Keybase review
A free, open-source choice for encrypted personal and team file exchange.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Keybase combines encrypted file storage, secure messaging, identity management, and team collaboration in one open-source application. It suits individuals and teams that need private file exchange without a subscription, especially when encrypted team folders, role-based permissions, and communication tools matter. Files can be stored in private, public, or team folders, while access is managed through Keybase identities and device keys.
Keybase is free for everyone, with a 250 GB individual storage limit and a 100 GB team storage limit. The same service is available through the web, macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android. Desktop users also get Finder and Windows Explorer integration, while offline folder synchronization supports access across supported devices. The platform covers file sharing with Keybase users, encrypted team chat, and Git collaboration, but it does not provide third-party integrations. That makes it a focused ecosystem for secure exchange rather than a broadly connected cloud storage hub.
Its strongest differentiator is the combination of end-to-end encrypted storage, cryptographic file signing, team folders, and built-in collaboration features. Teams can manage members, files, and subteams through role-based permissions, while private files remain tied to Keybase identities and device keys. The main trade-off is recovery: the historical file recovery window is two weeks, which may be short for teams needing longer retention. Choose Keybase for free encrypted sharing and focused team collaboration; consider another cloud storage service if broad integrations or longer recovery history are essential.
Keybase pros and cons
- Where it wins
- End-to-end encryption with cryptographically signed files
- Team folders include roles, permissions, chat, and Git collaboration
- Supports web, desktop, and mobile platforms
- Where it doesn't
- No third-party integrations
- Historical file recovery lasts two weeks
- Team storage is limited to 100 GB
Keybase 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