Two premium password managers. Based on product documentation, security, autofill, and family plans are compared.
1Password's superior security architecture and Travel Mode make it the winner, though Dashlane's built-in VPN is a unique advantage.
1Password is the better password manager — more polished apps, stronger feature set, and better value at ~$3/mo versus Dashlane's ~$5/mo. Dashlane bundles a VPN and dark-web monitoring, but its higher price and less flexible design make it hard to recommend over 1Password for most users.
1Password: 1Password costs ~$3/mo.
Dashlane: Dashlane at ~$5/mo is pricier.
When this matters: Matters over a multi-year term.
1Password: 1Password's apps are smoother and more polished.
Dashlane: Dashlane's apps are good but less refined.
When this matters: Matters for daily autofill.
1Password: 1Password focuses on the core with Travel Mode and Watchtower.
Dashlane: Dashlane bundles a VPN and dark-web monitoring.
When this matters: Matters if you want the bundle instead of separate tools.
| Spec | 1Password | Dashlane |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $3/mo | $5/mo |
| Security | Secret Key + master password | Master password only |
| Autofill | Good | Excellent |
| Family Plan | $5/mo (5 users) | $7.49/mo (10 users) |
| Travel Mode | Yes | No |
| VPN | No | Included (Hotspot Shield) |
Users who want the best password-manager experience at a better price.
If the bundled VPN matters, 1Password does not include one.
Users who specifically want the bundled VPN and monitoring.
If you already have a VPN, Dashlane's bundle is wasted cost.
This comparison was built from a structured review of official product documentation, published specifications, current pricing, and feature documentation — the same methodology ToolStep describes on the /how-we-test/ page. Because we did not run these products hands-on, we do not claim testing that did not happen.
Based on official product documentation as of June 2026.
The Secret Key is a 34-character code generated on your device that combines with your master password to encrypt your vault. Even if 1Password is breached, attackers cannot decrypt your data without this key.
The Dashlane VPN is powered by Hotspot Shield and is fine for general browsing. It is slower than dedicated VPNs like ExpressVPN and lacks advanced features, so it works best as a bonus, not a replacement.
Travel Mode removes all vaults except the ones you mark as safe for travel from your devices. If your device is inspected at a border, only your travel vault is visible. When you return, you disable Travel Mode and all vaults reappear.
1Password Families is cheaper at $5/mo for 5 users and includes shared vaults and recovery for locked-out family members. Dashlane Friends and Family supports 10 users for $7.49/mo, which is better value for larger groups.