With cyber threats such as phishing, data breaches and identity theft on the rise, relying on passwords alone is no longer sufficient. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) has become essential to protect sensitive information and hardware security keys are one of the most secure MFA methods available.

Hardware security keys provide an extra layer of protection by authenticating your identity through a secure, cryptographic process. Unlike traditional 2FA methods like SMS codes, hardware security keys are resistant to phishing attacks, offering a more reliable and seamless authentication experience across various devices and platforms.

In this blog, we answer the key questions you might have when choosing the right hardware security key for 2025:

1. Which is the best security key for beginners looking for an affordable and easy-to-use option?

2. Which is the best security key for power users who need advanced features and versatility?

3. Which is the best security key for businesses looking to secure multiple employees' accounts?

4. What are the key differences between security keys with and without biometric authentication?

5. How much should I spend on a security key and which features justify the price?

6. Do I really need a backup security key to ensure my accounts stay protected?

These questions will help guide you in finding the perfect security key to keep your online accounts safe.

A hardware security key is a small, physical device that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts by requiring you to authenticate your identity during login. These keys are often about the size of a USB stick and can be plugged into your device via USB, USB-C or used wirelessly via NFC. They work by generating a cryptographic key pair - public and private keys - where the private key is stored securely on the device and used to prove your identity.

Hardware security keys are often compared to traditional keys, but instead of unlocking a door, they unlock your online accounts. Think of them as the digital equivalent of a physical key that ensures only you can access your information, even if someone else knows your password.

While hardware security keys offer one of the most secure methods of protecting your online data, there are risks involved, such as losing the key or having it stolen. In the case of theft, it’s important to remember that the key alone is not enough to access your accounts - many keys require a PIN or biometric authentication for added protection. However, if your key is lost or stolen, it’s important to act quickly.

To mitigate these risks, it's highly recommended to use backup keys. Enrolling a second key ensures that you’re never locked out of your accounts if your primary key is lost or damaged. Additionally, some services allow you to enroll other forms of MFA, like an authenticator app or backup codes, as a secondary method of authentication.

When choosing a hardware security key, make sure to pick one that’s resistant to physical tampering. Look for keys that are durable, water- and dust-resistant and designed to withstand wear and tear. This added durability ensures your key remains functional and secure, even in challenging environments.

Hardware security keys are primarily used as a second factor in two-factor authentication (2FA), meaning they are used after entering a password to authenticate your identity. This provides an additional layer of security.

However, hardware security keys can also be used as the only factor for authentication. Some of them are inherently a form of 2FA. They require possession of the hardware keyitself and require entering a PIN code (something you know) or using a biometric scan (something you are). This way they offer passwordless authentication and protection against phishing.

In general, this article is designed to help both security-conscious individuals and businesses decide whether hardware security keys are the right choice. Whether you're looking to secure your personal accounts or implement a solution for your company's employees, understanding the technologies behind hardware security keys is key to making an informed decision.

In this section, we’ll explore some of the key technologies behind hardware security keys, particularly WebAuthn and FIDO2, which power modern authentication systems. Understanding these concepts will help you grasp how hardware security keys enhance security and provide a more seamless, passwordless login experience. Let’s take a closer look at WebAuthn, which is central to the functionality of security keys.

WebAuthn (Web Authentication) is a modern, open standard developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). It allows users to authenticate securely on websites and applications using public-key cryptography, replacing traditional passwords with stronger authentication methods.

Security keys play an important role in WebAuthn by acting as the physical device that proves your identity. When you register a security key with a WebAuthn-compatible site, it stores a public key on the server while keeping the private key securely on the hardware security key. During login, the server sends a challenge to the security key, which signs it using the private key and sends it back for verification. If the challenge is correctly signed, the server grants access without needing a password.

This process significantly reduces the risk of phishing attacks, as the authentication requires a physical device (the security key) and is tied to the specific website or application. Unlike traditional password-based authentication, where stolen credentials can be used across multiple platforms, WebAuthn ensures that your credentials are only usable with the exact website they were registered with.

The WebAuthn standard is widely supported across major browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox and Edge, making it an ideal solution for passwordless authentication. By leveraging security keys, users benefit from enhanced security, better user experience and reduced reliance on passwords.

Before looking at FIDO2, it is important to understand CTAP. So, what exactly is CTAP? CTAP, or Client To Authenticator Protocol, is a protocol that facilitates communication between a security key and a client device, such as a smartphone or computer.. By utilizing CTAP, security keys can interact with the client device to perform secure authentication actions.

CTAP is a protocol that defines the interaction between a security key and the device requesting authentication. It works by sending authentication challenges from the client device to the security key. The key then signs the challenge with its private key and returns the signed response, enabling secure authentication without passwords.

CTAP enables passwordless authentication by facilitating the interaction between WebAuthn-compatible clients and hardware security keys. The protocol ensures that no password is required for login, as the authentication is based on the unique private key of the hardware security key, making it resistant to phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks.

CTAP is a critical component of the FIDO2 ecosystem because it allows hardware security keys to communicate with client devices, supporting passwordless login across platforms. This protocol ensures that devices like USB or NFC-enabled security keys can securely interact with applications, making the authentication process seamless and secure.

While WebAuthn provides the core functionality for passwordless authentication, FIDO2 takes it a step further by combining WebAuthn with CTAP. Together, they form the foundation of a fully passwordless and secure authentication system. FIDO2 allows users to leverage security keys for a more robust and flexible authentication process, ensuring that only the rightful user can access their accounts while maintaining privacy and security.

As cyber security continues to advance, the demand for stronger and more reliable authentication methods has led to the rise of hardware security keys. These physical devices are a more secure alternative to traditional methods like SMS or app-generated codes. A hardware key provides a form of multi-factor authentication (MFA) that uses cryptographic protocols to prove your identity and protect your online accounts.

The overall process of using a hardware security key involves a few essential steps, typically starting with registration and continuing through authentication and verification. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

1. Enrollment: When setting up a hardware security key, you first register it with an online service that supports hardware authentication (e.g., a website or app). This process involves plugging the key into your device (or using NFC capabilities for wireless authentication) and storing a public key on the service’s server. The private key, which is the key to authentication, remains securely stored on the hardware key itself.

2. Authentication: To log into the service, you first enter your username and password. The service then sends a cryptographic challenge to your hardware key. The key signs this challenge using its private key, which proves it is physically present and that the request is coming from the authorized user.

3. Verification: The signed challenge is sent back to the server. The server verifies it using the public key stored during registration. If the signature matches, you are granted access, and the login process is complete.

By relying on cryptographic keys, hardware security keys eliminate the need for entering passwords every time you log in, providing a smoother and more secure experience. The physical possession of the key itself is what makes this method resistant to phishing, man-in-the-middle attacks, and credential stuffing.

To understand the robustness of hardware security keys, it’s important to look into the internal cryptographic processes that make them secure. Hardware keys operate based on public-key cryptography, which involves two key components: a public key and a private key.

• Public Key: This key is stored on the server during the registration process. It's visible to everyone and is used by the server to verify the authentication challenge sent by the security key.

• Private Key: The private key is securely stored within the hardware key. This key is never exposed to external devices or systems, but depending on the type of key (discoverable or non-resident), the way the private key is managed may differ. When a user attempts to log in, the hardware key signs the challenge with its private key.

This asymmetric encryption ensures that even if the public key is intercepted, it cannot be used by attackers, as they do not have access to the private key.

To better understand the relationship between passkeys and hardware security keys, it’s important to grasp the concept of discoverable credentials (resident keys) and non-discoverable credentials (non-resident keys). These two types of keys determine how passkeys are stored and accessed.

• Discoverable Credentials (Resident Keys): Discoverable credentials are stored directly within the authenticator. This allows the authenticator to independently identify and access the private key associated with a specific service without requiring an external identifier, such as a Credential ID. However, discoverable credentials take up space on the authenticator itself, which can limit the number of credentials that can be stored. Note that passkeys, by definition, are always implemented as discoverable credentials, making them a specific subset of resident keys that follow this storage model.

• Non-Discoverable Credentials (Non-Resident Keys): Non-discoverable credentials are not stored directly on the authenticator. Instead, the authenticator uses its internal master key and a seed (contained in the credential ID) to temporarily derive the private key during each authentication. These derived keys exist only momentarily in memory and are discarded after use. This approach allows for unlimited credentials without consuming permanent storage space on the authenticator, as only the master key needs to be stored.

A hardware security key is a physical device designed to provide an extra layer of security for your online accounts. It works by generating a unique cryptographic key pair - one public and one private. The public key is stored on the server of the service you want to protect, while the private key is securely stored on the hardware key itself. During the login process, the server sends a challenge to the security key, which signs it using the private key and sends it back for verification. This process ensures that only the person who physically possesses the key can access the account.

Hardware security keys offer several advantages over traditional authentication methods such as SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) or authenticator apps:

1. Phishing Resistance: Unlike SMS-based 2FA or authenticator apps, which can be vulnerable to phishing and man-in-the-middle attacks, hardware security keys provide an extra layer of protection that is resistant to these threats. Since the authentication process is tied to the specific website or service, an attacker cannot trick you into using the key in a fake website.

2. No Need for Passwords: Hardware security keys support passwordless loginS, meaning you can authenticate without entering a password. This not only simplifies the login process but also eliminates the risk of password-based attacks like brute force or credential stuffing.

3. Ease of Use: Once set up, hardware security keys are incredibly simple to use. You just plug the key into your device or tap it on an NFC-enabled phone and you're authenticated. This is much quicker and more convenient than manually entering codes from authentication apps or waiting for an SMS to arrive.

4. Durability: Hardware security keys are designed to be robust, resistant to water, dust and physical tampering. This makes them more reliable than smartphone apps or SMS, which can be compromised by malware or SIM-swapping attacks.

As cybersecurity threats evolve, organizations are increasingly adopting hardware security keys to enhance their defenses against phishing and other malicious attacks. These physical devices offer robust multi-factor authentication (MFA), providing a much higher level of security compared to traditional methods like SMS-based verification or TOTP.

Several major companies have rolled out security keys internally to improve the security of their employees' accounts. For example in 2023, Discord implemented YubiKeys for all employees, eliminating vulnerabilities in previous authentication methods. By adopting hardware keys, Discord ensured that every employee used a secure, phishing-resistant form of authentication.

Similarly, in 2021, Twitter migrated from a variety of phishable 2FA methods to mandatory security keys. This move helped prevent incidents similar to past security breaches, successfully integrating FIDO2/WebAuthn protocols for more secure internal systems.

Cloudflare also issued security keys to all employees as part of its move to FIDO2 and Zero Trust architecture in 2022. This initiative ensured that Cloudflare's systems remained secure, providing phishing-resistant authentication and reducing risks of credential theft.

Additionally, in early 2025, T-Mobile deployed 200,000 YubiKeys to enhance its workforce’s security. The deployment was a key part of T-Mobile's strategy to improve their internal systems' protection against phishing and unauthorized access, further cementing security keys as an industry standard for businesses focused on robust cybersecurity.

These examples highlight the growing trend of companies adopting security keys as a standard for protecting their systems, demonstrating the increasing reliance on these devices to safeguard digital identities and sensitive data.

While USB or NFC-based hardware security keys are the most commonly used form factors, some organizations, especially large enterprises or government agencies, opt for an alternative: FIDO2 smartcards.

FIDO2 smartcards offer the same phishing-resistant authentication standards as traditional security keys, but in the form of a credit card-sized badge. This form factor is particularly useful for organizations that already issue employee ID cards and want to combine physical building access, identity verification and digital login into a single device.

Depending on the model, smartcards can include:

• Fingerprint sensors (biometric authentication)
• Bluetooth/BLE connectivity (for wireless login without a reader)
• Integration with card printers for large-scale issuance and personalization

Examples include cards from HID, Thales, Feitian, TrustSec, ZWIPE and SmartDisplayer. Especially in environments where smartcards are already part of the physical security infrastructure, they represent a powerful and scalable alternative to traditional security keys.

When selecting a hardware security key, you’ll generally encounter two main categories:

Category-1: Simple Tokens (FIDO-only)

• Support essential protocols: FIDO2/WebAuthn (hardware-bound passkeys) and FIDO U2F.
• Ideal for most consumers and typical use cases like securing Windows apps.

Category-2: Extended Tokens (Multi-protocol)

• Support multiple protocols beyond basic FIDO2, including OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, Smart Card (PIV), OpenPGP, and Yubico OTP.
• Suitable for power users, developers, and enterprises requiring additional functionality and versatility.

In this context, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure the device meets your security and convenience needs. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what to look for in a security key.

The first thing to check is compatibility with your devices. Ensure the key supports USB-A or USB-C, depending on your device’s ports. Many modern keys also offer NFC support, enabling easy wireless authentication with mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Compatibility with multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, is key to ensuring smooth integration across your devices.

Some hardware keys integrate biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning, for enhanced security.

• Fingerprint Scanning: This additional security layer ensures only authorized users can activate the key, which is particularly useful in high-security environments where physical possession alone may not be enough.

• Increased Security: While biometric authentication adds security, it also adds complexity and cost to the key. Consider if the extra security is necessary for your use case, especially if you're looking for a simple, straightforward solution.

• Cost Consideration: Biometric-enabled keys are usually more expensive than basic ones, so weigh the need for additional security against your budget.

As a hardware security key is a physical device, its durability is essential, especially for daily use. Look for a key that is designed to withstand common environmental challenges and maintain functionality over time.

• Water and Dust Resistance: Ensure the key is water-resistant to protect it from moisture, especially if you carry it in a bag or pocket where it might encounter rain or spills. Dust-resistant models are also ideal for those who spend time outdoors, as they prevent particles like sand or dirt from interfering with the key’s performance.

• Shock and Tamper Resistance: Consider a key that is shockproof and can survive accidental drops or impacts. Additionally, tamper-resistant designs with reinforced enclosures ensure that the key’s security remains intact, even if attempts are made to physically alter or damage it.

• Built for Daily Use: The key should be robust enough for frequent handling, from being carried on a keychain to withstanding varying environments. This guarantees long-term reliability without compromising its performance.

• Manufacturing Quality: Choose a reputable manufacturer that offers strong warranties and customer support to ensure the key's durability is backed up and any issues can be addressed promptly.

In sum, a durable and reliable security key should withstand moisture, dust, drops, and tampering, ensuring it remains functional and secure over the long term.

A seamless setup process is essential, especially for first-time users.

• User-Friendly Setup: Choose a key with an intuitive and automated onboarding process. The key should come with clear instructions that don’t require technical expertise to follow.

• Plug-and-Play Functionality: Ideally, the key should work straight out of the box, offering plug-and-play functionality across devices with minimal effort.

• Compatibility with Services: Make sure the key can easily integrate with popular services and platforms, such as Google, Microsoft or social media sites, without requiring complex setup steps.

The price of a hardware security key varies depending on the features it offers, but it's essential to assess value alongside cost.

• Basic Models: Basic keys typically cost between $20–$30 and are perfect for users who need essential security features like two-factor authentication and NFC support.

• Mid-Range Models: Models like the YubiKey 5C NFC cost around $55, offering additional features like multi-protocol support and better mobile compatibility. These are great for users who need more flexibility.

• Premium Models: Keys with advanced features, such as biometric authentication or OpenPGP support, typically cost $50–$100. These are ideal for those who require high-level security or advanced encryption. Consider your security needs and budget to select the right option.

As you explore the best hardware security keys available in 2025, it’s important to consider your specific needs - whether you’re a first-time user, an advanced tech user or a business looking for a reliable security solution. In this section, we’ve compiled a list of top picks that cover a range of use cases, from general-purpose keys to advanced solutions with biometric features. These keys offer a variety of features, such as cross-platform compatibility, durability and advanced security standards, all of which contribute to ensuring your online accounts remain protected.

Pros:

• Affordable: Priced around $30, it offers great value for basic two-factor authentication.

• NFC Support: Works seamlessly with NFC-enabled mobile devices, making it a convenient option for on-the-go authentication.

• Easy to Use: No complicated setup, just plug it in or tap it on a compatible device to authenticate.

• Broad Compatibility: Works across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android & iOS and supports major browsers like Chrome and Firefox.

Cons:

• No Biometric Features: Lacks the extra security layer of fingerprint or face scanning, relying purely on physical possession.

• Fewer Advanced Features: Does not support advanced features such as OpenPGP key storage, smart card functionality or OTP generation.

• Basic Authentication: Ideal for users who need simple two-factor authentication but not for those requiring additional security protocols.

Who it’s for:

• Individuals: Perfect for those who need a simple, affordable and reliable hardware security key for everyday use.

• Small Businesses: Ideal for small businesses or teams looking to implement basic security measures without the complexity or cost of more advanced models.

• General Users: Those who don’t need biometric features or advanced encryption capabilities but still want strong protection against phishing and credential theft.

Pros:

• Versatile: Supports multiple security protocols like FIDO2, Smart Card (PIV), OpenPGP and OTP generation.

• Durable: Water-resistant and shockproof, built to withstand rugged conditions and everyday use.

• Easy to Use: Plug-and-play functionality with USB-C and NFC, providing seamless authentication across devices.

Cons:

• No Biometric Features: Lacks fingerprint or facial recognition, relying only on physical possession for authentication.

• More Expensive: Priced around $55, which is higher than basic models but justified by its advanced features.

• Complex for Some Users: May be overkill for users who only need basic two-factor authentication and don’t require the advanced features.

Who it’s for:

• Tech-Savvy Individuals: Ideal for those who need a wide range of security protocols and are familiar with advanced features like OpenPGP and Smart Card (PIV).

• Businesses and Enterprises: Perfect for businesses that require a flexible and secure authentication solution across multiple platforms and services.

• Users with High Security Needs: Suitable for those who want passwordless login, encryption and digital signatures in addition to basic two-factor authentication.

Pros:

• Optimized for Google: Perfect for users heavily integrated into the Google ecosystem, including Gmail, Google Drive and other Google services.

• Affordable: At around $30, it offers great value for secure authentication without the need for advanced features.

• NFC Support: Easily authenticate on mobile devices using NFC, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

Cons:

• No Biometric Features: Lacks fingerprint or facial recognition; relies on physical possession alone.

• Limited Advanced Features: Does not support features like OpenPGP key storage or smart card functionality.

• Not as Rugged: While durable, it’s not as shockproof or waterproof as some more rugged alternatives.

Who it’s for:

• Google Ecosystem Users: Ideal for those who use Google accounts regularly and want secure authentication for those services.

• Budget-Conscious Users: A cost-effective option at around $30 for users who need reliable, simple two-factor authentication.

• General Users: Great for users who don’t need biometric features or advanced encryption but want strong protection for their Google accounts and other FIDO-supported services.

Pros:

• Privacy-Focused: Supports OpenPGP key storage, password management and encrypted storage for strong privacy protection.

• Affordable: At around $50, it offers great value for advanced password management and security features.

• Durable: Water-resistant and tamper-proof, designed to withstand everyday use and physical wear.

Cons:

• No Biometric Features: Lacks fingerprint or facial recognition, relying on physical possession alone.

• Higher Price: Priced higher than basic models, at approximately $50, but the price is justified by its advanced capabilities.

• Not as User-Friendly for Beginners: More advanced features may be complex for users who only need simple two-factor authentication.

Who it’s for:

• Privacy-Conscious Users: Ideal for users who value data security, password management and encrypted storage.

• Advanced Users: Great for those who require OpenPGP key storage, OTP generation and password management.

• Businesses and Individuals: Suitable for both businesses and individuals who want a comprehensive security solution combining multi-factor authentication and password management.

Pros:

• Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint scanning adds an extra layer of security, providing quick and reliable login.

• Affordable Biometric Option: At $60, it offers advanced biometric authentication at a reasonable price.

• Durable: Water-resistant and shockproof, designed to withstand daily wear while offering reliable protection.

Cons:

• No Advanced Features: Does not support features like OpenPGP key storage or smart card functionality.

• Higher Price: More expensive than basic models, priced at $60, though it offers value with biometric security.

• Limited to Fingerprint Authentication: Lacks facial recognition or other forms of biometric verification.

Who it’s for:

• Biometric Security Enthusiasts: Ideal for users who prioritize fingerprint-based authentication for enhanced security.

• Professionals and Power Users: Great for individuals who need strong authentication and prefer the convenience of biometrics.

• General Users: Suitable for those seeking affordable, user-friendly biometric security without the need for more advanced features.

Pros:

• Military-grade ruggedness (MIL-STD-810H), water- and shock-resistant

• Supports all essential protocols: FIDO2, U2F, OTP, HOTP, OpenPGP

• Certified secure hardware: BSI CC6+ Secure Element

Cons:

• No biometric authentication

• Slightly bulkier design compared to more minimalistic keys

• USB-C version currently not available

Who it’s for:

• Security-Focused Enterprises: Ideal for companies looking for strong certifications and durability for enterprise environments.

• Outdoor or Harsh Environments: Users needing a key that works reliably in tough conditions (e.g., field workers, technicians).

• Privacy-Conscious Users: Great for those who prioritize European production and security standards.

Pros:

• Dual PIN support adds flexibility and extra security

• Advanced cryptographic features suitable for power users

• Very affordable for a multi-protocol FIDO2 key

Cons:

• Lacks biometric authentication like fingerprint scanning

• Limited to USB-A, no support for USB-C or NFC

• Not designed for heavy-duty or harsh environments

Who it’s for:

• Tech-Savvy Users who want strong FIDO2 support with multiple resident keys.

• Budget-Conscious Professionals looking for robust security without high cost.

• General Users who prefer PIN-based over biometric security.

If you're unsure which hardware security key is right for you, here’s a quick guide to help you decide based on your needs, use case and technical comfort level:

Yubico Security Key C NFC

• Simple and affordable (~$30)

• Great for first-time users who want basic two-factor authentication

• NFC support makes it ideal for both desktop and mobile use

Authenton#1

• Robust, military-certified design with multi-protocol support (FIDO2, U2F, OTP, HOTP, OpenPGP)

• Supports up to 300 discoverable credentials — ideal for managing many services

• Made and certified in Germany (BSI CC6+, ISO 9001 & 27001)

Yubico YubiKey C Bio

• Adds fingerprint authentication for added protection (~$60)

• Ideal for users who prefer biometric login without compromising on portability

• Great for professionals handling sensitive data

As cybersecurity continues to evolve, the push for passwordless authentication has led to the rise of passkeys. Passkeys, which leverage the same public/private key cryptography used by hardware security keys, provide an extra layer of security and ease of use. However, they also come with specific challenges, especially when it comes to the storage of discoverable keys. In this chapter, we’ll take a closer look at how passkeys work with hardware security keys and how they impact the storage of credentials.

Passkeys are an innovative solution designed to eliminate the need for traditional passwords. Instead of relying on shared secrets, passkeys use public/private key cryptography, where the private key is securely stored on the device (e.g., smartphone, laptop), and the public key is stored on the server. This method greatly enhances security and makes logging in more seamless and user-friendly.

• Passkeys on Devices: With passkeys, users authenticate by using biometrics (fingerprint or face scan) or PINs on their devices. This authentication method is significantly more secure than passwords and reduces the risk of phishing attacks.

• Role of Hardware Security Keys: In high-risk situations or for added protection, hardware security keys can be used in conjunction with passkeys. Hardware security keys offer a second factor of authentication, ensuring that the key itself must be physically present for authentication to proceed. This is especially important for high-security environments or when dealing with sensitive data.

The storage capacity of hardware security keys for passkeys (discoverable keys) can vary depending on the device model. While many older or less advanced models may only support a limited number of resident keys, newer models are designed with more storage capacity.

• Yubikeys: Recent Yubikey models can store up to 100 passkeys (discoverable keys). This increased storage capacity allows users to register and store a larger number of passkeys, making Yubikeys an ideal choice for those with multiple services or enterprises managing a large number of accounts.

• Storage Limitations: However, the storage space for resident keys is still finite, and users should be mindful of this when registering passkeys. For example, Yubikeys generally support between 20 to 32 resident keys, while Nitrokeys may only support 8. This means that users with many services may find themselves running out of space quickly, which could require multiple hardware security keys or compromise their ability to store new passkeys.

As the adoption of passkeys grows, the need for larger storage capacities on hardware security keys becomes more pronounced. The ability to store more passkeys will be essential for users who need passwordless authentication across multiple platforms and services.

• Increasing Demand for Storage: With more services adopting passkeys, hardware security keys will need to evolve to accommodate larger numbers of discoverable keys. This shift will ensure that users can store passkeys without running into storage limitations.

• Future-Proofing Hardware Keys: As passkeys become the norm, hardware security keys will play an even more vital role in securing online accounts. Manufacturers will continue to innovate, increasing the storage capacity of their devices and making them more versatile for everyday use, from personal users to enterprises.

In summary, the combination of passkeys and hardware security keys offers a powerful, future-proof authentication method that enhances security while providing a smoother, passwordless experience. By understanding the nuances of resident and non-resident keys, as well as the storage limitations, users can make informed decisions about which hardware security key best fits their needs.

In this blog, we've answered some key questions to help you find the right hardware security key for your needs:

1. Which is the Best Security Key for Beginners looking for an Affordable and Easy-To-Use Option?
If you're just starting out or need an affordable solution, the Yubico Security Key C NFC is a great choice. It offers basic two-factor authentication, is easy to use and supports NFC for mobile compatibility, all at a reasonable price.

2. Which is the Best Security Key for Power Users who need Advanced Features and Versatility?
For power users who require advanced features such as multi-protocol support, biometric authentication, or encrypted storage, a more versatile security key like the Yubico YubiKey 5C NFC or the Yubico YubiKey C Bio is ideal. These keys offer a range of options like Smart Card support, OpenPGP key storage, and fingerprint scanning, making them perfect for users with high-security demands.

3. Which is the Best Security Key for Businesses Looking to Secure multiple Employees' Accounts?
For businesses, it’s important to choose a security key that provides reliable, scalable protection for many users. The Yubico YubiKey 5C NFC or the OnlyKey Duo would be suitable, offering strong security standards, ease of use, and compatibility with various platforms. These keys allow for centralized management and are ideal for businesses that require enhanced security features while maintaining ease of deployment across teams.

4. What are the Key Differences between Security Keys with and without Biometric Authentication?
Security keys with biometric authentication, such as the Yubico YubiKey C Bio, offer an additional layer of security by requiring a fingerprint scan before granting access. This feature is ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and enhanced protection. Keys without biometric features, like the Yubico Security Key C NFC, rely solely on possession of the key for security, which is still very secure but simpler.

5. How much should I spend on a Security Key and which Features justify the Price?
If you're looking for a basic, budget-friendly key, expect to spend around $30, like with the Yubico Security Key C NFC or Google Titan Security Key. For those who need more advanced features such as multi-protocol support or biometric authentication, the price will be closer to $50-$100. The value lies in the added features, such as encrypted storage or fingerprint scanning, which offer greater security for users with higher needs. Remember that it is recommended to have a backup key and therefore the price of two keys should be considered.

6. Do I really need a Backup Security Key to ensure my Accounts stay protected?
While a backup key is not strictly necessary, it’s highly recommended to ensure you’re not locked out of your accounts. If you lose or damage your primary key, having a second one ensures continued access. Many users find that having a backup key offers peace of mind, especially when using a key for important security functions.

Ultimately, the key you choose depends on your security requirements, the devices you use and your budget. Whether you prioritize simplicity, advanced security features or affordability, there's a hardware security key that fits your needs.