Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Authenticator VS Step Two for Mac

Compare Authenticator VS Step Two for Mac and see what are their differences

Authenticator logo Authenticator

Authenticator is a simple, free, and open source two-factor authentication app.

Step Two for Mac logo Step Two for Mac

Simple two-step verification for Mac
  • Authenticator Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-24
  • Step Two for Mac Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-10

Authenticator features and specs

  • Open Source
    Authenticator is open-source, which means the source code is available for review and contributions by the community. This increases transparency and security, as bugs and vulnerabilities can be identified and addressed more quickly.
  • Privacy-Focused
    The app doesn't require users to create an account, and it doesn't store any data in the cloud. This significantly reduces the risk of data breaches and ensures user data remains private.
  • Simple User Interface
    The app provides a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to manage their two-factor authentication (2FA) codes without confusion.
  • Local Storage
    Authenticator stores codes locally on the device, which enhances security by eliminating the need to transmit sensitive information over the internet.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    The app is available on both iOS and Android, providing flexibility for users who switch between different mobile operating systems.

Possible disadvantages of Authenticator

  • No Cloud Backup
    Since the app stores data locally and doesn’t support cloud backup, users may lose their codes if they lose access to their device or accidentally delete the app.
  • Manual Setup
    Users need to manually add their accounts, which might be less convenient compared to some other 2FA apps that offer QR code scanning and automatic account import features.
  • Limited Features
    Authenticator focuses on core 2FA functionality and lacks some advanced features found in other 2FA apps, such as password management or integration with password managers.
  • No Multi-Device Sync
    The app doesn’t support synchronizing 2FA codes across multiple devices, which can be inconvenient for users who rely on multiple devices for their work or personal life.

Step Two for Mac features and specs

  • Streamlined Workflow
    Step Two simplifies repetitive tasks by allowing users to automate sequences of actions, enhancing productivity and saving time.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The application features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users of all experience levels.
  • Integration Capabilities
    It supports a wide range of integrations with other apps and services, providing flexibility in how users can automate their workflows.
  • Customizable Automation
    Users can customize automation sequences to fit their specific needs, offering a personalized experience tailored to individual workflow requirements.

Possible disadvantages of Step Two for Mac

  • Limited Advanced Features
    While easy to use, it may lack some advanced features that power users might require for complex automation tasks.
  • Mac-Only Availability
    The app is exclusive to Mac, potentially excluding users who need cross-platform support or use other operating systems.
  • Potential Learning Curve
    Although generally user-friendly, users unfamiliar with automation tools might experience a learning curve in setting up workflows.
  • Subscription-Based Pricing
    The app requires a subscription, which could be a drawback for users who prefer one-time purchase models over recurring costs.

Authenticator videos

Authenticator Apps

More videos:

  • Review - GOOGLE AUTHENTICATOR vs. AUTHY - (AUTHY WON)
  • Tutorial - How to Use Google Authenticator

Step Two for Mac videos

No Step Two for Mac videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

Add video

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Authenticator and Step Two for Mac)
Identity And Access Management
Two Factor Authentication
Password Management
74 74%
26% 26
Security & Privacy
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

Share your experience with using Authenticator and Step Two for Mac. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
Log in or Post with

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Authenticator should be more popular than Step Two for Mac. It has been mentiond 4 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Authenticator mentions (4)

Step Two for Mac mentions (2)

  • Are closed source 2FA apps ok?
    Then there's trust in the developer. I, for instance, use Step Two which is closed source but is developed by Neil Sardesai, an indie developer that I trust, has an awesome privacy policy and charges upfront for apps. Source: over 3 years ago
  • What's the better 2FA application, Authy or Google Authenticator?
    I believe it's called Step Two. I use it on my Macbook. Source: almost 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Authenticator and Step Two for Mac, you can also consider the following products

Aegis Authenticator - Aegis Authenticator is a free, secure and open source app to manage your 2-step verification tokens...

Google Authenticator - Google Authenticator is a multifactor app for mobile devices.

andOTP - andOTP is a two-factor authentication App for Android 4.4+

Microsoft Authenticator - One app to quickly and securely verify your identity online, for all of your accounts.

OTP Auth - The app for calculating one-time-passwords on iPhone and iPad.

Open Authenticator - A trusted open-source Authenticator. Formerly known as SmartWatch2 Authenticator free.