Solo 2 review
A flexible open-source security key with USB-A, USB-C and NFC options.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Solo 2 is an open-source hardware security key from SoloKeys for individuals, developers, security professionals and enterprise teams. It protects accounts with FIDO2, WebAuthn and U2F authentication, while also supporting passkeys, passwordless login and phishing-resistant two-factor authentication. A capacitive touch sensor confirms authentication, and a PIN can be configured. Basic use requires no drivers, and credentials and passkeys remain on the physical key rather than being backed up to the cloud. The key supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android.
The Solo 2 family offers four one-time purchase options. Solo 2C Security Key costs $34 and has a USB-C connector with no NFC. Solo 2 USB-A Security Key costs $35 and provides a USB-A connector with no NFC. Solo 2C+ NFC Security Key and Solo 2A+ NFC Security Key each cost $46, pairing NFC support with USB-C and USB-A connectors respectively. The NFC models are separately sold as Solo 2+ variants, so buyers should select the connector and contactless capability that match their devices. There is no free plan or recurring subscription described for these hardware options.
Its standout distinction is the combination of open-source hardware and firmware with physical passkey storage. Firmware updates, PIV configuration and OpenPGP configuration are handled through solo2-cli, giving technically inclined users additional control beyond FIDO2 and U2F authentication. The trade-off is a narrow device-management profile: no device management is included, and NFC is limited to the two $46 variants. Solo 2 suits buyers who value open-source design, multiple authentication standards and NFC choices. Buyers seeking centralized device management or a USB-only key can look to the variant that matches their needs, while those who do not need these security-key features may prefer a simpler login option.
Solo 2 pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports FIDO2, WebAuthn, U2F, passkeys and passwordless login
- USB-A, USB-C and NFC variants cover varied device setups
- Open-source hardware and firmware with PIV and OpenPGP configuration
- Where it doesn't
- Standard USB-only variants do not support NFC
- Device management is not included
- PIV and OpenPGP configuration requires solo2-cli
Solo 2 fact sheet, pricing and score →
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