We're fans of security and love Windows Hello, but not all Windows PCs support its use. Luckily, if you own a desktop PC that does not have a fingerprint reader, we've rounded up a few options that can be used to unlock support for Windows Hello. These handy little devices add a layer of security to your PC, allowing for more convenient access.
Eikon's Mini is not only affordable, but the fingerprint scanner works well. It's one of the smallest fingerprint readers around, which means portability and the ability to leave the dongle plugged into your laptop. You'll be able to improve the security of both your home and work PCs with nothing more than a finger. When logging in, Windows 10 will ask for the fingerprint, which will subsequently unlock the PC.
USB 2.0 is utilized so you'll be able to insert and use the Eikon Mini on older PCs, as well as new machines rocking USB 3.0 and above. The only issue with the Mini is that you need decent access to a USB port (preferably one on the front panel) on the computer case. Still, for laptops and other portable Windows 10-powered machines, you'll be absolutely fine.
The best part is that you won't have to install anything to make this fingerprint scanner work — just plug it in, and security is a fingerprint away. It is worth noting that the Eikon Mini is a "swipe" scanner, and thus you'll need to swipe your finger across the reader, as opposed to resting the finger-like on most smartphones that use fingerprint authentication.
Verifi's P5100 is an expensive fingerprint scanner for Windows 10, offering one-finger-access to all your apps, games, and files. Forget entering your password with this handy USB device that doesn't even require any additional drivers to be installed. Simply plug and scan. Unlike the Eikon Mini, this scanner is connected to your PC via a cable, which makes more sense for desktop.
This scanner is made out of metal, so it has a premium build. It's also compact in size and comes rocking a copy of Roboform password manager, just in case you're still using the same password for all your online accounts. The Verifi P5100 doesn't require you to swipe your finger but instead rest it on the sensor for the checks to be carried out. It's pricey, but it's fast and reliable.
EcoID from BIO-Key is a compact fingerprint reader, much like the other options included in this collection. It offers support for Windows Hello to get you logged in without entering your password, comes rocking a complimentary copy of OmniPass password manager, as well as support for Bio-Key's own enterprise software.
The included hub allows you to connect the scanner to your desktop PC by not only the cable but by physically sticking it to the hardware to keep it out of the way, thereby ensuring it's convenient enough for quick access. It's perfect for use with a desktop PC, and you don't need to swipe a finger for your prints to be recognized.
Just be sure to overlook some unrecognized fingerprint scans, requiring you to press down on the reader a second time to get into Windows.
When you need a fingerprint reader for your laptop, look no further than the Kensington VeriMark. Allowing you to store up to 10 different fingerprints, this small device will allow you to log into Windows 10 and other software without entering a password — simply use your own fingerprints. The VeriMark is super compact, becoming almost invisible when connected to a notebook. A lot of the options here are portable, but this one might be the most.
Models for single and multiple PC use are available, depending on your application. It's not only priced well but can even be easily attached to a standard key ring for convenient portability. You'll never lose your keys, and now you'll never lose your fingerprint reader.
Owners of the Kensington VeriMark have shared concerns about the apparent lack of support for certain websites using FIDO U2F.
This budget-friendly fingerprint reader from DDSKY lets you add Windows Hello functionality to your PC for less. You get all the same features here that are required for fingerprint recognition, and everything is housed in a compact USB dongle, which is excellent for notebooks but may not be ideal for your desktop setup.
Just don't expect it to perform as well as more expensive options. The reader just isn't as responsive as more pricey readers — think budget smartphone with a fingerprint reader compared against a flagship device — and you'll sometimes have to scan your finger multiple times, but for the price, it's a great way to make your PC more secure.
Bottom line
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Despite so many great and varied options, the Eikon Mini is our number one pick. It'll not only work well on your desktop PC but also on a notebook too. This fingerprint reader is also affordable and works well with Windows Hello. Not all the best Windows laptops have a fingerprint reader, which is where this collection comes into play.
Regardless of which you choose, you'll be able to use Windows Hello on your PC. Other picks in our collection will also work well with Windows 10, depending on which product you prefer the look of. If you'd like to save some money, DDSKY has you covered with its more affordable portable fingerprint scanner.
