aren’t included in what True Key can do. On Android, True Key works as an app with an internal browser that supports Chrome as well as Opera. It can also be used to log in to most apps on Android devices. On Apple mobile devices, True Key works as a standalone app with an internal browser as well and will work with Safari, Chrome, and some apps via the share box icon.

While True Key’s app compatibility will placate most people, the platform won’t be a good fit for everyone. True Key does not support Linux-based operating systems, Windows Phone or BlackBerry.

True Key is a basic and rather bare-bones password manager, but that does have an upside: it’s extremely simple to use. The layout is clean, easy to read and easy to navigate, allowing even newcomers to the world of password management programs to get acquainted with the functionality quickly.

Instead of leaving users to fend for themselves from the start, True Key starts by offering a list of popular sites that can get the ball rolling on the password collection process. Users can add notes to each account as well to detail anything related to logging in not captured by the password manager itself. For users who have a browser-specific password manager in use, like Google Password Manager in Google Chrome, True Key can collect this information and incorporate it, further simplifying the setup process. Additional details, like credit card numbers or Social Security numbers, can be added to the wallet area. It is also possible to import passwords from select other password manager programs.

When users set up a new account, True Key can provide an auto-generated secure password. Generated passwords default to 16 characters and feature a blend of numbers, letters, and symbols. These passwords are automatically saved, but this isn’t true for all passwords. If True Key determines a login was a success, information will be automatically saved unless the user requests otherwise. However, if the program isn’t sure the login worked as intended, users will receive a pop-up asking whether credentials should be saved.

Password sharing is a feature that some users require and some will never use. Password sharing is a way to share passwords safely and securely for easy use of joint accounts, like streaming platforms or newspaper subscriptions, and most password managers highlight this feature as a central functionality. However, True Key does not support password sharing. There is no way to select passwords and share them with outside users.

For some users, this may automatically disqualify True Key from the running, but for those who don’t foresee using this function, a lack of sharing likely won’t be a deal breaker.

Pricing is a major point of consideration for most password manager users, both individual and corporate. While not all password managers have a free option, True Key does, providing a limited number of logins with all the same protections for no monthly fee. For most people, 15 passwords — the maximum allowed in the free plan — isn’t going to be enough, but for those who want to prioritize their most important accounts, this may suffice. The Premium plan is only marginally more expensive for unlimited logins, costing just $19.99 a year, or $1.66 per month — one of the lowest prices on the market.

Most password managers have different pricing options for individual and business use, but True Key does not support family or corporate plans. The platform’s focus is very one-sided, excluding those seeking password management for larger organizations. However, those who need resources solely for personal use likely won’t mind this shortcoming.

As a simple and straightforward password manager, True Key offers many great functions for its users. The below chart breaks out exactly how to make the most of True Key.