Google Authenticator
Google Authenticator: A free, straightforward authenticator with offline codes, sync, and QR transfers. Ranked #2 of 111 in Authenticator Apps by our editors (9.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting a simple, established free option.
At a glance
- Editor score9.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting a simple, established free option
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Generates TOTP and HOTP codes without internet or cellular access
- Encrypted synchronization across devices with Google Account support
- QR-code setup and transfers simplify account migration
Where it doesn't
- Works only with websites and apps that support authenticator codes
- Requires device authentication to use Privacy Screen protection
- QR transfers require access to both the source and destination devices
Our verdict on Google Authenticator
Google Authenticator is a free mobile app for generating one-time verification codes for websites and apps that support authenticator-based two-step verification. It supports time-based and counter-based codes, works offline, and is available on Android, iPhone, and iPad. The app suits individuals who want a focused authenticator rather than a broader identity or account-management tool. Multiple accounts can be stored, searched, and organized in the app.
The Free plan includes code generation, synchronization across devices, and QR-code account transfer. Synchronization lets users access authenticator codes across devices, while manual QR transfers provide another way to move accounts between devices. Codes are encrypted in transit and at rest. Account setup can be completed with QR codes, which fits services that provide authenticator-based two-step verification during security setup. The app also includes Privacy Screen, which uses device authentication to protect access to stored codes.
Google Authenticator is a strong choice for users who want a simple, established free option across Android and Apple mobile devices. Offline code generation is useful when an internet or cellular connection is unavailable, and support for both TOTP and HOTP covers the code types listed for the app. It is less suitable for organizations seeking team administration, or for users who expect push approvals instead of manually entering verification codes. Choose it when straightforward code generation, encrypted synchronization, and QR-based transfers are the priorities.
Your product? Our editors can test Google Authenticator in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Google Authenticator pricing
Google Authenticator fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Code type | Totp and hotp |
| Push approvals | Not verified |
| Encrypted backup | Yes |
| Multi-device sync | Yes |
| Team administration | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Android, iOS |
| Deployment | Mobile |
| Platforms | Android, iOS |
| Support | Email, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | support.google.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Google Authenticator
- Proton AuthenticatorA mature free option for secure 2FA codes across mobile and desktop platforms.9.4
- AuthyA focused free authenticator for mobile users who need synced TOTP tokens.9.1
- Microsoft AuthenticatorA focused free authenticator for Microsoft accounts and compatible third-party services.9.0
See all Google Authenticator alternatives →
Google Authenticator vs the competition
- Google Authenticator vs Proton Authenticator
- Google Authenticator vs Authy
- Google Authenticator vs Microsoft Authenticator
- Google Authenticator vs Duo Mobile
- Google Authenticator vs Yubico Authenticator
- Google Authenticator vs Zoho OneAuth
Compare Google Authenticator with any tool side by side →
Used Google Authenticator? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used Google Authenticator for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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