In essence, Electron packages a Web app so that it acts like a native Mac app, which is great for cross-platform compatibility but seldom results in an app that feels like it was designed for the Mac. The upcoming 1Password 8, currently in early access, shifts the password manager to the cross-platform Electron development framework. Unfortunately, 1Password developer AgileBits seems to be moving away from its Apple-centric roots. I was a little uncomfortable with 1Password’s proprietary database format and later with how AgileBits pushed 1Password users to store passwords on, but I felt the tradeoff for less friction was worthwhile. With KeePass, I always felt like I had complete control of my password database. The original KeePass has always been Windows-only, but there are multiple KeePass-compatible apps for all platforms, and you’re free to pick whichever one is right for you.

However, I always somewhat regretted switching away from KeePass, which stores its encrypted database in a standardized, open format. (For evidence of my longtime 1Password loyalty, see “ 1Password 7 for Mac Offers a Fresh Look… for an Upgrade Price,” 18 June 2018.)

KeePass was always rough around the edges, while 1Password was neatly integrated with the Mac and iPhone. It was made just for the Mac and looked the part. When I moved back to the Apple world in the late 2000s, I was drawn in by the shininess of 1Password. I’ve been using password managers for a long time, starting with the open-source KeePass in Windows nearly 20 years ago. 1646: Security-focused OS updates, Photos Workbench review, Mastodon client wishlist, Apple-related conferences.1647: Focus-caused notification issues, site-specific browser examples, virtualizing Windows on M-series Macs.#1648: iPhone passcode thefts, Center Cam improves webcam eye contact, APFS Uncertainty Principle.#1649: More LastPass breach details and 1Password switch, macOS screen saver problem, tvOS 16.3.3 fixes Siri Remote bug.#1650: Cloud storage changes for Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive quirky printing problem.

1pass desktop app