A regular crypto wallet can be used to store digital assets like cryptocurrencies and NFTs. A Web3 wallet can do that too, but it can also do a whole lot more.
Web3 is a term used to describe the next stage in the evolution of the internet. Rather than power and control being concentrated among large corporations, Web3 is focused on decentralization, the use of blockchain technology, and giving internet users control over their data.
A Web3 wallet is your gateway to Web3. It lets you connect to and interact with a wide range of decentralized applications (dApps), including DeFi protocols. A Web3 wallet makes it possible to swap tokens across blockchains, trade on decentralized exchanges, stake your crypto assets, play blockchain-based games, participate in decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) and manage your digital identity.
Web3 wallets are usually mobile apps and browser extensions with a few key components:
A Web3 wallet acts as your digital identity on Web3. It allows you to connect to blockchains, interact with smart contracts and use dApps. Most Web3 wallets are compatible with multiple blockchains too, allowing you to manage crypto assets across different networks and connect with a wider range of dApps.
It’s worth noting that a cryptocurrency wallet doesn’t actually store cryptocurrency directly. Cryptocurrencies, by definition, exist only on public ledgers, which are more commonly referred to as blockchains. Wallets store the private access keys to those cryptocurrencies. Put another way, cryptocurrency wallets don’t store the cryptocurrency itself, but the information required for access to that cryptocurrency.
Web3 wallets generally fall into two categories: custodial and non-custodial wallets.
With a custodial wallet, a third-party (such as a crypto exchange) manages your private key for you. They’re easy to use and convenient, but they require you to put your trust in a third party.
With a non-custodial wallet—also known as a self-custody wallet—you hold your private key. This gives you complete control over the safety and security of your crypto assets. Most Web3 wallets are non-custodial.
Recent years have also seen the emergence of smart wallets. These wallets are powered by smart contracts, and they use a technology known as account abstraction to interact with blockchain protocols. This allows for improved security features like multi-signature approval, easier account recovery and an improved user experience.
There are several other popular wallets available that you might want to consider when searching for the best Web3 wallet. Here are some widely used options you can check out.
Best Wallet is a non-custodial Web3 wallet that supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies. You don’t need to go through a KYC process to sign up, and the wallet supports over 60 different blockchains. Best Wallet’s token swap feature connects to over 200 exchanges, while it’s also simple to connect to DeFi protocols, gaming platforms and other dApps. And with security features like multi-party computation (MPC) technology, two-factor authentication and full control of your private keys, you can enjoy extra peace of mind when managing your crypto.
Brave Wallet is built into the Brave web browser, so you can begin your Web3 journey simply by turning the wallet on. It’s available on desktop and mobile devices, and it makes it easy to connect to dApps on Ethereum, EVM, Solana and Filecoin. It also features an integrated DEX aggregator for token swaps on Ethereum and Solana, and because it’s a self-custody wallet, you retain control of your private keys.
Founded in 2021, Phantom is a multi-chain wallet to help you connect to the decentralized web. You can use it to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs and a range of other cryptos, plus swap and stake tokens. Phantom is available as a browser extension or mobile app, while the fact that it’s a self-custodial wallet means you have complete control over your funds. And if you ever need help with your wallet, support is available 24/7.
Ready Wallet is a self-custody Web3 wallet. It’s currently available as a Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Brave browser extension, or as an iOS or Android app. Built on Starknet, an Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain, Ready Wallet supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, USDC and a host of other cryptos. You can use this wallet to swap and stake crypto, invest in DeFi protocols, buy tokens with fiat currency and a whole lot more.
Founded in 2017, Trust Wallet is a feature-packed Web3 wallet available as a mobile app or browser extension. This multi-chain wallet supports assets across more than 100 blockchains, while its dApp browser makes it easy to access the world of Web3. You retain control of your private keys and secret phrase, while you can also buy crypto within minutes, swap tokens seamlessly, and stake your crypto to earn rewards.
As of October 2025, SWIFT, Trust Wallet’s smart contract wallet that uses account abstraction, is in its beta phase.
The Zengo crypto wallet is a mobile wallet with high ratings across the App Store and Google Play. It’s a non-custodial wallet that uses multi-party computation (MPC) technology, so you don’t need to stress about losing your seed phrase. Zengo supports the Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB, Doge, Tron and Tezos blockchains as well as the Polygon, Arbitrum One, Optimism and Base Layer 2s. This means you can use it to store hundreds of crypto assets, stake your tokens, buy crypto with fiat currency and much more.
The best Web3 wallet for you is one that suits your level of crypto experience, that provides a level of security you’re comfortable with, and that supports the blockchains and crypto assets you want to interact with. Look for the following features when comparing Web3 decentralized wallets.
Software wallets are mobile apps, browser extensions and desktop downloads that are connected to the internet. This ensures that they provide fast and convenient access to your crypto assets and the world of Web3, but it also makes them more susceptible to hacking and online threats.
Hardware wallets store your crypto private keys offline, so they’re seen as a safer option for storing large sums of crypto, but performing transactions with this type of wallet is a little trickier and more time-consuming. Hardware wallets can connect to the decentralized web using companion software.
Check which blockchain networks a wallet supports. Some wallets are optimized for use with a single blockchain, while others are multi-chain wallets that are compatible with a range of networks. Make sure the wallet you choose will let you store any crypto or NFTs and access any dApps that you want.
Check whether a third party will control your private key (custodial wallet) or whether you will retain ownership of the key (non-custodial). If you want complete responsibility for the security of your crypto assets, a non-custodial wallet is the way to go.
If you’re a new crypto user, look for a wallet with a simple and streamlined user interface. The complicated features on some more advanced wallets may be surplus to your requirements.
Check what features and functionality the wallet offers. Does it have a user-friendly dApp browser? Which DeFi protocols and NFT marketplaces can you connect to? Does it offer fast token swaps? Which exchanges can you access?
You’ll also need to look for a wallet with a user-friendly interface, especially if you’re a newcomer to crypto and Web3.
Check what measures the wallet has in place, such as biometric and two-factor authentication, multi-signature approval and transaction controls. Does it have a proven track record of reliability or has it experienced security breaches in the past? It’s also a good idea to check whether the wallet has undergone independent security audits to ensure that it’s legit.
Check whether the wallet has a support team if you ever need help with your wallet. If so, when is the team available and how can you contact them? Do they have a good reputation for responding quickly and helpfully?
There are several reasons why you might want to set up and use a Web3 wallet:
You should also be aware of the risks and drawbacks of Web3 wallets before you get started.
These simple tips will help keep your crypto assets safe in a Web3 wallet:
Ready to get started with a Web3 decentralized wallet? Here’s what you need to do.
Compare wallets to find the best Web3 wallet for your needs. Consider supported cryptos and blockchains, the dApps you can interact with, and the security features you want before choosing.
If the wallet is a browser extension, install and run it in the browser of your choice. If it’s a mobile app, download it from Google Play for Android or the App Store for iOS devices.
Open the app or browser extension and follow the steps to create a new wallet. You’ll need to create a strong password or PIN and back up your seed phrase somewhere safe.
Use your public wallet address to deposit crypto or accept payments from others. You will often be able to buy crypto directly within the wallet app. You can also start exploring dApps, DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces and more.
Web3 wallets can do much more than just hold your crypto private keys. If you want to engage with the world of DeFi, or any other aspect of the decentralized web, a Web3 wallet is a must-have. Compare a range of options to find the best Web3 wallet for your needs.
Disclaimer: Cryptocurrencies are speculative, complex and involve significant risks – they are highly volatile and sensitive to secondary activity. Performance is unpredictable and past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Consider your own circumstances, and obtain your own advice, before relying on this information. You should also verify the nature of any product or service (including its legal status and relevant regulatory requirements) and consult the relevant Regulators' websites before making any decision. Finder, or the author, may have holdings in the cryptocurrencies discussed.
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