How To Choose The Best Bitcoin Wallet

The Bitcoin blockchain has never been compromised. Yet billions of dollars in BTC are stolen every year — not from the network itself, but from vulnerable wallets.

Phishing attacks, lost seed phrases, and compromised hot wallets have cost investors dearly, and BTC wallets are adding new safeguards to protect their users’ assets, ranging from decoy wallets to multisig requirements. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular Bitcoin wallets to help you select the wallet that’s best suited to your needs.

Note: The wallets featured here represent some of the most popular and well-established options, but this list is not exhaustive. CoinGecko does not endorse any particular wallet. All information is provided for educational purposes — always do your own research before committing to a wallet.

What Is a Bitcoin Wallet?

A Bitcoin wallet stores the private keys that control your Bitcoin. Think of it as a keychain rather than a physical wallet — it doesn’t hold Bitcoin itself, but the cryptographic keys that prove ownership and allow you to access your funds.

Types of Bitcoin Wallets

Hot Wallets (Private Keys Stored on the Internet)

Hot wallets stay online and store keys in apps, browser extensions, or desktop applications. They’re ideal for frequent transactions and everyday use but face higher exposure to online threats like malware and phishing. 

Cold Wallets (Offline Storage of Private Keys)

Cold wallets store private keys completely offline on dedicated hardware devices. They prioritize maximum security over convenience, making them the gold standard for long-term storage and large holdings.

Custodial vs. Self-Custodial

• Custodial wallets (usually exchanges) manage your keys for you. You trust a third party with your funds.

• Self-custodial wallets give you complete control. You are solely responsible for security and backups. These can be either hot or cold wallets.

Choosing the Right Approach

Bitcoin purists prefer cold, self-custodial wallets connected to their own full node for maximum security and privacy. However, this requires technical knowledge. Most users benefit from a hybrid strategy: hot wallets for frequently traded amounts and cold wallets for long-term storage.

This list focuses exclusively on self-custody wallets and excludes custodial options managed by exchanges.

Let’s begin with Bitcoin-only hot wallets — these prioritize Bitcoin’s unique features and security model while remaining connected to the internet for convenient access.

Bitamp: Best Browser-Based Wallet for Anonymous Bitcoin Transactions

This section is brought to you by Bitamp.

Bitamp is an open-source, client-side Bitcoin wallet that operates entirely in your web browser with no registration required. All cryptographic operations happen locally on your device—your private keys never leave your browser.

What sets Bitamp Bitcoin Wallet apart is its complete Tor integration, allowing users to access the wallet via an onion address for maximum anonymity. The wallet is compatible with seed phrases from popular wallets like Ledger, Trezor, and Electrum. 

Best for: Privacy-conscious users who want anonymous Bitcoin transactions without sacrificing convenience.

Features

• 100% client-side operations: All key generation and transaction signing happens locally in your browser — your private keys never leave your device.

• Complete Tor support: You can access the wallet via clearnet or a dedicated onion address for anonymous transactions with no IP tracking.

• Zero registration: No email, account creation, or personal information is required — you can start using the wallet immediately.

• No data storage: Bitamp doesn’t store your seed phrase, private keys, IP address, or browser data anywhere.

• HD wallet compatibility: You can import and recover wallets using BIP39 seed phrases from Ledger, Trezor, Electrum, Mycelium, and other popular wallets.

• Multiple address formats: The wallet supports Legacy (P2PKH), SegWit (P2WPKH), and nested SegWit (P2SH-P2WPKH) addresses.

• Instant global access: You can send and receive Bitcoin from any device, anywhere in the world without installation.

• SSL encryption: All web-based operations use secure SSL connections.

• Open source: The code is fully auditable and available on GitHub for independent security verification.

• Multi-language support: The interface is available in multiple languages for global accessibility.

• Custom fee control: You can set your own transaction fees based on current network conditions.

• Free to use: There are no subscription fees or hidden costs — you only pay standard Bitcoin network transaction fees.

Access

• Clearnet: https://www.bitamp.com/

• Tor (Onion): bitampgt5htkfk5ek6bnzzwgr2iuvoeqgy2fofqib2yx7yegnqzgmsid.onion

• GitHub: https://github.com/bitampcom/bitamp

Pricing: Free and open source

Electrum Wallet: Best for Advanced Users Seeking Security

Electrum is a veteran Bitcoin wallet launched in 2011 by Thomas Voegtlin. As one of the first hierarchical deterministic (HD) wallets, it pioneered the use of seed phrases. It’s lightweight, doesn’t require running a full node, and offers advanced features like 2FA, multi-sig, and coin control.

Best for: Technical users who want granular control over transactions and strong security features.

Features

• SegWit support: The wallet uses SegWit-compatible addresses with built-in error detection and improved readability.

• Custom seed standard: Electrum uses its own mnemonic system by default but supports importing BIP39 seeds from other wallets.

• Hardware wallet integration: The wallet pairs seamlessly with Ledger, Trezor, and other hardware wallets for enhanced security.

• Lightning Network support: You can send and receive Bitcoin via the Lightning Network for faster, cheaper transactions.

• Coin control: This feature lets you choose specific UTXOs to spend in each transaction for better privacy and fee management.

• Legacy address support: The wallet can interact with older Bitcoin address formats for maximum compatibility.

• Flexible security options: You can choose between standard wallets, 2FA-enabled wallets (via TrustedCoin), or multi-sig setups.

• Tor proxy support: You can route connections through Tor for enhanced privacy.

• Full fee control: You can set custom transaction fees with real-time network-based suggestions.

• RBF and CPFP: Replace-by-Fee and Child-Pays-For-Parent features allow you to speed up stuck transactions.

• Lightweight and fast: The wallet has minimal resource requirements and doesn’t require downloading the entire blockchain.

• Multi-platform: Electrum is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

• Offline seed generation: You can generate seed phrases on an air-gapped computer for maximum security.

• QR code and SD card signing: You can sign transactions via QR code or SD card for hardware wallet integration.

Pricing: Free and open source

BlueWallet: Best for Mobile Bitcoin Users

BlueWallet is a Bitcoin-only, self-custodial mobile wallet launched in 2017. Built with React Native and MIT-licensed, it’s open source and peer-reviewed by the Bitcoin community. It stands out for its clean interface and unique features like watch-only wallet support and plausible deniability wallets.

Best for: Mobile-first users who want an easy-to-use Bitcoin wallet with Lightning support.

Features

• Biometric authentication: You can use fingerprint or Face ID before making transactions, exporting wallets, or unlocking the app.

• Watch-only mode: You can import public keys from hardware wallets to monitor balances and generate receive addresses without exposing private keys.

• Total balance view: You can see all your wallet balances at a glance on the overview screen.

• Flexible server options: The wallet connects to a random Electrum server automatically, or you can choose your preferred Electrum Personal Server (EPS).

• Lightning Network integration: You can connect to your own Lightning node or use BlueWallet’s custodial Lightning wallet for instant payments.

• SegWit support: The wallet supports Native SegWit (bech32) and P2SH-compatibility modes for lower fees.

• Offline address generation: You can create receive addresses without an internet connection.

• Multiple encrypted storage: You can set up separate encrypted storage spaces protected by different passwords.

• PSBT support: The wallet is fully compatible with Partially Signed Bitcoin Transactions (BIP 174) for hardware wallet integration.

• Plausible deniability: You can create decoy wallets with fake Bitcoin addresses as protection under duress.

• Multi-currency view: You can view wallet balance in over 30 fiat currencies.

• Multi-sig support: You can create multi-sig wallets for enhanced security.

• Customizable transaction fees: The wallet offers full coin control with adjustable fees.

• Tor Network support: Optional Tor integration is available for enhanced privacy.

Pricing: Free and open source

Unisat Wallet: Best for Bitcoin Ordinals and BRC-20 Assets

Unisat launched in 2022 as the first Bitcoin wallet designed specifically for Ordinals and BRC-20 tokens. As a browser extension wallet, it functions as a lightweight Bitcoin client that scans the mempool for ordinals without requiring a full node.

Best for: Users interested in Bitcoin Ordinals, Runes, and BRC-20 assets.

Features

• Multiple address types: Unisat wallet supports Native SegWit, Nested SegWit, Taproot, and Legacy addresses for maximum flexibility.

• Bitcoin-native assets: Unisat offers full support for Ordinals, Alkanes, Runes, and BRC-20 tokens.

• Taproot support: The wallet has native support for Taproot addresses for enhanced privacy and lower fees.

• Account management: You can import private keys as “imported accounts” and switch between multiple wallets seamlessly.

• Built-in marketplace: You can browse and trade Ordinals and Atomicals directly in the wallet without leaving the interface.

• dApp integration: The wallet connects to Bitcoin Layer 2 applications including Boolbridge (decentralized cross-chain bridge), Detrading (atomic swap platform), and BTCModule (native BRC-20 swap).

• Custom fee control: You can choose transaction priority and manually set fees based on network conditions.

• Instant NFT viewing: You can view unconfirmed NFT inscriptions instantly.

• Local encryption: Private keys are encrypted locally with user-controlled passwords.

• Fractal Bitcoin support: The wallet is compatible with Fractal Bitcoin testnet, a Bitcoin scaling solution.

• Multi-platform: Unisat is available on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and as a browser extension.

• Mempool-aware: The wallet offers flexible fee selection with real-time mempool suggestions.

• Secure entropy: The wallet uses random entropy for private key generation on the client side.

Pricing: Free and open source

Nunchuk: Best for Collaborative Custody and Inheritance Planning

Nunchuk, founded in 2021, is a Bitcoin-only wallet built for collaborative custody, multi-sig setups, and inheritance planning. Its standout feature is assisted key management with customizable co-signer options and a unique Bitcoin inheritance service using time-locked transactions.

Best for: Holders of large Bitcoin amounts who want multi-sig security or automated inheritance planning.

Features

• Flexible multisig: You can create wallets requiring 2-of-3, 2-of-4, 3-of-5, or custom multisig setups for shared custody.

• Inheritance planning: The wallet offers a time-locked Bitcoin inheritance service allowing family to access your Bitcoin after a specified period.

• Extensive hardware wallet support: Nunchuk is compatible with Coldcard, Ledger, Trezor, Blockstream Jade, and more.

• BIP-39 seed phrases: You can create 24-word seeds or import 12-word and 24-word phrases from other wallets.

• Comprehensive address support: The wallet supports Legacy, Nested SegWit, Native SegWit, and Taproot addresses.

• Taproot multi-sig (beta): Multi-sig wallets can use Taproot addresses for enhanced privacy and lower fees.

• QR code signing: You can view and scan addresses as QR codes for easy signing.

• Multiple signing methods: The wallet supports NFC, QR, PSBT file, USB, and more for maximum flexibility.

• Personal node support: You can run your own node via Electrum, Tor, or Fulcrum server integrations.

• Advanced coin control: You can choose specific UTXOs and set custom transaction fees.

• RBF and CPFP support: You can speed up stuck transactions with Replace-by-Fee and Child-Pays-For-Parent.

• Multiple wallet setups: The wallet supports multiple wallets with master key fingerprints.

• Collaborative custody: You can involve family members, friends, or professional recovery services as co-signers.

• Multi-platform: Nunchuk is available on Android (Google Play and APK) and as a web application.

Pricing

Next, we have multi-chain hot wallets — these support Bitcoin alongside other blockchains, making them ideal for users managing diverse cryptocurrency portfolios.

Trust Wallet: Best for Multi-Chain Portfolio Management

Trust Wallet launched in 2017 and was later acquired by Binance. It’s a self-custody wallet supporting 100+ blockchains with built-in staking, swapping, and buying features. The wallet is partially open source and undergoes regular third-party security audits.

Best for: Users managing diverse crypto portfolios across multiple chains.

Features

• Multi-chain support: The wallet supports 100+ blockchains including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, BNB Chain, and thousands of tokens.

• Built-in dApp browser: You can connect to decentralized applications(dApp) across multiple chains directly from the wallet.

• AES encryption: Private keys are encrypted and stored locally on your device—they’re never sent to servers.

• Secure passcode storage: Passcodes are hashed and stored in tamper-proof device storage.

• In-app services: You can buy, swap, and stake cryptocurrencies without leaving the wallet.

• Biometric authentication: The wallet supports fingerprint and Face ID for quick, secure access.

• NFT support: You can store, view, and manage NFTs across multiple blockchains.

• Multi-platform: Trust Wallet is available as a mobile app (iOS and Android) and browser extension.

• WalletConnect: You can connect to thousands of dApps using the WalletConnect protocol.

• Regular security audits: Third-party security audits are conducted regularly.

• Multi-account support: You can create and manage multiple wallets within the app.

Pricing: Free

Phantom: Best Multi-Chain Wallet with Strong Solana Integration

Phantom launched in 2021 as a Solana-focused wallet and later expanded to Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Polygon. It’s known for its sleek interface and AI-powered transaction analysis to detect potentially malicious transactions.

Best for: Users who want a polished multi-chain wallet with strong Solana ecosystem integration.

Features

• Multi-chain support: The wallet supports Solana, Ethereum, Bitcoin, Polygon, and their respective tokens and NFTs.

• AI-powered transaction scrutiny: The wallet uses pre-approval transaction analysis to detect potentially malicious transactions.

• Open-source blocklist: The wallet proactively blocks known scam addresses using community-maintained lists.

• Auto-lock security: The wallet automatically locks after inactivity for enhanced security.

• Biometric login: Face ID and fingerprint support provide quick access.

• Multi-wallet import: You can consolidate crypto holdings from multiple wallets.

• In-app services: You can buy, swap, and stake tokens directly without leaving the wallet.

• Real-time alerts: You receive notifications for transactions and suspicious activity.

• Fiat on-ramps: Direct purchases are available via Coinbase, MoonPay, and other providers.

• Hardware wallet integration: The wallet can connect to hardware wallets like Ledger for an additional security layer.

• No personal information required: The wallet maintains strong privacy with no mandatory data collection.

• Multiple accounts: The wallet supports unlimited accounts with no transaction or balance limits.

• Multi-platform: Phantom is available on iOS, Android, and as a browser extension.

Pricing: Free

OKX Wallet: Best for Active Traders Using OKX Exchange

OKX Wallet is the self-custodial wallet from OKX, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges (third by trading volume). It supports 130+ blockchain networks and over 300,000 tokens with tight integration to the OKX exchange platform.

Best for: Active traders who use OKX exchange and want seamless integration between trading and self-custody.

Features

• Massive multi-chain support: The wallet supports 130+ networks and 300,000+ tokens.

• Account abstraction: You can interact with multiple chains in single transactions for simplified multi-chain operations.

• Unified dashboard: An overview of balances, transactions, and market trends is available in one place.

• Direct exchange access: The wallet offers seamless integration with OKX exchange, enabling you to earn yields from both decentralized and centralized finance sources.

• MIT open-source license: The codebase is transparent and auditable.

• 2FA and multi-sig: Enhanced security is available via two-factor authentication and multisig technology.

• Futures and options trading: You can access advanced trading products directly from the wallet.

• Perpetual swaps: You can trade perpetual contracts across multiple assets.

• API integrations: The wallet connects with third-party applications including NFT marketplaces and DEXs.

• Multi-platform: OKX Wallet is available as a mobile app and web version.

• In-app swap aggregation: The wallet finds the best rates across multiple DEXs automatically.

Pricing: Free

Finally, we have hardware (cold) wallets — these store your private keys offline on dedicated physical devices, providing the highest level of security against online threats. They’re essential for long-term Bitcoin holdings and large amounts.

Ledger: Best Overall Hardware Wallet

Ledger, founded in 2014, is the most popular hardware wallet brand globally, supporting 5,500+ digital assets. Ledger devices store your private keys offline in a secure chip, protecting them from malware, phishing, and remote attacks. The company offers four models: Nano S Plus, Nano X, Flex, and Stax.

Best for: Users seeking the most established, widely supported hardware wallet with extensive coin support and ecosystem integrations.

Features

• Cold storage with dApp connectivity: You can connect to dApps and exchanges while keeping your keys offline on the hardware device.

• 5,500+ assets supported: Ledger offers the widest cryptocurrency support among hardware wallets.

• Secure Element chip: A bank-grade security chip stores private keys offline, protected from physical and remote attacks.

• 24-word recovery seed phrase: You can generate and store the phrase offline, with an optional 25th word for an additional security layer.

• Bluetooth connectivity: Bluetooth is available on Nano X model for mobile use without cables.

• Ledger Live app: A comprehensive companion app for iOS and Android allows you to buy, swap, stake, and manage NFTs.

• 2FA and multi-sig support: Two-factor authentication and multisig are available via Coinkite integration.

• Broad wallet compatibility: The device works with Electrum, BlueWallet, and most non-custodial hot wallets.

• Multi-account support: You can manage multiple accounts for each cryptocurrency.

• Market analysis tools: Built-in tools are available for tracking crypto markets.

• Crypto tax calculator: An integrated tax calculation tool is provided for simplified reporting.

• Physical security: The device has a tamper-proof design with secure element protection.

• PIN protection: After three incorrect attempts to enter your Ledger PIN code, your Ledger will factory reset and can only be restored with your secret recovery phrase.

• Multi-platform: Ledger works with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Pricing

• Nano S Plus: ~$79

• Nano X: ~$149

• Ledger Flex: ~$249

• Ledger Stax: ~$279

Trezor: Best for Open-Source Advocates

Trezor, launched in 2014, pioneered the hardware wallet category. It’s fully open source and uses Shamir Backup (SLIP39) for advanced recovery options. The latest model, Trezor Safe 5, uses an EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip tested against physical attacks.

Best for: Security-conscious users who prioritize open-source transparency and advanced backup options.

Features

• Fully open source: Hardware and software code are completely available for independent audit and verification.

• Shamir Backup (SLIP39): An advanced backup system allows you to split recovery into up to 16 shares distributed across different locations—you only need a threshold number to recover (e.g., 3 of 5 shares).

• EAL6+ certified Secure Element: A highest-grade security chip is resistant to physical attacks and tampering.

• 1,000+ cryptocurrencies supported: The wallet supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of other cryptocurrencies and tokens.

• Color touchscreen: An intuitive touchscreen interface with tactile feedback provides an improved user experience.

• 24-word seed phrase: The wallet uses a standard BIP39 mnemonic for recovery.

• 2FA authentication: You can use Trezor as a hardware 2FA token for other services.

• Password manager: A built-in encrypted password manager is included.

• Coinjoin support: Privacy-enhancing Coinjoin transactions are available via Trezor Suite.

• Tor support: You can route Trezor Suite connections through Tor for enhanced privacy.

• Trezor Suite: A comprehensive desktop and web application is provided for managing your crypto.

• Fast vulnerability response: An active development team provides quick response to security issues.

• Physical buttons: You confirm transactions directly on the device—it’s immune to remote attacks.

• PIN protection: The device locks after incorrect attempts.

• Recovery seed verification: Built-in verification ensures proper backup.

• Multi-account support: You can manage multiple accounts for each cryptocurrency.

Pricing

• Trezor Safe 3: ~$79

• Trezor Safe 5: ~$169

Comparison Table: Top Bitcoin Wallets

Conclusion

Bitcoin itself remains unbreakable, but your wallet is only as secure as the choices you make. The right wallet depends entirely on your use case:

For daily spending and convenience: Choose a hot wallet like BlueWallet or Phantom. 

For long-term holdings: Use a hardware wallet like Ledger, Trezor, or Ellipal.

For Bitcoin Ordinals and BRC-20: Unisat is purpose-built for this. 

For inheritance planning and multi-sig: Nunchuk offers unique solutions. 

For advanced users: Electrum provides granular control.

Regardless of which wallet you choose, remember these critical points:

1. You are responsible for your keys. No one can recover your Bitcoin if you lose your seed phrase or hardware wallet.

2. Back up everything. Write down seed phrases on paper (ideally on metal) and store them securely offline.

3. Never share your seed phrase with anyone. Legitimate support will never ask for it.

4. Test with small amounts first before moving significant funds to any new wallet.

5. Use hardware wallets for significant holdings. Hot wallets are for amounts you can afford to lose.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. CoinGecko does not endorse any specific wallet and is not responsible for any losses incurred. Always do your own research and never invest more than you can afford to lose. Cryptocurrency wallets involve risks, and you are solely responsible for securing your funds.