Best Hardware Wallets
A hardware wallet is the gold standard for crypto security. If you have significant holdings, you need one.
Why You Need a Hardware Wallet
Hardware wallets store your private keys on a dedicated device that never connects directly to the internet.
How They Protect You:
- Air-gapped signing - Transactions are signed on the device, keys never leave
- Malware immunity - Even if your computer is infected, keys are safe
- Physical button confirmation - Can't be hacked remotely
- Secure screen - Verify transaction details on trusted display
Consider a hardware wallet when:
- You have $1,000+ in crypto
- You plan to hold long-term (HODL)
- You want maximum security
- You've been scammed/hacked before
Top Hardware Wallets Compared
| Feature | Ledger Nano X | Trezor Model T | Ledger Nano S Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$149 | ~$219 | ~$79 |
| Screen | Small OLED | Color touchscreen | Small OLED |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No | No |
| Coins Supported | 5,500+ | 1,800+ | 5,500+ |
| Open Source | Partial | Full | Partial |
| Best For | Mobile users | Privacy focused | Budget option |
Our Recommendations:
- Best Overall: Ledger Nano X - Bluetooth, huge coin support
- Best for Privacy: Trezor Model T - Fully open source
- Best Budget: Ledger Nano S Plus - Same security, lower price
NEVER buy hardware wallets from Amazon, eBay, or third parties. They could be tampered with. Only buy directly from:
- ledger.com
- trezor.io
- Official authorized resellers
Setting Up Your Hardware Wallet
The general setup process (specific steps vary by device):
- Verify the package - Check for tampering, holographic seals
- Download official software - Ledger Live or Trezor Suite
- Initialize as new device - Don't import existing seed
- Set a strong PIN - 6-8 digits minimum
- Write down seed phrase - On paper, in order
- Verify seed phrase - The device will quiz you
- Install apps for your coins - Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.
- Test with small amount - Before transferring everything
- If device came with pre-filled seed phrase - it's SCAM
- Write on paper only - never digitally
- Store in fireproof/waterproof location
- Consider metal backup for fire protection
- Test recovery before storing large amounts
Hardware Wallet Best Practices
Security Essentials:
- Always verify on device - Check addresses on hardware wallet screen, not computer
- Use passphrase - Optional "25th word" for extra security (advanced)
- Keep firmware updated - Security patches are important
- Practice recovery - Know how to restore before emergency
- Multiple seed backups - Store in different secure locations
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Taking photos of seed phrase - Can be accessed via cloud/hackers
- Storing seed with device - Defeats the purpose if both stolen
- Sharing seed "for support" - Real support NEVER needs it
- Clicking firmware update links - Only update through official app
You can connect your hardware wallet to MetaMask for the best of both worlds - hardware security with software convenience. Transactions still require physical confirmation on the device.
What If Device Is Lost/Broken?
- Your crypto is safe - it's on the blockchain, not the device
- Buy a new hardware wallet (same or different brand)
- Restore using your seed phrase
- All your crypto will be accessible again