I have tried many different password managers, including popular modern cloud-based ones, but I always come back to KeePass.
It is true that KeePass is not as convenient at first as some cloud password managers. But after using it for a while, the workflow becomes normal, and more importantly it builds a more solid and secure habit. In a time when almost everything is moving to the cloud, I really appreciate having a strong offline option where I keep control of my own password database.
For me, the biggest positives are:
KeePass is fast and lightweight.
It works across different systems, including Windows and Linux.
The password database is easy to save, back up, export, or move wherever I want — USB drive, SD card, external drive, or cloud storage if I choose. That flexibility removes a lot of frustration compared with some cloud password managers that lock you into their own ecosystem, 2FA flow, extra passwords, or paid features.
I also like that KeePass has more functionality than I even use. The settings and plugin ecosystem give a lot of room to grow depending on what the user needs.
Another very useful thing is that entries can store more than just passwords. Notes, recovery phrases, extra login details, and other important information can all be kept in the same place. Some “free” cloud password managers make you pay for this kind of basic flexibility, which is frustrating.
The design and UI could look more modern, yes. It reminds me a little of older Windows software, maybe even Windows 2000 style. But for me that is not a real problem. The most important thing is that the app does its main job without bugs, lag, or unnecessary noise: it stores passwords safely and helps generate strong new passwords. KeePass does that extremely well.
I also really like that KeePass can work as a portable app. That is another big plus.
One feature I would love to see more directly included in the future is something like Diceware/passphrase generation built into the app by default, without needing to manually download or add a plugin. A good passphrase is one of the most important parts of protecting computer data, accounts, and email.
It would also be nice to have more built-in icon options for entries. When the database grows large, good visual icons can make it faster and easier to find what you are looking for. This is not critical, but it would be a good quality-of-life improvement.
Overall, KeePass is still my favourite password manager. Many newer password managers look more modern and colourful, but they still cannot beat this old-school, boring, solid, reliable tool for me.
I continue to recommend KeePass to customers when they ask what password manager to use, especially if they want more control and less cloud dependency.
My verdict: 5/5.
Thank you to the KeePass team. Love and respect for keeping this project alive, useful, and regularly updated.