Authy is a free two-factor authentication app from Twilio that stores TOTP tokens in encrypted cloud backups — making them recoverable if you lose your phone. Unlike Google Authenticator, Authy syncs across multiple devices (phone, tablet, desktop) and supports fingerprint/PIN lock. It's widely recommended as a more reliable alternative to basic authenticator apps.
Two-factor authentication app with cloud backup.
Best for: Users who want two-factor authentication with cloud backup and multi-device sync for account recovery.
- Free plan
4.6/5 ratingEditorial score 90/100authy.com
The editorial note
What to know about Authy
Is it right for you?
Who Authy suits
Choose it if
- Users who want two-factor authentication with cloud backup and multi-device sync for account recovery.
Look elsewhere if
- High-security users who prefer no cloud storage — Aegis (Android, open source) or YubiKey hardware keys are better for zero-trust 2FA
What you get
Key features
- TOTP code generation
- Encrypted cloud backup and recovery
- Multi-device sync
- Biometric and PIN protection
- Offline code generation
- Push authentication for supported services
- Account lock on suspicious access
- Supports 1000s of apps and services
Works with
Integrations8
What it costs
Pricing
| Plan | Price | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | FreeBilled monthly | Free 2FA app — unlimited tokens, multi-device sync, encrypted backups |
Prices are recorded from the vendor's public pricing page and can change. Check before you buy.
The trade-off
Pros and cons
Pros
- Encrypted cloud backup — never lose access to 2FA accounts
- Multi-device sync across phone, tablet, and desktop
- Biometric and PIN lock for extra security
- Works offline — generates codes without internet
- Free to use with no premium tier
Cons
- Cloud backup introduces a security tradeoff — tokens stored on Twilio servers
- Closed-source — cannot be independently audited
- Twilio discontinued the desktop app in 2024
- Less control than hardware keys (YubiKey) for high-security use cases
Quick read
At a glance
- Category
- Cybersecurity & Privacy
- Pricing model
- Free
- Entry plan
- Free
- Free plan
- Available
- Free trial
- Not listed
- Website
- authy.com
The verdict
Our take on Authy
The most practical 2FA app — cloud backup solving the lost-phone lockout problem makes it significantly better than Google Authenticator.
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