Protected by a single master password, LastPass and 1Password offer to remember all of your passwords, or else generate complicated passwords on your behalf. Now they'll automatically log you into services such as Google, Hotmail, Facebook and Twitter. You can also auto-complete forms and create secure notes.

Both password management services are easy to use and little separates them in terms of functionality. Mac users will find 1Password more elegant, although LastPass is more convenient because you can manage it from a browser plug-in without ever installing desktop software.

The primary difference between them is that 1Password stores your passwords on your devices, while LastPass stores them online. LastPass encrypts data before it leaves your devices, including your master password. If you're still concerned about security, LastPass offers optional two-factor authentication. This demands a secondary security code when you try to log in from a new device for the first time.

LastPass' cloud-based design makes it more versatile than 1Password. Both services support Mac, Windows, iOS and Android, but LastPass also adds Linux, BlackBerry, Windows Phone 7 and Microsoft Surface RT.

Cross-platform users will be frustrated that 1Password expects you to pay separately for Windows, Mac and iOS access, though the basic Android app is free at this point. Your Mac and iOS 1Password databases can sync via iTunes or Wi-Fi, otherwise you are reliant on iCloud or Dropbox. LastPass doesn't need to sync data between devices, just to the cloud, but you need a premium subscription to use most of the LastPass mobile apps.

The verdict

It's hard to go past the free LastPass service unless you're determined not to store passwords in the cloud. Of course even 1Password users will end up storing their passwords online if they're syncing between devices via iCloud or Dropbox.

LastPass

Basic free, premium $US12 per year

lastpass.com

1Password

From $US24.99

agilebits.com/onepassword‎