While storing your Bitcoin, Ether, Monero or other crypto in desktop/mobile wallets might sound like a good idea, but is it safe as well? Hardware wallets are known for their intricate security feature. Especially long-term investors, who plan on HODL their crypto for time unbeknownst, it is best to use a paper wallet or a Hardware wallet. Some of the best hardware wallets are quite affordable and durable enough to withstand years of use.
Not only do hardware wallets provide enhanced security against hacking, phishing, theft or scams, even in the odd chance you lose your hardware wallet, there is always an option to restore all your crypto coins on a new wallet. Not to mention, hardware wallets cannot be breached by a spy screen recorder, or Trojan’s since they don’t use their own dedicated LCD display screen.
What’s more, some of the best hardware wallets add an extra layer of security, that is, without your secret pin code, no one can transfer Bitcoins or other altcoins from your hardware wallet.
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What is a Hardware Wallet?
Hardware wallets are tamper-resistant electronic devices that can store private keys of your bitcoins, Monero, Ether and other crypto in an offline environment. They generate all the private keys and digital signatures that are required to spend bitcoins. Without further ado, let’s get started.
5 of the Best Hardware Wallets 2022
1) Ledger Nano X
The most formidable hardware wallets provider in the world, Ledger has introduced its latest Nano X wallet as a state-of-the-art security device where there is a perfect communion between hardware security and mobility. What’s more, via its Bluetooth connectivity you can use this hardware device on the go with your phone or laptop.
Weighing in at just 34 grams, Ledger Nano X boasts a 100mAh battery and is composed of stainless steel and plastic. You can store multiple cryptocurrencies at one time via pairing multiple crypto wallets at the same time.
It supports crypto coins such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, Monero, Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, Neo, Binance Coin, and ERC-20 Tokens among 100 more cryptocurrencies. Relatively easy to use, the Ledger Nano X is shipped free of cost and is available both on the official website and Amazon.
2) Trezor
Perhaps one of the earliest known hardware wallets, Trezor was created by SatoshiLabs, and is touted as the world’s first secure Bitcoin hardware wallet. With the sheer size of a small calculator with an OLED screen, Trezor provides random nine digit pins and a 24 mnemonic word recovery seed key that can be used for recovery if the wallet is lost or damaged.
Trezor is one of the best hardware wallets for storing private keys and signing transactions offline. It is compatible with Android devices and the official Trezor wallet app, Multibit HD, and Mycelium.
3) Ledger Nano S
France-based startup Ledger’s Nano S wallet is the previous version of the Nano X, but still packs in a punch and two. Thanks to its sleek and ergonomic design, the Nano S is lightweight, easy to carry and provides all the security features that make Ledger a reputed Bitcoin hardware wallet manufacturer.
The Nano S provides a nifty backup seed key for recovering your bitcoins, simple OLED interface. What’s more, it simulates a flash drive with two buttons placed on the sides for navigating the intuitive interface. ItYou can simply connect your PC or mobile device via USB to power up the Ledger Nano S making it an affordable battery free hardware wallet.
4) KeepKey
While KeepKey is more than twice the size of the Ledger Nano S or Trezor hardware wallets, it does offer a multitude of features that make it one of the best hardware wallets for storing bitcoins. KeepKey comes with a backup seed key with pin code enabled, and supports a total of six cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin.
At a price point of $99, KeepKey is a very affordable hardware wallet for beginner crypto enthusiasts.
5) Cobo Vault
Rounding off our list of the best hardware wallets is Cobo Vault, a military grade hardware wallet, that comes with top-tier tech bells and whistles. Since it doesn’t come with USB/WiFi/Bluetooth/NFC/Bandwidth, hacking this robust hardware wallet is a nightmare for hackers and crypto thieves.
The only way to make a transaction with Cobo vault is via QR codes. It is a solid cold storage wallet with guaranteed security. Interestingly, Cobo Vault meets US military standard MIL-STD-810G with IK9 certification and a IP68 waterproof rating making it absolutely safe in case of floods and natural calamities. Get this if you are really paranoid about losing your hard mined/traded BTC or any other cryptocurrency.
SEE ALSO: 8+ Best Bitcoin Debit Cards in 2022