They serve the same core purpose, but some key differences are worth considering before deciding which to use.
Afterward, you should be able to decide the best option for you.
Authentication Methods
Microsoft Authenticator offers youdifferent ways to authenticate.
Nick Lewis / How-To Geek
Google Authenticator, on the other hand, sticks exclusively to the 30-second time-based or counter-based codes.
Additional Features
Beyond just churning out login codes, Microsoft Authenticator offers some other handy capabilities.
It has a password manager that securely stashes away your login credentials for various apps and websites.
Nick Lewis / How-To Geek
It can also secure your payment cards and shipping addresses to help speed up online checkouts.
In contrast, Google Authenticator keeps things simple, and just focuses on generating 6-digit authentication codesno fancy extras.
You must officially register the Authenticator app with your IT department for work or school Microsoft accounts.
But logging in is not needed for third parties like Facebook.
Google Authenticator backs up to your Google account.
Google Authenticator also has a neat option to transfer your accounts between phones.
This throw in of information is logged to enhance performance but potentially impacts your privacy.
However, you might toggle usage data off in the app’s controls.
Meanwhile, Google Authenticator does not collect or share any personal data from the app.
So, if you’re skeptical about data sharing, Google Authenticator has you covered out of the box.
This prevents anyone from opening the app and accessing your codes if your phone is lost or stolen.
Plus, you’re free to disable screenshots within the Microsoft authenticator app.
There isn’t an app lock or hide code option.
Google’s app doesn’t have thatyou have to scroll through to find the account you want.
Microsoft also lets you reorder your accounts in whatever way makes sense to you.
You’d think either would call theirs “[Google or Microsoft] Authenticator,” but no.
So, Which Authenticator App Is Right for You?
Microsoft Authenticator will probably be better if you live and breathe in the Microsoft ecosystem.
It’s a no-fuss authenticator app that gets the 2FA job done.
The barebones approach may also appeal to you if you are a minimalist who values simplicity.
