It might become a confusing process trying to look for a great security key – but we have eased the process for you by comparing two of the top, Yubikey vs. Thetis.
Looking for a security key should be one of the top priorities if you want to increase your online security, and it is easy to understand why. The increases of online attacks in the last few years have brought up the discussion of how safe your account is, and the various methods of safeguardingit.
The chief method used by many is 2FA, which incorporates additional unique codes or special questions that you must input to access your account after you enter your password. However, it does have its own issues regarding security, which is where the U2F steps in. through the U2F security key, you have a greater chance of security.In this article, we will look at two popular U2F keys, and see which one comes out on top.
What are the differences between Thetisvs.Yubikey? How do they compare?
| Key model | Thetis | Yubikey |
| Dimensions | 1.8 x 0.5 x 0.4 | 0.71 x 0.12 x 1.77 |
| System compatibility | Any FIDO website, except email clients like Mozilla Firefox | Any FIDO-compliant website and browser |
| Check here | Check here |
Thetis vs. Yubikey – What are the differences?
The differences between these two are not many, although we narrow it down to two aspects – the access to various protocols and the user experience.
Protocol access
Both of these keys have a wide access range, although the Yubikey slightly edges out the Thetis key due to the incorporation of email clients. The Yubikey is generally very good at working with numerous protocols and platforms, such as through their tap-and-go authentication with Windows 10 devices and Android applications. Allthe information you need regarding its access to sites is on the main website.
The Thetis is another great option, as it has wide flexibility. This makes it a multi-purpose security key. The sites it can access include those that useChallenge-Response, PIV (smart card), OATH-TOTP,FIDO U2F, OATH-HOTP, FIDO2,and many more.
In addition, you can get all these services because of its ability to break the public authentication matrix. Thanks to the incorporation of USB and NFC, it allows it to have a seamless tap and go experience across the devices you use, whether it is desktop, mobile or laptop.
User experience
The Yubikey will include NFC for the mobile users andUSB for the desktop experience, making it easy for you to use it regardless of the device you prefer. The main information that regards the use and any other questions you may have is on the main Yubico website.
For the Thetis, you don’t need to worry about its friendliness – especially if you are a beginner. The key also supports two form factors, the NFC/Bluetooth/USB, and the USB/NFC. Because it has a good range of usage, it eventually replace text message codes, authenticator apps and OTP tokens, especially the outdated ones.
Yubikey
There is not one specific Yubikey key, as there are several in the series. Overall, though, the series is proving to be very popular among many, even for those that are just starting in the online security space. Its distinctive feature is that the key includes USB for the desktop experience and NFC for the mobile users.
Pros
- Great process of setting up, which is really easy
- Supports many protocols
- Works very well when using NFC to connect to mobile devices
Cons
- It fails to work with Office 365
Thetis
This has a compact design, which allows you to carry it with you anywhere – in fact, it only weighs 3g. Additionally, there are no moving parts, batteries, or current software you need to install. It also has a rotating metal cover that rotates 360o, and protects the connector part when it is not in use. This additionally comes with a one-year warranty to guard against defects that may occur.
One major advantage it has is that it requires no extra connections to the internet after you store your login information in it, unlike the approach you find in many other U2F keys.This will allow you to use it to access your data even when you are offline.
Pros
- User friendly
- Great design
- Affordable
- Great security
Cons
- Does not have many websites to access
- Only browser it works with is Chrome
Final thoughts
Our process of reviewing Thetis vs. Yubikey ends with the conclusion that even though theYubikeylooks simple in design, it is our pick. This is due to high adaptability it has for different platforms, allowing you to use it in a variety of situations.
FAQs
What is the advantage of using U2F keys over 2FA authentication methods?
While 2FA proves be to a more useful security method than a password, it does have its own inherent issues. U2F is the most reliable, as it allows you to access multiple accounts without the need of a password or exposure risks, all through the use of one device.
On the other hand, is there an advantage of using U2F keys like Yubikey?
U2F is the most reliable mode of accessing your online accounts safely, as it allows you to enter multiple accounts without the need of a password or exposure risks, all through the use of one device.
How do you use both?
The use of the U2F key is not as difficult as it may seem on the surface. The key will basically work as a second factor authentication. Simply plug in the device to an internet-enabled device or computer, and enter your PIN and confirm your transactions.
What if they get stolen?
The person who steals the key or wallet cannot access your account unless they know your password, which they do not store.
Do you need a separate key for each account?
No, you can use one key for multiple accounts, just like the 2FA system that allows you to use one app for multiple accounts, but different codes. This is because the key stores your digital information in a chip.