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Google Authenticator

Free#2 of 111 in Authenticator Apps

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.

9.2/10Editor score
Google Authenticator9.2 Visit site

At a glance

  • Editor score
    9.2 / 10
  • Pricing
    Free plan
  • Best for
    Users wanting a simple, established free option
  • Free plan
    Yes
  • Paid from
    Free
  • Facts checked
    21 Sep 2026
Google Authenticator screenshot
  • 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

Plans Free planFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.
See plans on support.google.com

Google Authenticator fact sheet

Free planYes
Paid fromFree
Code typeTotp and hotp
Push approvalsNot verified
Encrypted backupYes
Multi-device syncYes
Team administrationNot verified
Supported platformsAndroid, iOS
DeploymentMobile
PlatformsAndroid, iOS
SupportEmail, Docs
Built forSolo, Small business (editorial estimate)
PricingFree plan
Websitesupport.google.com
Facts checked21 Sep 2026

Alternatives to Google Authenticator

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Google Authenticator vs the competition

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Featured on iTechGuides

Featured on iTechGuides — Google Authenticator 9.2/10

Google Authenticator is listed in our Authenticator Apps directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

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