Recommendations of the Best Crypto Wallet in December 2024
If you’re wondering which crypto wallet is best for storing your digital assets, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks and highlighted key features for each wallet to help traders choose the best storage platform.
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1. The Best Crypto Wallet: Ledger Nano X
It’s easy to see why the Ledger Nano X is frequently cited as the best Bitcoin wallet among the cryptocurrency community. Ledger’s first crypto wallet — the Nano S — was already one of the most successful wallets of all time, but the Nano X improves on it in many ways.
Perhaps the biggest single upgrade for the Ledger Nano X is Bluetooth capability with a built-in battery for wireless functionality. Bluetooth opens up a world of possibility for Crypto users because it allows for mobile support. That means you can now use your phone instead of your desktop computer to check out your balance or make a transaction.
Why Choose This Wallet?
In addition, Ledger upgraded the internal hard drive so you can fit over 100 different cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash and many, many others. The device also has an upgraded screen, improved security features and better usability.
Pros
• Provide top-tier security with hardware-based encryption, keeping your private keys offline and safe from potential hackers.
• Allow for wireless transactions via Bluetooth.
• Supports over 100 different cryptocurrencies, making it versatile for users with diverse portfolios.
Cons
• At over $100, it’s relatively expensive, which might be a barrier for new or budget-conscious users.
• The Bluetooth range is partially limited, which might cause minor inconveniences during use.
• The initial setup process is a bit complex, especially for beginners who are new to hardware wallets.
My Experience Using Ledger Nano X: For those who prioritize security and versatility, I would recommend the Ledger Nano X. It offers a premium experience, though it took me some time to get used to the advanced features.
- Flagship Ledger wallet with industrial-grade security with bluetooth
- Supports over 1300 crypto assets and tokens
- Supports all major desktop and mobile operating systems
- Connect to Ledger Live for staking, DeFi, NFTs and more
2. Best Versatile Crypto Wallet: RockWallet
RockWallet has steadily gained recognition as a reliable and user-friendly cryptocurrency wallet. One of the standout features of RockWallet is its seamless integration with decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms. This makes it incredibly easy for users to access a wide range of DeFi services directly from their wallet, such as staking, lending, and swapping assets.
The integration is designed to be intuitive, enabling users to navigate the complex DeFi landscape with ease, even if they are relatively new to the space. The wallet is also equipped with strong security measures, including biometric authentication and encrypted private keys, ensuring that your assets are well-protected.
Why Choose This Wallet?
The combination of DeFi integration, security, and cost-effectiveness makes RockWallet a solid choice for anyone looking to manage their crypto assets effectively.
Pros
• Seamlessly integrates with decentralized finance platforms, making it easy to access and manage DeFi services.
• Offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface.
• Unlike many hardware wallets, RockWallet is free.
Cons
• It doesn’t offer the same level of hardware-based security as physical wallets.
• It’s not as well-known as other wallets, which might make some users hesitant.
• It has fewer supported cryptocurrencies compared to some other wallets.
My Experience Using RockWallet:
I like their smooth interface. It’s especially good for users who want to dive into DeFi, and they don’t have to navigate through complicated interfaces or pay for hardware.
- Free wallet for iOS and Android
- Non-custodial and multi-asset wallet
- Built-in buy crypto and swap options
- Supports numerous assets including BTC, ETH, USDT
3. The Best Budget Crypto Wallet: Ledger Nano S Plus
The original Ledger Nano S was always an easy recommendation, but it had one glaring flaw: storage capacity. There was only enough space to install a maximum of three crypto apps.
Fortunately, this product is a massive improvement with a much larger hard drive and a better screen to boot. It’s still significantly cheaper than the Ledger Nano X (although no Bluetooth).
We’d go so far as to say the Ledger Nano S Plus is the best budget – friendly crypto wallet for most people.
- Exceptional value for the price
- Huge improvement over original Nano S with better screen and more storage
- Install over 100 apps with support for thousands of assets
- Connect to Ledger Live for staking, DeFi, NFTs and more
- One of the most widely supported hardware wallets in crypto
4. Best For Blockchains Wallet: Keepkey
KeepKey is an underrated hardware wallet with a considerable LED display that came to the market significantly later than Trezor or Ledger. It’s actually one of the lower cost wallets, and the big screen makes it effortless to use. The large screen is part of the reason why some people believe it is the best cryptocurrency wallet. The downside is that it’s not very portable due to its form factor, and the company doesn’t have the long-term reputation of Trezor or Ledger.
Why Choose This Wallet?
KeepKey allows you to interact, swap and use a number of different blockchains. This wallet is great if you want to go into DeFi on different chains to earn and explore.
Pros
• Functions with many different blockchains
• Large screen and very user-friendly
• Impeccable security
Cons
• Lacks Bluetooth support, which means it won’t work with iPhones
My Experience Using KeepKey
I’ve used many wallets that will work with a specific chain, but KeepKey works with all of them (at least the major ones). That versatility will be important to those who want to use the different forms of DeFi on different chains.
- Hardware wallet that offers a high degree of security for its users
- Simple integration with ShapeShift, a non-custodial crypto exchange
- Can be used with any desktop, laptop, or Android device
- Large screen helps with UI
5. An Alternative Crypto Wallet: Trezor Model-T
Trezor is very much the Pepsi to Ledger’s Coke. Both are the undisputed heavyweights of the cryptocurrency hardware wallet world.
Like Ledger, Trezor also has a budget model, the Trezor One, but we think the higher-end Trezor Model T is particularly appealing. There are plenty of people think the Trezor Model T is the best crypto wallet, and it’s hard to argue with them.
The Trezor Model T is one of the few crypto wallets that has a full color touch screen display, which makes it a breeze to use. Having a full screen on the device is a massive improvement over the tiny monochrome screens that most companies utilize. Interestingly, you can use the Trezor T for more than just cryptocurrency. It also has a password manager where you safely store passwords or other digital keys.
The downside is that the Model T is prohibitively expensive and generally retails for over $150, making it one of the most expensive options on the market. Sadly, the other downside of the Trezor Model T is that there’s no Bluetooth support, which means that mobile users are out of luck.
Why Choose This Wallet?
Next to Ledger – or better-phrased, alongside Ledger – Trezor is the most reputable brand in the space. From support to adoption to community, they’re top shelf.
Pros
• Arguably the best touch screen among crypto wallets
• Great brand behind the product
• Widespread compatibility in the crypto space
Cons
• It’s on the pricey side.
My Experience Using Trezor Model-T
I often recommend the Model T to those who know about crypto – maybe intermediate or more advanced, and want a fully loaded wallets rather than something basic.
- Top-tier cryptocurrency wallet with impressive touchscreen
- Compatible with a number of software wallets
- Store cryptocurrency, passwords and other keys with ease
- Excellent customer support
6. Best User-Friendly Wallet: Tangem
Tangem has a really intuitive design that a lot of non-crypto people will probably pick up and have some familiarity with. When you’re entering an unfamiliar space, this is a big pro.
Founded by a Swiss company in 2017, they’ve long worked hard to build a safe, secure and simple-to-use wallet. It pairs with your smartphone to essentially tap and go for all the functions. With a price point around $50, this is one of the most affordable options on the market.
Why Choose This Wallet?
This wallet is very intuitive because almost all the work is done from your smartphone. That means using crypto will be very familiar to almost anyone.
Pros
• Ease-of-use
• No need to remember a seed phrase
• Very fast setup
Cons
• Only pairs with phones that have NFC capabilities
My Experience Using Tangem
I actually tested this out with a friend, who was new to cryptocurrency. This was probably one of the fastest I’ve seen a non-crypto person be able to understand and start using it.
- Unique crypto storage solution that uses NFC cards
- Easier to use than traditional hardware wallets
- More durable than wallets with screens
- No need for a separate recovery seed
7. Best Simple Design: Trezor One
This is an excellent hardware wallet that compares very well to the Ledger Nano S. The two devices are very similar and priced nearly identically at the low end of the market but we prefer the form factor of the Nano S. On the other hand, the Trezor One does have a bigger screen so that might push it over the top for some users. Regardless, it’s one of the best bitcoin wallets you can purchase.
Why Choose This Wallet?
This wallet is more on the budget-friendly side, compared to Trezor, which competes with the Ledger Nano S. They’re both among the most used, and most recommended options.
Pros
• Excellent budget option from one of the top brands
• Great customer and community support
• Compatibility is among the best.
Cons
• Form factor is slightly better on the Nano S Plus
My Experience Using Trezor One
Ledger and Trezor go head-to-head to compete for the top spot. This Trezor is one of the best budget options that I recommend, and it usually comes down to personal preference for this versus the Ledger Nano S Plus.
- Affordable price
- Simple to use
- Supports over 1000 coins and tokens
- Trusted brand
8. Best Usability: Ellipal Titan
The Ellipal Titan is a new addition to the market and the only device that is “air gapped”, which means it’s completely absent of wires or even wireless connection. That means it’s potentially the most secure device on the market. It also features a full screen, which essentially makes it a smartphone without connectivity. The upside is that you don’t have to plug it in, and you can make transactions by scanning a QR code with a coinciding mobile app. It’s too early to reach a verdict on the Titan, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on it. Keep checking CryptoVantage for the most in-depth crypto wallet reviews.
Why Choose This Wallet?
It’s s a highly secure hardware wallet with a fully air-gapped design, ensuring your crypto assets remain safe from online threats. Its user-friendly interface and durable build make it a reliable choice for securely managing cryptocurrencies.
Pros
• Fully air-gapped with no network connectivity, protecting against remote attacks.
• Built with a metal body that is both tamper-resistant and waterproof.
• Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and offers seamless integration with decentralized apps (dApps).
Cons
• It is more expensive compared to some other hardware wallets.
• No Bluetooth or USB connectivity
My Experience Using Ellipal Titan
I particularly enjoyed the clear touchscreen interface. Their app is straightforward, although, having to scan a QR code for transactions can be a bit tedious. At least you know the security is top-notch.
- Completely air-gapped hardware wallet
- Tamper proof and keys are never exposed to the internet
- Connects with the Ellipal app to easily send and receive crypto
- Up-and-coming company
How Hardware Wallets Work and Safeguard Your Cryptocurrency
So, why do you need a cryptocurrency wallet? One of the first things you have to understand about cryptocurrency is that pretty much all crypto exists on a public ledger of some sort. That public ledger, which is typically a blockchain, essentially acts as a decentralized bank.
When you acquire Bitcoin, or other cryptocurrency, they are sent to an address, that is a string of text called your public key. Your wallet, stores a corresponding piece of text called your private key, which is how you prove ownership over the cryptocurrency.
If you lose your private keys, then you’ve lost your crypto. It’s as simple as that.
That’s why many crypto experts recommend storing your private keys using an offline method so that you can’t be hacked or compromised.
Hardware wallets let users store their private keys in an offline physical device that you can always plug into your computer or mobile device to make a quick digital transaction. Hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano X also have excellent back-up features that could potentially save your cryptocurrency if you lose your physical crypto wallet.
Hardware wallets also generate recovery seed phrases that you can use to recovery your private keys in the case your hardware wallet is destroyed, lost or otherwise compromised. Recovery phrases usually consist of 12-24 random words, that you can import into a wallet to recover your funds. Twelve words are much easier to write down correctly, rather than 64 alphanumeric characters. They even sell metal crypto wallets where you can imprint or etch your recovery phrase for even more security.
Of course, you’ll need to buy some crypto to put in your wallet, so we suggest checking out our safest crypto exchange list.
The Best Crypto Wallets Compared
- Flagship Ledger wallet with industrial-grade security with bluetooth
- Supports over 1300 crypto assets and tokens
- Supports all major desktop and mobile operating systems
- Connect to Ledger Live for staking, DeFi, NFTs and more
- Free wallet for iOS and Android
- Non-custodial and multi-asset wallet
- Built-in buy crypto and swap options
- Supports numerous assets including BTC, ETH, USDT
- Exceptional value for the price
- Huge improvement over original Nano S with better screen and more storage
- Install over 100 apps with support for thousands of assets
- Connect to Ledger Live for staking, DeFi, NFTs and more
- One of the most widely supported hardware wallets in crypto
- Top-tier cryptocurrency wallet with impressive touchscreen
- Compatible with a number of software wallets
- Store cryptocurrency, passwords and other keys with ease
- Excellent customer support
- The new entry-level Trezor wallet
- Passphrase and secure element for maximum security
- Available as a universal wallet or Bitcoin only
- Supports over 8,000 coins and tokens
- Free copy trading for users with up to 8% commission for trader who creates strategy
- Wide selection of small market cap tokens
- Low fees across all aspects of the platform
- 24-hour customer support
- Hardware wallet that offers a high degree of security for its users
- Simple integration with ShapeShift, a non-custodial crypto exchange
- Can be used with any desktop, laptop, or Android device
- Large screen helps with UI
- Unique crypto storage solution that uses NFC cards
- Easier to use than traditional hardware wallets
- More durable than wallets with screens
- No need for a separate recovery seed
- Affordable price
- Simple to use
- Supports over 1000 coins and tokens
- Trusted brand
Different Kinds of Crypto Wallets
While hardware wallets are often considered the best way to store cryptocurrencies, it’s important to note there are other ways to hold your crypto. Perhaps the best thing about non-hardware wallets is that they tend to be free. Here’s a look at the alternatives to a hardware wallet.
Exchange (Free)
It’s possible to buy digital assets on a cryptocurrency and just leave them parked on the exchange itself. This is referred to as a “custodial wallet” and is considered one of the least safe ways to store cryptocurrency because a third-party holds your private keys. Several high-profile exchanges have filed for bankruptcy and essentially robbed their customers. Exchanges have become much more reliable over the years, but we don’t recommend leaving any sizeable amount of cryptocurrency on an exchange.
Desktop Wallet (Free)
Desktop wallets are easy to use but significantly safer than cryptocurrency exchanges. At least with a desktop wallet your private keys are stored on your own personal computer. That means your PC or Mac would have to be compromised to get your coins stolen. It’s definitely possible, but less likely. The plus side is that its very easy to make transactions using your desktop wallet because the keys are already on your computer, and you don’t have to plug in anything. Generally, desktop wallets are free.
Mobile Wallets (Free)
Mobile wallets are also very convenient but are considered more secure than desktop wallets because smartphones are generally less prone to malware than personal computers. Furthermore, some mobile wallets allow you to add extra layers of security such as 4 digit PINS, or fingerprint identification. Other than that, they work much the same way as desktop wallets, which means it’s very easy to send and receive cryptocurrency. You might be in trouble if you lose your smart phone, however. Fortunately, if you’ve made backups of your recovery phrase, or private keys, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Products like Exodus Wallet actually have mobile and desktop versions.
Browser Wallets (Free)
Having a crypto wallet embedded into your internet browser might not sound like the most secure way to hold crypto, but it’s actually the best way to take part in DeFi (decentralized finance). Browser wallets like MetaMask, Phantom and Rainbow wallet let users swap, stake and more on sites like Uniswap or DYDX. You can actually combine a browser wallet with a hardware wallet for extra security, which gives you the best of both worlds. Most browser wallets are available for all major browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Safari and more. Make sure, however, that you are downloading the correct extension or plug-in, as scammers frequently list fake wallets.
Why Hardware Wallets Are the Most Secure
It’s for all the aforementioned reasons that hardware wallets are generally considered the safest way to store digital assets.
Hardware wallets are exceptionally hard to crack. A thief would have to physically steal your device and break your pin code, which is very, very unlikely. Hardware wallets essentially utilize two-factor authentication (your device and your computer) with the added security of keeping your private keys offline.
It’s also relatively easy to make transactions with hardware wallets once you plug them into your computer.
Hardware wallets come with the ability to back up your funds with a recovery phrase, which is just one more reason why hardware wallets are an ideal cryptocurrency storage device. Hardware wallets are simply the full package when it comes to storing cryptocurrency safely.
What to Consider When Choosing A Crypto Wallet
When you’re considering what wallet is right for you, ask yourself these three questions:
1. Are You Good With Managing Your Own Passwords?
If the answer is no, then cold wallets are not for you. You must be organized to remember your password and keep your seed phrase in a safe space. If you’re bad with this, then your crypto will be at risk.
2. Are You Trading Lots?
If you’re hodling, then cold storage is probably best for you. Just leave your money in the wallet and (hopefully) wake up one day to see your coins mooning. If you’re planning to trade lots (daily or weekly), a hot wallet on an exchange will make your life easier. It’s better to trade there – especially given the lower fee structure per trade.
3. Do You Want Something Fancy?
If you want something basic, the Ledger Nano S Plus or Trezor One will do the trick. If you want more bells and whistles like a big touchscreen, pairing with your phone and other features, then you’ll have to spend double or triple the price to get what you want.
Comparing the Best Non-Hardware Wallets
Hardware wallets are often considered the best way to safely store Bitcoin, but they certainly aren’t the only way to do it. There are plenty of desktop and mobile wallets that get solid reviews from the crypto community. Desktop and mobile wallets are particularly good for keeping a small amount of cryptocurrency for making transactions. Plus, they’re free!
Here’s a quick run-down of some of the more popular non-hardware crypto wallets:
Non-hardware Wallet | Why this wallet? | Our Rating | Visit Now |
---|---|---|---|
Exodus | Best Desktop wallet | 5/5 | Visit Exodus Review |
MetaMask | Best Browser wallet | 5/5 | Visit MetaMask Review |
Trust Wallet | Supports staking, NFT’s | 4/5 | Visit Trust Wallet Review |
Crypto.com | Best Defi wallet | 4/5 | Visit Crypto.com Review |
Atomic Wallet | Great variety with 500+ tokens supported | 5/5 | Visit Atomic Review |
Guarda | Integrates with Ledger | 5/5 | Visit Guarda Review |
BRD | Best mobile wallet | 5/5 | Visit BRD Review |
Mycelium | Incredibly fast, easy to set up | 5/5 | Visit Mycelium Review |
Edge | Good option for those new to crypto | 4/5 | Visit Edge Review |
MyEtherWallet | Perfect for Ethereum users (and ERC-20 tokens) | 4/5 | Visit MEW Review |
Explaining the differences between hot and cold wallets
In the simplest terms, hot wallets are those connected to the internet, while cold wallets are not.
Hot Wallets:
An example of a hot wallet might be one that’s attached to a browser or on an exchange. The benefit is that it’s always online and accessible at any time. In many cases, hot wallets are also easier to use and a bit more user-friendly. For example, if you’ve forgotten your password on a hot wallet on an exchange, you can go through the process of “Forgot My Password” and regain access to your account. On the downside, since they’re connected to the internet, there is always a small risk of your wallet being hacked. There have been instances of exchanges being hacked and/or going under, and then funds might be permanently lost.
Cold Wallets:
As for cold wallets, they have their own set of pros and cons. On the plus side, they’re not connected to the internet. They’re off the grid. Hacking one of those is all but impossible. And you’re in control of your funds, so if an exchange goes down, that won’t impact you at all. You can just relax with the peace of mind that you’re in control of your funds.
On the other hand, sometimes being solely in control can lead to you being your own enemy. For example, if you lose your cold wallet, you could have some serious issues. That can be overcome in most cases. However, if you lose your password and seed phrase, that’s it. Your money is lost forever. There’s no “Forgot My Password” to recover.
A little tip from us: If you’re new to the crypto space, you might want to stick to hot wallets on exchanges because they’ll be familiar to you. If you’re more advanced, you’ll probably want to move your digital currency to cold storage.
Additional Crypto Wallet Reviews
We’ve listed our top picks for hardware cryptocurrency wallets above, but there are plenty of other wallets on the market. Here’s a quick rundown of the other hardware wallets available.
RockWallet
Rockwallet is a unique multi-asset wallet that offers crypto swaps directly in the app. It also offers the ability to purchase cryptocurrency in the app with a credit card. It’s available for iOS and Android.
- Free wallet for iOS and Android
- Non-custodial and multi-asset wallet
- Built-in buy crypto and swap options
- Supports numerous assets including BTC, ETH, USDT
Exodus — Desktop Wallet
Exodus Wallet has a lot to offer as a cryptocurrency wallet. From a slick interface, to a built in exchange, Exodus is one of the most popular cryptocurrency wallets on the market.
The wallet displays all your cryptocurrency in an illustrated manner — like a stock portfolio — complete with graphs, charts and more. It’s an excellent way to store multiple cryptocurrencies and get an idea of how all your coins are doing. In other words: investors will like Exodus.
Exodus recently incorporated support or Android and iOS so you can actually use it on mobile as well as desktop.
- Free to download for desktop & mobile
- Supports multiple hardware wallets
- Supports over 100 cryptocurrencies
- Great customer support
MetaMask – Browser Wallet
MetaMask is likely the most popular browser wallet in the world, and it’s immensely popular for DeFi, NFT and Web3 applications. That goes for all the most popular crypto apps, including Uniswap and Opeansea.io.
MetaMask was created by the Consensys way back in 2016, and it was one of the first wallets that let people interact directly with Web3. Designed to work with all EVM-compatible (Ethereum Virtual Machine) chains, it offers support for Ethereum, Polygon, Avalanche and more. You can also take advantage of Layer-2 networks like Arbitrum and Optimism. It might be the most ubiquitous crypto wallet in the world. It can also be combined with a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor for even more security.
The downside of MetaMask is that it’s not the easiest to understand for new crypto users, and the interface is less intuitive than some of its newer competitors. The other major downside? No Bitcoin. Still, MetaMask remains one of the most popular choices for a crypto-savvy users.
- User interface is easy for beginners to grasp
- Portal into a variety of Ethereum dapps
- Hardware wallet integrations
- Available on mobile and as a browser extension
Trust Wallet – Mobile Wallet
Trust Wallet is a very popular wallet by the team at Binance. It’s a simple wallet that offers a solid UI and good all around security. One of the biggest benefits of Trust Wallet is that it supports a wide variety of assets for staking, which means you can earn passive income in your crypto while it’s sitting in your wallet.
- Highly respected multi-crypto wallet that launched as an open-source project
- Stake coins like Binance Coin, Kava and Cosmos to earn interest
- Options to buy cryptocurrency directly in wallet
- Supports NFTs and in-browser dApps
Crypto.com – DeFi Wallet
The Crypto.com wallet is a new addition that will likely only be of interest if you use the Crypto.com platform heavily. You can leave your coins on Crypto.com, but the site also launched a non-custodial wallet recently, where you actually hold on to your private keys. It’s a fine starter wallet and lets users stay within the Crypto.com ecosystem.
- A secure, non-custodial wallet in the Crypto.com ecosystem
- Stake coins like CRO and ATOM directly from the wallet
- Slick design and very strong U.I. for new crypto users
- Easily transfer funds from Crypto.com to Crypto.com Wallet
Atomic Wallet — Desktop Wallet
Atomic Wallet is another strong option in the software wallet market.
Atomic is a decentralized multi-currency wallet that’s available for Windows, macOS and Linux. Interesting Atomic uses BitTorrent technology to maintain its independence and give its users a solid experience at no cost. Atomic also lets users use bank cards to purchase cryptocurrencies inside the wallet, which is a very nice feature. You can also swap different cryptocurrencies inside the app.
Users have plenty of options with Atomic, as the wallet supports over 500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens. The downside of Atomic is that there’s no support for hardware wallets, and support for the wallet is fairly lackluster.
- Over 500 coins and tokens supported
- Free wallet
- Easy to use for beginners
- Very secure
Guarda – Desktop & Mobile Wallet
Guarda is an interesting wallet in the cryptocurrency space that will likely appeal to the open-source crowd. It provides a non-custodial storage solution for various digital assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum and over 40+ others. It’s also possible to purchase Bitcoin directly in the wallet thanks to its integration with Simplex. One of the killer features of Guarda is that you can connect it to a Ledger hardware wallet to give yourself an extra layer of protection. On the downside, Guarda does not offer support for connecting Trezor or KeepKey hardware wallets.
- Integration with Ledger hardware wallets
- Ability to trade between cryptocurrencies within the wallet interface
- Support for 60 blockchains and 400,000 tokens
- Ability to create your own ERC-20 token
BRD Wallet — Mobile Wallet
BRD Wallet, formerly known as Bread, is one of the easiest mobile wallets for cryptocurrency beginners.
BRD focuses heavily on making its software simple and easy to use and they mostly pull it off with a simple interface that almost anyone could understand immediately. Interestingly it’s even possible to purchase Bitcoin in the app in some countries.
Because BRD focuses so heavily on accessibility it does fall behind some of its competitors when it comes to security and you won’t find 2-factor authentication or more security features. BRD only supports Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash and Ethereum and is only available on iPhone and Android.
- Free to download for iOS and Android
- Setup only takes a matter of seconds
- The keys are stored in your phone only
- Lightweight and easy to use
Mycelium – Mobile Wallet
Mycelium is often referred to as “The Default Bitcoin Wallet” thanks to simple design and ease of use. The wallet launched in 2013 and has been one of the more reliable software wallets ever since. The wallet also has beginner and expert modes, which enables everyone to get the most out of the software. The one downside to Mycelium is that it only offers native support for Bitcoin and Ethereum, which makes it a sub-optimal choice for holding tons of altcoins.
- Create a wallet and begin using in seconds
- Super fast connection to bitcoin network through Mycelium’s super nodes
- Private keys encrypted, held only by user, and never leave the wallet
- Beginner mode for simplicity – Expert mode for advanced users (includes API)
Edge — Mobile Wallet
Edge is the main competitor to Mycelium, and it offers a much flashier interface with a variety of new features including Fast Touch log-in on iPhone and automated back-ups.
It’s easy to store multiple wallets in a single account, which means you could set up your account similarly to a traditional banking account with “savings” and “checking” accounts.
Edge doesn’t have quite the history of Mycelium, but it’s rapidly developing a loyal customer base.
- Great wallet for new cryptocurrency users
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Impressive customer support
- Built-in swap through THORchain
MyEtherWallet – Web Wallet
MyEtherWallet is one of the more specialized software wallets in the cryptocurrency space, as it focuses on — you guessed it — Ethereum. You’re not completely limited to Ethereum, however, as MyEtherWallet (or MEW as it’s affectionately known) also offers support for ERC-20 tokens. Users of MEW are completely in control of their own funds and can even purchase Ether from within the app using a debit or credit card. It’s mostly off the grid, so some use it to avoid paying taxes. We recommend that you follow the rules in your local jurisdiction, though.
- Easiest wallet for cryptocurrency newcomers to get started with Ethereum
- Users are in full control of their own private keys
- MyEtherWallet.com platform makes it easy to access all of the applications built on Ethereum
- Hardware wallet support
Electrum – Desktop Wallet
Electrum is one of the oldest Bitcoin wallets in existence and, as a result, it’s also one of the most popular digital wallets. According to some estimates, Electrum is responsible for 10% of all Bitcoin transactions. The wallet itself is slightly old school and less intuitive than some of the more modern wallets. Altcoin users need not apply, however, as Electrum is dedicated solely to Bitcoin.
- Two-factor authentication available for transactions
- Hardware wallets can be used with this wallet
- Default wallet included in the Tails operating system for privacy-focused users
- Bitcoin support only
Keplr Wallet
- The first IBC-enabled wallet for the Cosmos ecosystem
- Send, receive, swap and stake assets like Cosmos, Cronos, Luna and Juno
- Compatible with Ledger hardware wallets for enhanced security
- Clean, easy-to-understand interface
ZenGo Wallet
- No passwords, no seed phrases, no private keys = no lost funds to a lost passwords
- A hybrid of a custodial and non-custodial wallet
- Free to download and set up takes just 21 seconds
- Streamlined user interface that’s easy to understand for crypto users
Argent Wallet
- Great wallet for Ethereum (and ERC20 token) users
- Slick UI that’s easy to understand
- Users can purchase cryptocurrency within the wallet
- Helps make sense of Ethereum ecosystem
ColdCard
- Top class crypto wallet with a bright, 128X64 pixel OLED screen.
- Bitcoin-only wallet with full numeric keypad
- The crypto security chip stores the private key in a dedicated security chip, not the main micro’s flash.
- Main in Canada using a secure supply chain
Phantom Wallet
Phantom Wallet is an excellent, lightweight wallet that has been developed especially for SOL and Solana-based assets. The wallet can be downloaded as a browser extension and offers support for staking and swapping crypto directly in the wallet. It can also be combined with a hardware wallet for even more security.
- Lightweight non-custodial Solana wallet that works in-browser
- Compatible with Ledger devices for extra security
- Easy to stake Solana on Phantom for passive income generation
- Offers support for a number of tokens and SOL-based NFTs
Brave Wallet
Brave Wallet is the debut wallet of the popular crypto-based Brave Browser. There are several advantages to having a native crypto wallet built into your browser but perhaps the biggest one is that you can’t accidentally download a malicious crypto wallet that will steal your funds. Brave Wallet offers compatible with all ERC20-based tokens and EVM compliant coins like Polkadot, AVAX and BNB with plans to add Solana in the future. The only glaring omission? For now there’s no Bitcoin support.
- Built-in non-custodial crypto wallet from Brave Browser
- No need to install an extension as Brave Wallet is built into the browser
- Ability to swap cryptos in browser
- Store your BAT tokens easily
Lattice1 by GridPlus
The Lattice1 by GridPlus is one of the most audacious hardware crypto wallets in history with 5″ TFT with 480×800 resolution that lets users see entire crypto transactions. It also features a hefty price tag but it might be of interest to Bitcoin and Ethereum users who want a luxury hardware wallet.
- SafeCards allow for endless secure accounts via Lattice1 card slots
- Class-leading large touchscreen that displays entire transaction messages
- Highly technical physical components that make it one of the safest wallets on the market
- Compatible with MetaMask
Rainbow Wallet
Rainbow wallet is an extremely slick mobile wallet that’s fantastic for crypto users who prefer using smart phones or tablets over desktop computers. Rainbow wallet is limited to just Ethereum-based assets but it does offer rudimentary access to things like DeFi and NFTs, which make it a great place to start your crypto journey.
- Streamlined mobile wallet that’s especially good for crypto beginners
- Trade directly on Uniswap from within the mobile app
- Send and receive assets using Ethereum Naming Service
- Display NFTs within the application
Arculus Wallet
Arculus offers an interesting wallet that actually features 3-factor authentication with biometrics, PIN and hardware key. It’s a good compromise between hot wallets and cold wallets with support for a wide variety of cryptocurrencies.
- Unique 3-factor authentication
- Offers a compromise between hot wallets and cold wallets
- Combines biometrics, PIN and hardware key for ultimate security
- Supports most major coins including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon
How Do the Major Crypto Wallets Compare?
There are plenty of great cryptocurrency wallets out there but you might be wondering how they compare to each other. First off, if your questions weren’t answered on this page, there are plenty of other sites ranking the best crypto wallets.
We’ve also taken the time to compare some of the most popular wallets based on features like security, software, cost and more. That way you can find both the best cold wallets and the best hot wallets to fit your needs.
Here’s a look at some of our more popular comparisons:
- Ledger Nano X vs. Trezor Model T
- Ledger Nano S Plus vs. Trezor One
- Ledger Nano X vs. Ledger Nano S
- Trezor One vs. Trezor Model T
- KeepKey vs Trezor One
- Exodus vs Electrum Wallet
- Trust Wallet vs MetaMask
- MetaMask vs Coinbase Wallet
- Exodus vs MetaMask
- Coinbase Wallet vs Crypto.com DeFi Wallet