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cOTP review

Free#61 of 111 in Authenticator Apps

A capable open-source desktop authenticator for users migrating between apps.

3.0/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

cOTP pros and cons

  • 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

cOTP fact sheet, pricing and score →

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