Best Bitcoin Wallet

Trezor Model T

Trezor Model T

The Next Generation Cryptocurrency Hardware Wallet

Best Desktop & Mobile Bitcoin Wallet

Exodus Logo

Exodus

The World’s Leading Desktop & Mobile Crypto Wallet

Best Bitcoin Wallet App

BRD Wallet Icon

BRD

The First And Best Mobile Wallet For Sending And Receiving Bitcoin

Ledger Nano X Hardware Wallet Icon

Last Update October 13th, 2023. A bitcoin wallet is a secure address where cryptocurrency can be sent and stored for easy access and management.

The best bitcoin wallets have multi-tier security and can store a large amount of cryptocurrency.

The two types of bitcoin wallets are cold and hot. Cold wallets are offline, while hot wallets are connected to the Internet.

Best Bitcoin Wallets

An Official Guide To The Best Bitcoin Wallets

In today’s digital age, cryptocurrencies have emerged as a revolutionary form of decentralized currency, and Bitcoin, the pioneering cryptocurrency, stands at the forefront of this financial revolution. As you delve into the world of Bitcoin, one essential aspect you’ll encounter is the concept of a Bitcoin wallet. A Bitcoin wallet serves as a virtual safe, allowing you to store, send, and receive this digital currency securely. Understanding what a Bitcoin wallet is and why it is crucial in your cryptocurrency journey is fundamental to protecting your valuable assets and harnessing the power of this transformative technology.

There are a variety of bitcoin wallets that you can choose from to meet your needs including the following.

  • Hardware wallets
  • Paper wallets
  • Mobile wallets
  • Desktop wallets
  • Multi-signature wallets

What Is A Bitcoin Wallet?

Bitcoin Wallet

bitcoin wallet, contrary to its physical counterpart, is a software program or a physical device designed to securely store and manage your BTC holdings. It functions as a digital gateway, enabling you to interact with the decentralized Bitcoin network and exercise complete ownership and control over your funds. While the concept may sound complex, its importance cannot be overstated, as a bitcoin wallet acts as the foundation for all your bitcoin transactions, providing a secure environment for your digital wealth. These programs can be found on mobile devices, laptops, desktops and even as standalone hardware devices.

The significance of a bitcoin wallet extends beyond mere storage. It empowers you with the ability to send and receive bitcoin to and from others, facilitating seamless peer-to-peer transactions. This digital equivalent of a physical wallet not only stores your bitcoins but also maintains a transaction history, allowing you to monitor your spending, verify incoming payments, and keep accurate records of your financial activities.

Hardware wallets can be purchased from a trusted retailer or directly from a manufacturer’s website, while mobile and desktop wallets are downloaded from a smartphone device or computer. Paper wallets generally require more up front work to properly secure bitcoin for long periods of time.

What Are The Different Hardware Wallets?

There are many well-known hardware wallet brands on the market today including TrezorLedger, and KeepKey. The table below elucidates the most popular bitcoin hardware wallets. Many more can be found on Amazon.

Wallet
Price
Screen
Released
Website
Trezor Model T Resized
Trezor Model T$169Yes2018trezor.io
Trezor One Black Resized
Trezor One$55Yes2013trezor.io
Ledger Nano X Resized
Ledger Nano X$119Yes2019ledger.com
Ledger Nano S Resized
Ledger Nano S$59Yes2016ledger.com
Keepkey Resized
KeepKey$49Yes2015keepkey.com

Types Of Bitcoin Wallets

Several different types of wallets are available for the safe storage of your bitcoin.

Cold Storage Wallets

cold storage hardware wallet is a secure method for storing cryptoassets offline. This wallet is impenetrable to cybertheft and is further stored away in a vault or safe location. Cold storage wallets are considered to be the most secure bitcoin wallet. They are not connected to the Internet so they are impossible to hack from a remote location.

Examples of cold storage wallets include (1) Hardware and (2) Paper.

Cold storage in the context of Bitcoin refers to storing Bitcoins offline and spending without the private keys controlling them ever being online. This resists theft by hackers and malware, and is often a necessary security precaution especially dealing with large amounts of Bitcoin.”

Source: Bitcoin Wiki, Cold Storage

The Best Hardware Wallets

Watch the video to experience the top 10 best hardware wallets that you can buy
Trezor Wallet

TREZOR Wallet: Launched in 2014 as one of the first-ever bitcoin wallets, Trezor has not only withstood the test of time, but it has also successfully undergone several upgrades.

Today, the key-like device provides a portable means for users to carry about various cryptocurrencies other than bitcoin. Users can operate the device through just two buttons as well as through a computer program and a browser extension.

If you are looking for the bitcoin wallet with the best security, look no further than Trezor. Even though it is not considered a complete platform for buying and selling like Coinbase, it is a perfect option for storing bitcoin. It offers features such as 2-Factor Authentication (2FA). Users will have some protection against lost devices and passwords when using this wallet. However, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure that no one ever has access to your bitcoin wallet.

Trezor One, released in 2013, is priced at $55, while Trezor Model T, released in 2018, is priced at $169. Read our full TREZOR review.

Ledger Wallet Logo

Ledger Nano: Hardware wallets are the safest and most useful for storing bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

In this category, Ledger, a French brand, leads the competition. The Ledger hardware wallet comes with a highly intuitive interface and simplified operations. Ledger Nano is ideal for both seasoned holders and beginners of cryptocurrency.

The device features just two buttons that can be used to perform a host of functions, including entering keys, pin codes, recovery words, etc., confirming transactions, checking balances, and lots more. Users only need to activate the “Live Now” function to begin interacting with their cryptocurrencies.

What’s more, the device also comes with a customizable 8-digit pin lock.

Ledger Nano S, released in 2016, is priced at $59, while Ledger Nano X, released in 2019, is priced at $119.

NamePriceFeatures
Trezor One$55Screen; PIN code
Trezor Model T$169Touch screen display; PIN code
Ledger Nano S$59Screen; PIN code
Ledger Nano X$119Screen; PIN code
KeepKey$49Screen; PIN code

The Best Paper Wallets

Paper wallets are nothing more than pieces of paper that have a seed or private key written on it. When your private key is kept on a piece of paper, only a person who has access to the document can steal your private key.

Advantages of making and using a paper wallet include:

  • Being malware and keylogger free
  • Not having to rely on a third party to protect your coins

“A paper wallet is the name given to an obsolete and unsafe method of storing bitcoin which was popular between 2011 and 2016. It works by having a single private key and bitcoin address, usually generated by a website, being printed out onto paper. This method has a large number of downsides and should not be used.”

Source: Bitcoin Wiki, Paper Wallet

Bitcoin Paper Wallet: You can make and print out a paper wallet yourself (and even order specialized hologram stickers or bootable Ubuntu CDs).

WalletGenerator: Make and print your own foldable paper wallet.

Paper Wallet Generator
Made with WalletGenerator

Bitaddress: A tool used to securely generate a bitcoin address for secure offline storage and is another way to create a paper wallet online.

BitAddress Paper Wallet
Made with BitAddress.org

Unfortunately, paper wallets can be destroyed very easily, so they need to be stored in a safe location. It is best to create several copies of the wallet so you can retrieve your private key even if one paper wallet is destroyed.

Also, keep in mind that if you have a paper wallet, you will still have to import the key so it can be used digitally.

NameFeatures
Bitcoin Paper WalletMake paper wallets to keep your bitcoin addresses safe. Order holographic labels and bootable Ubuntu CDs.
Wallet GeneratorUniversal open source client-side wallet generator. Print your own foldable bitcoin wallet.
BitaddressThe open source JavaScript client-side bitcoin wallet generator.

Hot Wallets

hot wallet is a readily accessible wallet that is connected to the Internet. These types of wallets are found on exchanges, smartphones, desktops and personal laptops. Hot wallets are typically linked to an application or exchange that is connected to the Internet. These types of wallets are prime targets for cyber thieves.

Examples of hot wallets include (1) Mobile, (2) Desktop, and (3) Multi-signature.

“A hot wallet refers to a Bitcoin wallet that is online and connected in some way to the Internet. It is a term that refers to bitcoins that are not being kept in cold storage.”

Source: Bitcoin Wiki, Hot Wallet

The Best Mobile Wallets And Apps

Mobile wallets store private keys on a smartphone, and are most commonly found as iOS or Android apps. Mobile wallets are considered to be the most convenient type of wallet for the average user’s mobile lifestyle.

Many consider mobile wallets to be the least secure of all wallets, thus it is not wise to store a large amount of bitcoin in them. Because smartphones frequently break, are stolen, or get lost, it is best to enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) and back up your wallet and seed in a safe location.

Watch the video above to learn how to set up a Coinbase Wallet – step-by-step
Coinbase Icon

Coinbase: Coinbase is one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges in existence and doubles as both a secure bitcoin wallet and as a cryptocurrency exchange. The Coinbase platform is renowned for its security and highly intuitive user interface. The platform also offers offline storage dubbed the Coinbase Vault, which has multi-signature functionality. The vault is an excellent alternative for those who are wary of storing their coins on the exchange.

Blockchain Wallet Icon

Blockchain wallet: Originally founded as Blockchain.info, a basic bitcoin block explorer, Blockchain now aims to provide cryptocurrency holders with an excellent tool to store, manage and trade their coins. The platform also comes with a proprietary “Lockbox” feature that will enable users to sync their blockchain account with any hardware wallet of their choice. Blockchain sports a crisp, intuitive interface, and offers hands-on customer support, making it highly ideal for both newcomers and connoisseurs.

BRD Wallet Icon

BRD Wallet: The BRD (Formerly Bread) wallet is one of the most popular mobile wallets and provides users with a simple and secure way to store and access their crypto assets within a clean and user-friendly interface. Users are able to login using a 12-word paper key and also buy bitcoin directly from the app. Should you have any questions the app has a knowledge base and support chat which can be easily accessed from within the app.

Mycelium Wallet Icon

Mycelium: Mycelium is one of the first-ever cryptocurrency wallets created in 2008. Mycelium is both user-friendly and has features for advanced users. Besides those attributes, the app has also endeared users because of its top-notch privacy and security features, including the BitID protocol that authenticates users and transactions by generating new addresses for every transaction, as well as hardware wallet integration.

Lumi Wallet Icon

Lumi Wallet: The Lumi Wallet is a fast-growing crypto wallet, that has bet on anonymity and security. The wallet has client-side encryption, which means that all data stays on user phones. The only information that users need to access the wallet is their 12-word mnemonic phrase. It can be generated after installation or entered manually if the user has created it before. With the Lumi wallet, it is possible to buy crypto via credit card, exchange currencies and check price fluctuations.

NameOperating SystemFeatures
CoinbaseiOS, AndroidCoinbase doubles as a secure wallet and as a cryptocurrency exchange and sports a user-friendly interface.
BlockchainiOS, AndroidBlockchain wallet provides cryptocurrency holders with an excellent tool to store, manage and trade their coins.
BRDiOS, AndroidBRD wallet provides users with a simple and secure way to access their crypto assets within a clean and user-friendly interface.
MyceliumiOS, AndroidMycelium is both user-friendly and has top-notch security and privacy features for advanced users.
LumiiOS, AndroidLumi stands out by having a very clear design and adaptive interface, which suits both novice and advanced crypto users.

The Best Desktop Wallets

Desktop wallets are computer programs that you can install to serve as a safe depository and hot wallet for your crypto assets on your computer. Your private key is safe as long as the computer is free of any security weaknesses and malware. These types of wallets are valuable targets for hackers.

Exodus Wallet Icon

Exodus: Exodus is one of the most popular and highly-rated multi-cryptocurrency wallets supporting over 100 cryptocurrencies. The Exodus user interface gives users a snapshot of the assets in their portfolio and the ability to exchange between cryptoassets seamlessly. On Exodus, cryptoassets can be managed securely from a Trezor hardware wallet. You can also control your digital assets on the move with the Exodus app on iOS and Android.

Exodus Desktop Hot Wallet
Exodus Desktop Wallet
Atomic Wallet Icon

Atomic wallet: The Atomic wallet is a free, simple, yet highly secure wallet for managing hundreds of different cryptocurrencies. The Atomic wallet has no accounts, no verification, and no KYC for basic features in the wallet. Users have access to an extensive help center with a highly responsive support team. The Atomic wallet is suited for Debian, Ubuntu and Fedora Linux users and is also supported on Windows and MacOS.

Electrum Wallet Icon

Electrum: Electrum is a lightweight, free and decentralized secure wallet. Electrum has various user interfaces and can be used on mobile, desktop or with the command-line interface. Electrum has numerous backup recovery options for advanced users and supports third-party plugins such as multi-signature services and hardware wallets like Trezor, Ledger and KeepKey. Electrum also supports cold storage and allows users to keep a handwritten wallet or printed set of keys for personal safekeeping.

NameOperating SystemFeatures
ExodusWindows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidExodus gives users a way to Secure, Manage, and Exchange cryptocurrency in one beautiful application. Trezor wallet support.

AtomicMacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, AndroidAtomic Wallet is a non-custodial decentralized wallet and gives users full control over their funds.
ElectrumMacOS, Android, Windows, LinuxElectrum is a lightweight, free and decentralized secure wallet with advanced features.

The Best Multi-Signature Wallets

Multi-signature wallets, also known as multi-sig wallets, are best for those who want or need to share their wallets with other people. Bitcoins can only be accessed if there are enough private keys connected together at one time.

For example, if multiple people possess a private key to one wallet, and one person wants to withdraw bitcoin, the wallet will not be able to perform the transaction without all or most of the private keys present.

Multisignature (multisig) refers to requiring multiple keys to authorize a Bitcoin transaction, rather than a single signature from one key.”

 

Source: Bitcoin Wiki, Multisignature
Coinbase Icon

Coinbase Vault: The popular Coinbase Vault offers users a secure method for storing large amounts of bitcoin offline for the long term inside of multi-signature cold storage wallet. The vault is an excellent alternative for those who are wary of storing their coins on the exchange itself.

Electrum Wallet Icon

Electrum: Electrum is a lightweight, free and decentralized secure wallet with numerous backup recovery options for advanced users and supports third-party plugins such as multi-signature cold-storage wallet features.

NameOperating SystemFeatures
Coinbase VaultWeb, iOS, AndroidCoinbase Vault requires multiple approvers to initiate a withdrawal and only the master account holder can request a withdrawal.
ElectrumMacOS, Android, Windows, LinuxElectrum is a lightweight, free and decentralized secure wallet with multi-signature cold storage wallet features.

Hot Wallet vs Cold Wallet: A Side-By-Side Comparison

Hot Wallet

Pros

  • Convenience and Accessibility
  • User-Friendly Interfaces
  • Integration with Exchanges and Services

Cons

  • Security Risks
  • Third-Party Reliance
  • Increased Risk of Loss
  • Privacy Concerns

Cold Storage Wallet

Pros

  • Enhanced Security
  • Protection against Malware and Phishing
  • Control and Ownership
  • Backup and Recovery

Cons

  • Limited Accessibility
  • Learning Curve
  • Cost

Hot Wallet Vs Cold Wallet
Differences between a hot wallet and cold storage wallet for long term cryptocurrency storage.

What Is The Best Overall Bitcoin Wallet?

Trezor One Hardware Wallet

Our favorite hardware wallet is TREZOR, a manufacturer known for making products that have simplicity, portability, and ease of use.

At $55, the Trezor One is affordable, secure and supported universally on all operating systems and most browsers, which makes it a must-have wallet for long term bitcoin holders. Read our review here.

Closing Thoughts

As you embark on your Bitcoin journey, understanding the ins and outs of Bitcoin wallets is paramount. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of Bitcoin wallets, you’ll equip yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate the world of cryptocurrencies confidently, ensuring the protection and optimal management of your digital wealth.


How Does A Bitcoin Wallet Work?

A bitcoin wallet has a message and recipient. Bitcoin, like email, requires that you use a specific address to send and receive bitcoin.

Seed – A seed is used to create or restore a wallet. In the event that your wallet breaks or is stolen, you can autogenerate your wallet on another device as long as you have your seed phrase on hand.

Wallet Address – A wallet address, also known as your bitcoin address, is used for receiving bitcoin. You can share this bitcoin address with anyone who is waiting to send you bitcoins. Bitcoin addresses always begin with the numbers ‘1’ or ‘3’. A wallet address is essentially a hashed version of a public key.

Private Key – A bitcoin private key is a randomly generated string of numbers and letters that enables bitcoins to be spent. A private key functions as a password for transactions. This combination of numbers and letters ultimately informs the bitcoin network on where you want to send your bitcoins.

Public Key – A bitcoin public key is a cryptographic code that allows a user to receive cryptocurrencies into his or her account.

The core function of the wallet is to create and store private keys and user preferences in addition to the automating cryptography and blockchain communications.

How Does A Bitcoin Wallet Secure My BTC?

Security is paramount in the realm of cryptocurrencies, and a bitcoin wallet plays a crucial role in protecting your valuable assets. By utilizing cryptographic techniques, wallets safeguard your private keys, which are essential for authorizing transactions. This security measure ensures that only you, the rightful owner, can access and control your funds. Furthermore, many wallets offer backup and recovery features, allowing you to safeguard your wallet’s information and restore access in case of device loss or failure.

How Can I Store Large Amounts of Bitcoin?

Investors with large amounts of bitcoin will typically keep the vast majority of their assets within a cold storage hardware wallet. If you are storing a large bitcoin fortune, consider having a security expert or IRA company audit your storage method for the long-term.

Cold storage methods require physical access to information that is not readily available on the Internet. Instead of being concerned about cyber-thieves, the primary focus with cold storage is to keep your bitcoin and other crypto assets in safe and secure location.

How Do I Choose A Good Bitcoin Wallet?

People use bitcoin wallets for different purposes. Do you need a bitcoin wallet to store a large amount of bitcoin, or do you need a bitcoin wallet to keep some change so you can buy a latte?

Wallets have various security levels, and with some wallets, you may have more security features and less convenience. You will have to decide on the features that are more important to you. Some of the questions you may want to ask are:

  • Do you want to pay for a wallet?
  • How often will you use a wallet?
  • Are you tech-savvy?
  • Will you be storing coins other than bitcoin?
  • Are you sharing the wallet with someone else?
  • Do you value privacy or convenience?
  • Do you want to carry the wallet with you?

Depending on your answers to the questions, you should have a list of wallets you are interested in using. You may even decide that you want more than one wallet.

A hardware wallet can be used for storing large amounts of bitcoin for the long term, while a mobile or desktop wallet is typically used for moving bitcoin between exchanges.