otplib vs speakeasy vs authy
Two-Factor Authentication Libraries
otplibspeakeasyauthySimilar Packages:
Two-Factor Authentication Libraries

Two-factor authentication (2FA) libraries provide mechanisms to enhance security by requiring two forms of verification before granting access to an account or system. These libraries facilitate the generation and validation of time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) or SMS-based codes, ensuring that even if a password is compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented. They are essential for applications that prioritize user security, protecting sensitive data and user accounts from unauthorized access.

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otplib1,040,2742,158202 kB114 hours agoMIT
speakeasy661,6472,756-6610 years agoMIT
authy26,2799722.5 kB5-MIT
Feature Comparison: otplib vs speakeasy vs authy

Authentication Methods

  • otplib:

    otplib focuses exclusively on TOTP and HOTP methods, providing a simple and efficient way to generate time-based or counter-based one-time passwords. It does not handle SMS or voice call verification, making it a more specialized tool for developers who want to implement TOTP in their applications.

  • speakeasy:

    Speakeasy provides support for both TOTP and HOTP, allowing developers to choose the method that best fits their needs. It emphasizes simplicity and ease of integration, making it a good choice for projects that require quick implementation of 2FA.

  • authy:

    Authy supports multiple authentication methods, including TOTP, SMS, and voice calls. This flexibility allows developers to implement various verification strategies based on user preferences or security requirements, enhancing the user experience while maintaining security.

Ease of Integration

  • otplib:

    otplib is designed for easy integration, requiring minimal setup. It is a lightweight library with no external dependencies, making it straightforward for developers to include in their projects and start generating one-time passwords quickly.

  • speakeasy:

    Speakeasy is known for its simple API and minimal configuration requirements. It allows developers to quickly add 2FA functionality to their applications with just a few lines of code, making it an attractive option for those looking for rapid deployment.

  • authy:

    Authy offers a comprehensive API that simplifies the integration process, with extensive documentation and SDKs available for various programming languages. This makes it easier for developers to implement 2FA without dealing with the complexities of SMS gateways or phone number management.

Security Features

  • otplib:

    otplib provides robust security through the implementation of TOTP and HOTP algorithms, which are widely recognized as secure methods for generating one-time passwords. However, it does not include additional features like SMS verification, placing the onus on developers to implement their own security measures.

  • speakeasy:

    Speakeasy offers strong security by utilizing TOTP and HOTP algorithms, ensuring that the generated codes are time-sensitive and difficult to predict. However, like otplib, it does not provide built-in SMS or voice call features, requiring developers to manage those aspects separately.

  • authy:

    Authy includes advanced security features such as device recognition and the ability to disable 2FA for specific devices. This adds an extra layer of security by ensuring that only recognized devices can bypass 2FA, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Community and Support

  • otplib:

    otplib is an open-source library with a growing community of developers. While it may not have the same level of commercial support as Authy, it has a dedicated user base that contributes to its development and documentation.

  • speakeasy:

    Speakeasy has a smaller community compared to Authy but is still actively maintained. It offers good documentation and examples, making it accessible for developers looking to implement 2FA quickly.

  • authy:

    Authy is backed by Twilio, a well-established company in the communication space, which provides extensive support and resources for developers. The community around Authy is active, and developers can find numerous tutorials and guides to assist with integration.

Customization

  • otplib:

    otplib allows for significant customization, enabling developers to tailor the TOTP and HOTP generation process to their specific requirements. This flexibility is beneficial for applications that need to implement unique security protocols or workflows.

  • speakeasy:

    Speakeasy offers a balance of customization and simplicity, allowing developers to adjust settings for TOTP and HOTP generation. However, it is less flexible than otplib in terms of customization options, focusing on ease of use.

  • authy:

    Authy provides limited customization options as it is a service-oriented platform. While it offers various authentication methods, the overall flow and user experience are largely dictated by the Authy service, which may not suit all applications' needs.

How to Choose: otplib vs speakeasy vs authy
  • otplib:

    Choose otplib if you prefer a lightweight, open-source library focused solely on TOTP and HMAC-based one-time passwords (HOTP). It is ideal for developers looking for a simple, customizable solution without external dependencies, especially for server-side implementations.

  • speakeasy:

    Choose Speakeasy if you want a straightforward library that supports TOTP and HOTP with a focus on ease of use. It is well-suited for applications that require quick integration of 2FA without extensive configuration, and it offers a straightforward API for generating and verifying codes.

  • authy:

    Choose Authy if you need a comprehensive solution that includes SMS and voice call verification along with TOTP. It offers a user-friendly API and handles the complexities of SMS delivery and phone number verification, making it suitable for applications that require multi-channel authentication.

README for otplib

otplib

TypeScript-first library for HOTP and TOTP / Authenticator with multi-runtime (Node, Bun, Deno, Browser) support via plugins.

A web based demo is available at https://otplib.yeojz.dev.

Features

  • Zero Configuration - Works out of the box with sensible defaults
  • RFC Compliant - RFC 6238 (TOTP) and RFC 4226 (HOTP)
  • TypeScript-First - Full type definitions
  • Google Authenticator Compatible - Full otpauth:// URI support
  • Plugin Interface - Flexible plugin system for customising your cryptographic and base32 requirements (if you want to deviate from the defaults)
  • Cross-platform - Tested against Node.js, Bun, Deno, and browsers

Breaking Changes (v13)

[!IMPORTANT]
v13 is a complete rewrite with breaking changes:

  • New
    • Security-audited plugins — Default crypto uses @noble/hashes and @scure/base, both independently audited
    • Cross-platform defaults — Works out-of-the-box in Node.js, Bun, Deno, and browsers
    • Full type safety — Comprehensive TypeScript types with strict mode from the ground up
    • Async-first API — All operations are async by default; sync variants available for compatible plugins
  • Removed
    • Separate authenticator package — TOTP now covers all authenticator functionality
    • Outdated plugins — Legacy crypto adapters removed in favor of modern, audited alternatives

See Migration Guide for details.

Installation

# Node
npm install otplib
pnpm add otplib
yarn add otplib
# Other runtimes
bun add otplib
deno install npm:otplib

Quick Start

Functional API (Recommended)

import { generateSecret, generate, verify, generateURI } from "otplib";

// Generate a secret
const secret = generateSecret();

// Generate a TOTP token
const token = await generate({ secret });

// Verify a token
const isValid = await verify({ secret, token });

// Generate QR code URI for authenticator apps
const uri = generateURI({
  issuer: "MyService",
  label: "user@example.com",
  secret,
});

Class API

import { OTP } from "otplib";

// Create OTP instance (defaults to TOTP)
const otp = new OTP();

// Generate a secret
const secret = otp.generateSecret();

// Generate a TOTP token
const token = await otp.generate({ secret });

// Verify a token
const isValid = await otp.verify({ secret, token });

// Generate QR code URI for authenticator apps
const uri = otp.generateURI({
  issuer: "MyService",
  label: "user@example.com",
  secret,
});

Documentation

Refer to the Getting Started Guide, or check out the other sections in the guide:

License

MIT © 2026 Gerald Yeo