LastPass vs Dashlane: Which Password Manager Wins in 2025?

I know how important it is to keep your online accounts secure. When it comes to LastPass vs Dashlane, I’ve found both tools offer great features, but they do have some key differences. After trying both, I noticed that while they share many similarities, each has its strengths—whether it’s ease of use, security features, or pricing. If you’re like me and value simplicity but also need extra layers of protection, understanding these differences is crucial.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both LastPass and Dashlane, from their user interfaces to their advanced security features. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which password manager is the best fit for your needs.

What is a Password Manager?

A password manager is a tool that keeps your passwords and other sensitive information, like credit card details, safe. Instead of trying to remember all your passwords, a password manager stores them in one secure place. It makes accessing your accounts easier and allows you to create strong, unique passwords for every site, reducing the risk of someone guessing or hacking into your accounts.

With a password manager, you don’t have to stress about remembering all the details, and you can be more confident that your information stays secure.

Read Also: Best Password Managers for Small Business 

LastPass vs Dashlane Comparison 2025

Let’s start with a brief overview of both LastPass and Dashlane.

LastPass:

• Founded: LastPass was indeed founded in 2008.
• Popularity: It has grown to become one of the most popular password managers, widely recognized for its free and paid plans.
• Free and Paid Plans: Yes, LastPass offers both free and premium plans.
• Platforms: LastPass is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, as well as browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and others.

Dashlane:

• Founded: Dashlane was founded in 2012, making the information accurate.
• Popularity: Dashlane is also a widely known password manager.
• Free and Paid Plans: Dashlane offers a free plan (with some limitations) and premium plans.
• Platforms: Dashlane works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and also has browser extensions.
• Design and Features: Dashlane is known for its sleek design and includes advanced security features like VPN and dark web monitoring in its premium versions.

Features Comparison

To features, both LastPass and Dashlane have a lot to offer. Let’s start:

User Interface & Ease of Use

Let’s be honest – nobody wants a password manager that’s hard to use. The goal is convenience.

• LastPass has a clean, simple interface, but some users find it a little cluttered at times, especially on the mobile app.
• Dashlane, on the other hand, offers a more polished design with a smoother experience. The app is easier to navigate, especially if you’re a beginner. I’ve personally used both, and I found Dashlane to be a bit more user-friendly for someone new to password managers.

Dashlane – For its more intuitive and user-friendly design.

Security Features

When it comes to password managers, security is key. After all, you’re trusting these tools to store your sensitive data.

• LastPass uses strong AES-256-bit encryption to protect your data. It also offers multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security.
• Dashlane also uses AES-256-bit encryption and MFA. Additionally, Dashlane offers a dark web monitoring tool in its premium version, which scans the internet to see if your personal information has been compromised.

Both services offer similar basic security features, but Dashlane goes a step further with its VPN (Virtual Private Network) and dark web monitoring.

Dashlane – For its extra security features like the VPN and dark web monitoring.

Password Sharing and Emergency Access

Both LastPass and Dashlane allow you to share passwords securely. This is useful for families or teams where everyone needs access to certain accounts.

• LastPass allows you to share passwords with others securely, and if you’re in an emergency, you can grant someone access to your vault without sharing your master password.
• Dashlane offers similar features, but it takes it a step further with Emergency Access, where a trusted person can request access to your account if something happens to you.

Dashlane – For its more robust emergency access options.

Plans and Pricing

Both LastPass and Dashlane offer free and premium plans. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing:

LastPass: The free plan offers basic password management, but you’ll need to upgrade to the Premium plan for features like dark web monitoring, emergency access, and more.

• Premium Plan: $3/month
• Family Plan: $4/month (for up to 6 members)

Dashlane: Dashlane’s free plan allows you to store passwords on one device only. To unlock features like unlimited storage, VPN, and dark web monitoring, you’ll need to upgrade to their Premium plan.

• Premium Plan: $6.49/month
• Family Plan: $8.99/month (for up to 6 members)

LastPass – Its pricing is more affordable, especially if you just need basic features.

Password Sharing & Collaboration

If you need to share passwords with family, friends, or coworkers, both services can handle it. However, Dashlane has a small advantage here:

• With LastPass, sharing passwords is straightforward, but the free version limits the number of devices you can use it on.
• Dashlane allows password sharing across more devices in its paid plan and also offers collaboration tools that are great for businesses.

Dashlane – For its more comprehensive sharing and collaboration features.

Mobile Apps

Both LastPass and Dashlane offer apps for iOS and Android. However, Dashlane’s mobile app is more intuitive and offers more features, including the VPN for browsing securely.

Dashlane – Its mobile app is sleek and has more useful features like VPN.

Customer Support

Good customer support can make or break your experience with a password manager. Here’s how both stack up:

• LastPass offers email and chat support, but only Premium users get priority support.
• Dashlane offers email, chat, and phone support for Premium users, which means you can reach someone faster if there’s an issue.

Dashlane – For its more responsive support options, including phone support.

VPN Feature

• LastPass doesn’t offer a VPN.
• Dashlane includes a VPN in its Premium plan, which is especially helpful if you want to securely browse the internet while using public Wi-Fi or when travelling.

Dashlane – For the added VPN service.

LastPass vs Dashlane: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between LastPass and Dashlane ultimately depends on what you need from a password manager. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:

• Choose LastPass if you’re looking for a more affordable option with good basic features. It’s great for individuals or families who don’t need advanced features like a VPN.
• Choose Dashlane if you want a premium experience with extra security features like dark web monitoring, VPN, and priority customer support. It’s a good option if you’re willing to pay a bit more for added convenience and safety.

I switched from LastPass to Dashlane a few months ago, and I must say, the difference is noticeable. Dashlane’s user interface is more polished, and the added features like VPN have made me feel more secure when browsing. Plus, I love the emergency access feature—it gives me peace of mind knowing my family can access my account if something ever happens to me.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: LastPass or Dashlane?

Both LastPass and Dashlane are excellent, but they cater to different needs. LastPass is more budget-friendly with strong basic features, while Dashlane offers extra security features like a VPN and dark web monitoring for those seeking added protection.

Is LastPass free to use?

Yes, LastPass has a free plan that provides basic password management and syncing across multiple devices. To access additional features like dark web monitoring and premium support, you’ll need the Premium plan.

Does Dashlane have a free plan?

Yes, Dashlane offers a free plan, but it limits you to storing passwords on one device. To sync across multiple devices and access additional features, you’ll need to upgrade to the Premium plan.

Are LastPass and Dashlane safe to use?

Both LastPass and Dashlane are highly secure, using AES-256-bit encryption and offering two-factor authentication. Dashlane stands out with additional features like dark web monitoring and a VPN for extra security.

Can I share passwords with LastPass or Dashlane?

Yes, both let you share passwords. LastPass allows sharing with Premium plans, while Dashlane offers password sharing and emergency access for trusted contacts.

Conclusion

Both LastPass and Dashlane are excellent password managers, but they offer slightly different experiences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with the basics covered, LastPass is a great choice. However, if you want additional security features and a more user-friendly experience, Dashlane is worth the investment.

Which one will you choose? Let me know your thoughts!