Hands on with Google's new Titan Security Keys - and why they still have their place

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

ZDNET's key takeaways

Google's updated Titan security keys are available now with prices starting at $30.Updated keys all feature NFC and can store up to 250 passkeys.
The USB-C key is quite bulky, as is the USB-A to USB-C adapter that comes with the USB-A key.

---

While passkeys are all the rage right now, a smartphone or other device-based solution isn't for everyone, which means there's still a place for physical security keys.

Google's response is to announce an update to its Titan line of security keys, bringing them up to date by adding some much-needed features.

Also: What are passkeys? Experience the life-changing magic of going passwordless

If you're new to security keys, you should think of them as an additional line of defense for your online life. A hacker might have compromised your password, but without access to your physical security key, their ill-gotten gain is valueless.

ZDNET RECOMMENDS

Google Titan Security Keys

Google's Titan Security Keys are built with bespoke firmware that is used to verify the key hasn't been tampered with. 

There are two new Titan keys in the line -- coming in USB-A and USB-C flavors. Both are FIDO2 compatible, which means the devices are compatible with the broadest number of websites and online services, and both have enough built-in storage to store up to 250 unique passkeys. 

Google Titan Security Keys tech specs

USB-A/NFC Security Key

Length: 1.7 inches (43.9mm)Width: 0.8 inches (20.8mm)
Height: 0.1 inches (3.1mm)
Color: WhiteMaterials: ABS, Calcium carbonateFor use with computers that have USB-A or USB-C ports. Will also work with most Android and iOS devices that support USB or NFC.

USB-C/NFC Security Key

Length: 2.0 inches (50.9mm)Width: 0.7 inches (18.5mm)
Height: 0.3 inches (7.0mm)
Color: WhiteMaterials: Polycarbonate + Zinc AlloyFor use with newer computers that have USB-C ports. Will also work with most Android and iOS devices that support USB or NFC. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

Also, the USB-A version comes with a USB-A to USB-C adapter.

Also: The best security keys to protect yourself and your business

That adapter means the key can be used on modern devices, which makes it a future-proof purchase.   

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

The USB-C Titan key is quite a chunky affair, having a bit of heft and thickness to it, coming in at 0.3 inches (7.0mm) thick. 

Built from polycarbonate and a zinc alloy, this key looks like it's capable of surviving a hard life on a keyring full of keys.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

The USB-A Titan key is a more traditional, flat-style security key, made of ABS and coming in at only 0.1 inches (3.1mm) thick.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

This key also comes with a chunky USB-A to USB-C adapter, so it can be used on devices no matter what port they use.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

The new Google Titan Security Keys are priced at $30 for the USB-A/NFC version, and $35 for the USB-C/NFC version.