Authy vs Google Authenticator
Google Authenticator
Verdict: Authy wins for most users — encrypted cloud backup and multi-device support protect against the nightmare scenario of losing your phone.
How we scored it
Spec verificationOwner sentimentLive pricing (4h refresh)Editorial review
Our methodology
Winner: Authy
Spec-by-spec comparison
| Authy | Google Authenticator | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Cloud backup | Yes (encrypted, password-protected) | Yes (Google Account sync, 2023+) |
| Multi-device | Yes | Limited |
| Offline-only option | No (requires cloud account) | Yes |
| Platform | iOS, Android, desktop | iOS, Android |
Authy
What works
- Encrypted cloud backup for account recovery
- Multi-device support (phone + tablet + desktop)
- Backup password protects the cloud backup itself
What doesn't
- Cloud backup creates an attack surface (SIM swap risk)
- Owned by Twilio — security incident in 2022 exposed some user phone numbers
- Requires account creation with phone number
Google Authenticator
What works
- No cloud storage of tokens beyond Google account sync
- Simpler interface
- Works offline on device without any account requirements
What doesn't
- Losing phone without backup = locked out of all accounts
- Cloud sync tied to Google account
- No multi-device support beyond cloud sync
Bottom line
Our pick: Authy.
View full comparison on GoodPickr
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