Library / Users & access / Magic link
No. 059·noun·also called passwordless login, email link login, one-click sign in

Magic link

A sign-in method where the app emails you a link, and clicking it logs you in. No password needed.

SPECIMEN · DIAGRAM · SEQUENCE
You
App
Inbox
1enter email2email a link3click link4open with token5signed in
Definition

What it is

A magic link replaces passwords with your inbox: enter your email, get a link, click it, and you're in. It's simple and avoids forgotten passwords.

A close cousin is the verification code: instead of a link, you get a six-digit code to type in. Codes work better when people open email on a different device than the app, and inside mobile apps.

Both are called passwordless sign-in.

Say it like a builder

How to ask for it

Vague

“I don't want people to need a password.”

Precise

“Use passwordless sign-in with magic links: the user enters their email, receives a link valid for 15 minutes, and clicking it signs them in on that device. Show a "Check your email" screen with a resend option.”

Why it works

"No password" could mean Google sign-in or codes; "magic link" picks the method and the prompt sets expiry and the waiting screen.

In the wild

You've seen this in

  • LSlack's "Email me a sign-in link"
  • MMedium's email login
  • SSubstack sign-in
Usage note

Often confused with

Verification codeA verification code is typed in; a magic link is clicked.Single sign-onSingle sign-on uses an existing account like Google; a magic link uses your email inbox.