Paying every month for something you use every day can feel fair. Paying every month forever for something that runs on your own device can feel less so. Here is how the choice really works.
Why most password managers charge monthly
Many password managers run servers that store and sync your vault, and servers cost money every month. A subscription matches that cost. An app that syncs through storage you already have, such as your own iCloud, has no such server cost, which makes a one-time price possible.
What to check before paying once
- Who holds your data? If the company stores your vault, a one-time price has to fund those servers indefinitely.
- Which devices are covered? One purchase should cover every device you use.
- Can you get your data out? Look for an encrypted export and a plain export, so you are never locked in.
How Zen Passwords prices it
Zen Passwords is free for up to 5 items. Premium unlocks unlimited items, breach checks and Archive, and you can pay $2.99 a month, $24.99 a year, or $69.99 once for Lifetime. Every plan covers iPhone, iPad and Mac. See pricing for the details.
For a closer look at the trade-off, read lifetime vs subscription.
Questions
How much is Zen Passwords Lifetime?
$69.99 once, in US dollars. The App Store shows the price in your currency before you pay.
Is there a free version?
Yes. The free plan keeps up to 5 items, with Face ID, Touch ID and password health.