The 10 Best Fingerprint Readers
This wiki has been updated 27 times since it was first published in February of 2017. If you need to secure valuable data on your computer or electronic device, one of these fingerprint readers can keep unwanted users out. They can also streamline your login process to a nearly unlimited number of password protected applications and websites. We've come up with a list of the best on the market today, which all offer convenience, reliability, and durability. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Verifi P2000
2. Benss CA-101
3. Kensington VeriMark
Editor's Notes
January 14, 2021:
It was a fairly uneventful round of updates. Besides removing the K-Byte Biometric due to availability issues, the only two substantive changes we made were adding the Arcanite AKFSD-07 — which offers 360-degree detection and a 1/20-second login time; and the Aluratek ATLSAF — a biometric padlock that we thought was worth including at the bottom of our list, for users who might be served just as well with a means to protect the entire main compartment of their latop bag.
Note that, while this category is full of serviceable selections for Windows users, fewer options are available for fans of Mac and Linux. So, before finalizing your purchase decision, take a moment to make sure that the choice in question is compatible with your operating system of choice.
March 10, 2019:
Biometric scanners have been used in government facilities and in many other high-security applications for decades. Over the last few years though, the technology for these devices has become efficient and affordable enough for the home user and small business use. After scouring the market, we have complied a list of the best options for both commercial and consumer use. If you are looking for an easier and more secure way to login to your personal laptop and various other password-protected applications, take a look at the Benss CA-101, Kensington VeriMark, and PQI Mini. All three of these are essentially nano-USB sized, so you can leave them plugged in all the time, even if you constantly take your laptop on the go. Those who need a device for their desktop have a slightly larger pool of options to choose from, since size won't be such a determining factor. While all three of the models we just mentioned would work perfectly for desktops too, we urge you to also consider the industry-leading Verifi P2000, which has a highly-advanced sensor that rarely ever requires a second reading and is capable of recognizing fingerprints on scarred or otherwise damaged skin. The Verifi P2000 is also well-suited to commercial applications, as are the Digital Persona U.are.U 4500, Blucoil Secugen Hamster Pro 20, Futronic FS88H, and Bio-key SideSwipe.
4. Digital Persona U.are.U 4500
5. Arcanite AKFSD-07
6. PQI Mini
7. Blucoil Secugen Hamster Pro 20
8. Bio-key SideSwipe
9. Futronic FS88H
10. Aluratek ATLTSAF
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.