Passwords, encrypted exports and no reset: a different recovery model.
Feature sources checked on
The key difference
Obscura says it cannot reset a forgotten password. GuardVault provides recovery words to keep. Both require preparing file copies; choose the recovery routine you can actually maintain.
01 / Features
Storage, access and recovery differences to consider before choosing.
Features described in official sources; apps have not been independently tested.
| What matters |  GuardVault |  Obscura Photo Vault |
|---|---|---|
| File encryption | ||
| Pattern unlock | ||
| Use without a developer account | Yes[2] | |
| Multiple separate vaults | ||
| Photos and videos | Yes[1] | Yes[2] |
| Document import | Yes[1] | |
| Cloud backup | ||
| Recovery phrase | ||
| Vault or album sharing | ||
| Duress mode | ||
| Free download |
A check means the developer describes the feature. “Not specified” does not mean “unavailable”. Words restore a key, not lost files. A copy of the files is still needed.
02 / Compare prices
U.S. prices checked on October 31, 2026. Selected public offers, excluding personalized promotions. Prices and eligibility may vary; check Apple’s purchase screen.
United States · USD
$0
3 vaults; per vault: 100 photos, 10 videos and 50 documents.
Encrypted backup included
No app-imposed vault or file quotas, read-only sharing, iCloud sync and duress mode. Device and iCloud storage limits still apply.
$1.99/ week
$19.99/ year
$39.99one-time payment
United States · USD
$0
1 vault and up to 50 photos; encrypted export included.
Photos, videos and vaults without app quotas.
$6.99/ month
$29.99/ year
$39.99one-time payment
Subscriptions renew unless canceled. Lifetime purchases do not renew.
To keep photos, videos, documents and notes in pattern-accessed vaults without a GuardVault account. Encrypted backup is included free and you choose whether to enable it.
Read our security approachObscura publishes its encryption component and includes photo editing tools. Encrypted export may suit manual backup management. Public code is not a substitute for an audit.
Official sourcesGuardVault · 2026-10-30
These comparisons are published by Dealing With, the publisher of GuardVault. They use developers’ public descriptions, not independent audits or security testing of the apps.
Unspecified information does not mean a feature is absent. Versions, plans and prices can change; check your local purchase screen before paying. Referenced trademarks belong to their owners.
Use a few disposable files to check importing, exporting and recovery before moving your originals.
How to choose an iPhone photo vault: 6 checksStart free with 3 vaults. Premium is optional.
