Security Key Series by Yubico review
Affordable USB and NFC security keys for passwordless and multi-factor authentication.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Security Key Series by Yubico is a family of hardware security keys for passwordless, two-factor, and multi-factor authentication. It suits individuals, organizations, and enterprises that want public-key authentication through USB or NFC rather than relying only on passwords. The series supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, with USB-A/NFC and USB-C/NFC models available. Its hardware-based approach uses FIDO2/WebAuthn and FIDO U2F authentication, while the keys require no battery or network connection.
Pricing is straightforward: Security Key NFC by Yubico costs $29 one time and includes FIDO-only authentication, USB-A, NFC, and Firmware 5.8. Security Key C NFC by Yubico also costs $29 one time and provides FIDO-only authentication, USB-C, NFC, and Firmware 5.8. The main buying decision is the connector: USB-A fits older ports, while USB-C suits newer devices. Both models add NFC tap-and-go authentication for compatible mobile and desktop workflows. Enterprise editions add serial-number tracking for asset management and are offered through YubiKey as a Service.
The series fits a broad authentication ecosystem, including Google, Microsoft, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Dashlane, Keeper, GitHub, Dropbox, Facebook, Twitter, and Yubico Authenticator. IP68 water and dust resistance adds physical durability, but the product remains focused on FIDO authentication rather than biometric unlocking or broader device-management features; device management is handled through a vendor app. Choose Security Key Series by Yubico for affordable, standards-based coverage across major platforms and services. Buyers seeking biometric access or a broader authentication feature set should consider an alternative.
Security Key Series by Yubico pros and cons
- Where it wins
- FIDO2/WebAuthn and FIDO U2F authentication
- USB-A, USB-C, and NFC support across five platforms
- $29 one-time pricing with no battery or network connection required
- Where it doesn't
- FIDO-only designs do not provide biometric unlocking
- No free plan or subscription option
- USB-A and USB-C require choosing the right connector variant
Security Key Series by Yubico 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