Supremely easy-to-use hardware for multi-factor authentication
Losing control of your online accounts after a data breach is a nightmare scenario, but hardware security keys, such as the Yubico Security Key C NFC ($29, as tested), are effective tools for keeping bad actors at bay. The Security Key C NFC supports the latest multi-factor authentication (MFA) options, and it stores passkeys. Best of all, it delivers Yubico’s signature high-quality design at a fraction of the cost of the professional-level YubiKey line. That earns the Security Key C NFC an Editors‘ Choice award and our highest score. Yubico’s Security Key Line
The Security Key NFC line is available in two flavors: USB-A, which features an unshielded USB-A connector and retails for $25, and USB-C, which has a USB-C connector and costs $29. This review focuses on the USB-C model, known as the Security Key C NFC.
The USB-A and USB-C model designs are nearly identical, aside from their connectors. Both are rated IP68, meaning they are dustproof and protected against immersion in water.
It’s hard to tell the Security Key C NFC from its more expensive cousin, the YubiKey 5C NFC. On the back of the Security Key C, the word „FIDO“ is printed in white, while the YubiKey 5C NFC features a tiny QR code and numbers printed on its backside.
The front of the Security Key C NFC has a hole punched out of the plastic housing and is reinforced with metal for hanging on a keychain or lanyard. Below that, the key feature is a gold-colored metal disk emblazoned with the letter „Y“.
