1. Ledger Nano X
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Bitcoin Cash, EOS, Stellar, and more
- Compatibility: Windows 8+, macOS 10.8+, Linux, iOS 9+, Android 7+
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Security: EAL5+ secure chip
- Battery life: N/A
- Size: 2.8” x 0.7” x 0.5”
- Warranty: 2 years
Trade your crypto assets on the go via your smartphone and take up a completely safe method to manage and store cryptocurrency with the Ledger Nano X, a new entry from the already popular brand that has gathered massive positive feedback. The
Bluetooth enabled secure device is backup enabled so that you can replace, restore, or even clone a device using the 24-word recovery phrase you set.
It is powered by the BOLOS operating system proprietary to Ledger that creates an individual shield around each app to protect them from attackers. The CC EAL5+ secure element, which is the same chip used in credit cards, is the one that stores your private keys for ultimate safety against cyberattacks. It allows you to install up to 100 applications at the same time, and it can be used to manage over 1100 crypto assets via Ledger Live or other compatible wallets like the Ledger Nano S.
It even shines design-wise, being made with brushed stainless steel and plastic for durability, and measuring a mere 2.8” by 0.7” by 0.5” so that you can put it in your bag, pocket, wherever you want without it occupying significant space. Moreover, it boasts large compatibility to let you manage assets from the smartphone or computer – it is compatible with Windows 8+, macOS 10.8+, Linux, iOS 9+, and Android 7+.
PROS
- BOLOS OS creates a shield around each app for ultimate protection
- Backup enabled device
- Use Ledger Live or compatible wallets to manage over 1100 crypto assets
- Encrypted Bluetooth connection provides secure transactions
CONS
- Expensive acquisition
- Some users report that it doesn’t properly hold the charge at times
VERDICT
A benchmark in its domain, the Ledger Nano X provides a compact, efficient, and truly secure manner to store, manage, and even trade crypto assets on the go via your smartphone.
2. Ellipal EC-01
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, XRP, Ethereum, Bitcoin cash, ERC 10 & 20 tokens, and more
- Compatibility: Android, iOS
- Connectivity:
- Security: Multiple step verification
- Battery life: 50,000 hours
- Size: 5.8” x 3.4” x 1.9”
- Warranty: 1 year full, 6 months for the battery
A totally isolated crypto storage device that blocks any and all attempts to connect it to a network so that your private keys actually remain private and your cryptoassets cannot be accessed by hackers, the Ellipal EC-01 is the ultimate choice in terms of security. To manage it, you have to install the companion app of the wallet on your iOS or Android device, and manage the account through it.
All of your actions and data transfers will be completed using QR codes so that hacking is made impossible.
It supports multiple cryptocurrencies, including all ERC 10 and 20 tokens, BTC, ETC, USDT, DASH, ETH, BCH, DOGE, XRP, and more. The visual interface it features lets you monitor exchanges as they unfold, and it boasts quite a user-friendly design, resembling a smartphone. Each transaction you initiate requires a 2-step verification process to ensure no one else is able to use the cold wallet.
The battery that powers it boasts a hefty 50,000-hour lifespan. When you make the acquisition, besides the EC-01, you also receive a mnemonic ward card, a manual, and a charge cable. Additionally, the manufacturer backs it with a 12-month warranty, as well as a 6-month warranty for the battery.
PROS
- Completely isolated to ensure it cannot be hacked
- Transactions are made using QR codes for ultimate security
- 4-inch touchscreen provides a great manual and visual manner to perform and manage exchanges
- Backed by a 12-month warranty, while the battery is covered for 6 months
CONS
- Comes at an expensive price
- Some users had issues with updating it
VERDICT
As it is completely isolated from the internet, the Ellipal EC-01 provides the safest manner to perform transactions with cryptocurrency. The 2-step verification process spots hackers from using it, and it boasts the most modern design among all entries in its niche due to the smartphone-like design.
3. CoolWallet S
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Bitcoin cash, ERC20 tokens
- Compatibility: iPhone, Android
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1
- Security: EAL5+ certified secure chip
- Battery life: 2 weeks
- Size: 3.4” x 2.1” x 0.1”
- Warranty: 1 year
Evidently, security is your main priority when handling cryptocurrency, and with this slim, wireless device you can rest assured knowing that no one can access your account and steal your earnings. It offers
cold storage for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other several popular cryptos in one portable device, and as it is designed to pair with smartphones and smart devices which use the Android and iOS operating systems, you get to enjoy full versatility in transactions and actions performed with it.
Design
It is made with plastic and measures a compact 85.6 millimeters in length by 53.98 millimeters in height by 0.8 millimeters in thickness. Thus, durability-wise, as well as when it comes to convenience in carrying it, there are no downsides to it. It is waterproof, so you don’t need to worry that a little splash of water might damage it, and it is flexible to 15 degrees, which means that bending won’t be an issue.
The view area of the black and white display it features is 24.6 millimeters in length by 21.9 millimeters in height, and the view angle is a generous 180 degrees, so you can check what’s written on it from any angle.
Mention-Worthy Features and Specs
- Takes only 1.5 hours for it to fully charge.
- If anything goes wrong, it will be easy to backup and recover it as it features Hierarchical Deterministic.
- Supports 2-factor authentication for enhanced security.
Setting Up
It’s quite easy to start using the CoolWallet, which is good news to those who aren’t tech savvy all that much. First you need to download the companion app from Google Play if you own an Android operating system device or from Apple’s App Store if iOS is the operating system.
Then, you open the app and check for the serial number quoted in the app to match the one in the corner of the wallet, after which you press connect. Press the “Pair” option on the app, and the button on the device to confirm this action, moment after which you will be provided with a pairing password that you can use to connect other compatible devices to it.
PROS
- Waterproof and heat resistant design
- Bendable up to 15 degrees
- Supports 2-factor authentication
- Provides convenient wireless storage
- Easy to setup and use
CONS
- Some report that the app unexpectedly crashes at times
- There were complaints regarding the promptitude of support service
VERDICT
Easy to setup, use, and providing a convenient yet safe manner to utilize the virtual currency you have set aside, the CoolWallet is what all smart crypto users need.
4. KeepKey
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, Bitcoin cash, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Dash, Bitcoin gold, ERC-20 tokens
- Compatibility: PC, Mac, Linux, Android
- Connectivity: USB cable
- Security: PIN protection
- Battery life:
- Size: 1.5” x 3.7” x 0.5”
- Warranty: 1 year
Design-wise, it is one of the more interesting options out there right now. You have two options when it comes to coloring, more precisely a combination of
black and anodized aluminum, or you can opt for the flashier
gold version. However, this isn’t your main interest with the device as you are surely curious about its security levels. We are happy to say that it is one of the best options security-wise as well, generating random private keys with every use to make it impossible for others to gain access to your accounts.
On the off chance that it gets stolen or you lose it, there’s no need to worry as recovery is possible. Just write down the backup of the device that is created when the private key is generated – it is a sentence formed by 12 words – and use it if this situation emerges.
For your convenience when using it, it features a large display which ensures clarity. As you perform transactions, you must manually approve them using the confirmation button to make sure that nothing goes wrong along the way.
PROS
- Completely virus and malware-proof design ensures complete security
- By using ShapeShift, you can directly exchange between assets on it
- Info can be recovered without compromising the private keys in case you lose it
- Large display ensures clarity with every asset
- Generates private keys randomly
CONS
- Software needs improvement
- Should support more currencies than it currently does
VERDICT
It might be a big spicier priced when compared to other entries, but seeing how it is one of the safest devices in its niche, it’s worth the cash for sure.
5. Ledger Nano S
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, Bitcoin cash, Bitcoin gold, Ethereum, Ethereum classic, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Zcash, XRP, Dash, and more
- Compatibility: Widnows 8+, Mac OS 10.8+, Linux
- Connectivity: USB cable
- Security: Smartcard chip, PIN code required for use
- Battery life:
- Size: 0.7” x 0.3” x 3.9”
- Warranty: 2 years
One of the fan favorites due to its enhanced security, the Nano S features a secure chip which is locked by a PIN code.
It supports over 40 currencies, including the most popular ones – Bitcoin, XRP, and Ethereum. Obviously, people not only fell in love with the peace of mind that it offers, as the simplicity in design makes it even more appealing.
Its 2-button control ensures an intuitive manner to perform all actions, and on the screen, you can verify your steps. Another appealing trait is the fact that it provides backup so that in the off chance that you lose the device, your accounts can be restored to another Ledger device.
It is tamperproof, an aspect worth taking into consideration as it ensures its integrity will never be affected, so there is no way for anyone to hack into it. What makes it one of the most trustworthy devices is definitely the BOLOS operating system which is proprietary to ledger and that creates an individual shield around all apps to ensure sensitive information cannot be accessed.
PROS
- Display screen confirms your transactions at a glance
- BOLOS operating system keeps your device protected from app attackers
- User-friendly interface granted by the 2-button operation
- Allows backup so that you may use your account from other devices if needed
- Supports over 40 types of currencies
CONS
- Screen is small compared to what other models provide
- Some users complain that it doesn’t properly handle ERC 20 tokens
VERDICT
One of the more simplistic devices in this niche, the Ledger entry has managed to impress us as it not only provides an intuitive manner to make transactions using cryptocurrency, but through its multiple safety parameters placed in check.
6. Trezor One
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dash, Namecoin, Nem, Bitcoin gold, Zcash, Bitcoin cash, and more
- Compatibility: Windows, OS X, Linux
- Connectivity: Micro USB connector
- Security: PIN entry, passphrase entry, device recovery
- Battery life:
- Size: 2.52” x 1.54” x 0.39”
- Warranty: 1 year
With the One model, you won’t have to worry about keyloggers, hackers, or malware ever again as it provides a safe and convenient manner to access and use your crypto. Able to store
over 500 types of coins, more than most devices in its niche, it provides a completely safe payment system to bring you peace of mind.
It never exposes your private keys, so there is no way for anyone to get ahold of them. It features a small but clear display where you can visually check transaction contents to make sure everything is alright. To get a better idea of how qualitative the display is, it is a bright OLED that holds up to 6 lines of text and boasts 128×64 pixels. As it is Windows, Linux, and OS X friendly, you have your choice when it comes to the platforms where transactions can be performed.
It supports device recovery, so you won’t ever completely lose access to your accounts, and to enhance security, it allows both PIN and passphrase entry. It shines even when it comes to durability in design, being able to operate within temperatures ranging from -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
PROS
- Bright OLED display provides you with clear visuals on the transactions
- Measures a compact 2.4 inches by 1.2 inches by 0.2 inches
- Able to back your accounts so that you may recover them if needed
- 2-button interface for ease of use
- Operating temperature range from -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
CONS
- Casing design is quite flimsy
- Not your cheapest option
VERDICT
Compact and reliable, the Trezor is a Windows, Linux, and OS X friendly device that provides you with a 100% safe manner to store and transact with your virtual currency. Just plug it in and make the steps needed for the specific transaction of interest and you can rest assured knowing that no one will be able to hack into your account.
7. Temexe X
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Specifications:
- Cryptocurrency type support: Ethereum, Bitcoin, and hundreds of ERC20 tokens
- Compatibility: iOS 7.1+, Android 4.4+
- Connectivity: Micro USB cable
- Security: 256-bit hardware encryption
- Battery life: Up to 30 days
- Size: 2.4” x 1.4” x 0.3”
- Warranty: 30 days
As a crypto owner, you must make sure that your currency is private, unique, and secured at all times, and this is exactly what the Temexe promises. Compatible with
iOS 7.1 and up, and Android 4.4 and above, it allows you to send and receive crypto without any risks involved as a pro-grade 256-bit hardware encryption is used.
It is extremely easy to use as no initialization is required. You just need to download the app and create your personalized wallet to manage your assets – best of all, it can store up to 500 wallets. In case it gets damaged or lost, due to the open-source backup algorithm it features, you can restore your currency anywhere you want.
It is reasonably priced as opposed to most entries in this niche, so for those who are on a budget, it is all the more appealing. Durability-wise, there’s nothing to worry as it is a tough cookie to crack. When fully charged, the battery lasts up to 30 days, which means that recharging won’t be required as often as it is with other devices. Furthermore, it supports hundreds of currencies, so you will enjoy versatility in use with it.
PROS
- Its open-source backup algorithm allows you to restore currency wherever you want
- Can create and store up to 500 wallets
- Multicurrency support for versatility in use
- Comes with a 9V 1A adapter and a micro USB cable
- Comes at a cheap price
CONS
- Looks cheaply designed
- Lacks documentation
VERDICT
It might not be the most pleasing device aesthetically, but this isn’t an issue of importance as it provides the security you need to ensure your crypto is safe and that transactions can be made without hackers having the possibility of getting ahold of your private key.
Conclusion
As there’s no actual “one size fits all” wallet and products differ when it comes to their platforms and features, you must look closely into the acquisition you make to be sure it suits your specific needs. Basically the equivalent of a bank account, the wallet allows you to receive cryptocurrency, store it, and even send it to others, all in a safe and secure environment that hackers cannot attack.
Best overall:
Ledger Nano X
To sleep soundly knowing that your crypto assets are impenetrable, the Ledger Nano X is the product you should look into. It is one of the newest hardware wallets on the market, which means that it is updated to the latest needs and comes with even more security-enhancing features. Its main benefit stands in the Bluetooth connectivity that lets you connect it to iOS and Android devices to make transactions on the go via your smartphone.
Editor’s choice:
CoolWallet S
A wallet that fits perfectly in your wallet, the CoolWallet S boasts a compact design and is waterproof, so a little accidental splash won’t damage it. Security is enhanced by the fact that it you must follow through with a 2-step verification process to use it. When it comes to its usability, seeing how it can provide cold storage for Bitcoin and Etherum among other popular cryptocurrency, you won’t be unpleasantly surprised by any limitations.
Best cryptocurrency hardware wallet for the money:
KeepKey
On the cheap side is the KeeyKey, an interesting option as it was the second entry on the market to feature a large screen, which grants it extra security features other devices don’t come with.
Most secure cryptocurrency hardware wallet:
Ellipal EC-01
In terms of security, it just doesn’t get any better than the EC-01 from Ellipal. What makes this wallet so trustworthy is the fact that it completely isolates your stored cryptocurrency so that all hacking attempts are blocked.
Most versatile cryptocurrency hardware wallet:
Trezor One
Able to support over 500 currencies, the Trezor One is a must-have due to its versatility in use. But this isn’t the only highlight it provides as the wallet is quite intuitive to use, small so that you can fit it in your pocket with no problems, and trustworthy in terms of security due to its technology.
