Crypto hardware wallets, also called cold storage, have made it easy to store your cryptocurrencies securely. Hardware crypto wallets cannot be hacked, do not keep private keys on any online network, and they give you peace of mind about the security of your digital asset investments.
Hardware crypto wallets never connect to the internet unless you connect them to your internet-connected computer to perform a crypto transaction. After completing your crypto transaction and disconnecting the wallet from the computer, no one can access your wallet online. If you buy a hardware wallet that has a secure backup system, is made of strong and unbreakable materials, and supports various blockchain networks, you can rest assured that your crypto assets are well protected.
- Ledger Nano X – The best cryptocurrency wallet on the market
- Ledger Nano S Plus – A more affordable alternative to the Nano X
- Trezor Model T – Trezor’s flagship hardware wallet model
- ShapeShift KeepKey – High-security hardware wallet
- Trezor Model One – Small and inexpensive Trezor
- CoolWallet S – Handy crypto wallet with a credit card-like design
- SecuX V20 – Stylish wallet with Bluetooth support
- Coinkite ColdCard – Crypto hardware wallet with maximum security measures
- Shift Crypto BitBox02 – Crypto wallet capable of connecting to full Bitcoin node
- Keystone Pro – Air-gapped hardware wallet with long battery life
- Blockstream Jade – An excellent hardware wallet for Bitcoin
- Tangem – A cold wallet with a credit card form factor
12 best crypto hardware wallets: Examining top digital asset storage options for 2023
Below you will find detailed reviews, pros and cons of 12 options to help you choose the best hardware crypto wallet for your needs.
1. Ledger Nano X – The best cryptocurrency wallet on the market for most users
Ledger is a France-based company with the largest market share in the hardware wallet market, having recently raised $100 million to grow its global business. Ledger Nano X is one of the flagship products of the brand. This highly secure hardware wallet comes with a CC EAL5+ certified secure element chip.
Nano X supports over 5000 cryptocurrencies. Nano X, which can be connected to smartphones and PCs via both Bluetooth and USB, supports Android and iOS operating systems on mobile devices and MacOS, Windows and Linux operating systems on PCs.
No data exploits or vulnerabilities have been detected so far in Ledger’s hardware wallets. The private keys of the wallets are not stored on the computer or smartphone. Ledger Live software allows you to easily manage cryptocurrencies and seamlessly generate and restore your seed phrase. Nano X, which can store up to 100 applications, also has a screen. These applications give the wallet the ability to support multiple blockchain networks.
One advantage of Ledger Nano X is that it can integrate with Metamask and other Web3 hot wallets. This allows users to access DeFi platforms and blockchain dApps using Ledger Nano X. With a price tag of $149, the Ledger Nano X is a slightly expensive wallet compared to the market average. But the Nano X’s high security and Web3 integrations put it at the top of the list of best hardware wallets in 2023.
- Supports 5000+ cryptocurrencies
- Bluetooth connection
- Capacity for up to 100 applications
- Certified secure chip (CC EAL5+)
- The interface takes some getting used to
To learn more, check out our Ledger Nano X review.
2. Ledger Nano S Plus – A more affordable alternative to the Nano X
Ledger Nano S Plus is a secure, high-quality, and easy-to-use crypto hardware wallet. The wallet, which has many of the features of Nano X at nearly half the price, has been among the most preferred cold wallets of crypto investors since its launch.
Ledger Nano S Plus is a hardware wallet that can manage over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and install up to 100 applications. The wallet with advanced security systems independently audited by ANSSI has less storage space compared to the Nano X. Nano S Plus has no Bluetooth connection support and can only work when the USB connection is active.
The product comes in five different colors, including Matte Black, Ice, Deepsea Blue, and Mystic White. Those looking for a Bitcoin wallet solution will be happy to learn that Ledger Nano S Plus comes in the BTC Orange color scheme as well, which complements the wallet’s security features with a nice thematic touch.
Like in other Ledger products, a seed phrase is required to set up a new device. When transferring the wallet to a new Windows PC or other supported platforms, the Ledger Live software provides a streamlined process that can be completed in just a few minutes.
- Supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies
- It is an affordable alternative to Ledger Nano X
- One of the most popular hardware wallets in the market
- Certified secure chip (CC EAL5+)
- No Bluetooth connectivity support
- The controls can be a bit cumbersome
3. Trezor Model T – Trezor’s flagship hardware wallet model
Trezor Model T is a wallet that offers an advanced version of the Model One’s design and features. The Trezor Model T, the first hardware wallet to use Shamir Backup (SLIP39), also acts as a digital authenticator. SLIP39, on the other hand, allows users who have lost their hardware wallets to recover their wallets using the 12-word recovery phrase.
The Model T has a convenient and large enough touchscreen to allow users to verify and confirm any transaction before taking it. Users’ passwords are locked inside Trezor Password Manager software. Trezor Model T supports over 1200 cryptocurrencies.
Offering Windows, MacOS, Linux and Android support, Model T also offers NFT storage support. With the help of Trezor Suite you can send, receive, buy or sell cryptocurrencies. Integrating Trezor with Metamask, one of the best NFT wallets available in the market, is necessary to securely manage NFTs.
Model T is not just a cryptocurrency wallet. The wallet, which has become more useful with two-factor authentication (2FA) and password manager, has an extra layer of protection with a micro SD card. The wallet can only be unlocked when a microSD card is inserted. After unlocking, you have the chance to disable this feature.
When you install the Model T, you create a PIN code with a maximum length of 9 digits. You must enter the correct PIN code to access the wallet. If you enter the wrong PIN code 16 times in a row, the wallet will automatically delete itself.
The Trezor Model T is one of the most expensive crypto hardware wallets on the market. The $215 price tag is a bit high, but its features and build quality easily pits Model T against the best hardware wallets for crypto the money can buy.
- Big and colorful touchscreen
- NFT storage
- Password and digital identity management
4. ShapeShift KeepKey – High-security hardware wallet
ShapeShift’s KeepKey supports cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin, as well as ERC-20 tokens and more. Offering a high level of security, KeepKey has a large OLED display. This allows to review and confirm any crypto transaction on the confirmation screen.
Coming with AES hardware encryption and 2-factor authentication, the device does not download firmware updates from the internet. This makes it possible to receive updates without the need to connect the device to the internet. This hardware wallet, which does not compromise on security, supports PC operating systems such as MacOS, Windows and Linux, and Android mobile operating systems.
KeepKey does not support as many cryptocurrencies as other top crypto wallets. The wallet, which cannot integrate with Metamask or other Web3 wallets, cannot interact with DeFi applications. The advantage of these disadvantages is that the wallet is priced at $49.
The cryptocurrencies that KeepKey supports are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Digibyte, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Bitcoin Gold, Bitcoin Cash, Kyber Network, Dash, and Litecoin. This list, which is rather narrow compared to other crypto hardware wallets, is not suitable for investors with a large investment portfolio.
- Allows password entry and QR code viewing
- Competitive price
- Simple interface
- Open source
- Limited app storage
- No multi-signature support
To learn more, check out our KeepKey review.
5. Trezor Model One – Small and inexpensive Trezor
Trezor Model One is one of the most preferred hardware wallets in the market. With a simple user interface and a simple design, the wallet supports Bitcoin, Bitcoin Gold, Ethereum, Dash, ZCash and many more cryptocurrencies. XRP, XTZ, ADA, EOS and XMR are not supported by Trezor One. The number of supported cryptocurrencies is more than 1000.
Trezor offers PIN code, passwords and other additional security tools to ensure the secure protection of cryptocurrencies. In this way, even if your wallet is stolen, access to the funds in it becomes impossible.
The Trezor One’s affordable $53 price puts it one step ahead of the competition. Those who prefer simplicity and few options can find what they are looking for in the Trezor Model One.
- It’s a small and light device
- Supports over 1000 cryptocurrencies
- Hidden wallets can be created
- Affordable price
- Support fewer cryptocurrencies than Ledger’s offerings
- No USB-C connection
6. CoolWallet S – Handy crypto wallet with credit card-like design
Standing out with its design, CoolWallet S is designed similarly to the credit cards in your wallet. Another feature in the design of CoolWallet S, which supports most cryptocurrencies, is that it is waterproof. The wallet’s Bluetooth support allows you to manage it via any Bluetooth-supported device.
Combining portability and security, this hardware wallet supports more cryptocurrencies after each update. The wallet, which can be managed by mobile devices, has a built-in swap system.
The wallet has a button and a built-in screen. It is simple to read what is written on the screen. Transactions can be confirmed using the button.
One of the best things about the wallet, the card, is that it is easy to charge and has a battery life of up to 3 months. You can set up a wallet in 5 minutes thanks to the Bluetooth connection, which pairs almost instantly with mobile devices. The Bluetooth connection is made with the AES256 advanced encryption standard.
CoolWallet’s integrated swap feature uses the Chanelly API. Although the swap transaction fees are a bit high, it provides a very good convenience for instant simple cryptocurrency trading. The wallet, which can also be integrated with WalletConnect, enables it to be used by establishing a PC connection in this way. The CoolWallet S costs $99 for one device and $159 for two devices.
- Compatible with mobile devices
- Unique and compact design
- Easy-to-use interface
- Limited cryptocurrency support
7. SecuX V20 – Stylish wallet with Bluetooth support
SecuX V20 is a crypto hardware wallet with a Secure Element chip to store private keys and PIN codes. Equipped with a 2.8″ touchscreen, the wallet supports multiple operating systems and platforms with USB connectivity. Robust, stylish and useful, this wallet features a premium metal exterior.
SecuX V20 supports 1000+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Tether, Litecoin, Ethereum and Stellar. This hardware wallet, which also supports thousands of Ethereum-based cryptocurrencies, is the top model of the SecuX brand. The wallet’s private keys are generated and stored offline. The wallet can also integrate with third-party wallets.
With a price tag of $120, the V20 will come with a responsive touchscreen. There is a power button on the device. Larger than most devices, this hardware wallet uses the SLE Solid Flash CC EAL5+ Secure Element chip. This protects your private keys and PIN from intruders.
The first time you turn on the SecuX V20, you are prompted to set a 4-digit PIN code. If you enter this PIN code incorrectly 4 times in a row, the device will erase itself. This is a necessary precaution so that no one can access your cryptocurrencies. The wallet also includes support for a password known as 25th-word protection. The Hidden Wallet feature, which allows you to create a separate wallet and password inside the wallet, adds an extra layer of security to the hardware wallet. You can set a password of up to 99 characters to set up a Hidden Wallet.
The online interface called SecuXcess is located inside SecuXTech. When you want to connect your device to another device via Bluetooth or USB, you must confirm using this program.
- Encrypted Bluetooth support is available
- Supports multiple passwords and signatures
- All major mobile and desktop operating systems are supported
- 2.8″ color touchscreen
- Chrome, iOS, and Android cross-platform support
- Less portable than most other hardware wallets
- The interface is a bit complicated
8. Coinkite ColdCard – Crypto hardware wallet with maximum security measures
Coinkite ColdCard Mk4 is a hardware wallet designed for crypto investors who desire the maximum level of security possible. Developed around open-source software and high-security hardware, it features a numeric keypad and a bright OLED display.
ColdCard has many of the security measures that other crypto wallets offer, but has adapters and other accessories with extra layers of security that ensure even security against compromised USB chargers. The only cryptocurrency that Coinkite ColdCard supports is Bitcoin.
- Bright OLED display
- Perfect for those who want high security
- It can be used with different accessories
- MicroSD card support for backup and data storage
- Only suitable for Bitcoin storage
9. Shift Crypto BitBox02 – Crypto wallet capable of connecting to full Bitcoin node
BitBox02 is a cryptocurrency wallet that provides simple and secure storage of cryptocurrencies. The wallet, which makes it easy to control cryptocurrencies thanks to its intuitive user interface, has added high-level security measures thanks to its dual-chip design. BitBox02’s source code has been audited and verified by independent security researchers.
The difference of BitBox02 from other hardware wallets is that it can work with a microSD card containing the wallet’s backup information. This eliminates the need to always enter a 12- or 24-word phrase to run the wallet. Originally inspired by features from Ledger and Trezor, this wallet combines both physical security and open-source transparency.
BitBoxApp is an app for everything to run. The user interface of the application is quite simple and straightforward. Using the ATECC608A secure chip, the wallet has a 120 MHz microcontroller chip. In this way, multisig installations take place faster. At the same time, the communication between your computer and your hardware wallet is encrypted. This prevents those who exploit data by attacking intermediaries, and provides great security.
BitBoxApp has a Tor forwarding feature. So you can get more security and privacy inside the default app. BitBox02 supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more than 1500 cryptocurrencies. The wallet also has Bitcoin-only firmware.
- Capacitive touch controls
- OLED display
- Open source
- Original packaging includes USB C adaptor, MicroSB card, rubber pulls, and extension cable
10. Keystone Pro – Air-gapped hardware wallet with long battery life
Keystone Pro is a functional crypto hardware wallet that provides users with a wide variety of features. Lacking Bluetooth and USB connections, this wallet calls itself an air-gapped device. QR codes are used to transact with Keystone Pro.
The wallet, which receives software updates with micro SD card support, is powered by four AAA batteries. This provides a fairly long battery life.
The advanced fingerprint biometric authentication system of the wallet ensures that it cannot be used even if it is stolen by someone. The 4-inch color touchscreen provides simple information on transactions and wallet addresses. Shamir backups provide solutions for recovering any deleted wallet. Private keys will self-destruct if the device is suspected of being tampered with.
Keystone has an Essential version besides Pro. This version lacks fingerprint, self-destruct and rechargeable battery features.
- Touchscreen and camera
- The private key is generated and stored offline
- Air-gapped (PSBT) transactions provide an extra layer of security
- Multi-signature support
- The onscreen keyboard is too small
- Material quality is bad
- No integrated crypto swap feature
11. Blockstream Jade – An excellent hardware wallet for Bitcoin
The Blockstream Jade is a great crypto hardware wallet, although it comes with a caveat — the wallet only supports Bitcoin, as well as the Liquid sidechain. The Blockstream Jade wallet was developed by Blockstream, which is one of the leading Bitcoin development companies in the world.
Despite its affordable price point of just $65, the Blockstream Jade wallet is equipped with a camera that is used to scan QR codes, as well as a display. By using the camera, you can use the wallet to sign transactions without having to connect your Jade wallet via Bluetooth or USB and potentially exposing it to vulnerabilities. Still, there is an option to use the wallet via either USB or Bluetooth if you find the convenience to be worth it.
Despite the fact that it can only be used with Bitcoin (and the Liquid sidechain), the Blockstream Jade can be used with an assortment of Bitcoin wallet software, including Electrum, Blockstream Green, BlueWallet and many others.
- Excellent security
- Camera and display enable air-gapped transactions
- Small form factor
- Fully open source
- Only supports the Bitcoin network and the Liquid sidechain
12. Tangem – A cold wallet with a credit card form factor
Tangem is arguably the most unique wallet featured in this article, as it has the form factor of a credit card and has no display. This wallet is designed to be used in combination with devices that support NFC (near field communication), such as smartphones.
Despite its minimalist design, Tangem supports more than 6,000 different crypto assets and 30 different blockchain networks. The wallet adheres to the EAL6+ security standard and has undergone a rigorous audit by Kudelski Security. Tangem usually sells its wallets in packs, so that users can easily have a backup wallet. There can be up to three cards in a Tangem wallet set.
The Tangem wallet is an interesting choice if you like the form factor and portability. It’s also arguably easier to use than hardware wallets with awkward button interfaces and small screens. Notably, Tangem also offers a replacement warranty that applies for more than 25 years.
- Extremely portable
- 25-year replacement warranty
- Supports over 30 blockchain networks
- Must be used with an NFC-compatible device
The bottom line – Find the best crypto hardware wallet for your particular needs
Using a hardware wallet is a very important part of investing in crypto. As the demand for cryptocurrencies and NFTs increases, different kinds of fraud and cyber-attack methods are all but certain to increase as well. While in the past, crypto wallets only served for secure storage, now wallets that offer many integrations and DeFi functions ensure that cryptos are both secure and always ready for use in everyday transactions.
Depending on the features you need, there are large discrepancies in prices between various wallet products. On the low end, it is possible to buy a wallet for $50, while those looking for more functionality and usability can expect to spend $150 or more. While the price might be steep in some cases, remember that the level of protection a hardware wallet provides is well worth the cost, especially if you are in control of a relatively large portfolio. Also, if you are worried about having your crypto seed phrase stored as securely as possible so that you can recover currency stored in your crypto wallet in case of theft or malfunction, we suggest you take a look at our selection of the best seed phrase storage options.
Hardware wallets are a very important part of securing your crypto. But they are not the only part. Find out how you can cover all the bases and hold your crypto safely.