Overview
This is an honest, factual comparison of TimeProof and Manual SHA-256 Hashing. Both have legitimate use cases. We will compare features, pricing, strengths, and limitations so you can make an informed decision.
What Is Manual SHA-256 Hashing?
Manual SHA-256 Hashing is Computing SHA-256 hash yourself using command line or online tools. It has established itself as a common practice used by many people.
Strengths of Manual SHA-256 Hashing:
- Free
- uses the same algorithm
- no account needed
Limitations of Manual SHA-256 Hashing:
- Hash alone proves nothing without a trusted timestamp anchor
- no certificate
- no blockchain storage
- no verification page
What Is TimeProof?
TimeProof is a blockchain timestamping platform that creates tamper-proof evidence that a file existed at a specific moment in time. It uses SHA-256 hashing and the Polygon blockchain to create permanent, independently verifiable proof.
Strengths of TimeProof:
- Instant timestamps (~2 seconds) on Polygon blockchain
- One-time packs for scheduled use, with verified monthly plans for instant timestamps and Legal-Grade
- Verified Legal-Grade upgrade with Courtroom-Ready PDF, JSON metadata, JWS attestation, and Complete Evidence ZIP
- Files never leave your computer (browser-side hashing)
- Zero gas fees — TimeProof covers all blockchain costs
- Identity attestation via JWS for third-party verification
- PDF certificate plus Polygonscan link for standard proof, with verified identity and Legal-Grade options when needed
Feature Comparison
| Feature | TimeProof | Manual SHA-256 Hashing |
|---|---|---|
| Timestamp Speed | ~2 seconds (instant) | N/A — not a timestamp service |
| Pricing | One-time packs for scheduled use, with verified monthly plans for instant timestamps and Legal-Grade | Varies |
| Legal-Grade Evidence | Yes — Courtroom-Ready PDF, JSON metadata, JWS, Evidence ZIP | Not applicable |
| File Privacy | Files never leave your device | Varies |
| Independent Verification | Yes — PDF certificate + Polygonscan link | No independent blockchain verification |
| Identity Attestation | Yes — JWS, verifiable via .well-known/jwks.json | No |
| Any File Type | Yes — no restrictions | Limited to specific formats |
| Gas Fees | Zero — TimeProof covers all fees | N/A |
When to Choose Manual SHA-256 Hashing
Manual SHA-256 Hashing may be the right choice if:
- You specifically need free
- You specifically need uses the same algorithm
- You specifically need no account needed
When to Choose TimeProof
TimeProof is the better choice if you need:
- Instant blockchain proof (~2 seconds, not hours)
- One-time packs or verified monthly plans instead of enterprise lock-in
- Legal-Grade evidence for court proceedings
- Complete file privacy (browser-side hashing)
- Zero crypto knowledge requirement
- Accessible for individual users without enterprise commitments
The Key Difference
TimeProof anchors the hash to the Polygon blockchain with a verifiable timestamp. A self-computed hash proves what the file was but not when it existed.
How TimeProof Works
When you timestamp a file with TimeProof, TimeProof uses client-side file hashing (SHA-256). That 64-character value is the unique fingerprint for the exact version you selected, and if even one byte changes, the hash changes too. Your file never leaves your device.
TimeProof proves file existence by anchoring file hashes to the Polygon blockchain. The blockchain records the hash, timestamp, and transaction ID permanently, so anyone comparing TimeProof with Manual SHA-256 Hashing can inspect the proof independently on Polygonscan.
That gives TimeProof file-level evidence that is separate from whichever workflow Manual SHA-256 Hashing is designed to solve.
What You Receive with TimeProof
Every TimeProof timestamp for a TimeProof record includes:
- PDF certificate - a readable proof document for the exact file you timestamped, ready to share with a client, colleague, or reviewer.
- Polygonscan link - direct public verification of the on-chain record without trusting TimeProof alone.
Verified instant timestamps also include: 3. Verified identity badge - the certificate shows the timestamp was created by a verified account, which is useful when a verified submitter identity improves credibility.
With the Legal-Grade upgrade, you also receive the core evidence-package components documented by TimeProof: PDF, JSON, JWS identity attestation, and a ZIP bundle.
- Courtroom-Ready PDF - a presentation-ready evidence certificate when you need more than a basic alternative and the matter may face formal review instead of casual comparison.
- JSON Metadata - machine-readable timestamp data for technical teams, audit trails, or structured evidence review.
- Identity Attestation (JWS) - a signed proof that ties the timestamp to a verified identity and can be verified through /.well-known/jwks.json.
- Complete Evidence ZIP - one bundle containing the Courtroom-Ready PDF, JSON Metadata, Identity Attestation (JWS), and supporting proof materials for teams or counsel reviewing the full evidence package.
Pricing Comparison
TimeProof
TimeProof uses one unified credit balance instead of forcing every buyer into the same contract shape.
- Scheduled timestamps: 1 credit per file - available to everyone, with proof available within 6 hours.
- Instant timestamps: 2 credits per file - available to verified subscribers, anchored in about 2 seconds.
- Legal-Grade: Starter and Pro: 50 credits up to 25 files, then +2/file. Business: 25 credits up to 25 files, then +1/file. Enterprise: included.
One-time packs start at $15 for 100 credits. Verified monthly plans start at $19/month and include identity verification for instant timestamps and Legal-Grade.
That makes it practical to start with routine scheduled proof and only step up to verified instant or Legal-Grade workflows when the specific matter justifies it.
Manual SHA-256 Hashing
Manual SHA-256 Hashing costs vary. The basic approach is free, but lacks the features and legal standing of blockchain timestamping.
Conclusion
Both TimeProof and Manual SHA-256 Hashing have legitimate roles. While Manual SHA-256 Hashing is a common approach, TimeProof provides independently verifiable, blockchain-anchored proof that is significantly stronger as evidence.
The best approach is to evaluate based on your specific needs: speed, cost, legal requirements, and workflow integration.