Passkey vs. Password: What’s the Difference?

Last updated on July 16, 2025

Passkeys and passwords are two authentication methods that are sometimes confused with each other. Knowing the differences between passkeys vs. passwords is crucial for ensuring top security posture for both individuals and organizations. This article will help you discover the key distinctions between passkeys and passwords.

Passkey vs. Password: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between passkeys and passwords is that passwords are user-created strings of characters used for authentication, whereas passkeys are hardware- or software-bound cryptographic key pairs that provide a higher level of security without the need to remember complex strings.

But there’s more to it than just that.

Below is a table that enumerates the most important differences between passkeys and passwords.

Password	Passkey
A user-created string of characters (letters, numbers, symbols) based on a shared secret between the user and the server.	A public-private cryptographic key pair used for authentication, of which only the public key is sent to the server, whereas the private key remains on the user’s device.
Generated by humans or password managers.	Generated by secure public key cryptography.
A password requires manual entry, which can be time-consuming.	A passkey logins are faster; no typing required.
Passwords are vulnerable to hacking methods like brute-force attacks, phishing, and keylogging.	Passkeys are resistant to phishing, man-in-the-middle, brute-force, keylogging, replay, and credential-stuffing attacks.
Users must remember or store multiple passwords for different accounts.	Passkeys eliminate password fatigue; no need to remember anything.
Password can be easily observed through shoulder surfing.	Shoulder surfing is impossible with passkeys; nothing is displayed that can be copied.
Websites store passwords or password hashes, which can be exposed if databases are compromised.	With passkeys, only the public key is stored on websites; private keys remain secure on the user’s device.
Stealing a password is enough for unauthorized access.	Hackers need both the passkey and access to the physical device; biometric security can add another security layer.
Passwords are susceptible to being shared or leaked intentionally or unintentionally.	Passkeys are difficult to leak due to their cryptographic nature and device-specific binding.
Passwords are widely used and supported across most platforms and services.	Passkeys are an emerging technology; may not be supported everywhere.
User experience can be cumbersome due to complex password requirements.	Passkey provides a seamless and quick user experience.

Advantages of Passkeys Over Passwords

Here are the reasons why passkeys can be a better choice than passwords:

• Faster Login: No need to type anything, making the login process quicker.
• Effortless Security: Passkeys are inherently strong, eliminating the need for manual creation or concerns about the length and randomness of your private key.
• Protection Against Keyloggers: Typing is eliminated, reducing the risk of keylogging attacks.
• Eliminates Shoulder Surfing: Nothing is displayed that can be copied, enhancing security.
• No Password Fatigue: Users don’t have to remember multiple complex passwords.
• Cannot be stolen in a data breach: Websites store only the public key, which is useless without the corresponding private key; the private key remains secure on your device.
• Reduced Risk of Unauthorized Access: Hackers need both the passkey and your device; biometric security adds another layer.
• Phishing Resistance: Passkeys are resistant to phishing attacks.
• Cloud Syncing: Software-bound passkeys can sync across devices using cloud services like Apple, Google, Bitwarden, and 1Password.
• Proximity Requirement: Attacks like brute-forcing and phishing are less effective because passkeys require proximity.

Advantages of Passwords Over Passkeys

Here’s why passwords can still be a viable option:

• User Familiarity: Most users are accustomed to creating and using passwords.
• Universal Support: Passwords are supported by virtually all platforms and services.
• Ease of Implementation: No need for additional hardware or software.
• Low Cost: Does not require investment in new technology or devices.
• Flexibility: Can be used across multiple devices without compatibility issues.

Get Passkey- and Password-Compatible Phishing-Resistant MFA Today

Whether you want to use multi-factor authentication with passwords, passkeys, or both, Rublon MFA is a good choice for improving your security posture. With support for FIDO security keys and a multitude of other authentication methods like Mobile Push and SMS Link, Rublon is the perfect choice for any business looking to ensure regulatory compliance and up their cybersecurity game.

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