Although crypto wallets are digital tools, they can also be found in a physical form. Of course, we are talking about crypto hardware wallets here. They are one of the three basic types of crypto wallets in addition to web-based and software cryptocurrency wallets.
What Makes Crypto Hardware Wallets Better Than Their Web-based and Software Counterparts?
Some potential users of crypto hardware wallets may be deterred by the price of these devices. Still, the fact is that the advantages they offer justify the high initial investment.
So, for example, compared to web-based and software crypto wallets, the hardware version offers a significantly higher level of security. We often hear about hacking attacks on regular wallets for storing and using crypto. Such events in the case of the hardware version are rare. This is because these wallets keep private keys offline. Additionally, they cannot be the target of phishing or malware attacks.
With the help of crypto hardware wallets, you have complete control over your assets. In other words, you don’t depend on an intermediary. Also, unlike the web-based and software versions, you can perform offline transactions, verify physical transactions (additional protection), get support for multiple cryptocurrencies, etc.
These are some reasons why crypto enthusiasts focus on this type of wallet. Of course, not all are equal, so we created this list of the best crypto hardware wallets. Let’s get started!
Trezor Model T – Best for Security
Trezor is a well-known company in the crypto world. Interestingly, it’s the creator of the first crypto hardware wallet. Trezor was launched in 2013 by two crypto enthusiasts and currently has over 100 employees. The world’s first crypto hardware wallet (Trezor Model One) was released a year later. In addition, this company launched two other wallets and, in our opinion, the Trezor Model T is the best among them.
One of the first things users will notice about the Trezor Model T model is its attractive design. It’s a relatively small device with a stylish, modern design featuring a sophisticated color touchscreen. Using a USB-C cable, you can connect it to any device using macOS, Windows, Android, or Linux operating systems. In addition, the Trezor Model T includes a MicroSD card slot.
While discussing the technical, physical stuff, we’ll also note that this wallet has certifications for RoHS (Restrictions of Hazardous Substances) and CE (EU safety, health, and environmental protection standards). Since it’s X-ray safe, you can use it for air travel.
This crypto wallet’s high level of security is one of its strongest selling points. It comes with a unique Trezor Suite app that allows managing cryptocurrencies securely and simply. For example, every transaction (receiving, selling, or trading) is verified and confirmed on the wallet.
Furthermore, this device allows you to set a PIN code as well as a passphrase to gain access to it. This means that your funds remain protected even if someone steals your wallet or someone close to you momentarily gains access to it.
Speaking of safety and security, it’s good to mention that your coins remain your property even if your Trezor Model T breaks, gets lost, or is stolen. Your wallet backup will help you access crypto assets. There‘s a standard backup with a list of 12 words, as well as a so-called Shamir backup with several wordlists for extra security. In any case, you will get your money back without much trouble.
Finally, it‘s worth mentioning that the Trezor Model T supports over 8,000 crypto assets. This means more than 90% of active cryptocurrencies, including the most used ones, are covered. With such features and options, it‘s unsurprising that Trezor Model T is marked as the top wallet in almost all lists.
Ledger Nano X – Best Popular Wallet with Bluetooth
To discuss the best crypto hardware wallets without mentioning the Ledger Nano X would be a big mistake. This is a trendy option among crypto users. The company itself was founded in 2014 by experts in this field. Today, Ledger has over 700 employees on three continents.
This company’s portfolio has three models of hardware wallets for cryptocurrencies. It has sold over 6 million devices, including the Ledger Nano X devices.
Physical Ledger Nano X resembles a modern folding USB storage device. This lightweight device (34g) with small dimensions is made of a combination of steel and plastic that guarantees durability. It also comes with CCD EAL5+ certification (for its chips), confirming its safety.
Mobility is what makes Ledger Nano X a special crypto hardware wallet. The focus is on the ability to manage cryptocurrencies and NFTs regardless of your current location. This is one of the few devices with a Bluetooth connection that allows direct connection to the application on your smartphone. In addition, there is also the possibility of connecting with a USB type C cable.
Let’s not forget that Ledge Nano X allows you to manage more than 5,500 coins and tokens. That may not be as high a number as the one offered by the Trezor Model T, but it still includes all the popular crypto assets. Users can store up to 100 coins on one device. This wallet provides integration with Web3 wallets.
NGRAVE ZERO – Best Cold Storage Option
NGRAVE may be a newer company than the others on this list, but that doesn’t make it less experienced. The company behind NGRAVE ZERO, one of the leading crypto hardware wallets on the market, was founded in 2018 by three friends who started dealing with cryptocurrencies in early 2013. Using the innovative approach, they have created three products, including NGRAVE ZERO.
This crypto wallet has the nicest look even though it is significantly bigger than the others. Its 4-inch screen makes all available functions more visible. The fingerprint login and the camera are some other things that set it apart.
NGRAVE ZERO is the only hardware crypto wallet with an EAL7 certificate, the highest evaluation assurance level. Only devices focused on delivering a complete user security proposition have this certificate. In addition, it also has RoHS and CE certificates, which, as we said earlier, speak more about the quality of production and materials (in this case, it is about military-grade materials).
As the best cold storage option, NGRAVE ZERO doesn’t rely on USB or network connections (Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, 3G, 4G, 5G, etc.). The generation of keys with this device goes through transparent QR codes. There is a USB-C cable port, but it’s used only for wall charging and secure firmware updates.
It’s also worth mentioning here the modern mobile application available via QR code that gives you access to public information related to your orders. NGRAVE ZERO supports over a dozen cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and Ethereum, as well as hundreds of tokens available on the Ethereum and MultiversX networks.
The only potential drawback associated with this crypto hardware wallet is its price. It is significantly higher than other options, which is not surprising since it’s a high-quality product.
