MFA Comparison Guide

Free tool

Which MFA method is right for you?

Not all two-factor authentication is equal. Compare SMS codes, authenticator apps, push notifications, and hardware security keys side by side to find what works for your situation.

What matters most to you?

SMS Codes

A one-time code sent to your phone via text message each time you log in.

Security

Ease of use

Cost

Free

Setup:Easy

Pros

Available on every phone with a SIM card

No app installation required

Familiar and intuitive for most users

Cons

Vulnerable to SIM-swap attacks

Requires cellular signal to receive codes

Codes can be intercepted via SS7 network exploits

Tied to a phone number that can be ported

Vulnerable to

SIM swappingSS7 interceptionSocial engineering at carrierPhone theft

Best for

Users who need a quick start and have no other option. Better than no MFA at all.

Authenticator App

A TOTP app (Google Authenticator, Authy, Aegis) generates time-based codes that refresh every 30 seconds.

Security

Ease of use

Cost

Free

Setup:Easy

Pros

Works offline -- no cellular signal needed

Codes are generated locally on your device

Not vulnerable to SIM-swap attacks

Free and widely supported by most services

Cons

Codes can be phished if you enter them on a fake site

Losing your phone without backup codes means losing access

Requires scanning a QR code during initial setup

Not as strong as push or hardware-based methods

Vulnerable to

Real-time phishing (attacker relays code)Device theft without screen lockMalware on device

Best for

Most people. A strong balance of security and convenience that is free and works everywhere.

Push Notifications

An app (Microsoft Authenticator, Duo) sends a push notification to your phone that you approve or deny with one tap.

Security

Ease of use

Cost

Setup:Moderate

Pros

One-tap approval is faster than typing codes

Shows login context (location, device) so you can spot unauthorized attempts

Harder to phish than typed codes

Some implementations include number matching for extra verification

Cons

Requires internet connection to receive push

Vulnerable to MFA fatigue attacks (repeated push spam)

Tied to a specific app and ecosystem

May require an organizational license for full features

Vulnerable to

MFA fatigue / push bombingDevice compromiseAccidental approval

Best for

Professionals and teams who want fast, low-friction MFA with better phishing resistance than codes.

Hardware Security Key

A physical device (YubiKey, Google Titan) that you plug in or tap via NFC. Uses FIDO2/WebAuthn protocol.

Security

Ease of use

Cost

$$$

Setup:Advanced

Pros

Virtually immune to phishing -- cryptographically bound to the real site

No codes to type or push notifications to approve

Cannot be remotely compromised -- requires physical possession

Works across multiple services and platforms

Cons

Costs $25-$70+ per key (you need at least two)

Can be lost or damaged -- requires backup keys

Not supported by every service yet

Requires USB or NFC, which not all devices have

Vulnerable to

Physical theft of the keyLimited to: attacker must have your key in hand

Best for

High-risk users, executives, journalists, activists, and anyone protecting critical accounts.

Need help?

Not sure which method fits your situation? Book a session and we will help you set up the right MFA for every account.

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