Comparison · File encryption software
BitLocker vs Cryptomator: which is better in 2026?
Cryptomator ranks higher in our list of file encryption software (#2 against #6, score 91.0 against 84.0).
- 84.0Editorial score91.0
- 1Platforms5
- YesFree to useYes
- NoOpen sourceYes
Which should you choose?
Choose BitLocker if you want
Windows Pro users who want built-in disk encryption.
Built-in full-disk encryption at no extra cost on Windows Pro, Enterprise and Education. It covers the system and fixed drives but not USB drives, and its source is not published.
Choose Cryptomator if you want
Encrypting files in cloud storage folders.
Encrypts files before they reach Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive, under GPL-3.0, with free desktop use for personal users. Mobile apps need a paid upgrade, and the free mobile versions are read-only.
The main differences
- Only Cryptomator runs on Linux.
- Only Cryptomator runs on macOS.
- Only Cryptomator runs on iOS.
- Only Cryptomator runs on Android.
- Cryptomator is open source; BitLocker is not.
Side by side
 BitLocker |  Cryptomator | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 84.0 | 91.0 |
| Rank in list | #6 of 10 | #2 of 10 |
| Price | FreeIncluded with Windows Pro, Enterprise and Education editions | Free plan, paid upgradesFree for personal use on desktop; paid mobile upgrades |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Platforms | WindowsWindows | WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOSWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Made by | Microsoft | Skymatic GmbH |
| Protects | System and fixed drives | Files in cloud storage folders |
| Interface | Windows settings | Graphical app |
| Best for | Windows Pro users who want built-in disk encryption | Encrypting files in cloud storage folders |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about BitLocker vs Cryptomator
- Is Cryptomator better than BitLocker?
- Cryptomator ranks higher in our list of file encryption software (#2 against #6, score 91.0 against 84.0). BitLocker is best for: Windows Pro users who want built-in disk encryption. Cryptomator is best for: encrypting files in cloud storage folders.
- Which is cheaper, BitLocker or Cryptomator?
- BitLocker: Included with Windows Pro, Enterprise and Education editions. Cryptomator: Free for personal use on desktop; paid mobile upgrades.
- Do BitLocker and Cryptomator run on the same platforms?
- BitLocker supports Windows. Cryptomator supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.