FactorCat vs Authy
Authy shut down its desktop app and trust has eroded. Here's how FactorCat compares — and how to migrate.
What happened to Authy
Authy discontinued its desktop app in January 2024, forcing all users to their mobile app. For users who relied on the desktop experience — especially developers managing dozens of tokens — this was a breaking change. On top of that, Authy's parent company Twilio disclosed a data breach affecting Authy user phone numbers, further eroding trust.
If you're looking for an Authy alternative, here's how FactorCat compares.
Side-by-side comparison
| FactorCat | Authy | |
|---|---|---|
| Browser auto-fill | Yes — push approve + auto-fill | No |
| Desktop app | Browser extension (always available) | Discontinued |
| Push notifications | Yes — tap to approve, code fills in | No |
| Zero-trust mode | Locked Vault (user-held keys, free) | No |
| Multi-device sync | Free for all users | Free |
| Encrypted backups | Cloud Vault (managed) or Locked Vault (zero-trust) | Cloud backup (Twilio-managed) |
| Token sharing | Yes — share-to-invite + anonymous links (Supporter+) | No |
| Open source | Extension will be open source | No |
| Price | Free (50 factors) / Pro $24/yr | Free |
Where Authy is still fine
Authy's mobile app works. If you have a handful of tokens, don't use a desktop, and don't mind Twilio holding your keys, Authy is functional. Not everyone needs to switch.
Where FactorCat is better
- Browser integration. Authy never had it. FactorCat's extension detects MFA fields and fills codes automatically — no app-switching needed.
- Desktop isn't going away. FactorCat uses a browser extension, not a standalone desktop app. Browser extensions ship with the browser — they can't be discontinued the way Authy's desktop app was.
- Zero-trust option. FactorCat's Locked Vault means your secrets are encrypted with a key only you hold. Authy's encryption is managed by Twilio — you're trusting them with your keys.
- Token sharing. Share a factor with a teammate or family member. Authy has no sharing mechanism.
Migrating from Authy
A migration guide will be available at launch. The process involves exporting your tokens from Authy and importing them into FactorCat. For services where export isn't possible, you'll re-scan the QR code from each service's 2FA settings — FactorCat walks you through it step by step.
Ready to switch?
Get FactorCat free — available on iOS, Android, Chrome, and the web.