Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

YubiKey VS YubiKey NEO

Compare YubiKey VS YubiKey NEO and see what are their differences

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YubiKey logo YubiKey

The YubiKey is a one-time password device for secure login with two-factor authentication

YubiKey NEO logo YubiKey NEO

Hardware-based authentication
  • YubiKey Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-14
  • YubiKey NEO Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-07

YubiKey features and specs

  • Enhanced Security
    YubiKey provides an extra layer of security through two-factor authentication, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
  • Phishing Protection
    It protects against phishing attempts because authentication requires physical possession of the device, making it difficult for attackers to steal credentials just via online manipulation.
  • Ease of Use
    The YubiKey is easy to use, requiring simple insertion into a USB port or a tap via NFC to authenticate, which simplifies the process compared to traditional methods.
  • Compatibility
    YubiKeys are compatible with a wide range of services and platforms, including Google, Microsoft, and many others, which makes them versatile across different ecosystems.
  • Durability
    Built to be durable and waterproof, a YubiKey can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a long-lasting security solution.

Possible disadvantages of YubiKey

  • Cost
    YubiKeys can be expensive compared to software-based authentication solutions, potentially making them less accessible for some users.
  • Reliance on Physical Device
    Since authentication depends on the physical key, losing it or having it fail could lock users out of their accounts, which necessitates a backup plan.
  • Initial Setup Complexity
    Setting up and configuring a YubiKey can be initially complex, especially for non-technical users, poses a barrier to adoption.
  • Limited Recovery Options
    In the event of losing the YubiKey, recovering access to accounts can be challenging without pre-established backup authentication methods.
  • Compatibility Limitations
    Although compatible with many services, there can still be limitations with certain applications or systems that do not support hardware keys, requiring alternate methods.

YubiKey NEO features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    The YubiKey NEO is designed to be user-friendly with a simple tap-and-go mechanism, especially for NFC-enabled devices, reducing the complexity of authentication.
  • Strong Security
    Provides strong hardware-based Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), which is more secure than software 2FA methods like SMS or time-based one-time passwords (TOTP).
  • Multi-Protocol Support
    Supports multiple authentication protocols such as FIDO U2F, OTP, and Smart Card, making it versatile for different security needs and applications.
  • Durable Build
    Constructed with durability in mind, making it resistant to physical damage and suitable for everyday use.
  • Portable
    Compact size and keychain-compatible design make it easy to carry around and use across multiple devices.

Possible disadvantages of YubiKey NEO

  • NFC Compatibility Limitations
    Not all devices support NFC, which can limit the YubiKey NEO's functionality with certain smartphones or computers.
  • Cost
    Higher initial investment compared to other software-based 2FA solutions, which might not be justified for casual users.
  • Learning Curve
    Some users may find the initial setup and understanding of its multiple functions and protocols challenging.
  • Loss or Theft Risk
    As a physical device, there is a risk of losing it or having it stolen, which will require a backup authentication method.

YubiKey videos

Yubico Yubikey 5 - Setup, Demo and Full Review

More videos:

  • Tutorial - [Explained] Yubikey 5.0 - How to use a Yubikey & LastPass to Secure all your online Accounts!
  • Review - Yubikey 2FA hardware key Review
  • Tutorial - You Should Be Using Yubikeys!

YubiKey NEO videos

Yubikey NEO Review - 2FA USB + NFC Security Key

More videos:

  • Review - YubiKey Neo and Fido Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to YubiKey and YubiKey NEO)
Identity And Access Management
Two Factor Authentication
Authentication
100 100%
0% 0
Crypto
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare YubiKey and YubiKey NEO

YubiKey Reviews

Top 6 Google Authenticator Alternatives in 2023
Yubico Security Key: Best for a physical security keyYubico security keys are available in different models and configurations, each with varying prices. The pricing depends on factors such as the model, connectivity (USB-A, USB-C, NFC, etc.), and features of the 2FA aupport FIDO2 and U2F support Multi-protocol support Physical security

YubiKey NEO Reviews

We have no reviews of YubiKey NEO yet.
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, YubiKey seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 10 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

YubiKey mentions (10)

  • Regarding Yubikey
    People refer to blue keys as 'old' but yubico.com is clear...Security Key Series has been updated to black in 2023 with the same features as the Security Key Series in blue. Blue keys only available through partner sites. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Can't log in on mobile – Yubikey 5C NFC
    Sorry if this has been asked a lot already - I've tried searching yubico.com and this subreddit, but I haven't found a fix for it. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Why passkeys from Apple, Google, Microsoft may soon replace your passwords
    And this is what passkeys fix. So instead you get your parents a set of yubi-keys for their access to 1-pass. * Whenever they are using a known machine (their laptop, phone, etc.) an biometric+device security is used, that's your 2FA. * When in rare machines, or doing things that are probably not ideal (like trying to load and read account information stored in the password manager) they'd have to pull up... Source: over 2 years ago
  • First Yubikey lasted almost 10 years, here’s hoping for another 10!
    You know how sites ask you to use 2FA by texting you a code and having you put it in? It lets you do that by pressing the gold button on the front. It's better than using phone multifactor authentication, because it's possible for hackers to either trick you into giving them 2FA codes (There's a video on the front page of yubico.com right now explaining how that can happen), or to manipulate your phone carrier... Source: over 2 years ago
  • Google Authenticator
    Not a solution to your exact problem, but since you're already in this pickle, I recommend getting a couple security keys (Yubikeys directly from yubico.com). You can then use Yubico's authentication app + security key which works with any service requiring an authetication app (including CDC - this is what I use). It's much easier to restore and a lot more secure. Source: over 2 years ago
View more

YubiKey NEO mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of YubiKey NEO yet. Tracking of YubiKey NEO recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing YubiKey and YubiKey NEO, you can also consider the following products

Microsoft Authenticator - One app to quickly and securely verify your identity online, for all of your accounts.

Enjin Wallet - Safe, fast & feature-packed crypto collectible wallet.

Google Authenticator - Google Authenticator is a multifactor app for mobile devices.

SoloKeys - Secure login made open and easy 🔒

Authy - Best rated Two-Factor Authentication smartphone app for consumers, simplest 2fa Rest API for developers and a strong authentication platform for the enterprise.

Nitrokey - Email Encryption. Encrypt your emails with GnuPG, OpenPGP, S/MIME or your favourite email client.