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Hardware Wallet Compatibility
Security
Our Score
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
Very Secure
Hardware
YES
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Cryptocurrency wallets are a topic that one may discuss until the end of time. Whether you’re looking to debate the best crypto wallets on the market, or simply discuss their types and features, you can be sure that there are going to be quite a few different opinions lingering around. Today, however, we’re going to discuss the best hardware crypto wallets!

Hardware wallets are a niche and specific type of crypto storage that you can utilize to keep your coins safe. When I say niche, though, I don’t mean “unpopular” or unused – on the contrary, hardware wallets are among the most popular cryptocurrency storage options on the market! By niche, I mean that some people are still not sure if they should use them.

That said, there's quite a broad selection of them available to choose from, with Ledger and Trezor wallets leading the pack. So, worry not – we shall talk about the best ones on this list! It will include the following products:

  • Ledger Flex - A Next-Generation Hardware Wallet
  • Trezor Safe 5 - EAL6+ Certified Cold Hardware Wallet
  • Ledger Stax - For Those Who Seek Quality and Luxury
  • Ledger Nano X - Amazing Physical Design & UI, Top-Tier Security Features
  • Trezor Model T - The First Hardware Wallet That Implemented Shamir Backup
  • Ledger Nano S Plus - All Exceptional Ledger Features With a Lower Price Tag
  • KeepKey - An Affordable Hardware Wallet Alternative
  • Trezor One - The Original Hardware Wallet With Good Price & Quality Ratio

After the list, you'll also find the key features every best hardware crypto wallet should have and what other types of wallets exist.

1. Ledger Flex - A Next-Generation Hardware Wallet

Ranks #1 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

Ledger Flex is a next-generation cold wallet that combines advanced security features with a unique design, setting a new standard in crypto asset protection. Thus, it's obviously one of the best hardware crypto wallets out there.

A standout feature of the Flex model is its 2.84-inch black-and-white E-Ink touchscreen. This display allows you to easily review transactions and utilize Clear Signing, ensuring transparency and accuracy in every operation.

The E-Ink technology provides maximum readability, even in various lighting conditions, and displays your favorite NFT collections or images, even when the device is turned off (imagine a Kindle reader turned into a crypto wallet).

At its core, Ledger Flex is powered by the industry-leading Secure Element Chip and Ledger’s proprietary operating system, Ledger OS. This combination ensures that your private keys remain offline, safeguarding them from potential online threats and hackers. The device's chip holds a CC EAL6+ certification, reflecting its high level of security assurance.

Regarding asset support, Ledger Flex supports over 500 different cryptocurrencies and NFTs directly through the Ledger Live app. Additionally, it is compatible with over 5,000 other coins, tokens, and NFTs when used with third-party wallets and dApps.

Designed for seamless integration with various devices, Ledger Flex features Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity for smartphones and a USB Type-C port for desktop computers. Plus, it supports NFC connectivity. This ensures a simple and consistent user experience across multiple platforms, whether you're on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu.

Best hardware wallet: Ledger Flex.

As for durability, the device boasts an aluminum frame with a plastic back cover, available in Graphite and BTC Orange colors. Its compact dimensions and lightweight build make it both portable and durable. For added protection and personalization, accessories like the Ledger Flex Magnet Folio and Ledger Flex Protective Case are available.

Setting up Ledger Flex is straightforward, and in the event of loss or damage, users can recover their assets using the Secret Recovery Phrase. This ensures continuous access to your crypto holdings, provided the recovery phrase is securely stored and accessible only to you.

📚 Read More: How to Recover Ledger

The price of Ledger Flex might be the only downside of the wallet. It costs $249, which is a pretty big sum compared to other hardware wallets. However, I'd say the wallet's offerings definitely make up for it. Plus, you get one Ledger Recovery Key for free, which normally costs $39.

👉🏻 Visit Ledger Flex
...or read our Ledger Flex review

2. Trezor Safe 5 - EAL6+ Certified Cold Hardware Wallet

Ranks #2 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

One of the safest hardware crypto wallets you can currently purchase is the Trezor Safe 5. This model is pretty much a new-and-improved version of the Model T. The Trezor Safe 5 has improved security, better design, and other useful features.

First, let’s take a look at the newly introduced NDA-free EAL6+ certified OPTIGA Trust M (V3) Secure Element chip. This hardware piece protects your cold wallet from any brute-force attacks. Similar chips are also used to guard data in cards or passports.

Additionally, if you want even more protection against physical attacks, you can encrypt your PIN using a microSD. When the feature is enabled, a randomly generated secret is stored on the card. It is then used to combine it with your PIN to decrypt data on the device. Simply put, the hardware wallet cannot be unlocked without the microSD card.

Hardware crypto wallet: Trezor Safe 5.

When it comes to the firmware, Trezor releases frequent updates to make sure everything is up-to-date. It’s important to highlight that since the Safe 5 model is the newest hardware wallet released by the company, there is very little chance that it will stop receiving updates.

Moreover, the last point that needs to be made regarding the security of this device is that every product released by Trezor is open-source. As a result, the code can be inspected by various developers across the globe, who can point out any drawbacks and vulnerabilities it might have. In addition, users are more likely to trust Trezor over other companies due to its transparency.

If security is not the only thing you’re worried about, and you also need a comfortable device, the Safe 5 model is likely to meet your needs. This cold hardware wallet comes with a vibrant color touchscreen that makes confirming or declining transactions a breeze. Because Trezor uses Gorilla Glass, the display is also scratch-proof, so you will not need to worry about accidentally dropping your Safe 5 or having it in the same pocket as your keys.

Hardware crypto wallet: Trezor Safe 5's haptic feedback feature.

The company has also added a tactile feedback feature from the Trezor Touch haptic engine, making the device easier to navigate and providing an even better user experience.

That said, the hardware wallet is also made from durable PC-ABS plastic, has a top-notch Coretx M33 CPU, and is CE and RoHS certified, meeting all quality, reliability, and environmental standards. Plus, Trezor Safe 5 is X-ray-safe and suitable for air travel.

The Safe 5 model will cost you around $169. Admittedly, that is pretty expensive, but it certainly represents the quality that you receive. However, it needs to be mentioned that it’s highly recommended to only purchase the wallet from the official website.

👉🏻 Visit Trezor Safe 5
...or read our Trezor Safe 5 review

3. Ledger Stax - For Those Who Seek Quality and Luxury

Ranks #3 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

I'd say Ledger Stax is the most premium and luxurious crypto wallet as of writing and, hence, one of the best hardware crypto wallets on the market.

Its standout element is the curved E-Ink touchscreen, providing users with an intuitive interface to review and sign transactions with unparalleled clarity. This display also allows for personalization, enabling users to customize the lock screen with their favorite NFTs or photos, making each device uniquely theirs.

A CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip and the Ledger OS operating system power Stax's security. This combination ensures that private keys remain offline, safeguarding them from potential online threats.

The device supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and NFTs through the Ledger Live app and third-party applications. Also, it's compatible with various dApps, offering extensive flexibility for diverse crypto portfolios.

Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C, and NFC. Additionally, Ledger Stax supports wireless Qi charging, enhancing convenience by eliminating the need for cables. Pair that with its battery life, which can last weeks on standby and up to 10 hours of active use, and you have a very convenient wallet.

Best hardware wallet: Ledger Stax.

Getting back to the device's luxury design, comparable in thickness to five credit cards, it incorporates embedded magnets that allow multiple Stax devices to stack neatly together. It also comes with a Magnet Shell case for added protection against scratches and wear.

The mastermind behind this design is none other than Tony Fadell (the same guy who designed the iPod).

By the way, a notable feature is Stax's integration with the Ledger Security Key, which allows users to securely log in to online accounts without relying on passwords. Using the device as a secure hardware-based authentication method replaces traditional passwords with cryptographic protection.

Do note that it probably is the most expensive hardware wallet as of writing, with a price tag of $399 (though a free Ledger Recovery Key is included in this price as well). However, if you're after that luxurious crypto management experience, you'll see that it's well worth it.

👉🏻 Visit Ledger Stax
...or read our Ledger Stax review

Compare Crypto Wallets Side by Side With Others

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Compare Crypto Wallets Side by Side With Others

All Crypto wallets may look similar to you but they're NOT all the same!

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4. Ledger Nano X - Amazing Physical Design & UI, Top-Tier Security Features

Ranks #4 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

The Ledger Nano X is, without a single doubt, one of the best cryptocurrency hardware wallets on the market. No matter where you look online, you’d probably notice that this is the general sentiment all around - crypto holders truly do love and appreciate what the Nano X has to offer.

What might that be, you ask? Well, let’s take it from the top, and work our way down the “feature and benefit” list of the Ledger Nano X.

For starters, naturally, you can expect the highest level of security from the device in question.

Nano X possesses a double-chip setup in its internal design, and locks all of your crypto assets under a custom PIN code. Each time you perform a significant action, you’ll have to enter that PIN code into your device.

The Nano X isn’t only secure on the inside, but also on the outside, too. It may perfectly well be the best hardware wallet for altcoins and Bitcoin simply due to the fact of how well-made it is! The Nano X features a somewhat bulky, yet very sturdy design, with a flippable fob-like internal part of the device with two-button functionality. You really have to hold the device in your hands in order to feel just how well-made it is!

Hardware crypto wallet: Ledger Nano X.

On top of all of that, by purchasing the Ledger Nano X, you will also receive access to the Ledger Live user interface. As the name implies, this is the Ledger version of a hardware crypto wallet UI – a desktop and mobile device application that allows you to access and manage your crypto assets at any given point in time.

Why do I mention it? Well, simply because of just how beautiful and modern the interface is. You can expect complete responsiveness and some amazing usability features.

Let's not forget constant firmware updates, Bluetooth functionality, a universal USB-C port, a 24-word recovery phrase, support for over 5,500 cryptos… There are many features that make the Ledger Nano X an amazing choice, and surely one of the best hardware crypto wallets on the market today.

The Nano X will cost you around $149, if purchased from the company’s official website (the only place you should be buying it from, mind you). It’s surely one of the pricier hardware wallets out there, but the quality is definitely worth the investment.

👉🏻 Visit Ledger Nano X
...or read our Ledger Nano X review

5. Trezor Model T - The First Hardware Wallet That Implemented Shamir Backup

Ranks #5 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

Everyone who has spent even a day researching hardware crypto wallets will know that security is the most essential feature to look into when picking the right option for yourself. Why do I bring it up now? Well, simply because the Trezor Model T is one of the best examples of a top-tier security-possessing wallet.

Trezor is one of the major crypto hardware wallet brands on the market, alongside Ledger. While both companies deal in crypto wallets, admittedly, their products do have some notable differences, whether it be physical appearance, functionality, or some specific design choices.

The Trezor Model T, however, is most notably known for how secure it is. After all, it's the first hardware wallet in the world to implement Shamir Backup (SLIP39). The wallet also employs constant firmware updates in order to ensure that your assets are completely safe from any potential hacking attempts. Plus, it has PIN protection.

Hardware crypto wallet: Trezor Model T security features.

You can use it to send, receive, trade, and stake 1,000s of crypto assets. On top of that, it can also act as a universal second-factor authentication tokenit would actually be one of the more convenient options on the market, thanks to its display screen!

Speaking of which, the Model T offers its users a 1.54" Color LCD touchscreen – that’s surely a unique feature when it comes to the hardware crypto wallets. Not many have a colored screen.

Now, the physical design choice of the wallet is… Debatable. You see, as far as visual aesthetics are concerned, it’s a preference thing; I have nothing to say about that. However, the wallet is very eye-catchingit’s bulky, and doesn’t really look like any other device that you’d use in your daily life.

Hardware crypto wallet: Trezor Model T.

While looking cool and unique sounds good, it can actually be a hindrance. Unless you want to tell everyone around you that you own crypto, you’d probably want your wallet to be as discreet as possible!

Now, assuming that you’re going to be performing your crypto transfers and all of your buying / selling activities from the comfort of a discreet and safe place (i.e., home), then that’s not something to be worried about.

Purchasing the wallet from the company’s official website, the Trezor Model T is going to cost you around $129. Admittedly, this might be one of the pricier hardware crypto wallets on the market. That said, it sure does have a splendid reputation for being a very secure and reliable crypto storage alternative.

👉🏻 Visit Trezor Model T
...or read our Trezor Model T review

6. Ledger Nano S Plus - All Exceptional Ledger Features With a Lower Price Tag

Ranks #6 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

The Ledger Nano S Plus stands tall as one of the best hardware wallets on the cryptocurrency market, revered for its exceptional security measures, rich feature set, and impressive specifications. It's an improved version of Ledger Nano S (the very first Ledger device).

At its core, the Ledger Nano S Plus is a fortress for your digital assets. Its secure chip, certified with the industry's highest security standard (CC EAL5+), provides an impervious barrier against hacking attempts. This means your private keys are stored in a tamper-proof environment, safeguarded against any attacks.

With Ledger Live, the Nano S Plus offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface for managing your crypto assets (over 5,500 are supported!). This app allows you to effortlessly check balances, track portfolios, and initiate transactions, all while maintaining full control over your private keys.

Hardware crypto wallet: Ledger Nano S Plus.

The Nano S Plus is no slouch when it comes to its appearance as well. With a compact, sleek design, it fits comfortably in your pocket or on your keychain, ensuring portability without sacrificing security. It boasts a robust processor, ample memory, and a high-resolution screen, making interactions smooth and hassle-free.

Now, you'll notice that Ledger Nano S Plus often goes hand in hand with the Nano X model on many best hardware wallet lists. What is the difference between these two?

While both the Nano S Plus and Nano X are examples of security, they differ primarily in connectivity.

The Nano X offers wireless Bluetooth functionality, providing a degree of convenience for managing your assets on the go.

The Nano S Plus, on the other hand, relies on a USB connection, making it a slightly more tethered experience. However, the Nano S Plus, with its compact design and highly competitive price point (it costs around $79), remains an excellent choice for those seeking top-tier security without the need for wireless functionality.

👉🏻 Visit Ledger Nano S Plus
...or read our Ledger Nano S Plus review

7. KeepKey - An Affordable Hardware Wallet Alternative

Ranks #7 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

KeepKey is, admittedly, one of the less-known hardware crypto wallets on the market. Well, no, let me rephrase that – it’s one of the less-known high-end hardware crypto wallets on the market.

Taking a look at any of the user cold wallet lists that are out there on the internet, you’ll quickly notice that the vast majority of them are dominated by Ledger and Trezor, and not much else. While this is fair to the extent that these two companies truly do make some of the best cryptocurrency hardware wallets in the entire industry, KeepKey is another option that’s surely worth giving a shot.

The wallet is focused on providing its users with optimal security features, while also being as simple and straightforward to use as possible. In line with the industry standards, KeepKey features a random PIN generator - this is something that helps you protect yourself and your crypto assets against keyloggers and similar hacking attempts.

Hardware crypto wallet: KeepKey.

The wallet itself is simple to use, and shouldn’t cause you any issues, no matter if you’re just starting out with crypto, or are already a professional trader / hodler. That said, there’s one part of KeepKey that is a tad bit… Peculiar.

That would be the exterior design of the wallet. It’s bulky - much more so than other devices mentioned on this hardware crypto wallet list.

Admittedly, KeepKey doesn’t possess such a telltale design as, say, the Trezor Model T - that’s a good thing. However, the wallet rocks a rectangular shape, thus further increasing the visual bulkiness element.

Pricing-wise, however, KeepKey is actually one of the most affordable hardware crypto wallets. The device will cost you around €44, depending on when it is that you purchase it. It’s definitely a great price VS quality ratio!

👉🏻 Visit KeepKey
...or read our KeepKey review

8. Trezor One - The Original Hardware Wallet With Good Price & Quality Ratio

Ranks #8 out of 8 Crypto Wallets

Trezor One is the older version of the Trezor Model T. Both wallets are offered and sold by Trezor, one of the leading hardware crypto wallet manufacturers on the planet. It is this specific wallet that puts Trezor on the radar for many cryptocurrency hodlers and enthusiasts.

Trezor One is not only the flagship product of the company, but also the first hardware wallet to ever exist.

So, then – what makes the Trezor One so special? Well, it’s simply an all-around well-made hardware crypto wallet.

In true Trezor fashion, the device in question is still one of the best cryptocurrency hardware wallets when it comes to security. Even though it does not employ the latest security standards offered by newer wallets, the device will keep your assets secure from various types of threats.

You can expect keylogger protection, random PIN generation, periodic firmware updates, and other high-end security measures that will keep your cryptos safe and sound.

Hardware crypto wallet: Trezor One.

As opposed to the Model T, the Trezor One is actually much smaller and also thinner. Its compact and lightweight design can be seen as a huge benefit for those who are planning to carry the device around. While this is not advised, in the first place, if this is a necessity for you, it’s much better to have a smaller and less eye-catching device than a bulky and attention-drawing one.

It’s worth mentioning that the Trezor One is also much more affordable than its successor. Buying the hardware crypto wallet from Trezor’s official website will cost you around $49. That’s a great deal for one of the best hardware Bitcoin wallets on the market.

👉🏻 Visit Trezor One
...or read our Trezor One review

Best Hardware Crypto Wallet Evaluation Criteria

Now then, even though you're already aware of the best hardware crypto wallets of the year, there are a few things I want to highlight. One of the main of these things would have to be the features that you should look for in a wallet like that. Here's a quick summary of them before we look deeper into each:

  • Security measures
  • Development & firmware update support
  • Device usability & quality
  • Backup & recovery options
  • Additional features (staking, swapping, etc.)

Let’s begin our discussion from the most notable feature that you should be looking into whilst picking out the best offline crypto wallet – security.

Security is "the Name of the Game"

Whether you’re a veteran crypto hodler or a newbie to the scene, one thing is going to be essential to all cryptocurrency enthusiasts – the security of their assets.

When picking out the best hardware crypto wallet for yourself, always pay attention to the security measures that it employs in order to keep your assets safe and sound.

Look for features like two-factor authentication, PIN protection, passphrase support, top-rated Secure Element chip, tamper-resistance, and air-gapped support, among other things.

Security is, without a single doubt, the most important thing to look into when deciding which wallet you want to use to keep your crypto assets in, which exchanges and other trading platforms are reliable and trustworthy, and even which coins are worth checking out, too.

Ledger Flex logo
Trezor Safe 5 logo

Security Level

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Average
Excellent
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Very Poor
Average
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2FA Two-factor Authentication

Multi-signature

Pin Code

Anonymity Level

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Very Poor
Average
Excellent
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Very Poor
Average
Excellent

Backup Type

24-word seed phrase 12-, 20-, and 24-word seed phrase

Private Key Owner

You You

Full Wallet Control

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No
Partial
Yes
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No
Partial
Yes
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Table: The security features of Ledger Flex and Trezor Safe 5

Whenever discussing the hardware crypto wallets with my peers, I always love to give one, specific example that’s related to security:

Imagine you’re holding some Bitcoin. At some point, you decide that it’s time to upgrade to the best hardware Bitcoin wallet you can find. Searching the internet, you come across an amazing-looking wallet – it’s got a sleek design, a vast array of different features, and an awesome and interactive user interface. Without really looking into it too much, you purchase the wallet.

Hardware crypto wallet: excited buyer.

Unfortunately, though, this particular hardware wallet lacks in the field of security, big time. After some time, it gets breached, and all of your BTC gets stolen.

So, what’s the point of my above-given example? Simple – no matter how amazing the features of a particular wallet may be, if it lacks security, it’s not worth your attention to begin with.

📚 Read More: Crypto Wallet Security

Ongoing Developments & Firmware Updates

Once you’ve figured out the aspect of security, and narrowed down your list of the best offline crypto wallets, the next step is to look into the development and firmware update support that the product receives.

Well, frankly, I should say - whether or not it receives it, in the first place.

You see, constant updates of the hardware wallet firmware are crucial in order to allow the wallet to retain its security features. Hackers, scammers, and other malicious third parties don’t sleep around - there are new methods of breaking into crypto wallets being developed every single day!

Hardware crypto wallet: a woman installing updates into a device.

This is why the company behind a particular hardware crypto wallet should be ahead of the curve, and issue new security updates at regular intervals. Having said that, though, security is just one part of the equation.

Firmware updates will make your wallet up-to-date in the security department, sure, but there are other areas that they affect, as well. For example, new coin support might be added to the user interface of the wallet (or even the wallet itself), various bugs fixed, integration with other wallet or dApps expanded, and the UI being smoothed out, in general.

No matter how you look at it, one thing’s clear: the best cryptocurrency hardware wallet should have constant updates associated with it, period.

Usability (Physical Device & UI)

Usability is one of the more underrated features of hardware cryptocurrency storage devices. Think about it – you’re probably going to be using your wallet rather frequently, whether it be to transfer funds, buy or sell crypto coins, or simply to check on your assets, in general.

Given that this is the case, you’d probably want the device to be simple and straightforward to use, at least as much as that is possible. You'd also probably want one that supports a broad selection of crypto assets.

This does also extend to the graphical user interface of the particular device. It’s the software or application that you’ll be using to access and manage your funds – it’s important that it is up-to-date and simply nice to use!

Hardware crypto wallet: Ledger Stax ease of use.

As you've seen from my list of the best hardware crypto wallets above, most of the high-tier crypto wallets do possess great UIs that are both modern, and also simple to use. That said, not all wallets have seemingly “nailed it” when it comes to the physical aspect of their design. We’ll get into that when the time comes, though.

Besides usability, device build quality matters a lot as well, because a hardware wallet is a physical device you probably expect to serve you for years.

Look for wallets made with durable materials like aluminum or reinforced plastic – this protects against drops, water, and even fire in some cases. If it has a touchscreen, Gorilla Glass, sapphire crystal or tempered glass are the way to go.

At the same time, though, the device should be compact and lightweight, making it easy to store securely or carry in your pocket without hassle.

Backup and Recovery Options

One of the most important features of a hardware wallet is how it handles backup and recovery.

Your wallet doesn’t store your crypto, it holds the private keys that give you access to it. If your device is lost or damaged, you need a way to restore access.

Most wallets use a recovery phrase – 12, 18, or 24 words shown during setup. This phrase is your master key and should be written down and stored safely, offline.[1] Ledger, for example, uses 24 words, while Trezor supports 12–24 depending on the model.

These days, though, most reputable wallet providers go even further. Trezor wallets, for example, support Shamir Backup, letting you split your phrase into multiple parts for extra safety.

Hardware crypto wallet: data backup loading on a computer.

Ledger, on the other hand, offers the Ledger Recovery Key (among other solutions), which is an NFC-enabled card that stores your phrase and simplifies wallet restoration. Though it's only compatible with Flex and Stax models.

Whether simple or advanced, the golden rule stays the same: you are responsible for your backup. Losing your recovery phrase means losing access, so treat it with care.

📚 Related: How to Recover Ledger

Additional Features

Finally, a great hardware crypto wallet should, for a fact, possess additional features to offer to its users.

There is no specific “rule” of what these features might be, mind you. It can be anything from allowing you to stake some particular assets from the comfort of your wallet or swap them, all the way to advanced settings that would allow you to have more control over your asset protection.

Hardware crypto wallet: a person holding a Trezor wallet and Bitcoin next to price charts.

These additional features are important for a couple of reasons. First of all, they provide convenience – if you can manage every single aspect of your cryptos from the comfort of a single hardware crypto wallet, it makes things a lot easier!

Furthermore, as an extension to the point mentioned before, additional features do also guarantee that you won’t need to go out and purchase a separate, additional wallet. I mean, if you have everything in one, specific device, there’s simply no need to do that!

All in all, those are some of the main features that you should be looking into when picking out the best hardware crypto wallet for yourself.

An Interesting Cold Wallet Alternative

Now, let me be as forthright about this as possible – the chapter ahead is mostly here for educational purposes, and I would NOT advise you to use the type of crypto wallet described below. Seeing as this is a list of the best offline crypto wallets, though, it would be disingenuous not to mention paper wallets.

Yup, you’ve read that right – PAPER wallets. While being a super-niche way of storing crypto, paper wallets are considered by some to be the safest possible option for storing assets, long-term. Though, others say it's highly impractical to use.[2]

The general way that it works is actually pretty simple – all you need is a wallet address and a private key. You’d generate them, and would then write them down on a piece of paper. That’s it.

Hardware crypto wallet: an example of a paper Bitcoin wallet.

Now, obviously, this does pose a lot of issues, and there are complex intricacies involved in the entire ordeal. It’s worth noting that you would probably have to be pretty well-versed in the world of crypto to attempt to create a wallet like this.

Even then, however, it’s simply not worth it, and hardware crypto wallets are still a much better alternative.

Think about it this way – a piece of paper is a very fragile material. It’s prone to wear, fire & water damage, or simply being lost among other pieces of paper that you might have.

Not the case with a top-of-the-line, best hardware wallet for altcoins and Bitcoin, though.

With a hardware device, you won’t need any technical know-how in order to set it up, and you’ll be able to purchase, sell, and maintain your cryptocurrency assets in a simple and fast manner. None of that is going to be available with a paper wallet, though – the processes are much more complex than they need to be.

So, in short, paper wallets do exist, but they’re mostly aimed at a very niche group of crypto enthusiasts. The vast majority of people are always going to prefer the best hardware cryptocurrency wallets – and with good reason, too.

Hot Wallets: An Alternative or an Addition?

To finish off my list of the best hardware crypto wallets on the current market, I’d like to tell you about an additional wallet that you could use in conjunction with the hardware wallet of your choice.

Yup, you’ve read that right – an ADDITIONAL wallet. Not an alternative.

You see, hardware crypto storage falls under the umbrella term of cold wallets. These are all the wallets that are not connected to the internet, at least the vast majority of the time – an example would be the aforementioned paper wallets.

On the other side of the spectrum, though, you have your hot wallets. These are online-based crypto storing alternatives – web extension wallets, desktop or mobile apps, or even exchange-based wallets, too.

Binance logo
Coinbase Wallet logo

Pros

  • Multiple cryptocurrency support
  • Very secure
  • SegWit and Bech32 address support
  • Built-in exchange functionality
  • One of the most trustworthy names in the crypto world
  • Easy to use
  • Free to register and keep crypto coins in
  • Supports thousands of digital assets
  • Top-notch security measures

Cons

  • Mediocre customer support
  • Not ideal for beginners
  • Not as secure as a cold wallet
  • Not the best customer support

Value For Money

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Table: The pros and cons of the Coinbase and Binance wallets

Now, the general sentiment among many crypto fans online is that you should pick and choose the best wallet for yourself, and use it, meaning, ONLY it. Since hardware crypto wallets are always going to be a better alternative security-wise, it would seem like a no-brainer, right?

Well, I’d say - things are a bit more complicated than that!

If you’re looking to hodl and nothing else, sure – a cold wallet (rather, the best hardware Bitcoin wallet) is the way to go. However, if you’re someone who participates in any amount of cryptocurrency trading, then utilizing the services of both hot and cold wallets might be a smarter alternative!

Ideally, you would want to keep the majority of your crypto assets in a hardware crypto wallet, and the rest on an exchange or other type of hot wallet. Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken are some of the most popular alternatives, as far as exchanges go (and the software wallet options they offer).

Hardware crypto wallet: the software wallet offered by Coinbase.

Choosing an exchange-wallet, you’ll be able to react to market fluctuations quickly, thus increasing your chances of making a profitable trade. That being the case, however, make sure to only choose high-end, reliable cryptocurrency exchanges, if you do decide to follow the exchange-wallet route.

Finally, once again, do note that a hot wallet should never replace a hardware crypto wallet. The security that you’ll receive from a hardware device is unparalleled – pick out the best cold storage device for yourself, and rest assured that your assets are safe and sound, 24/7!

📚 Read More: How to Choose a Crypto Wallet

Conclusions

Now that we’ve reached the end of my list of the best hardware crypto wallets, I hope that it was useful to you. Fingers crossed that you have not only managed to find the best cryptocurrency hardware wallet for yourself but also become more knowledgeable about the topic of crypto wallets, in general.

Whether you pick Ledger, Trezor, or KeepKey, note that all of the wallets discussed in this article offer their users top-tier security and general functionality features. Everything else is just an added benefit!

In addition to all of that, keep in mind that you can also utilize the services of a hot wallet of your choice, too, in conjunction with the best offline crypto wallet. This is something that’s especially cool for people who like to trade rather frequently, since it allows you to save a lot of time, while also being a much more convenient method of storing cryptos.

If you’re interested in trading your cryptocurrencies, make sure to only use the best exchanges on the market! Whether it be Binance, Kraken, or any other one of them, do your own research beforehand.


Other Crypto Wallets in This Category

Here are other crypto wallets related to the category but not as favored by BitDegree readers yet. In my personal opinion, today there are much more optimal crypto wallets in the list with the higher rating that I'd recommend for the same price range or less.

Ledger Nano S - The Ideal Hardware Wallet for Beginners

The Nano S has been replaced by the Nano S Plus. If you already have a Nano S, note that you can get any of its newer models with a 20% discount.

The Ledger Nano S was one of hardware crypto wallets offered and sold by the company in question. The Nano S is the older version of the Ledger Nano S Plus. However, the Nano S was often considered to be the best hardware wallet for altcoins, and also Bitcoin, too!

While some more-cynical people would tell you that the Nano X made the older version of the wallet obsolete, I can firmly say – that was definitely not the case! In fact, same as any other device on this best offline crypto wallet list, the Ledger Nano S had a very specific set of benefits.

It would seem that the general sentiment online (with which I completely agree with, by the way) was that the Nano S was the perfect wallet for any newcomers to the industry, especially those who were looking for the best hardware Bitcoin wallet. With more experienced users, though, it was a bit different case.

Hardware crypto wallet: Ledger Nano S.

You see, the Ledger Nano S supported a few different coins. Well, it did offer support for a wide selection of cryptos, but the space on the device was pretty limited – you were able to install a few of the main cryptocurrency blockchains, but might have had a hard time fitting other altcoins on the wallet.

This, for a fact, might have been a non-issue if you were a beginner crypto enthusiast, and were only looking for the best hardware Bitcoin wallet. You were able to purchase, store and manage all of the main coins on the market. For crypto aficionados, though, this might have been a dealbreaker.

That said, the Ledger Nano S also came equipped with all of the essential security features that were expected from a top-tier hardware crypto wallet. It also constantly received firmware updates – these updates ensured that the security side of the wallet was up-to-date and in line with the current trends.

On top of all of that, the Ledger Nano S did also allow you to have full access to the Ledger Live user interfaceyou were able to manage your crypto assets without any issues!

The best part? The Ledger Nano S only cost you around $59 – this, in turn, made it an absolutely amazing option for those who didn't want to spend a lot of money, but were still looking for a top-rated hardware crypto wallet option.

The content published on this website is not aimed to give any kind of financial, investment, trading, or any other form of advice. BitDegree.org does not endorse or suggest you to buy, sell or hold any kind of cryptocurrency. Before making financial investment decisions, do consult your financial advisor.


Scientific References

1. Eleshin F., Sun Q., Ye M., Das S., Hong J. I.: 'Of Secrets and Seedphrases: Conceptual Misunderstandings and Security Challenges for Seed Phrase Management among Cryptocurrency Users';

2. Houy S., Schmid P., Bartel A.: 'Security Aspects of Cryptocurrency Wallets—A Systematic Literature Review'.

About Article's Experts & Analysts

By Aaron S.

Editor-In-Chief

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era. W...
Aaron S. Editor-In-Chief
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
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Recent Best Hardware Crypto Wallets User Reviews

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Amelia-Rose Henderson

4.6/5.0 - KeepKey User
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Average

Our experience was good

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Pamela Nguyen

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Dixon

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Sidd Marie

5.0/5.0 - Trezor Model T User
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Smoothhhh

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Alice2343

4.6/5.0 - Trezor One User
09/06/2025

Difficult to use

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programmingbear

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Nice & Tidy

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Alfred Barrett

5.0/5.0 - KeepKey User
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fave

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Alexandru Tucker

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KeepKey is a great device

KeepKey is a great device . Customer service is wonderful. Very recommended.Thank you.

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Washington

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happyfrog

4.2/5.0 - KeepKey User
03/07/2025

NICE

LOVE IT

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Marcie the Mute

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29/05/2025

Waiting for delivery

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B.P

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Shanice Carlson

4.4/5.0 - Trezor Model T User
13/06/2025

Excellent Hardware Wallet

Worked perfectly

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JohnPedro

4.6/5.0 - Trezor Model T User
11/05/2025

Nice

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Walter Larson

4.0/5.0 - KeepKey User
11/06/2025

Design is on-point

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Mommyme

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Trezor fan!!!!

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E Cruz

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Perfect combo

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Brianna B.

4.2/5.0 - Ledger Nano X User
30/05/2025

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Supports soooo many cryptos

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KADEN

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01/06/2025

GREAT

Worth paying the price for the quality and security the wallet provides

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Leave your honest Ledger Wallet review

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FAQ

What is the best hardware crypto wallet?

While the answer to this question does depend on a few different criteria, generally, you should be looking at products offered by either Ledger or Trezor. These two companies are considered to be the leaders in the space, and offer their customers some of the best hardware crypto wallets on the market. There are multiple choices available with both of them, too, so everyone should find the best option for themselves! 

What are the features of the best cryptocurrency hardware wallets?

All of the best hardware crypto wallets are going to have a few specific features in common. For starters, all of them should possess only the top-tier levels of securityanything below that is considered unacceptable. On top of that, the wallets should have great user interfaces (namely, desktop- or app-based representations - Ledger Live is a great example here), and also a variety of additional features.

Is Ledger or Trezor better?

Ledger and Trezor both make top-tier hardware wallets, but they suit different needs. Ledger’s newest models, like the Ledger Stax and Flex, offer sleek, modern design with E-Ink displays, mobile support via Bluetooth, and the advanced Ledger Recovery Key for easier backups. Trezor’s wallets, like the Trezor Safe 3 and Safe 5, focus on transparency and security with open-source firmware and Shamir Backup support. I'd say Ledger provides a premium user experience, while Trezor offers full control and simplicity.

Should I use a hardware wallet for crypto?

Absolutely, especially if you're holding more than a few hundred dollars’ worth of crypto. Hardware wallets store your private keys offline, keeping them safe from malware, phishing attacks, and exchange hacks. Unlike online wallets or exchanges, you're in full control of your funds. If security and long-term storage matter to you, a hardware wallet is a smart investment in protecting your assets.

Are hardware wallets 100% safe?

No device is 100% foolproof, but hardware wallets are among the safest ways to store crypto. They protect your private keys from online threats by keeping them offline. However, your wallet is only as safe as how you use it – if you mishandle your recovery phrase or fall for scams, you can still lose access. So, use the wallet correctly and store your backups securely.

What happens if I lose my hardware wallet?

If you lose your wallet but still have your recovery phrase, you’re safe. Just get a new device and use that phrase to restore your funds. The crypto itself is on the blockchain, not in the device. But if you lose both the wallet and the recovery phrase, there's no way to recover your assets, so always store your backup securely in a separate, safe location. Some crypto wallets, like Ledger, provide additional recovery services to simplify things for you.

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