which yubikey to buy

Which YubiKey to Buy?

If you are looking for a strong two-factor authentication device that can protect your online accounts from phishing and account takeovers, you might want to consider buying a YubiKey. A YubiKey is a small hardware device that plugs into your computer or phone and verifies your identity with a simple touch. It works with hundreds of applications and services, such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, Dropbox, GitHub, and more.
But which YubiKey should you buy? There are different models and series of YubiKeys, each with different features and compatibility. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a YubiKey:
- Form factor: YubiKeys come in different shapes and sizes, depending on how you want to use them. Some are designed to stay plugged into your computer or phone, while others are more portable and can be attached to your keychain. For example, the YubiKey 5 Nano and the YubiKey 5C Nano are very small and discreet, while the YubiKey 5 NFC and the YubiKey 5C NFC have a larger surface area and support wireless communication with NFC-enabled devices.
- Connector type: YubiKeys have different types of connectors that determine which devices they can plug into. Some have USB-A connectors that work with most computers and laptops, while others have USB-C connectors that work with newer devices and smartphones. Some have both USB-A and USB-C connectors, such as the YubiKey 5Ci, which can be used with both iOS and Android devices. Some also have Lightning connectors, such as the YubiKey Bio C – FIDO Edition, which is designed for iPhone users.
- Authentication protocol: YubiKeys support different authentication protocols that determine how they communicate with the applications and services you use. Some support only FIDO protocols, such as FIDO U2F and FIDO2/WebAuthn, which are the most secure and modern standards for passwordless logins. These include the Security Key Series and the YubiKey Bio Series. Others support additional protocols, such as OTP (one-time password), OATH (open authentication), PIV (personal identity verification), and OpenPGP (open pretty good privacy). These include the YubiKey 5 Series and the YubiKey 5 FIPS Series.
To help you decide which YubiKey is best for you, you can visit the Yubico Setup page and select your device type, operating system, browser, and preferred authentication method. You will then see a list of compatible YubiKeys and instructions on how to set them up.
Alternatively, you can visit the Yubico Products page and compare the features and specifications of different YubiKeys. You can also read reviews from other customers and see how they use their YubiKeys for various purposes.
Whichever YubiKey you choose, you can rest assured that you are getting a high-quality device that is trusted by millions of users and thousands of organizations around the world. With a YubiKey, you can enjoy a secure and seamless login experience without having to remember or type passwords ever again.