Strongbox
Phoebe Code Limited
Strongbox is a secure password manager for macOS that is compatible with Password Safe and KeePass databases. It offers robust security features, including Touch ID & Face ID unlock, YubiKey protection, and strong encryption, while allowing users to store their databases locally or sync with cloud services.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Open source and uses standard KeePass/Password Safe formats
- Strong security features and encryption
- Cross-platform compatibility with iOS and other KeePass clients
- Option for local database storage and cloud sync
- One-time purchase option available (Lifetime license)
Top Dislikes
- Some advanced features require paid Pro version
- Mac app interface described as 'serviceable' but needing improvement compared to iOS version
- Autofill on Mac Safari only in free version, browser extensions for Chrome/Firefox require Pro
Popular Comments
MacUpdate User - Pirx
2024-10-03
I ditched 1Password for Strongbox. I principally do not use subscription software.
MacUpdate User - wimp
2024-05-11
I am very pleased with this app.
App Store User - Toothmeblue
2021-01-15
Been a Dashlane user for years... Glad I found keepassxc on windows and then this app for my phone to sync passwords between devices. Does everything I need it to and the database is safe in my hands and available on all devices... Went straight to buying a lifetime subscription £38 for this app, what a bargain.
App Store User - Pjo1977
2022-03-09
Forget any others; this app is top quality...Having been a keepass users on a windows machine for years...When support for that ended, my search brought me to Strongbox and I've never looked back!
Mac Power Users - Stephen Hackett
2022-05-14
I think the iOS Strongbox App is terrific, on any basis, but particularly so coming from a small development team. The Mac OS App is serviceable but it needs more work. Strongbox is not in the same league as 1Password but it does offer local database storage, the open source Kee Pass format, and a once off lifetime payment if you want to avoid a subscription (also a free version).
Detailed Review
Strongbox is a password manager application for macOS that emphasizes security and user control over their data. It is designed to be compatible with the popular open-source KeePass and Password Safe formats, allowing users to import and export their password databases easily and use them across different platforms. Strongbox stands out by offering a balance between robust security features and a user-friendly interface, particularly on iOS, with the Mac version being functional but considered by some to need further refinement. It supports features like Touch ID/Face ID, Apple Watch unlock, YubiKey protection, and strong encryption algorithms, ensuring a high level of security for stored credentials. Users have the flexibility to store their password databases locally or sync them with various cloud storage providers, catering to different privacy and accessibility preferences.
Standout Features
- KeePass/Password Safe Compatibility: Uses open and widely supported database formats, ensuring no vendor lock-in.
- Strong Security: Employs military-grade cryptography, brute-force resistant key derivation functions, and supports hardware security keys like YubiKey.
- Cross-Platform Availability: Available on both macOS and iOS, with seamless database syncing.
- Flexible Storage Options: Allows local storage of databases or syncing via iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, WebDAV, and SFTP.
- Freemium Model with Lifetime Purchase: Offers a free version with basic features and a Pro version unlockable via subscription or a one-time lifetime purchase.
- AutoFill: Supports Safari AutoFill in the free version and browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox in the Pro version.
- Password Generation: Includes highly configurable password generation, including Diceware.
- Two-Factor Authentication (TOTP): Supports generation of time-based one-time passwords.
Conclusion
Strongbox is a solid choice for Mac users seeking a secure and versatile password manager, especially for those already invested in the KeePass ecosystem or who prefer open-standard formats and local data storage options. The free version offers a good set of features, while the Pro version unlocks advanced functionalities like browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox and more convenient autofill options. While some reviews suggest the macOS app could benefit from further UI/UX improvements, Strongbox is actively developed and praised for its security, reliability, and the developer's responsiveness. The availability of a lifetime purchase option is also a significant advantage for users who prefer to avoid subscription-based software. For users heavily within the Apple ecosystem, particularly those using both Macs and iOS devices, Strongbox provides a robust and well-integrated password management solution.
