Google Authenticator vs Real PIN
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
Google Authenticator
Enhance your online security with a second verification step for your accounts. Generate codes directly on your phone, even offline, to protect against unauthorized access. Sync codes across devices for easy access and manage multiple accounts securely.
- Offline code generation
- Sync codes across devices
- Automatic QR code setup
- Support for multiple accounts
- Time-based and counter-based codes
- Transfer accounts via QR code
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Google Authenticator adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by adding a second step of verification when you sign in. This means that in addition to your password, you'll also need to enter a code that is generated by the Google Authenticator app on your phone. The verification code can be generated by the Google Authenticator app on your phone, even if you don't have a network or cellular connection. • Sync your Authenticator codes to your Google Account and across your devices. This way, you can always access them even if you lose your phone. • Set up your Authenticator accounts automatically with a QR code. This is quick and easy, and it helps to ensure that your codes are set up correctly. • Support for multiple accounts. You can use the Authenticator app to manage multiple accounts, so you don't have to switch between apps every time you need to sign in. • Support for time-based and counter-based code generation. You can choose the type of code generation that best suits your needs. • Transfer accounts between devices with a QR code. This is a convenient way to move your accounts to a new device. To use Google Authenticator with Google, you need to enable 2-Step Verification on your Google Account. To get started visit http://www.google.com/2step
Real PIN
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Your bank PIN, home access code and everyday logins—all in a wallet close at hand. Real PIN helps you organize sensitive information as easy-to-recognize cards, then view just what you need when you need it. No separate account is required. FIND IT QUICKLY Use favorites, tags and search to find cards by name, field label, ID or URL. Secret values are not included in search. READ IT CLEARLY Counter Mode displays a selected PIN or password in large type. Values stay masked until you tap to reveal them, with an optional automatic hide setting. The confirmation screen stays awake. Always be mindful of people who can see your screen. MADE FOR EVERYDAY INFORMATION Store bank and payment card PINs, door and parcel locker codes, Wi-Fi passwords, website logins, email accounts, phone and SIM information, memberships and software details. Add secret and memo fields to suit each card, or generate a password. Japan-specific identity card templates are available when using Japanese. NOT SURE? RECORD THAT TOO Mark a PIN as unknown or keep multiple candidates, then update it once confirmed. Recording candidates does not change an issuer's failed-attempt limit. ENCRYPTED ON YOUR DEVICE Data is encrypted using AES-GCM, with the encryption key managed in Keychain. Opening the app requires Face ID, Touch ID or your device passcode. BACK UP AND RESTORE Export a password-protected encrypted backup for recovery or a new device. Optional encrypted automatic backups to iCloud are also available. Keep your backup password safe. READY FOR iPHONE DUO Layouts adapt to the way you open the device. See cards beside their details in book posture, or the secret above the controls in tabletop posture. Closing the device hides any revealed secrets. ABOUT PREMIUM The standard version supports up to five cards. A seven-day trial lets you try Premium visual features, including card stacks and designs. Unlimited cards require a Premium purchase. Premium is a one-time purchase that unlocks unlimited cards, stack view, and design and color customization. There is no subscription. A small everyday wallet for the details you do not want to forget.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Google Authenticator at none against Real PIN's 1. Google Authenticator also leads on chart position (#3 vs unranked). Real PIN's advantage is update cadence (fortnightly vs every 4 months). On price, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Real PIN sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Google Authenticator asks for nothing beyond the download.
Google Authenticator ships an update every 4 months, Real PIN fortnightly. The most recent releases landed on November 4, 2026 and October 31, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | Google Authenticator | Real PIN |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.9 (1.2M ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 57.5% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 1.2M — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 4 months | Fortnightly — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No — better | Yes |
| Monetization | Free | — |
| Best chart rank | #3 — better | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 — better | 18.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 38 MB | 6 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | TAKASHI KOJIMA | |
Bugs and requests
Google Authenticator
Reported bugs
4 issues- Codes randomly deleted
- Accounts wiped after update
- Duplicated accounts then deleted all
- Timing issues, codes didn't work
Requested features
4 requests- Add scan from photo feature
- Ability to rename and group accounts
- Add Apple Watch app
- Implement cloud backup option
Real PIN
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
Google Authenticator
No in-app purchases
Real PIN
- Real PIN Premium$2.99
Questions
Is Google Authenticator free?
Is Real PIN free?
Do Google Authenticator or Real PIN have ads?
Which is updated more often, Google Authenticator or Real PIN?
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