deskOTP review
A capable open-source desktop vault for consolidating authenticator accounts across major desktop platforms.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
deskOTP is an open-source desktop authenticator for individual users who want access to one-time password codes on Linux, macOS, or Windows instead of relying on a mobile device. It supports TOTP, HOTP, and Steam Guard, and is designed around consolidating accounts from multiple authenticator apps. Its strongest use case is desktop migration: the application can import backups from 16 authenticator app families, alongside QR-code images, manual token entry, and otpauth URIs.
Security and account handling are central to the product. Stored OTP secrets are protected with AES-256-GCM vault encryption, while app locking can use system authentication and a configurable auto-lock setting. Once accounts are in the vault, search and sorting help organize larger collections, and one-click clipboard copying makes code retrieval direct. Dark and light themes plus adjustable display density add practical control for different desktop setups without distracting from the core authentication workflow.
The main trade-off is its platform focus. deskOTP covers Linux, macOS, and Windows, but its documented scope is desktop access rather than a mobile authenticator workflow. Migration is broad, though the available path depends on what each source app can export: users may need a backup file, QR-code image, otpauth URI, or manual entry. Choose deskOTP if you want an open-source desktop vault with broad import support and encrypted local code storage. Users who primarily need mobile access or a wider password-management system should look for a product built around those needs.
deskOTP pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Imports backups from 16 authenticator app families
- Supports TOTP, HOTP, and Steam Guard codes
- AES-256-GCM vault encryption with configurable app locking
- Where it doesn't
- Desktop-only coverage excludes mobile authenticator workflows
- Migration may require backup files, QR images, URIs, or manual entry
- Focused on authentication codes rather than broader password management
deskOTP fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update