A Web3 wallet lets you hold cryptocurrencies and NFTs as well as connect to decentralized apps (dApps) like OpenSea, Uniswap and 1inch.
Web3 wallets can be software wallets (more convenient) or hardware wallets (more secure).
To find the best Web3 wallet for you, look for a secure and reputable wallet that is compatible with the blockchains and crypto assets you want to use.
What is a Web3 wallet?
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.
If you're in the market for a secure Web3 hardware wallet, it's hard to go past the Nano S Plus. This reasonably priced and easily portable hardware wallet comes from French brand Ledger, a trusted name in the crypto world. It features a Secure Element chip with CC EAL5+ certification, plus a display screen for verifying transactions. Pair the Nano S Plus with Ledger Wallet (formerly Ledger Live) to interact with DeFi dApps, perform cross-chain swaps, trade on decentralized exchanges and stake your crypto. And with the Ledger Nano S Plus also compatible with a wide range of third-party wallets, you can use it to manage over 15,000 coins and tokens.
Pros
Security of cold storage
Affordable price tag
Supports over 5,500 tokens
Supports NFTs
Buy and sell crypto assets directly from your wallet
Security is the name of the game with the Trezor Model T. This trusted hardware wallet offers secure cold storage for your private keys, plus features like Shamir backup, multisig and Tor network support for added protection and peace of mind. This wallet's user-friendly software platform, Trezor Suite, is available as a desktop or mobile app, making it easy to buy and sell crypto as well as stake, swap and send assets. And with a long list of compatible third-party wallets providing access to the world of Web3 and DeFi, the Model T is certainly worth a look if you're searching for the best Web3 wallet.
Long-running crypto exchange Kraken also offers a user-friendly and feature-packed Web3 wallet. This non-custodial wallet is free to download on both Android and iOS devices, and it provides easy and secure access to the decentralized web. Kraken Wallet is compatible with eight major blockchain networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon and Solana. It's open-source for added transparency too, while key security features like biometric authentication and encryption technology provide added peace of mind for users.
Pros
You control your private keys
Store over 2,000 cryptocurrencies
User-friendly interface
Easy access to the Kraken crypto exchange
Established name in the crypto world
Cons
Doesn't support hardware wallet connections
Doesn't support as many cryptos as some other wallets
Bitget is best known as a centralized exchange where you can trade hundreds of cryptos, but it also offers a Web3 decentralized wallet with plenty of impressive features. Available as a mobile app and a Chrome browser extension, Bitget Wallet supports over 130 blockchains and a huge range of crypto assets. It offers quick and easy token swaps, and it's simple to interact with DeFi protocols, games and more via the dApp Store. The wallet's Stablecoin Earn Plus feature automatically deposits your funds with DeFi protocols to earn rewards, making Bitget Wallet a solid pick for anyone searching for the best Web3 wallet app.
Browser extension and mobile app MetaMask has tens of millions of users, and it's easy to see why. This software wallet offers a user-friendly entry point to Web3, making it easy to manage your crypto assets and interact with a wide range of dApps. You can use MetaMask to trade and swap cryptos across several different blockchains, and this wallet makes it easy to buy and sell coins and tokens without having to provide any personal details. If you're just getting started with Web3, there are lots of good reasons why MetaMask is worth checking out.
Pros
Easy setup process
Supports multiple blockchains
No personal details required
User-friendly dashboard
Self-custody wallet
Cons
No native support for Bitcoin
High transaction fees
How do Web3 Wallets work?
Web3 wallets are usually mobile apps and browser extensions with a few key components:
A public key, which is used to generate your wallet address. This is the blockchain address people use when they want to send you crypto assets.
A private key, which is a string of characters that you use to authorize transactions. You should never share your private key with anyone.
A seed phrase, which is a mnemonic of 12 or 24 words that can be used to recover your wallet if you lose your device. If you lose your seed phrase, you will be unable to access your wallet (and the crypto it holds).
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.
Did you know?
Crypto wallets and holding cryptocurrency
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.
Custodial vs non-custodial wallets
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.
Other Web3 wallets worth listing
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
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
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.
Phantom
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 (formerly Argent)
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.
Trust Wallet
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.
Zengo
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.
How to choose the best Web3 wallet for you
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 or hardware
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.
Supported crypto assets and blockchain networks
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.
Custodial vs non-custodial
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.
Ease of use
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.
Key features
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.
Security features
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.
Customer support
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?
Benefits of Web3 wallets
There are several reasons why you might want to set up and use a Web3 wallet:
Hold multiple assets. Web3 wallets allow you to hold cryptocurrencies and NFTs across multiple blockchains, removing the need to set up multiple wallets and accounts. The best Web3 wallets also allow for quick and easy cross-chain token swaps.
Access the world of DeFi. Web3 wallets allow you to access DeFi protocols and generate returns from your crypto holdings, but without the need to go through a bank or other financial middleman.
You’re in control. Web3 wallets give you control over your crypto assets and digital identity, removing the need for you to place your trust in banks or centralized exchanges.
Security. Web3 wallets offer improved security compared to traditional wallets, providing safer storage for your crypto assets.
No KYC/AML. Many Web3 wallets do not require you to provide your personal details and verify your ID to create a wallet, allowing for improved privacy and anonymity.
Risks of Web3 wallets
You should also be aware of the risks and drawbacks of Web3 wallets before you get started.
Fake wallets. Scammers target crypto users by tricking them into downloading fake wallets. Make sure you only ever download a wallet from a reputable provider.
Phishing. You’ll need to take security precautions to protect yourself against the risk of phishing scams.
Losing assets. If you lose your private key or seed phrase, you could lose access to your crypto assets.
Smart contract flaws. Vulnerabilities in dApp smart contracts can leave you exposed to the threat of hacking.
Complicated. While Web3 wallets are becoming more user-friendly all the time, it may take new users a while to understand how to use their wallet and to wrap their head around all the Web3 technical jargon.
Web3 wallet security tips
These simple tips will help keep your crypto assets safe in a Web3 wallet:
Don’t share private keys. Never share your crypto private keys with anyone else.
Update wallet software. Update your wallet software regularly to ensure that you’re protected against the latest threats and that your wallet has no vulnerabilities.
Consider a hardware wallet. If you need a wallet to hold a large amount of crypto, it’s worth opting for the extra security of cold storage in a hardware wallet. If you want to use some of your crypto for day-to-day transactions, you can store a small amount of funds separately in a hot wallet.
Watch out for fake wallets and websites. Check URLs closely and make sure you only ever download wallet software from legit providers. Don’t click on any suspicious links in emails, and be wary of any unsolicited contact related to your crypto wallet.
Use all security features. From two-factor authentication to passkeys, be sure to make the most of all security features your wallet offers.
Back it up. For increased security, crypto enthusiasts recommend backing up your seed phrase offline, such as by writing it on paper or getting it engraved on metal. You could also consider backing it up on a separate hardware wallet.
How to create a Web3 wallet
Ready to get started with a Web3 decentralized wallet? Here’s what you need to do.
Step 1: Choose a wallet
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.
Step 2: Download and install
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.
Step 3: Set up the wallet
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.
Step 4: Start using your wallet
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.
Bottom line
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.
Frequently asked questions about Web3 wallets
Web3 is the name given to a vision for the next stage in the development of the internet. The philosophy behind it is all about decentralization, using blockchain and other technologies to create an internet that is controlled by users rather than corporations and governments.
A Web3 wallet is a type of crypto wallet. Initially, crypto wallets were designed solely to store your cryptocurrency private keys. Web3 wallets do this too, but they also allow you to connect to decentralized applications (dApps). This allows you to interact with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols and do things like trade on decentralized exchanges, perform cross-chain token swaps, lend crypto and much more.
Yes, hardware wallets can function as Web3 wallets. These wallets offer the security of offline storage for your private keys, and they connect to browser extension and mobile app Web3 wallets. This then allows you to connect to the decentralized web and interact with dApps.
Yes, it's easy to withdraw crypto from a Web3 wallet. You will typically need to log in to your wallet, select the crypto and amount you want to withdraw, then select the wallet address you will send the funds to.
Sources
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.
Tim Falk is a freelance writer for Finder. Over the course of his 15-year writing career, he has reported on a wide range of personal finance topics. Whether you're investing in stocks and ETFs, comparing savings accounts or choosing a credit card, Tim wants to make it easier for you to understand. When he’s not staring at his computer, you can usually find him exploring the great outdoors.
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