Ledger Nano X
Ledger
The mainstream hardware wallet — closed-source firmware wrapped in the most battle-tested secure element in the category.
The default choice for a hardware wallet. The closed firmware is a real trade-off, not a marketing claim. If you can live with trusting the chip, you get the deepest ecosystem in the category.
- +CC EAL5+ certified secure element; same chip class used in passports
- +Largest ecosystem of supported chains and integrations (Ledger Live + 50+ third-party wallets)
- +Bluetooth makes mobile signing actually usable
- +Clear, public security roadmap and regular firmware updates
- –Firmware is closed-source — you must trust Ledger's claims about how the chip works
- –The 2023 "Recover" controversy showed how optional features can change the security model retroactively
- –Customer data breach in 2020 exposed contact info for ~270k users (not funds)
- –Bluetooth adds a non-trivial attack surface; the Nano S Plus has none
People who want one device for hundreds of chains, hold >$1k long-term, and value mobile access.
Bitcoin-only maximalists, open-source purists, or anyone uncomfortable with a closed-source chip.
How the 74 breaks down.
We score five dimensions and weight them. The full methodology is public. If you think recovery should weigh more than security, you can re-run the math.
Secure element is industry-leading. Closed firmware and the Recover debacle reduce trust.
Closed firmware + opaque "Recover" key escrow hurt. Public audits and bug bounty help.
Standard 24-word seed, plus optional Recover (subscription). No native multisig.
Apps are open source. The chip firmware is not. This is the core trade-off.
Biggest ecosystem in the category, with the most integrations and best mobile app.
History of disclosed security issues.
- · 24-word seed
- · Optional Ledger Recover (subscription)
Other hardware wallets worth considering.
Take the 60-second Matchmaker.
Seven questions. We\'ll tell you which wallet fits your situation — based on what you\'re actually doing, not who pays us.