Crypto wallets are an integral part of investing in crypto, but what are the best crypto wallets? To find the best options, we compared more than 50 wallets on features like security, usability, cost and supported coins.
Our picks are designed to help you choose the best wallet for your goals and holdings. Since different wallets have different strengths, it is common to use multiple wallets at once. For instance, you might use one wallet for staking and another for its Web3 features.
Regardless of what you choose, it is a good idea to pair any software wallet with a hardware wallet for added security.
Our selection of the best Bitcoin and crypto wallets uses our custom methodology and is updated by our editorial team throughout the year to reflect changes in the market.
“Best for” picks are those we’ve evaluated to be best for certain product features or categories. If we show a “Promoted” pick, it’s been chosen from among our commercial partners based on factors that include special features or offers and the commission we receive.
Keep in mind that these picks are suggestions and that the best crypto wallet for you will depend on your individual needs. There are other wallets on the market not included in our picks.
Disclaimer: This page is not financial advice or an endorsement of digital assets, providers or services. Digital assets are volatile and risky, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. Potential regulations or policies can affect their availability and services provided. Talk with a financial professional before making a decision. Finder or the author may own cryptocurrency discussed on this page.
The Nano S Plus supports on-chain staking for nine cryptos via the device's native software, Ledger Live. It is a hardware wallet manufactured by the French company Ledger, which has been around since 2014.
Staking via a hardware wallet is one of the safer ways to earn yield on your crypto. That said, a 2023 hack exploited users who staked their crypto via a decentralized app (dApp) using their Ledger device, resulting in significant fund losses.
This additional layer of security, combined with a wide range of yield-earning cryptos to choose from, makes the Ledger Nano S Plus our choice for the best wallet for staking.
Ledger Live, Ledger's native software, is an all-in-one solution that allows you to stake a modest range of cryptos through a single interface. You will need to use third-party apps to access staking features for the full range of cryptos supported by the Nano S Plus.
The Nano S Plus is our pick for the best wallet for crypto overall, thanks to Ledger's robust security and its wide range of cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), all at the affordable price point of $79.
The accompanying Ledger Live app also allows you to swap cryptocurrencies, purchase them with a debit or credit card or put them to work via DeFi and staking. Ledger Live features the Merlin dashboard, which lets you interact with 1,000+ DeFi protocols across 10 chains and track yield, PnL and impermanent loss.
With all this, you will be hard-pressed to find another wallet that offers so much value at such a moderate price.
Get $40 of Bitcoin with your purchase of Ledger Nano X™ in Onyx Black
The Ledger Nano X is one of the best-known and feature-rich hardware wallets on the market. Its robust security, wide crypto support and connection to both desktop and mobile interfaces are some of the reasons it wins our pick for best hardware wallet.
Ledger has a long track record of providing industry-standard level security for digital assets. The Nano X hardware is supported by the Ledger Live app, which helps you manage over 5,500 cryptos, ethereum and polygon NFTs and over 1,000 DeFi apps from a single user interface available on both desktop and mobile.
You can also stake a selection of your digital assets via Ledger Live or put them to work in DeFi.
The Nano X is Bluetooth-enabled and compatible with both Android and IOS mobile devices, so you can manage your crypto on the go.
The Ledger Stax was designed by Tony Fadell, the co-creator of the iPod and iPhone.
The device is sleeker and more stylish than previous Ledger hardware wallets, yet it still offers the same level of security for which Ledger wallets have come to be known and trusted.
The most notable feature of the Ledger Stax is its 3.7-inch (672x400px) electronic ink (e-ink) touchscreen. It makes managing your assets and clear-signing transactions via the device a smooth and convenient process.
Other features that make the Ledger Stax stand out from previous Ledger wallets include its wireless charging capability and lock screen, which you can customize with an NFT or your favorite photo.
The device is also shaped differently from previous Ledger wallets. It has a rectangular shape about the size of five credit cards stacked on top of one another, while all previous Ledger wallets resembled a flash drive.
Pros
Large e-ink touchscreen
Wireless Qi charging
Bluetooth-enabled
Enables clear-signing (to prevent hacks and phishing attacks)
CC EAL6+ security certification (highest level of security against penetration tests)
Exodus Wallet is a software wallet for desktop and mobile that provides access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies. While many wallets only let you manage coins on a single network, Exodus supports assets on blockchains, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL). This all-in-one functionality makes it our top wallet pick for beginners.
The wallet has convenient features like a portfolio overview that helps you oversee your holdings. If you want to top up your portfolio, you can use the wallet's built-in exchange to swap your digital assets.
You can also stake cryptos like Algorand (ALGO) and Cosmos (ATOM) through Exodus.
For added security, you can store the keys to your assets on a Trezor hardware wallet, making it easy to upgrade if you decide to go pro.
One of Exodus's most beginner-friendly features is its highly responsive support staff. If you email them for support, you can expect a response within an hour.
Atomic Wallet is our pick for best desktop wallet, thanks to its support for over 1,200 crypto coins and tokens across more than 50 blockchains in a single app — and, even better, it is available on Windows, Mac and Linux.
Its easy-to-use interface makes it a popular choice for beginners and pros alike.
The wallet was launched in 2017 by Konstantin Gladych, CEO of Changelly. Changelly is a decentralized crypto exchange built into Atomic Wallet that allows you to swap cryptos or purchase them with a credit or debit card.
You can stake over 20 digital assets, including Cardano (ADA), Cosmos (ATOM) and Tezos (XTZ), and the wallet features an NFT gallery for the Solana blockchain.
If you run into any problems while using Atomic Wallet, you can contact its 24/7 customer support team, which promises a response within two hours.
Pros
Easy-to-navigate interface
Built-in decentralized exchange
Supports staking for various cryptos
Support for 20+ currencies in 100+ countries
Cons
Solana NFT support only
High exchange fees and minimum spend for certain coins
Trust Wallet supports coins and tokens from more than 100 different blockchains. This feature saves you the hassle of downloading multiple wallet apps, making it our standout pick for the best mobile wallet.
Trust Wallet is all about convenience — it lets you quickly import popular coins and tokens, view charts and pricing information and receive notifications directly to your mobile device.
If you want to view cryptos that are not listed by default, you have the option to import custom tokens. Just be careful to verify contract addresses when doing this, as anyone can create fake versions of existing cryptos.
You can connect to dApps and DEXs that support the Wallet Connect extension. As an added convenience, you can also buy crypto with fiat through third-party providers like Moonpay and stake assets directly from your Trust Wallet.
Pros
Built-in decentralized exchange
Stake cryptos directly from your wallet Purchase cryptos with a credit or debit card
Supports Bitcoin transfers
NFT support
Cons
A security flaw was discovered in 2022 but was quickly patched
Withdrawals to bank accounts not available from wallet
The Coinbase Wallet does not require a Coinbase account to use it. However, verified account holders can connect directly to the Coinbase exchange to buy crypto. This seamless integration makes it our pick for the best exchange wallet.
The Coinbase Wallet can be downloaded as a mobile app or browser extension and features an easy-to-navigate UI consistent with the Coinbase exchange. The wallet is automatically configured to support many blockchains, including all EVM-compatible chains, Solana, Fantom and Opera.
Security on the Coinbase wallet is consistent with the industry standard for non-custodial wallets, which means it does come with some counterparty risk. If convenience and easy access to your funds are important to you, then the Coinbase exchange wallet has a lot to offer.
Pros
Syncs directly to Coinbase exchange
Mobile app and browser extension
Preconfigured blockchains
Purchase with selected fiats in-wallet
Coinbase company backing
Cons
Fee for coin swaps in the wallet
No DEX in the wallet, you must connect to an external exchange
The COLDCARD Mk4 is a popular hardware wallet among hardcore Bitcoiners.
It was designed for Bitcoin maximalists by cypherpunks, technologists who advocate for privacy-enhancing technology.
The Mk4 does not have some of the functionality of Ledger or Trezor hardware wallets, but it does offer industry-leading security for the private keys to your BTC.
The device features two Secure Element chips — the same type of chips used to protect data for passports and credit cards — to protect your private keys.
To keep your stored private keys extra secure, you can send BTC to and from your device without even connecting it to a computer. When you use desktop software wallets like Sparrow or Electrum, you can use a microSD card to transfer data back and forth from your computer to your Mk4.
Pros
Highly secure Contains two Secure Element chips
Does not require a computer connection
High-contrast 128 x 64-pixel screen for messaging
Multisig-enabled
Cons
Only supports BTC
Less intuitive Sparrow Wallet UI than competitors
Must purchase separate microSD card adapter for computer data transfers
Coinomi is a desktop and mobile wallet that supports over 1,770 coins and tokens on over 125 blockchains. This impressive range puts Coinomi far ahead of most wallets on the market and makes it our pick for the best multi-crypto wallet.
In addition to storing your private keys, Coinomi wallet also allows you to manage your NFTs, stake certain assets and interact with DeFi apps.
There is a built-in decentralized exchange (DEX) that allows you to swap your cryptocurrency without having to use a centralized service like Coinbase or Binance.
Founded in 2014, Coinomi was the first ever multichain wallet to come to market. In its 8 years of operation, there have been no reported hacks, showing an impressive commitment to security. Customer support is available via support tickets.
Pros
Works on all major desktop and mobile operating systems
Can manage and swap a wide variety of cryptos
Never been hacked
Cons
Not as secure as a hardware wallet
Staking limited to Ethereum tokens, Algorand, SmartCash and Callisto
10. Trezor Model T – Best wallet for experienced users
The Trezor Model T wins our best pick for experienced users, thanks to several advanced features that come together to give you greater control over your funds.
Multisig. Multisig wallets allow for multiple stakeholders to manage a single Bitcoin wallet. This is particularly useful for businesses and families.
Taproot. Trezor Suite supports Bitcoin Taproot addresses, which can reduce fees, improve privacy and enable smart contracts on Bitcoin.
Shamir backup. Instead of using a single seed phrase, Shamir backup distributes it across multiple phrases, which can then be stored in different locations. Think of it like multisig for a seed phrase.
Timelock. Users can use the Locktime feature to delay a transaction until a specified block height.
Tor Switch. Anonymize your crypto transactions using the Tor network, which can be enabled via Trezor Suite.
Where the Model T falls short is the range of coins and tokens it supports. It is best thought of as a Bitcoin wallet first and an altcoin wallet second. The Trezor Suite software only supports a small handful of popular blockchains, but through third-party software, the Model T supports thousands of coins and tokens.
Warning: On May 25, 2023, a security firm named Unciphered claimed they were able to extract private keys from a Trezor Model T. The exploit requires physical access to the device, as well as specialized tools and knowledge. Trezor has previously addressed this type of vulnerability in a blog post and said that the attack could be prevented by using a strong passphrase.
Pros
Advanced transaction types for Bitcoin
Highly customisable security features
Integration with MetaMask for additional usability and DeFi
Touchscreen for improved functionality and security
With over 100 million monthly active users, MetaMask is a crowd favorite and considered the go-to for Web3 apps, making it an easy choice for our best Web3 wallet.
MetaMask was one of the first non-custodial wallets to help open the door to the world of Web3 and DeFi. Operating on both desktop and mobile devices, MetaMask lets you connect to dApps, store NFTs and digital assets and trade cryptos across several different blockchains.
A key feature behind the popularity of MetaMask's Web3 wallet is the ability to buy and sell crypto without providing any personal information. To start trading on DeFi exchanges, you simply install the app or browser extension and log in using your private seed phrase.
Your MetaMask seed phrase acts as your password, login and proof of ownership all in one. Your information is not stored on any database, and asset ownership is entirely in your hands — an important element of decentralization.
Pros
Easy setup and installation
No personal identification required Supports multiple blockchains, including testnets
Though most known for its global exchange, Crypto.com also offers a tailored non-custodial DeFi wallet with standout features that deserves our pick for best DeFi wallet.
Crypto.com DeFi Wallet is available to anyone, not just existing Crypto.com users. The DeFi wallet can be synced to the centralized Crypto.com app to make transfers between accounts simple.
The Crypto.com DeFi Wallet also features in-app swaps via the Ethereum, BNB Smart Chain, Cronos, and Polygon blockchains. Users of the Crypto.com DeFi wallet can bridge assets between selected blockchains to the native Cronos Chain or Crypto.org.
In-app staking and connection to Web3-enabled sites are also possible. Crypto.com DeFi Wallet users can connect to dApps, DEXs, lending platforms and marketplaces without ever having to leave the app.
Pros
Retain full ownership of your crypto
Crypto.com DeFi Wallet can be synced to the centralized exchange app
Ctrl is a blockchain-agnostic wallet that lets you showcase assets and NFTs on over 2,300 blockchains. It is this breadth that has made it our top pick for a dedicated NFT wallet.
The wallet's streamlined, cross-chain UI makes sending, receiving and trading NFTs and cryptos across blockchains very user-friendly.
Once the browser extension is installed, accounts can be set up directly in Ctrl or imported from external wallets. Preconfigured blockchains include ETH, BSC, Arbitrum, Thorchain and Bitcoin.
Ctrl also gives you the ability to complete in-wallet swaps and purchase cryptos using any currency through its fiat onramp.
Holders of the wallet's own token, $Ctrl, can stake their holdings to earn trading rebates and collect utility NFTs.
Pros
View NFTs and assets across different blockchains in a single gallery
Easily import custom tokens
30+ blockchains supported
Earn rewards through staking $CTRL token
Cons
Value of staking incentives depends on performance of $CTRL token
Sell-to-fiat feature not currently supported
No mobile app
Best Bitcoin wallets
With the notable exception of MetaMask, all of our best crypto wallet selections can also help you safely store your Bitcoin.
The following are some of our other picks for the best Bitcoin wallets in the US.
Wallet type
Asset support
Electrum Bitcoin Wallet
Hot
Bitcoin only
Sparrow Bitcoin Wallet
Hot
Bitcoin only
Wasabi Bitcoin Wallet
Hot
Bitcoin only
Mycelium Bitcoin Wallet
Hot
Bitcoin only
Blockstream Jade
Cold
Bitcoin only* (Supports other assets that exist on Liquid Network — a Bitcoin Layer-2 network.)
When deciding which Bitcoin wallet is best for you, you first need to decide whether you prefer a hot or cold wallet.
Hot wallets are crypto wallets that remain connected to the internet, so they are less secure than cold wallets, which store assets offline. Hot wallets can be used in conjunction with one of our picks for the best cold wallets for crypto, such as the COLDCARD Mk4.
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Compare more crypto wallets in the US
Browse top crypto wallets by supported assets, price and more. Select Go to Site to learn more about a particular wallet. Remember: prices are subject to change and should be used as a general guide only.
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What is a crypto wallet?
A cryptocurrency wallet is a software program that allows you to store, send and receive digital currencies.
Because cryptocurrency does not exist in any physical form, your wallet does not actually hold any of your coins — instead, all transactions are recorded and stored on the blockchain.
Some cryptocurrencies have their own official wallets, while other products allow you to store multiple currencies within the same wallet.
Bear in mind that different digital currencies have different address types, and you are usually only able to send coins between like wallet addresses. This means you will need to send Bitcoin to a Bitcoin wallet address, Ethereum to an Ethereum wallet address and so on.
How do cryptocurrency wallets work?
Instead of holding physical coins, a wallet has a public key and a private key.
Public key. This is a long sequence of letters and numbers that forms the wallet address. With this, people can send money to the wallet. It is similar to a bank account number in that it can only be used to send money into an account.
Private key. This is used to access the funds stored in the wallet. With this, people can control the funds tied to that wallet’s address. It’s a lot like your PIN number, in that you should keep it secret and secure. However, not all wallets give you sole ownership of your private key, which essentially means that you do not have full control over your coins.
As well as storing your public and private keys, crypto wallets interface with the blockchains of various cryptos so that you can check your balance and send and receive funds.
The blockchain of any cryptocurrency contains a public record of all transactions made since it began. Your wallet address keeps a record of all your transactions and tracks your crypto balance. By following the chain all the way to the present day, a wallet can figure out how many coins you have.
For example, let’s say Alice sends Bob 0.001 BTC. Once this transaction has been verified and added to the blockchain, the ledger records that the amount of Bitcoin at Alice’s wallet address has decreased by 0.001 and that the amount of Bitcoin at Bob’s wallet address has increased by 0.001 BTC.
Now that you know how crypto wallets work, let’s take a closer look at the different types of wallets available. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of security, ease of use, convenience and a range of other factors.
Hardware
Software
Exchange
Security
Excellent
Good
Poor
Usability
Easy, but more complex than software
Easy
Easy
Convenience
Can’t access funds without the hardware device
Need access to the same device you set the wallet up on
Can access from any internet-connected device
Risks
Not having access to the device can be an issue if you need instant access
Vulnerable to malware, theft and hacking
Highly vulnerable to phishing and a popular target for hackers
Easy to use, good level of security, plenty of choice, free to download.
Risk of computer viruses and malware. Inconvenient if you want to manage your crypto on the go.
The most common type of wallet out there, desktop wallets are downloaded and installed on your computer, which is where the private key is stored. Many cryptocurrencies offer a desktop wallet specifically designed for their coin.
Desktop wallets provide a relatively high level of security since they’re only accessible from the machine on which they’re installed. The biggest disadvantage is that they rely on you to keep your device secure and free of malware.
Very easy to use, convenient, wide range of options available and free to download.
Losing your phone could cause problems including risk of hacking.
Mobile wallets feature many of the same advantages and disadvantages as desktop wallets, with your private key stored on your device.
They are often easier to use compared to desktop wallets and include the ability to scan other wallet addresses for faster transactions. They also make it simpler to access your coins on the go and use cryptocurrency as part of everyday life.
You will need to be extra careful about losing your smartphone because there’s a risk that anyone who has access to your device might also have access to your funds.
The easiest way to use Web3 applications and several now let you buy and sell crypto in-wallet.
Not ideal for storing large amounts of crypto as they are vulnerable to smart contract exploits and phishing scams.
Web3 wallets are similar to software wallets but run in your web browser. They are designed for use with Web3 applications (also known as dApps). They are simple to use and many now let you purchase or trade cryptocurrencies directly from the wallet.
Despite their ease of use, Web3 wallets are not generally recommended for storing large amounts of crypto. This is because they are especially vulnerable to smart contract exploits. These are similar to phishing scams, where scammers lead you to a fake version of a website and ask you to connect your wallet and enable spending permission. The attacker is then able to steal your funds.
Generally considered to be the most secure option, offline storage, easy to set up and use.
Most expensive option and inconvenient if you want quick access to your funds.
Hardware wallets add another layer of security by keeping your private key on a USB stick or a specially-designed piece of hardware. They allow the user to plug the USB stick into any computer, log in, transact and unplug. So while transactions are carried out online, your private key is stored offline and protected against the risk of hacking. As a result, hardware wallets are widely considered to offer the most secure storage option.
The biggest disadvantage of hardware wallets is that they’ll cost you. Prices vary depending on the model you choose but generally land upwards of $100. You also need to keep the device safe. But if you do lose your hardware wallet, the device itself is PIN-protected and there are usually other protective measures in place to help you recover your funds.
Convenient if you plan on staking or trading frequently, easily access your funds with your account name and password from any device.
You don’t own the private keys, exchanges are targets for hacking and phishing scams.
If you don’t want to go through the added step of setting up a crypto wallet, it’s possible to store your cryptocurrency in the wallet attached to the exchange you purchased from. This is a quick and convenient solution and provides fast access to your crypto whenever you need it, but it’s generally not advised for a couple of reasons.
You don’t control the private key to your exchange wallet. Instead, it’s controlled by the exchange, which effectively means that you don’t fully own your cryptocurrency.
Exchanges are a popular target for hackers and thieves. There have been many well-publi{{ locale.cise }}ed incidences of exchange customers falling victim to scammers as well as examples of fraud perpetrated by dodgy exchange operators.
Must read: Hot wallets vs cold wallets
As you’re researching and comparing a range of wallets, you’ll probably come across the terms “hot wallet” and “cold wallet”, or perhaps the concept of “cold storage.”
So, what does temperature have to do with crypto storage?
Hot. A wallet is hot when it’s connected to the internet. Nothing on the internet is 100% secure, so funds kept in a hot wallet are always at a slight risk of theft or loss from software bugs or hackers.
Cold. A wallet is cold when it’s safely offline and can’t be deliberately or accidentally compromised over the internet.
How to choose the best crypto wallet
Now that you know all about the different types of wallets available, it’s time to find a wallet that’s right for you. To do that, you’ll need to consider your needs and compare a range of wallets based on several key factors, including the following:
The type of wallet you want. This factor comes down to personal preference. If security is your number 1 priority, you’ll probably want to compare hardware wallets. But if your main goal is being able to quickly and conveniently access your coins, a mobile or web wallet may be your preferred choice.
Ease of use. Sending, receiving and storing cryptocurrency can be complicated and confusing, particularly for beginners. It’s essential that any wallet you choose suits your tech knowledge and level of crypto experience. So while crypto novices might focus on finding a wallet that is simple to set up and use, experienced holders might look for more advanced features including in-wallet exchange and multi-signature transactions.
Security features. Find out the security features of the wallet such as 2-factor authentication and multi-signature functionality. Will your private key be stored online or offline? Has the wallet ever suffered any security breaches?
Other features. Check what other features the wallet includes, such as the ability to exchange between currencies within your wallet or providing easy access to live fiat exchange rates or other market information.
Supported cryptocurrencies. Are you looking for a wallet that stores just 1 crypto, like Bitcoin, or are you in the market for a multi-currency wallet? Make sure the wallet you choose is compatible with the cryptocurrencies you need to store and remember that some coins and tokens can only be held in an official wallet.
The team behind the wallet. Next, see what sort of information you can find out about the people behind the wallet. How long have they been in business? What qualifications do they have? Are they continually working to upgrade and improve the wallet?
Cost. While most crypto wallets are free to use, choosing a hardware wallet means you’ll have to be willing to part with some cash. Consider the upfront price and shipping costs when making your decision. Some wallets charge a fee for every transaction you make, so check the fine print.
Reputation. What level of community trust does the wallet have? Check out a range of independent online reviews to gauge how other users rate the wallet and whether they would recommend it.
Ask the experts: What are the most important features in a crypto wallet, besides security?
Expert insight
"A wallet should have an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. The ability to store and manage a variety of cryptocurrencies is crucial, as the crypto market consists of numerous digital assets. A good wallet should provide a reliable backup and recovery system to protect against data loss or theft of the wallet’s private keys. Access to transaction history and reporting features is essential for tracking your cryptocurrency holdings and activities."
Paul Levy
Senior Lecturer, University of Brighton
Expert insight
"Interoperability with web3-enabled sites is probably the most important feature after security for crypto wallets today. WalletConnect makes it possible to use a wide range of wallets to interact with web3 sites. Cross-chain compatibility and the ability to do swaps inside the wallet can also make life a lot easier."
Ruadhan O
Creator, Seasonal Tokens
Expert insight
"The wallet should be easy to use and navigate. Users should be able to easily send, receive, and store their cryptocurrencies. The wallet should support the cryptocurrencies that users want to use. Multi-signature wallets require multiple signatures to authorize transactions. This makes them more secure than single-signature wallets.Cold storage wallets allow users to store their cryptocurrencies offline. This is the most secure way to store cryptocurrencies, as it protects them from hackers. Some crypto wallets offer additional features, such as staking, lending, and decentralized exchange (DEX) integration."
Mitesh Shah
Founder & CEO, Omnia Markets
How to use a crypto wallet
You have chosen your wallet and completed the setup process. Now it is time to use it with these step-by-step instructions.
To send funds from your wallet, you need a wallet address (the recipient’s public key). These addresses are given in one of three ways:
A long alphanumeric string (numbers and letters)
A QR code (for smartphone wallets)
A URL-like web link (clickable – opens your wallet automatically)
Once you have this address, you will need to do the following:
Log in to your wallet.
Click on “Send”.
Enter the recipient’s wallet address. Please note that you can generally only send and receive like coins. For example, you can only send Bitcoin to Bitcoin or Ethereum to Ethereum. You can’t send Bitcoin to an Ethereum wallet address.
Specify the amount (and possibly the currency) you want to transfer.
Check any transaction fees that apply, making sure you have enough coins in your wallet to pay the fees.
Review the details of the transaction to make sure you’ve correctly entered all the information.
Click “Send”.
Please note that the exact process will vary, depending on the type and brand of wallet you choose. Hardware wallet users will typically need to connect their wallet device, enter a PIN or password and manually verify the transaction on the device itself.
How to receive cryptocurrency in your wallet
Receiving coins is even easier than sending them. However, wallets vary greatly in the way this is done: some will provide you with a fixed public address, some will give you a new address for every transaction and others will provide a combination of the two.
Log in to your wallet.
Click on “Receive” link.
Copy the public wallet address provided.
Send your address to the person who will be sending you a payment.
Wait for the funds to arrive in your wallet.
Holding funds in your crypto wallet
If you want to hold onto your crypto, there is typically not much you need to do once the funds have arrived in your wallet. You can log in to your wallet at any time to check your balances. Some currencies may allow you to earn interest on your coins by staking your holdings, although you may need to follow specific instructions in your wallet to do this.
Other than that, the main thing you need to focus on is maintaining a high level of security at all times.
Our expert says
"Learning to use a crypto wallet is an essential part of your journey, but many people find them difficult to use at first. Go slow, read plenty about how they work and remember that each blockchain is different. Test out transactions with small amounts to prevent big mistakes. If you’ve got a sizeable investment, consider using a hardware wallet for the best security."
Wallet security is a crucial consideration for any crypto owner, so keep these tips in mind to ensure you keep your funds as safe as possible:
Research before you choose. Don’t just choose the first crypto wallet you come across. Thoroughly research the security features and development team behind a range of wallets before making your final decision.
Enable two-factor authentication. This is a simple security feature available on an increasing number of wallets. It’s simple to use and provides an extra layer of protection for your wallet.
Pick your password carefully. Don’t be lazy when choosing a password. Make sure all usernames, PINs and passwords related to your crypto wallet are as strong as possible.
Consider a multi-signature wallet. Multi-signature wallets require more than 1 private key to authorize a transaction, which means another user or users will need to sign each transaction before it can be sent. Though this means it’ll take a little longer to send funds, you may find that the extra peace of mind is well worth the minor hassle.
Update your antivirus protection. Make sure your PC, laptop, smartphone or tablet has the latest antivirus and anti-malware software installed. Make sure to set up a secure firewall on your computer and that you never install software from companies you don’t trust.
Update your wallet software. Take care to update your wallet software regularly so that you always have the latest security upgrades and protections installed.
Make a backup. Ensure that you have a wallet backup stored in a safe place so you can recover your crypto funds if something goes wrong, like if you lose your smartphone.
Check the address. When sending or receiving funds, make sure you’re using the correct wallet address. Similarly, if using an online wallet, make sure it is secure (i.e. check that its URL starts with “https://”)
Don’t use public Wi-Fi. Never access your wallet over a public Wi-Fi network.
Split your holdings. Consider splitting your crypto coins up between online and offline storage. You can keep a small portion of your funds in online storage for quick and convenient access, and store the bulk of your holdings offline for extra security.
Private key protection. Remember – you can’t access your coins without your private key, so don’t disclose it to anyone. Check whether the wallet you choose allows you to retain full control of your private keys, or whether you’ll have to surrender ownership to a third party such as an exchange.
Risks of using a crypto wallet
When you use a non-custodial crypto wallet, you reduce the risk of a third-party custodian like a crypto exchange going under and taking your funds with it. However, there are still risks to using both software and hardware crypto wallets.
Software wallets are always connected to the internet, and, for that reason, can more easily be hacked. Also, if the code for a software wallet is closed-source, you are placing trust in the creator of that wallet to not extract your private keys and, therefore, gain access to the digital assets you manage via the wallet.
Hardware wallets are generally more secure than software wallets in that they remain disconnected from the internet when they aren’t in use, while some never have to be connected to the internet. However, if you use a hardware wallet that has native software—like a Ledger or Trezor wallet—there is always the risk that your private keys can be extracted through an issue with the underlying software.
For extra safety, it’s best to create a multisignature (or “multisig”) set up in which you use two or more wallets to sign transactions and protect your crypto.
There is no such thing as one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best wallet for crypto. The right wallet for you will match your needs, so if security is your top concern, you will probably end up choosing a different wallet than someone who wants fast and easy access to their coins.
The key thing to remember is to do your research and compare a range of wallets first. Start with our range of crypto wallet reviews to get an idea of what is available and the key features you need to consider.
Methodology
To evaluate our 2025 picks for the best crypto wallets, we compared 50+ wallets on a range of criteria, including the following:
Crypto and blockchain compatibility. Does it support a good breadth of coins, tokens and blockchains?
Ease of use. Is it user-friendly and suitable for new crypto investors?
Security. Does it offer non-custodial or offline cold storage for added security?
Cost. Is it a free software wallet, or is there an initial outlay? If applicable, how does its price compare to similar products?
Extra features. Does it support NFTs or offer additional features, such as staking or in-wallet purchases?
Mobile accessibility. Can you manage your portfolio from a mobile device?
Web3 support. Can you directly access Web3 and decentralized apps (dapps) from within the wallet?
Frequently asked questions
Which cryptocurrency wallet is the best?
There is no simple answer, as the best wallet for you depends on your personal needs. To help narrow down the choices, ask yourself a few key questions:
Which crypto(s) do I want to store?
Do I want a wallet I can use for everyday purchases and payments or a wallet I can use to buy and hold crypto for the long term?
How do I want to access my wallet?
How important is wallet security, and what security features do I want?
This should help you decide on the type of wallet that is right for you. You can also explore some of our top picks.
Which cryptocurrency wallet is most secure?
There is a broad consensus that hardware wallets are the most secure. They are a form of cold storage, meaning that the private keys are kept offline and never connected directly to the internet. Transactions are sent to the wallet, which signs them using the private keys stored on the device and then sends the authorized transaction back to your computer and onto the blockchain. The private key itself never gets moved onto your internet-connected device.
This is different from software wallets, which store your private keys on your computer or smartphone and leave them vulnerable anytime your device is connected to the internet.
Are cryptocurrency wallets anonymous?
Not really. While most wallets are not linked to your identity, cryptocurrency transactions are stored permanently on the blockchain and can potentially be traced back to you.
If anonymity is important to you, you may want to consider transacting with a privacy-focused coin, such as Monero.
Do cryptocurrency wallets charge fees?
Many wallets do not charge any fees, but some do, so check the fine print closely.
Sending a crypto transaction from your wallet usually attracts a small network fee, which varies depending on the asset being sent.
This fee is not charged or received by the wallet provider and instead applies to all transactions that take place on a coin’s network.
Can I store all my cryptocurrencies in the same wallet?
This depends on the cryptocurrencies you own and the wallet you choose. Some wallets only allow you to store one particular asset, while multi-currency wallets can support any number of digital currencies.
Check your wallet provider’s list of supported coins and tokens for more information.
Can I send Bitcoin to an Ethereum wallet address or vice versa?
No, you cannot send Bitcoin to an Ethereum wallet or Ethereum to a Bitcoin wallet. Different cryptocurrencies have different address types, so it is important to double-check that you are sending funds to the correct address before submitting a transaction. Funds sent to the wrong address generally cannot be recovered.
Do I need a hardware wallet?
No, a hardware wallet is not essential. You can leave the private keys for your crypto in the hands of a centralized exchange. However, you risk losing access to your assets if the exchange becomes insolvent or is hacked.
You can also custody the private keys to your digital assets with a non-custodial wallet like Exodus or MetaMask.
Can hardware wallets store any crypto?
No, different hardware wallets support different cryptocurrencies. For example, Ledger wallets can store the private keys to over 5,500 crypto assets, while the COLDCARD Mk4 can only store the private keys to your Bitcoin.
Which hardware wallet supports the most coins?
Of the hardware wallets we reviewed, Ledger’s support for more than 5,500 coins, tokens and NFTs nosed ahead of the competition.
Frank Corva is business-to-business (B2B) correspondent for Bitcoin Magazine and formerly the cryptocurrency writer and analyst for digital assets at Finder. Frank has turned his hobby of studying and writing about crypto into a career with a mission of educating the world about this burgeoning sector of finance. He worked in Ghana and Venezuela before earning a degree in applied linguistics at Teachers College, Columbia University. He also taught writing and entertainment business courses in Japan and worked with UNICEF in Namibia before returning to the US to teach at universities in New York City. Earlier in his career, he spent years working as a publicist and graphic designer for record labels like Warner Music Group and Triple Crown Records. During that time, he was also a music journalist whose writing and photography was in published in Alternative Press, Spin and other outlets. See full bio
Lena Borrelli is an experienced finance writer with a deep understanding of personal finance, investing and consumer banking. Her work has been featured in top-tier publications such as Forbes, TIME, Bankrate, Moneywise and Annuity.org, where she provides expert insights on financial trends, smart money management and emerging fintech solutions. With a background in personal finance and content strategy, Lena specializes in breaking down complex financial topics into clear, actionable advice for readers. When she is not writing or scanning the news for the latest headlines, she is happiest spending time in the Florida sunshine with her husband and two pups. See full bio
All you need to know about MetaMask – the browser extension digital wallet and a user-friendly bridge to the world of Ethereum decentralised applications.
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