# Spectre alternative: MoolKey vs Spectre

> Both tools calculate your password instead of storing it. MoolKey adds a dedicated PIN mode, remembers the small setting needed after you change a password, and offers hosted plans with support.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-01
Canonical page: https://moolkey.com/alternatives/spectre
Manager model: Password creators without a vault

## Short answer

Spectre, formerly Master Password, proved the idea works. The friction has always been the bookkeeping: remembering which counter you used for which site.

Choose MoolKey if you want PINs, automatic counter tracking, partner sharing, and support.

Choose Spectre if you want a tool that stores absolutely nothing, including metadata.

## How Spectre works

Spectre calculates each password from your name, a master password, and the site name. Nothing is stored, and the algorithm is open and well documented.

## What changes with MoolKey

- **Create PINs as well as passwords:** Use a dedicated numeric mode for cards, phones, voicemail, and other PIN prompts.
- **Password changes are handled for you:** MoolKey remembers the counter for each account, so you do not have to track which number you used.
- **Optional hosted account:** Use account features and support without running anything yourself.
- **Couple sharing:** Share specific accounts with one partner using a separate shared phrase.

## MoolKey vs Spectre at a glance

| Everyday choice | MoolKey | Spectre |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Saves passwords | No | No |
| Creates numeric PINs | Yes | No |
| Remembers password-change counters | Yes | You track them |
| Works without internet | Yes | Yes |
| Sharing with a partner | Yes | No |
| Hosted plans and support | Available | Community only |

## Where Spectre may suit you better

- **Spectre stores absolutely nothing, including metadata:** MoolKey's connected mode stores non-secret account metadata so it can remember counters for you. Spectre stores nothing at all, which some people prefer.
- **Spectre has a longer track record:** The algorithm has been public and scrutinised for years, with clients built by the community.

## How to switch one account at a time

1. Pick one account and create a new MoolKey password. Change the password inside that account instead of trying to move the whole vault.
2. Sign out and confirm the new password works. Test the same inputs on another device if cross-device access matters to you.
3. Remove the old saved copy only after the new sign-in works. Repeat the process when you naturally return to the next account.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the main difference between MoolKey and Spectre?

Both calculate passwords rather than storing them. MoolKey also creates PINs, tracks the counter for each account so password changes are easy, and offers partner sharing.

### Will Spectre and MoolKey produce the same password?

No. The algorithms differ, so switching means creating a new password for each account and updating that site.

### Which one stores less?

Spectre stores nothing whatsoever. MoolKey stores non-secret metadata such as the site name and a counter, and never the password or your private phrase.

## Sources

- [Spectre: Spectre password manager](https://spectre.app/): The current deterministic password manager and algorithm.
- [Lyndir: Master Password source and successor notice](https://github.com/Lyndir/MasterPassword): Project history, source, and the move to Spectre.

Competitor names are trademarks of their respective owners. MoolKey is not affiliated with or endorsed by Spectre.