FIDO2 and Passkeys are both passwordless authentication technologies based on public-key cryptography. However, they differ in where credentials are stored and how they’re used.
| Feature | FIDO2 Security Key | Passkey (platform-bound/cloud-bound) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Physical hardware device (e.g., USB/NFC/Bluetooth key) | Digital credential stored on a device or in the cloud |
| Storage Location | On the secure chip inside the key | On the phone, tablet, or synced via iCloud/Google Account |
| Portability | Highly portable across all platforms | Tied to device ecosystem (Apple, Google, etc.) |
| Security Level | Very high – keys can’t be duplicated or exported | Strong, but depends on device and platform security |
| Interoperability | Works across devices, platforms, and browsers | Usually within the same ecosystem unless synced across devices |
| Backup/Redundancy | You can register multiple hardware keys | Synced across devices (if supported by the provider) |
Unlike storing passkeys only on a phone or computer, a FIDO2 Security Key provides hardware-based isolation. This means:
Your Passkeys are protected by physical presence and a PIN.
They are not stored on an OS or synced over the cloud — reducing risk of remote compromise.
You can use the same key across multiple services, browsers, and platforms.
If your phone or computer is lost or compromised, your security key still holds your credentials securely.
This makes FIDO2 security keys an excellent choice for users who value control, portability, and maximum security for their passkeys.