When someone decides to buy cryptocurrencies, the next question they ask themselves is the type of wallet to go for. There are several of them from paper wallet, software wallet, and hardware wallet. Software wallets are installed on computers, laptops, and phones. They are efficient, but when your device gets stolen or infected with virus, you could lose your crypto coins for good.

A paper wallet is extremely secure. Unfortunately, it can get torn, displaced or soaked in moisture resulting in loss of your valuable investment. Memorizing your wallet address is also advisable if you don’t suffer from frequent forgetfulness like most of us. From this little investigation, we can all agree that our cryptocurrencies would be safer in hardware wallets than any other storage methods.

Picking The Right Wallet

Before we take a look at the best hardware storage wallets, let’s first run through some of the important things to consider when choosing a wallet. Bear in mind that you can always switch between them if the current one is unreliable. Here are a couple of things crypto investors consider when choosing a wallet:

Frequency of use – How often do you plan to send out your crypto coins? If you are a heavy user, you need to consider an easily accessible wallet. However, if you plan on “hodling” them, an independent and secure wallet would be preferable.

How many coins do you plan to own – If you are buying a few coins just to get the feel of the cryptocurrency market, then any wallet would do just fine as the risks are low. However, if you are hoarding a sizable amount of them, you need to choose a hardware wallet which is deemed safer than most. Also, most wallets support a different number of crypto coins. So make sure you select one that can accommodate most of your coins and still leave room for expansion.

User friendliness – Any wallet should make it easy to send and receive cryptocurrencies. The user interface must be appealing; anything that looks scary or takes forever to sync is a waste time and resources.

Personal delusions and anonymity preferences – How worried are you about your cryptocurrencies getting stolen? Well, personal delusions vary from one individual to the other, but one thing remains true; Bitcoin and cryptocurrency holders are afraid of everyone within the crypto world. If you are worried about these extreme levels, then it’s better you choose wallets that don’t ask too much of your personal details.

Best Hardware Cryptocurrency Wallets on The Market

Ledger Nano S Cryptocurrency Hardware Wallet

Sale Ledger Nano S Cryptocurrency Hardware Wallet Check and confirm transactions on the display and confirm with using the physical buttons (anti-malware second factor)

Your confidential data is never exposed: it is secured inside a strongly isolated environment locked by a PIN code

Use companion apps such as cryptocurrencies wallets, and also FIDO U2F, GPG, SSH or build your own applications

Ledger Nano S supports the FIDO Universal Second Factor authentication standard on Google, Dropbox, GitHub or Dashlane

Your accounts are backed up on a recovery sheet. Easy restoration on any Ledger device or compatible wallets (BIP39/BIP44)

Cryptocurrency Hardware Wallet: allows you to send and receive cryptocurrency and offers secured storage and geared towards convenience. Hardware wallets can be easily plugged into phone or computer. The Zcash wallet keeps data confidential and can be locked by a PIN code

Compatibility Apps: ideal to use with companion apps such as crypto-currency wallets, FIDO U2F, SSH. This digital currency wallet supports FIDO universal second-factor authentication standard on Google, Dropbox, GitHub or Dashlane

Secure Digital Currency Wallet: accounts are backed up on a recovery sheet. Digital wallet offers easy restoration on Ledger device or compatible wallets. Compactly designed hardware is black in color and offers extra durability

Ethereum Crypto-currency Wallet: smart and ergonomic design makes it easy to carry the hardware wallet anywhere and can be kept in small pockets easily. Ultra-safe cryptocurrency wallet checks and confirms transactions on the display

Nano S Wallet Supports: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), Ark (ARK), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Bitcoin Gold (BTG), Expanse (EXP), Dash (DASH), Digibyte (DGB), Dogecoin (DOGE), Komodo (KMD), Litecoin (LTC), NEO (NEO), Pivx (PIVX), Posw Coin (POSW), Qtum(QTUM), Stealthcoin (XST), Stellar Lumens (XLM), Stratis (STRAT), Ubiq (UBQ), Vertcoin (VTC), Viacoin (VIA), Ripple (XRP), Zcash (ZEC)

$99.00 Check on Amazon

This is a USB-sized cryptocurrency wallet fashioned for storing your virtual currencies. Like most other hardware wallets, Ledger Nano S is pretty expensive, but it brings along features that others lack. It doesn’t only store your private keys but secures and backs them up for future recovery.

Ledger Nano S is more than a “plug and play” device. It’s equipped with a small, well-lit LCD screen that allows users to send and receive cryptocurrencies even in the absence of a computer. The wallet comes with an app that can send or receive payments in a few seconds. Its small size makes it safe from the prying eyes of thieves and hackers. If it gets lost, just get its backup, and you will be able to block anyone from accessing your cryptocurrency account.

Ledger Nano S features

Backup and restoration – lost the wallet? Worry less. Ledger comes with a recovery sheet to give you access back to your account. The restoration process is simple and takes a couple of seconds.

– lost the wallet? Worry less. Ledger comes with a recovery sheet to give you access back to your account. The restoration process is simple and takes a couple of seconds. Multi-currency support – do you trade Bitcoin, Ether, Ripple, Dash or any other cryptocurrency? Well, this wallet can accommodate most of them-several at ago. Quite cost saving, don’t you agree?

– do you trade Bitcoin, Ether, Ripple, Dash or any other cryptocurrency? Well, this wallet can accommodate most of them-several at ago. Quite cost saving, don’t you agree? Built-in display – cryptocurrency markets operate 24/7, and if you are traveling without your PC, you can easily key in your transactions and verify them thanks to the brightly lit LCD screen.

– cryptocurrency markets operate 24/7, and if you are traveling without your PC, you can easily key in your transactions and verify them thanks to the brightly lit LCD screen. Easy to operate – despite its small size, Ledger Nano S spots some buttons to make operating it super simple.

– despite its small size, Ledger Nano S spots some buttons to make operating it super simple. Compatibility – this wallet is compatible with Mac (10.8 and above), Windows 7 and above, Chrome and Linux. It requires Chromium extension in order to access Bitcoin and Ethereum wallets.

– this wallet is compatible with Mac (10.8 and above), Windows 7 and above, Chrome and Linux. It requires Chromium extension in order to access Bitcoin and Ethereum wallets. Security – this wallet values your security and provides an option to lock it up with a PIN. No one else can access it without the right code.

Ledger Nano S package comes with the wallet, an instruction manual, a USB cable, a recovery sheet and several other accessories.

KeepKey

Sale KeepKey - The Simple Cryptocurrency Hardware Wallet Bank-Grade Security that is Simple: KeepKey is the most secure bitcoin wallet available. It makes best-practice bitcoin security easy so that even your grandmother can protect her bitcoin wealth.

Backup and Recovery: During initialization, you are given the one-time opportunity to write down a backup of your KeepKey in the form of a twelve-word recovery sentence. If your KeepKey is lost or stolen, you can safely recover your device and its bitcoins without compromising the security of your private keys.

Virus and Malware Proof: Because KeepKey does not have an operating system, the layers that viruses, malware, and key loggers infect do not exist on the device. Using KeepKey gives you confidence that hackers can't get to your bitcoins.

Multi-Currency Support: KeepKey not only supports Bitcoin, but also Ethereum, Litecoin, Namecoin, Dogecoin, Dash, and Testnet.

Works on PC, Mac, Linux, and Android: KeepKey is a USB HID-class device. That means, like a typical mouse or keyboard, drivers are not required. Plug in the provided premium USB cable, and your device just works: immediately giving you the highest level of bitcoin security.

Bank-Grade Security that is Simple: KeepKey is the most secure bitcoin wallet available. It makes best-practice bitcoin security easy so that even your grandmother can protect her bitcoin wealth. Backup and Recovery: During initialization, you are given the one-time opportunity to write down a backup of your KeepKey in the form of a twelve-word recovery sentence. If your KeepKey is lost or stolen, you can safely recover your device and its bitcoins without compromising the security of your private keys. Virus and Malware Proof: Because KeepKey does not have an operating system, the layers that viruses, malware, and key loggers infect do not exist on the device. Using KeepKey gives you confidence that hackers can’t get to your bitcoins. Multi-Currency Support: KeepKey not only supports Bitcoin, but also Ethereum, Litecoin, Namecoin, Dogecoin, Dash, and Testnet. Works on PC, Mac, Linux, and Android: KeepKey is a USB HID-class device. That means, like a typical mouse or keyboard, drivers are not required. Plug in the provided premium USB cable, and your device just works: immediately giving you the highest level of bitcoin security. Keepkey is another go to hardware wallet for most cryptocurrency holders who need a slightly wider screen and foolproof security. The company is owned by nascent cryptocurrency group called Shapeshift. It is bigger than both Trezor and Ledger and spots anodized aluminum case. This wallet generates both private and seed keys which ensure that transactions are encapsulated, and recovery back to your account after damage or theft is plausible. The inbuilt random number generator is the one responsible for generating and storing private keys. This wallet doesn’t deviate much from others as it is read/operated through a 3.12” OLED screen and connected to other devices via a micro-USB port. Users can create custom firmware on the wallet as well. Two things about this wallet that disappoint its users are its stretched price (costlier than Ledger and Trezor in some markets) and lack of support for many cryptocurrencies. So far only six cryptocurrencies can be stored on it. KeepKey’s overarching features Appearance – this wallet is bigger, better and stronger than most hardware wallets. Its case is made of aluminum and polycarbonate. Oh, and don’t worry about its big size; it’s still very much portable and doesn’t feel like you are carrying a huge stone in your pocket. Compatibility – KeepKey works perfectly with Windows, Mac OS, Android devices, and MultiBit, Mycelium, and Electrum are some of the supported software wallets. When it comes to ease of navigation, nothing is as fuss-free as KeepKey. You also get access to the shapeshift cryptocurrency exchange platform. Security – this wallet offers the same level of security as Ledger S and Trezor wallets. Nano S is slightly ahead of it since it uses two chips whereas KeepKey uses one. Other additional security features include a 12-word recovery seed, 4-PIN authentication to give transactions the green light, and a hidden wallet that can only be accessed via a passphrase. KeepKey is fully protected against viruses and malware. Cryptocurrency support – this wallets supports only six cryptocurrencies; Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Namecoin, Dash, and more are on the way.



Trezor Bitcoin Wallet, Black

Trezor One - Digital Bitcoin Hardware Wallet and Password Manager - Cold Storage for Cryptocurrency - Ultimate Security and Protection - Supports Multiple Coins including Ethereum and ERC-20 - Black SECURELY PROTECTS against hackers, viruses, keyloggers, and more. Simple backup that restores all device content in case of loss or theft. Super easy to use with a simple 3-step setup. Works for cold storage and, thanks to its mobile connectivity, as a hot wallet for whenever you need instant access to cryptocurrency, passwords, and keys.

MAKE SECURE CRYPTOCURRENCY TRANSACTIONS without fear of hackers or malware gaining access to your assets. The private keys to your cryptoassets never leave the device. Eliminates the nightmare and endless hours of hassle a break-in can cause. The hardware wallet creates a secure offline environment, completely isolated from the internet and its dangers. Trezor uses its screen to let you visually verify and manually confirm all actions.

UNIVERSALLY COMPATIBLE with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Trezor provides everything you need to fully enjoy and utilize modern cryptography to secure your digital assets. Comes with clear instructions and a USB cable. Ready to plug in and use immediately. This is the affordable protection you need when using cryptocurrency.

COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT sized at just 2.4 x 1.2 x 0.2 inches. Weighs less than half an ounce. Perfect for carrying in a briefcase, backpack, purse, or pocket. Sports a 120 MHz embedded ARM processor Cortex M3 running a custom developed system. The bright OLED screen is 128x64 pixels with up to 6 lines of text. Lets you see all your information in a single screen.

100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ensures this will quickly become your favorite no-risk purchase. Please return unused. This makes a fine birthday gift, holiday present, or anniversary gift for anyone who values exceptional security for confident, no stress crypto transactions.

Ultimate security

Ease of Use: works on Windows, OS X, and Linux. Plug in the provided USB cable

Modern Cryptography

Community driven open-source

from $149.90 Check on Amazon

Trezor was the first ever hardware wallet for Bitcoin to be created. It was invented by Satoshilabs to securely store Bitcoin only. Currently, it supports Ethereum and seven more cryptocurrencies. It looks much like a small calculator with two buttons and an LCD screen. Trezor’s main function is to sign transactions offline and store private keys.

You can use this wallet with Android gadgets, desktop, laptop and apps such as Multibit HD, TREZOR Wallet, and Mycelium. You need a password to log in and do transactions. There is also an option to set a recovery pin and 24-word seed key for a safe comeback in case your wallet gets stolen or damaged.

Trezor has a unique way of password entering that keeps out keyloggers from sniffing your PIN-even when using it on a compromised device. You can even top up your pin with an encryption passphrase which is an extra layer of protection that guarantees complete security. More than one paraphrases can be used to deny scoundrels access to your account.

Trezor’s overarching features

LCD screen for easy viewing

for easy viewing Compatible with many devices and apps

with many devices and apps Supports several cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Dash, Ethereum, etc.

including Bitcoin, Dash, Ethereum, etc. Very strong security features that encompass Pins, passwords, and paraphrases

YubiKey 4

Yubico - YubiKey 4 - USB-A, Two-Factor Authentication The YubiKey 4 has been upgraded and replaced with the YubiKey 5 NFC.

View the YubiKey 5 NFC at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBD71HL

Search "YubiKey 5 NFC" in the Amazon search bar.

Two-factor authentication made easy for hundreds of services

Smart card (PIV), Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, FIDO U2F, OpenPGP, Challenge-Response

USB Type A compatible

Extremely durable and rigid; crush and water resistant

Attaches to house and car keychain

$40.00 Check on AmazonYubico’s Yubikey 4 is a masterpiece 2-factor authentication (2FA) device that provides an extra layer of protection besides a username and password. You have to correctly key in all the details before you can get access to your wallet and other online accounts.This hardware wallet looks like a memory stick and lacks some of the bells and whistles present in Trezor, Ledger, and KeepKey. There is no movable part inside; it’s just a microchip device that can fit on any Windows, Linux or Mac OS devices.Due to the absence of a screen, this wallet can only verify and authorize transactions from PCs and other gadgets. Once you slide it in the port, touch the gold-plated surface, and it will be activated. There are many slots inside for setting up multiple passwords. If you lose this chip, you can recover your passwords the old fashion way or log in with a mobile authenticator token. Yubikey 4’s main features 2-factor authentication for improved security Serves many other functions besides being a wallet Easy to regain access when the chip is destroyed Portable and lightweight Simple and cheaply priced



YubiKey NEO

Yubico - YubiKey NEO - USB-A, NFC, Two-Factor Authentication The YubiKey NEO has been upgraded and replaced with the YubiKey 5 NFC.

View the YubiKey 5 NFC at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HBD71HL

Search "YubiKey 5 NFC" in the Amazon search bar.

Two-factor authentication made easy for hundreds of services

Smart card (PIV), Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP, OATH-HOTP, FIDO U2F, OpenPGP, Challenge-Response

USB Type A and NFC compatible

Extremely durable and rigid; crush and water resistant

Attaches to house and car keychain

$50.00 Check on Amazon

Yubikey NEO is another compact and lightweight USB hardware wallet from Yubico that supports multiple authentication systems. Simply plug in, touch the gold-plated surface and key in your preferred passwords. Works smoothly with Mac, Windows, Linux and other major browsers.

Besides securing your cryptocurrencies, Yubikey NEO offers protection for most popular online services, computer login, content management systems, development platforms, and much more. You can also safely log in your Facebook, Gmail, Dropbox, GitHub while hiding behind it. Thanks to 2FA, no one else can access your account.

Key features of YubiKey NEO

Provides powerful security through second-factor authentication

through second-factor authentication Multiple uses besides securing your Bitcoins

besides securing your Bitcoins Compatible with most common devices

with most common devices Very cheaply priced

Downsides of Hardware Wallets

Albeit being one of the most reliable methods of storing Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, hardware wallets have some demerits. Here are a few of them:

Costly – paper wallet and other online wallet services tend to cost less compared to buying a hardware storage unit. Some of them go as high as $100

– paper wallet and other online wallet services tend to cost less compared to buying a hardware storage unit. Some of them go as high as $100 Can turn hot – hardware wallets are usually disconnected from the internet, and the private keys never leave the device. However, in the case of a malfunction, the wallet can give in to the hacker’s whims

– hardware wallets are usually disconnected from the internet, and the private keys never leave the device. However, in the case of a malfunction, the wallet can give in to the hacker’s whims No access to your coins – the passphrase, password and any other security detail is meant to get you back to your account. If you lose track of all of them, you’ll never access your crypto coins. Make it a point to reprint or write these details in other places to avoid an unpleasant experience.

Wrapping It Up

Hardware wallets have a reputation for being the most reliable method of storing cryptocurrencies. While the paper system is optimally secure, it doesn’t offer direct transaction and verification capabilities provided by the hardware counterpart.

Up to date, there haven’t been major incidences of hacking or any form of vulnerability associated with these types of wallets. While no method is secure to the absolute level, most cryptocurrency holders hail hardware wallets for bagging significant advantages over other methods.

Last update on 2019-10-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API