google-authenticator-vs-twilio-authy

Authy and Google Authenticator are two-factor authentication (2FA) systems with similar functionality. Both tools generate one-time passwords on approved devices to authenticate users logging in to third-party applications. Authy distinguishes itself with simultaneous support for multiple authentication devices and cloud backup options. Google Authenticator, on the other hand, is simple to set up and use for administrators and integrates natively with other Google products. Both tools are used by businesses of all sizes, although mid-sized companies form the majority of their user bases.

Features 

Although Authy and Google Authenticator perform very similar functions, they each have unique benefits.

Authy sets itself apart by offering advanced device management options. Users can have a single Authy account active on multiple devices at the same time, meaning they aren’t restricted to a single device for 2FA verification. This is a welcome option to users who lose a device or need to switch to a new one, making the migration or account recovery process much easier. Authy also offers cloud backups of 2FA tokens, allowing users to recover them with a single memorized password. Users also report that Authy’s interface for managing passwords for multiple applications is intuitive and easy to use. 

Google Authenticator benefits from its built-in integration with other Google products and services, and is a common choice for organizations using or planning to use the Google ecosystem. The tool is also compatible with a wide variety of third-party applications. Administrators report that Google Authenticator is easy to implement and lightweight for end-users, with a streamlined, minimalistic user console. Finally, Google Authenticator is free to use, both for end-users and developers.

Limitations

Although both Authy and Google Authenticator offer effective 2FA protections, they each have limitations that are important to consider before implementing either tool.

Many users report that Authy is not easy to implement. Reviewers criticize the Windows installer specifically, suggesting that initial setup can be a complicated process. As a standalone product, Authy doesn’t have the native Google integration offered by Google Authenticator. Also, some Authy features and scaling options are not offered in the free tier, requiring a monthly or per-use payment for authentication services. 

Google Authenticator, by contrast, does not offer the same level of multi-device support as Authy. Users transferring to new devices often have trouble migrating authentication permissions, and may require technical support. Businesses using Google Authenticator should prepare for technical difficulties when employees get new devices, especially if many employees are upgrading at once. Also, although Google Authenticator works with many different applications, its support isn’t universal, and some users report difficulty determining if a specific app or website supports the tool. 

Pricing

Authy is free for end-users to download and use. For developers, Authy offers a free Starter package with unlimited users and free support, but per-month authentications are capped at 100. The Pay-as-you-go plan charges $0.09 per authentication, supports unlimited monthly authentications, and adds SMS/voice authentication options. The Enterprise plan requires at least 10,000 authentications per month and is priced by  quote from the vendor. 

Google Authenticator is free to download and use for both end-users and developers.