Password vs passphrase: which is actually stronger?
Both can be very strong — strength comes from entropy, not from looking scary. The real difference is the trade-off between density and memorability.
| Random password | Passphrase | |
|---|---|---|
| Entropy per character | High | Lower |
| Total length needed | Shorter | Longer |
| Memorability | Hard | Easier |
| Typing on mobile | Painful | Easier |
| Needs a manager | Usually | Often memorable |
| Best for | Manager-stored secrets | Passwords you must recall |
It is all entropy
A random password packs lots of entropy into few characters. A passphrase of randomly chosen words packs less per character but makes up for it with length — four to six random words is plenty. Either way, the words or characters must be random: a favorite quote has almost no entropy.
Pick by how you will use it
For secrets a password manager stores and fills, a long random password is ideal — you never type it. For the handful you must remember (your manager’s master password, device login), a passphrase wins on memorability without sacrificing strength. Generate either in the Password Generator.
The verdict
Use a long random password for anything your manager stores and fills. Use a random-word passphrase for the few you must memorize. Both are strong when truly random — generate them in the Password Generator and read the password security guide.
Frequently asked questions
- Are passphrases more secure than passwords?
- Not inherently — both depend on entropy. A long passphrase of random words can match or exceed a short random password and is easier to remember and type.
- How many words should a passphrase have?
- Four to six randomly chosen words is a common, strong target. The key is random selection (e.g. Diceware), not a memorable phrase.
- Why is "correct horse battery staple" used as an example?
- It is from a well-known XKCD comic illustrating that four random words are both strong and far easier to remember than a short, gnarly password.
Try it yourself
Free, in-browser tools for everything above.