cOTP
cOTP: A capable open-source desktop authenticator for users migrating between apps. Ranked #61 of 111 in Authenticator Apps by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Open source; best for desktop users migrating between authenticator apps.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingOpen source
- Best forDesktop users migrating between authenticator apps
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports TOTP, HOTP, Steam, Yandex, and MOTP codes
- Imports accounts from major authenticator export formats
- Encrypts local data with XChaCha20-Poly1305
Where it doesn't
- Command-line interface may not suit users wanting a graphical app
- No verified sync between devices
- Focused on desktop platforms rather than mobile
Our verdict on cOTP
cOTP is an open-source authenticator for Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop systems. It generates TOTP and HOTP codes, with configurable HMAC algorithms, digit counts, and counters. An interactive command-line dashboard lets users select accounts and copy codes to the clipboard. Its strongest fit is desktop users moving from another authenticator app, especially those who want local encrypted storage and control over their account data.
Migration is a central strength. cOTP can import accounts from Aegis, andOTP, Authy, FreeOTP, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator, then export its cOTP database. The application stores that database with XChaCha20-Poly1305 encryption and also supports Steam, Yandex, and MOTP codes alongside standard TOTP and HOTP. This combination gives technically oriented users broad format coverage and more control over code generation than a narrowly focused authenticator.
The trade-off is accessibility and device coverage. cOTP uses an interactive command-line dashboard rather than a conventional graphical interface, which makes it better suited to users comfortable with terminal-based software. Its published platform support covers Linux, Windows, and macOS, while the available positioning does not include verified synchronization between devices. Choose cOTP if encrypted local storage, open-source distribution, configurable code generation, and import flexibility matter most. Users who prioritize mobile access, automatic cross-device synchronization, or a graphical setup should consider a different authenticator.
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cOTP pricing
cOTP fact sheet
| Free plan | Not verified |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Code type | Totp and hotp |
| Push approvals | Not verified |
| Encrypted backup | Yes |
| Multi-device sync | Not verified |
| Team administration | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | linux, windows, macos |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Open source |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to cOTP
- Proton AuthenticatorA mature free option for secure 2FA codes across mobile and desktop platforms.9.4
- Google AuthenticatorA free, straightforward authenticator with offline codes, sync, and QR transfers.9.2
- AuthyA focused free authenticator for mobile users who need synced TOTP tokens.9.1
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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