The 10 Best Cryptocurrency Wallets in 2024
Every cryptocurrency investor should have a secure wallet to store their assets. However, the market is hugely complex and can become overwhelming for new investors.
So, whether you are looking to explore hot or cold wallets, or even cloud storage, here are the best crypto wallets for 2024.
Purchasing your cryptocurrency is just the start of your journey. Next, you must ensure you have somewhere to store your assets.
Whether you are a crypto novice or an experienced investor, the market for cryptocurrency wallets can be highly confusing.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of securely storing your assets and analyze the best crypto wallets on the market, breaking down this complex area.
The 10 Best Cryptocurrency Wallets in 2024
1. Exodus
Pros:
Exodus supports over 200 cryptocurrencies
Efficient, 24/7 customer support
Compatible with multiple hardware wallets
Cons:
Closed source
Price: Free
The Exodus Wallet was founded in 2015. Its core aim was to simplify the process of transferring digital assets.
This effortless experience and dynamic user interface make it a firm favourite of those new to cryptocurrency.
However, experienced traders are often deterred by Exodus being a closed source. This appears to go against the transparent ethos of cryptocurrency and raises some questions surrounding security.
Exodus is the best cryptocurrency wallet for those who prefer to use desktop, but they do also offer mobile versions for increased flexibility.
Exodus is also compatible with the Trezor One and Trezor Model T hardware wallets.
2. Electrum
Pros:
Open-source wallet which helps users build trust
Customizable transaction fees that allow processes to be executed faster
Extremely secure with two-factor authentication and multi-signature support
Cons:
Limited customer support
Only supports Bitcoin
Price: Free
Electrum is one of the market's most established bitcoin wallets. Founded in 2011, Electrum has never deviated from its speciality and is one of the few remaining wallets that only deals with bitcoin.
Electrum is widely considered one of the most reliable crypto wallets on the market.
First, its servers are decentralized, so your wallet will never suffer downtime.
Second, Electrum uses a lightweight client, which only downloads part of the blockchain. Therefore, users will experience much faster transactions.
It is the ideal option for those who regularly send and receive bitcoin payments.
3. Mycelium
Pros:
Offers in-app crypto exchange
Compatible with various hardware wallets
Established company with an excellent security record
Cons:
Limited coin options
No desktop option
Price: Free
Mycelium has been around since 2008, making it one of the best-known and most respected crypto wallets around.
Mycelium is an entirely open sourse app. So, anyone can access the original code to help assess any security flaws. Hence, Mycelium is considered one of the safest crypto wallets.
Although the user interface is relatively easy to use, Mycelium is best for those who are a little more experienced when it comes to handling cryptocurrency.
Customer support is email only, there is no desktop functionality and the app documentation is slightly lacking compared to some competitors.
4. Ledger Nano S
Pros:
Supports over 1,000 coins
An affordable solution
Discreet design
Cons:
Small display can be uncomfortable to use
Price: $59
The Ledger Nano S is the best entry-level cold storage crypto wallet. Its modest price attracts those looking to switch to offline storage but don't want to break the bank.
This inconspicuous device looks identical to a USB. The Nano S is a sleek black design with a silver casing and can fit easily in your hand or pocket.
Ledger is one of the biggest names in hardware wallets because it offers the most robust security features. Ledger exceeds all industry-set standards and uses tamper-resistant chips to secure your private keys.
5. Ledger Nano X
Pros:
Supports over 5,000 coins
8-hour battery life
Bluetooth allows for trading without plugging in
Cons:
Bluetooth technology may create privacy concerns
Price: $149
The Ledger Nano X is a great option for those looking to level up from the Nano S. It includes all of the security features mentioned above in the Nano S, but in a more sophisticated version.
The battery is more powerful and the screen is much more user-friendly. Additionally, the Nano X supports over 5,000 coins, substantially more than the earlier model.
The Ledger app is extremely user-friendly, allowing users to buy, sell and stake cryptocurrency.
6. Trezor Model T
Pros:
Compatible with most software wallets
User-friendly, touchscreen device
Open-source software
Cons:
One of the most expensive options
Price: $215
The Trezor T was released in 2014 and is one of the most premium cryptocurrency wallets on the market.
The device is slightly larger than the Ledger models mentioned earlier, making it much easier to use.
The Trezor T uses a 24-word security phrase as part of its safety features. Users should be aware that losing the physical wallet and this recovery code means your assets would be completely unrecoverable.
The Trezor T is the company's most exclusive offering. If you like the look of the Trezor T but would prefer to start with a more basic model, consider the Trezor One.
7. MetaMask
Pros:
User-friendly interface
Open-source code
Easy to link to NFT marketplaces
Cons:
Cannot store bitcoin
Price: Free
MetaMask was founded in 2016, and now has over 30 million users.
Its accounts are extremely straightforward to set up. Registration can be completed in a few minutes and requires no personally identifiable data.
It is one of the most widely used Ethereum wallets, with its open-source code building trust with its customer base.
However, MetaMask is best suited to those with experience for two reasons:
The first is that the customer support is limited, which can cause significant issues for those new to cryptocurrency.
The second is that the app does not support bitcoin, which is the cryptocurrency most beginners choose.
8. ZenGo
Pros:
Keyless access
All in one solution
24/7 customer service
Cons:
Only available on mobile
Price: Free
ZenGo was founded in 2018 and is the first keyless wallet on the market. Instead, it uses a unique three-factor authorization method (including face recognition) to keep your assets safe.
It even provides an in-app test, proving to users that a photograph cannot be used to hack into their account.
ZenGo supports multiple cryptocurrencies including bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin.
Users can trade whilst in the app, as well as store their crypto. Interestingly, ZenGo also allows users to earn interest on their coins by loaning them out.
9. Trust Wallet
Pros:
Stores a huge range of cryptocurrencies
Crypto can be purchased easily from the wallet app
Very straightforward to set up
Cons:
Mobile-only
Limited customer support – email only
Price: Free
Trust Wallet was created in 2017 by a team of anonymous software developers. The aim was to make cryptocurrency accessible to all, hence its simple UI and app-only experience.
After one year of operation, the company was purchased by Binance and now serves over 10 million users monthly.
It is simple to set up an account. However, Trust Wallet is only available on mobile or some newer Mac desktops, which may deter some users.
10. Coinomi
Pros:
24/7 customer support via a live chat
Built-in exchange
Supports over 25 languages
Cons:
Not compatible with hardware
Closed source
Price: Free
Coinomi is one of the oldest and best crypto wallets on the market and is generally considered a very secure option.
With the exception of one security issue in 2019, its systems are held in very high regard amongst the cryptocurrency community.
This non-custodial wallet is supported on both desktop and mobile and has a dynamic, user-friendly interface.
The wallet is free, and it is completely free to receive coins. When sending cryptocurrency, users are required to pay a network fee, which is standard practice.
What Is a Cryptocurrency Wallet?
A cryptocurrency wallet, commonly referred to as a crypto wallet is a secure way to store cryptocurrency such as bitcoin or Ethereum.
As with regular cash, it isn't strictly necessary to own a wallet to spend your money, but it certainly makes things easier.
However, unlike a traditional wallet, a crypto wallet doesn't hold your assets. Instead, it contains the passkeys and access codes for your accounts.
Most cryptocurrency wallets are apps that run off your computer or mobile. However, physical cryptocurrency wallets can be purchased for those who prefer something tangible.
How Does a Cryptocurrency Wallet Work?
As mentioned, a crypto wallet doesn't actually store your currency. Instead, it holds your public and private key information, allowing you to carry out all crypto transactions.
A public key works similarly to a bank account number. It can be shared with third parties without compromising the security of your portfolio.
Conversely, you should always keep your private key secret, as this provides direct access to the cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrency itself is stored in a blockchain, which forms the basis of all decentralized cryptocurrencies.
Why You Need a Cryptocurrency Wallet
When you purchase cryptocurrency, your assets are held on the exchange or brokerage.
Generally, this is a very safe way to store your crypto. In fact, almost all large cryptocurrency exchange websites hold most of their customer's assets in cold wallets, minimizing risk.
So, technically, your assets are being held in a crypto wallet. But a custodial wallet rather than a personal one.
Having your own personal, non-custodial wallet is the most secure way to store your cryptocurrency.
Best Online Crypto Wallet – Hot Vs Cold Storage for Cryptocurrency
We've covered what a crypto wallet is and why you need one. Next, it is vital to discuss the different styles of wallets.
Cryptocurrency wallets can broadly be divided into two categories: hot and cold.
The main difference is whether it is connected to the internet.
Hot wallets tend to be used by those with small amounts of cryptocurrency who are making regular transactions. Cold storage is best for those with large portfolios looking to hold onto their crypto for long periods.
The most experienced investors will have a range of crypto wallets for their various assets.
Hot Storage for Crypto
Hot crypto wallets are those that are connected to the internet. Examples of hot wallets include:
Mobile wallets
Desktop wallets
Crypto wallets connected to the internet are much quicker and easier to use, hence why they are so popular with beginner investors.
However, by their very nature, they are vulnerable to attack.
So, if you opt for a hot wallet for your crypto storage, be sure to investigate the security of the particular platform.
Increased encryption may come at a slightly higher price point but can be critical to protecting your portfolio.
Cold Storage for Crypto
On the other hand, cold wallets are entirely offline. Examples of cold wallets include:
Hardware wallets
Paper wallets
Cold crypto wallets are much less convenient than hot wallets, but are undeniably more secure.
The threat from malicious online attacks is removed, providing the perfect solution for those holding large quantities of cryptocurrency.
However, there are other concerns with cold crypto storage. For example, the hardware or paper wallet could simply be lost or destroyed.
Should this happen, you would lose the entirety of your portfolio.
It is also worth mentioning that cold storage is considerably more expensive than hot crypto storage.
What Is Cloud Storage for Cryptocurrency?
Decentralized cloud storage is now providing a disruption to the traditional cryptocurrency wallet offerings.
Your encrypted data is stored across multiple locations, run by specialized cloud providers.
This provides an extra level of security, appealing specifically to slightly more risk-averse investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check if the crypto wallet is secure?
As explained earlier, a private key is the only way to access cryptocurrency. This is why you must keep your private key secret.
By using a non-custodial wallet, you take full responsibility for handling your keys, but it is undoubtedly more secure than holding your cryptocurrency in the exchange.
For those with security concerns, opt for a wallet that offers two or three-factor authorization. For an extra level of protection, choose a cold wallet option.
Do online crypto wallets charge fees?
You will have noticed that most crypto wallets mentioned in this post are free. However, this does not mean buying, holding or trading cryptocurrency comes without cost.
Most wallets will charge a network fee, which is actually a payment to the miners rather than the wallet. The network fee will depend on the type of crypto you are exchanging.
Additionally, if you choose an all-in-one wallet that offers an exchange, a service fee may be involved for buying or selling crypto. This fee is generally between 0.5% – 1.5%.
Are online crypto wallets a scam?
Simply put, no.
Cryptocurrency wallets are not a scam. They are an extra level of security that protects your assets from hackers. Those with very small portfolios may choose to hold their crypto on the exchange, but this is not advisable.
However, you should be mindful when choosing the best crypto wallet, as many fraudulent applications exist.
What online crypto wallet is best for bitcoin?
Bitcoin is the best-known cryptocurrency, and the one most beginners choose to invest in. Therefore, most of the crypto wallets mentioned above are excellent for bitcoin.
Exodus is a great option; offering only bitcoin services has allowed it to earn the title of industry expert.
What is the most user-friendly online crypto wallet?
The most user-friendly online crypto wallet is Exodus. It offers an intuitive interface, supports multiple cryptocurrencies, and provides excellent customer support, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Other options include Trust Wallet and MetaMask, known for their ease of use and security features.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many considerations when choosing the perfect cryptocurrency wallet. This will likely depend on your portfolio's value and how often you need to access and make transfers.
With more investors moving into the crypto market, the need for secure wallets will continue to grow. It is clear that our wallets will become more than just a storage facility, with their capabilities rapidly evolving each year.
Cloud storage currently attracts the most attention, with heavy investment demanding thought from those with substantial assets. However, the need for physical, cold storage will undoubtedly remain in place for the foreseeable future.
Please remember that, like many other investments, cryptocurrency is risky. The market can be hugely volatile, fluctuating in response to global economic and political events. Therefore, you may wish to speak with a financial advisor before investing in a specific cryptocurrency.