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There’s plenty of risk (and reward) in the cryptocurrency space. The last thing you want to worry about is where to store your money. The worst feeling in the world is watching your crypto go to the moon only to find out that the crypto wallet (or exchange) that you have all your money stored at is going under.

What you’re looking for in a crypto wallet is security, ease-of-use and general functionality. Of course, there’s a little bit more to it, but check off those three boxes, and you’re in great shape. We’ve sent out our editors to try out the products in the market, and here’s a look at the ones they rate the best.

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Top 10 Crypto Wallets Compared

Crypto Wallet

What Feature Stands Out

Our Rating

Trade

Ledger Logo Ledger Nano X

Private cryptographic keys.

RockWallet Logo RockWallet

Users can manage their private keys.

Ledger nano hard wallet logo Ledger Nano S+

More storage capacity for assets.

KeepKey Icon KeepKey

Constant firmware security upgrades.

Trezor Logo Trezor T

Coin security with a touchscreen.

argent logo Argent

Two-factor authentication (2FA).

Trezor One Trezor One

Private key isolation.

Ellipal Titan Logo Ellipal Titan

Secret secondary wallet.

Zengo Logo Zengo

Multi-party computation (MPC).

Bitget logoBitget

Hardware wallet compatibility.

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 BitcoinEthereumLitecoinRippleBitcoin 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.

The Ledger Nano X product shot

Ledger Nano X

  • 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
Cost $150
Cryptocurrencies 1,300+
Mobile support iOS, Android

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.

RockWallet Logo

RockWallet

  • 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
Cryptocurrencies 12+ (ETH, BTC, USDT, LINK)
Cost Free to download
Mobile support iOS, Android

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 it does not have Bluetooth capacity). In fact, Ledger even touts it as their most popular entry-level device.

We’d go so far as to say the Ledger Nano S Plus is the best budget – friendly crypto wallet for most people.

Why Choose This Wallet?

The Ledger Nano S is popular for good reason. You get superior security features, support for over 5,000 coins, and improved independence, all at an incredibly affordable price.

Pros

Built-in battery-free USB-C connection

Protected by the Security Element Chip and Ledger OS

Quick and easy approvals for transactions

Cons

No wireless connectivity

My Experience Using Ledger Nano S Plus

Getting used to hardware wallets can be tricky. However, I find that the Ledger Nano S device’s simple interface makes it easy to navigate, even for the crypto newbies. Moreover, it’s cold storage security features are impressive enough to win over even the most skeptical experts.

The Ledger Nano S Plus is one of the best crypto hard wallets you can buy.

Ledger Nano Plus

  • 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
Cost $79
Cryptocurrencies 5,500+
Storage 100+ crypto apps

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.

KeepKey Hardware Wallet

KeepKey

  • 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
Cost $17-$50
Cryptocurrencies 7,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android

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 difficult 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.

Trezor Model T Hardware Wallet

Trezor Model T

  • 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
Cost $215
Cryptocurrencies 1,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Linux

6. Best User-Friendly Wallet: Argent

Whether you prefer managing your crypto assets on your mobile devices, through an easy-to-access web extension, or a highly customizable SDK version, the Argent wallet offers something for everyone.

As a smart wallet on Starknet, Argent puts you in control, while keeping your assets safe with 2FA, Fraud Protection, and no seed phrase. Top-class features allow you to pay your fees in your preferred token, approve multiple transactions with one-click DeFi support, and minimize pesky sign-ins.

Why Choose This Wallet?

This wallet is very intuitive because you have the power to decide how you want to manage your crypto. This means that both beginners and experienced crypto experts will be able to manage their assets with ease.

Pros

• Ease-of-use

• No need to remember a seed phrase

• Very fast setup

Cons

• Guardian setup process can be complicated

My Experience Using Argent 

I actually tested this out with a friend, who was new to cryptocurrency, and I was impressed by how quickly they were able to understand and start using it. The intuitive design and simplified onboarding process made it one of the easiest wallets I’ve seen for non-crypto users to get started with.

argent logo

Argent

  • 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
Cost Free
Cryptocurrencies All Ethereum Tokens
Platforms Supported Android & iOS

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.

 

Trezor One Hardware Wallet

Trezor Model One

  • Affordable price
  • Simple to use
  • Supports over 1000 coins and tokens
  • Trusted brand
Cost $59-$69
Cryptocurrencies 1,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS

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.

Ellipal Titan Logo

Ellipal Titan

  • 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
Cost $169+
Cryptocurrencies 30+
Platforms Supported Android & iOS

9. Best Decentralized Wallet: Zengo

Where more traditional wallets rely on a seed phrase to keep your assets secure, Zengo utilizes two independent shares in a revolutionary MPC (Multi-part Computation system). This way, you get all the control that a self-custodial wallet affords, with none of the single-point vulnerabilities of the seed phrase system.

There is also no need to compromise on features, with support for over 380 assets, and the ability to buy, sell, trade and access Web3 dApps.

Why Choose This Wallet?

This wallet offers unrivalled security, robust enough to support institutions with billions worth of crypto.

Pros

• Open-source cryptography

• Create multiple unique wallets with one account

• Multi-factor authentication for added theft protection

• Non-custodial with various recovery options

Cons

• Requires an internet connection to access funds

• Very dependent on biometric data

My Experience Using Zengo

I was surprised by how easy it was to get started with Zengo. Not having to remember and use separate keys makes managing my digital assets easier than ever. Plus, the customer service team is available if you do happen to get stuck at some point.

Zengo Logo

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
Cryptocurrencies 120+ (BTC, ETH, BNB, DOGE)
Cost Free to download (Pro is $20)
Payments accepted Apple Pay, Google Pay, Credit Card, Bank Transfer, Debit

10. Best Wallet for Cross-chain Transactions: Bitget

Bitget is the ultimate option for those looking to be on the cutting-edge of finance. With an incredible Web3 focus, a robust NFT marketplace, an extensive dApp ecosystem, and advanced asset staking, all available at the touch of a button, this wallet leads the charge for decentralized crypto management.

The multi-chain ecosystem allows you to effortlessly trade between coins, at a moment’s notice.

Why Choose This Wallet?

The Bitget Wallet allows you to manage assets across various blockchains with ease. It’s robust security and user-friendly interface make transactions easier than ever.

Pros

• Integrated support for dApps and DeFi

• Intuitive design for easy navigation

• Instant coin-to-coin exchanges

Cons

• Steep learning curve for advanced features

My Experience Using Bitget

It didn’t take long for me to realize that Bitget’s user-interface is incredibly intuitive to use. The built-in Web3 integrations make accessing DeFi, NFTs, and dApps incredibly convenient, for both beginners and experts.

Bitget

Bitget

  • 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
Funding Methods Cryptocurrency only
Cryptocurrencies 184+
Countries USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, Korea, Japan, LATAM, India, South East Asia, Africa

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. Some, like the Ledger Nano X, also have excellent back-up features that could potentially save your cryptocurrency if you lose your physical crypto wallet.

They 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 of March 2025

The Ledger Nano X product shot

Ledger Nano X

  • 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
Cost $150
Cryptocurrencies 1,300+
Mobile support iOS, Android
RockWallet Logo

RockWallet

  • 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
Cryptocurrencies 12+ (ETH, BTC, USDT, LINK)
Cost Free to download
Mobile support iOS, Android
The Ledger Nano S Plus is one of the best crypto hard wallets you can buy.

Ledger Nano Plus

  • 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
Cost $79
Cryptocurrencies 5,500+
Storage 100+ crypto apps
KeepKey Hardware Wallet

KeepKey

  • 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
Cost $17-$50
Cryptocurrencies 7,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android
Trezor Model T Hardware Wallet

Trezor Model T

  • 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
Cost $215
Cryptocurrencies 1,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Linux
argent logo

Argent

  • 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
Cost Free
Cryptocurrencies All Ethereum Tokens
Platforms Supported Android & iOS
Trezor One Hardware Wallet

Trezor Model One

  • Affordable price
  • Simple to use
  • Supports over 1000 coins and tokens
  • Trusted brand
Cost $59-$69
Cryptocurrencies 1,000+
Platforms Supported Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS
Ellipal Titan Logo

Ellipal Titan

  • 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
Cost $169+
Cryptocurrencies 30+
Platforms Supported Android & iOS
Zengo Logo

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
Cryptocurrencies 120+ (BTC, ETH, BNB, DOGE)
Cost Free to download (Pro is $20)
Payments accepted Apple Pay, Google Pay, Credit Card, Bank Transfer, Debit
Bitget

Bitget

  • 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
Funding Methods Cryptocurrency only
Cryptocurrencies 184+
Countries USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, Korea, Japan, LATAM, India, South East Asia, Africa

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 sizable 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 it’s straightforward 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 easy to send and receive cryptocurrency. You might be in trouble if you lose your smartphone, 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 crypto wallets.

Hardware wallets are exceptionally difficult 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 holding, 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 some cryptocurrencies 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 Read Exodus Review
MetaMask Best Browser wallet 5/5 Read MetaMask Review
Trust Wallet Supports staking, NFT’s 4/5 Read Trust Wallet Review
Crypto.com Best DeFi wallet 4/5 Read Crypto.com Review
Atomic Wallet Great variety with 500+ tokens supported 5/5 Read Atomic Review
Guarda Integrates with Ledger 5/5 Read Guarda Review
BRD Best mobile wallet 5/5 Read BRD Review
Mycelium Incredibly fast, easy to set up 5/5 Read Mycelium Review
Edge Good option for those new to crypto 4/5 Read Edge Review
MyEtherWallet Perfect for Ethereum users (and ERC-20 tokens) 4/5 Read 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. Often, 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 your funds are where you left them..

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.

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:

 

Arthur Crowson

About the Author

Arthur Crowson

Arthur Crowson is an award-winning writer and editor who hails from the Pacific Northwest. His career began in traditional news media but he transitioned to online media in the mid-2000s and has written extensively about the online poker boom and the rise of cryptocurrency.

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