Cardano is a blockchain where the ADA cryptocurrency lives. Previously, it was mostly used for sending and receiving digital funds, but it has extended its possibilities to incorporate dApps and NFTs. Currently, ADA is among the top 20 most popular cryptocurrencies, with a market cap of around $21 billion. Now, since you came to this best Cardano wallet review, you probably already know that.
If you happen to have a huge amount (or simply the amount that you couldn’t afford to lose) of ADA coins, you should also find a reliable wallet for them. After all, storing your assets on cryptocurrency exchange platforms is highly unrecommended. Due to the lack of security, millions worth of cryptocurrencies are being stolen each year.
In this best Cardano wallet list, you will find two different types of wallets - hardware and software. I will introduce you to each of them one by one and help you to make the right decision. Here are the top 7 options that are considered to be some of the best Cardano wallets and will be discussed in this article:
- Ledger Nano X
- Ledger Nano S Plus
- Trezor Safe 5
- Binance Wallet
- Coinbase Wallet
- Trezor Model T
- Trezor Safe 3
Let’s jump straight into that list!
1. Ledger Nano X - The Most Secure Hardware Wallet
Ranks #1 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Can be managed from mobile device
- + Very secure
- + Supports more than 5500 cryptocurrencies
- + Comfortable design
- - Relatively expensive
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The very first name that you will probably hear when looking for the best Cardano wallet is Ledger. The company offers several reliable options, among which there is the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X. The latter is the more advanced hardware wallet offered by the company. Besides those, there are also newly released Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex wallets.
The Ledger company was founded back in 2014 by 8 experts who had prior experience in cryptocurrencies, cybersecurity and entrepreneurship. Their main goal was to create secure solutions for blockchain applications, and they managed to achieve that.
Currently, Ledger Nano X is one of the leading wallets for Cardano and multiple other cryptocurrencies due to its security measures. This device stores all your private keys offline, which ensures complete privacy and anonymity.
What is more, it features Secure Element (SE) that is capable of protecting you in case your Bluetooth connection is hacked. It works by asking for your authorization before making any changes. That said, while some people were concerned about Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity, you should worry no more.
Now, since Ledger Nano X is a physical device, you should know that it’s made of top-notch materials, including stainless steel. So if you drop it on the floor by accident, nothing will happen to it. Of course, you might notice some scratches years into using it, however, that won’t affect the device’s performance.
What’s amazing is that Ledger Nano X has a wider screen compared to the company’s first model - Ledger Nano S. However, just like this one, it has two buttons for navigation. Even though you might need some time to get used to it, this device is pretty straightforward. Also, it comes together with a user manual where you’ll be able to find all the instructions.
This device comes together with a USB-C cable that you can use to connect it to your computer. What is more, Ledger offers an app that will allow you to control everything from one place. All in all, you shouldn’t have issues when it comes to usability.
Another amazing aspect of this wallet is that it supports over 5,500 crypto assets. This means that you shouldn’t limit yourself to ADA coins, there are so many other digital assets that you can choose to invest in.
What is Ledger Nano X Pricing?
Ledger Nano X might seem a bit pricey. Currently, it costs $149. However, you should keep in mind that you pay only once and can enjoy one of the best Cardano wallets for years.
Also, the company offers some really attractive deals and discounts on special occasions, so you shouldn’t miss them. And if you purchase a bundle, one Ledger wallet will cost you less.
2. Ledger Nano S Plus - Cost-Effective Hardware Wallet
Ranks #2 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Top-tier security
- + DeFi app support
- + Store over 5500 assets, install up to 100 apps simultaneously
- + Fair-priced
- + NFT support (with Ledger Live)
- + Larger display screen
- - Button placement could be better
The Ledger Nano S Plus is widely regarded as one of the best Cardano wallets, and it goes hand in hand with the Ledger Nano X. Though, as you might already know, the Ledger Nano S Plus is an improved version of the older Ledger model, Nano S.
Just like all Ledger products, Nano S Plus places an uncompromising emphasis on security. It utilizes a state-of-the-art secure chip to safeguard private keys, ensuring that they remain offline and isolated from potential threats.
This means that even if your computer is compromised, your ADA holdings are safe. Additionally, the device incorporates PIN protection and passphrase support for an extra layer of security.
It's also worth noting that the wallet is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface and the Ledger Live app, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced crypto enthusiasts.
Moreover, the Ledger Nano S Plus offers impressive mobility. Its compact size allows for convenient portability, making it easy to carry around. This means you can manage your Cardano holdings on the go, providing a high level of flexibility for users who value accessibility and convenience.
In addition to Cardano, the Ledger Nano S Plus supports a wide range of other crypto assets, over 5,500, to be more precise. This makes it a versatile wallet for users who hold multiple types of digital assets. Some of the other supported coins include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many more.
Above all that, it's worth noting that Nano S Plus basically is very much like the Ledger Nano X model, apart from the fact that it does not have Bluetooth connectivity, is slightly smaller, and is less pricey.
What is Ledger Nano S Plus Pricing?
Speaking of pricing, Ledger Nano S Plus costs $79. It surely is a more affordable hardware wallet that still offers most of the essential features, including strong security measures, user-friendliness, and wide crypto asset support. Besides, Ledger often offers some great deals that can lower the price even more.
3. Trezor Safe 5 - Protects From Brute-Force Attacks
Ranks #3 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Supports over 7000 crypto assets
- + Easy navigation
- + Open-source
- + EAL6+ certified chip
- + Enhanced security features
- - Relatively expensive
- - No seed recovery service
Trezor Safe 5 is one of the best Cardano wallets available on the market. The device contains an NDA-free EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip. This is one of the newest features included in Trezor Safe 5 and Safe 3 models, designed to protect your cold wallet from brute-force attacks. Simply put, the chip safeguards highly sensitive information from software and hardware breaches.
Additionally, the Trezor Safe 5 cold wallet introduces a new 20-word wallet backup standard, enabling a seamless transition from a standard Single-share Backup to an advanced Multi-share Backup. Unlike the 12- or 24-word options, the 20-word backup consists of carefully selected words that are easily distinguishable from one another.
When it comes to the usability of this cold hardware wallet, it’s fair to say that it is one of the most user-friendly devices for storing your digital assets. Trezor Safe 5 features a vibrant color display that is made out of Gorilla Glass, which means it’s scratch-proof and can handle some wear and tear.
Moreover, the touchscreen interface makes it easy to access your hardware wallet and confirm transactions. In addition to the sleek design, the Trezor Suite application used to manage your digital assets is also beginner-friendly and doesn’t require advanced knowledge. However, you will need a basic understanding of how to transfer or receive funds.
Furthermore, it’s important to note that the Trezor Safe 5 does not have an integrated battery. Therefore, you will need to connect the hardware wallet to your Android, Windows, Linux, or macOS device each time you access your digital assets.
Finally, Cardano is not the only digital asset you can store on the Trezor Safe 5. This cold hardware wallet supports over 7,000 coins and tokens, so expanding your portfolio will not be an issue.
What is Trezor Safe 5 Pricing?
Trezor Safe 5 is definitely on the more expensive side. Currently, it’s priced at $169. That said, it should be taken into account that finding a cheaper cold hardware wallet that would provide the same security is quite a challenge.
Did you know?
Compare Crypto Wallets Side by Side With Others
All Crypto wallets may look similar to you but they're NOT all the same!
4. Binance Wallet - Top-Notch Hot Wallet
Ranks #4 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Multiple cryptocurrency support
- + Very secure
- + SegWit and Bech32 address support
- + Built-in exchange functionality
- + One of the most trustworthy names in the crypto world
- - Mediocre customer support
- - Not ideal for beginners
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced crypto enthusiast, you have likely heard of Binance. While it’s true that hot wallets are generally less secure compared to cold ones, if you prefer to trade, using a wallet like Binance can be much faster and more convenient.
Users can access the platform through a web browser or an app, making it much more accessible than cold hardware wallets. However, this also makes it vulnerable to breaches since it is connected to the internet. It's worth noting, though, that Binance keeps the vast majority of its users’ cryptocurrencies in cold storage devices.
Additionally, the platform offers a range of security features. For instance, users can set up various forms of two-factor authentication (2FA). One of the options Binance provides is the Security Key, a hardware-based security measure that ensures only someone with the physical key can access your account.
Furthermore, Binance is one of the best cryptocurrency exchange platforms available. If Cardano is not the only asset you want in your portfolio, this platform supports a much wider array of different tokens and coins.
What is the Binance Wallet Pricing?
Using Binance Wallet will not cost you anything. As a result, you can enjoy high-quality services entirely for free and keep your digital assets safe at the same time.
5. Coinbase - Secure Software Wallet
Ranks #5 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Easy to use
- + Free to register and keep crypto coins in
- + Supports thousands of digital assets
- + Top-notch security measures
- - Not as secure as a cold wallet
- - Not the best customer support
Even though at the beginning of this guide, I mentioned that software/hot wallets are not as secure as hardware ones, there are multiple reasons why Coinbase deserves to be on this list of the best ADA wallets.
Coinbase is one of the most popular and reliable cryptocurrency exchanges in the market, and it also has one of the safest digital currency wallets that can be used to store ADA coins. What you should know, though, is that you will need two separate apps for Coinbase exchange and wallet.
One of the reasons why the Coinbase wallet is so recommended is security. It provides not only two-factor authentication but also multiple signatures, confirmation requests and multiple other security measures. It’s important to mention that Coinbase has never been hacked. This aspect adds additional reliability.
What is the Coinbase Wallet Pricing?
The good news is that, unlike hardware wallets, the Coinbase wallet is completely free of charge. This means that there will be no additional charges for secure cryptocurrency storage. You only need to download an app and start using it.
6. Trezor Model T - Reliable Hardware Wallet
Ranks #6 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Top-notch security
- + Touchscreen user interface
- + Easy to set up
- + Supports around 1000 crypto assets
- - Pricey
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Trezor Model T is another wallet that must be included in the “best Cardano wallet” list. Since Trezor Model T is a hardware wallet, just like Ledger Nano X, it stores your private keys offline. It’s virtually impossible for a hacker to steal your assets because the wallet is never connected to the internet.
Using Trezor Model T, you can send and receive as well as store your cryptocurrencies (obviously), and check your balance. Before making any changes, you will need to enter your personal PIN number. What is more, you’ll get your backup passphrases that are needed in case your device is lost or stolen.
Trezor Model T features top-notch security features. You already know that your private keys are stored offline, however, this wallet also locks all of your passwords within Trezor Password Manager individually by utilizing your digital keys. What is more, Trezor supports BIP39 passphrases, so your private and public keys are never remembered by the device.
Note: It’s crucial not to share your PIN code or backup phrases with anyone!
Moving further, Trezor Model T supports more than 1,600 cryptocurrencies, including the most popular coins and even lesser-known tokens. Needless to say, the ADA coin is supported as well.
Also, based on customer reviews, the Trezor Model T is relatively easy to install and use, even people without any experience will be able to set it up quickly. Since it comes with all the needed instructions, the process will be even less complicated.
Trezor Model T has two buttons for navigation, however, what’s different from the previous model (Trezor One) is that this device has a touchscreen which is an obvious improvement compared to the previous model.
All things considered, the Trezor Model T is definitely one of the best options that you should take into account when choosing the best Cardano wallet.
What is the Trezor Model T Pricing?
Being one of the best ADA wallets, the Trezor Model T comes with a price. One device costs $129, or you can choose a package that includes two Trezor Model T wallets for $232. Seems like a good deal.
Also, you’ll be able to find some really attractive Trezor deals on special occasions, so make sure not to miss them!
7. Trezor Safe 3 - Affordable Cold Hardware Wallet
Ranks #7 out of 7 Crypto Wallets
- + Resistant to brute-force attacks
- + Easy to set up
- + Crypto-industry pioneer
- + Supports over 7000 digital assets
- + Open-source code
- + Affordable pricing
- - Potentially uncomfortable design
- - Plastic screen prone to scratches
When searching for the best wallet for Cardano, you’ll come across Trezor Safe 3. It’s one of the more recommended hardware wallets where you can store ADA coins.
Trezor Safe 3 is one of the newest Trezor wallets that was released back in 2023 by a company called SatoshiLabs. The wallet is CE, RoHS, and FCC certified, which means that it meets quality and reliability standards.
One of the reasons why it’s recommended to choose this wallet is security. When sending or receiving ADA coins using Trezor Safe 3, you will need to provide a PIN code each time you perform an action. No changes will be made without your authorization.
Now, in case you lose this device, you should know that the recovery process is quite simple. You’ll be given a passphrase when setting up your wallet. It will be needed to recover your funds.
Trezor Safe 3 is relatively easy to use compared to other hardware wallets in the market. It comes with all the instructions you need to figure out how to use it.
What is Trezor Safe 3 Pricing?
Trezor Safe 3 is one of the most affordable hardware wallets for Cardano. It currently costs only $79. That said, you make only one payment and can use a secure hardware wallet for ADA cryptocurrency for years.
Talking about the pricing, you’ll see that Trezor sometimes offers really attractive deals for both of the wallets, so you can spare your savings significantly. Also, when you purchase a 3-pack for you and your friends, one Trezor wallet will cost you less.
Best Cardano Wallet: Different Types of Options
There are four different types of wallets that you’ll be able to find when looking for the best Cardano wallet. Here’s the list where you can find all of them:
- Online wallets
- Software/app wallets
- Hardware wallets
- Paper wallets
Each of these wallets comes with different perks and quirks and can be recommended for different individuals. Before moving to the best Cardano wallet list, you should have a broader understanding of each of them.
Online Wallets
Online wallets are known to be the least secure. If you’re choosing such a wallet, you should truly rely on the provider. While the majority of top-tier online wallets do not store your private keys, your coins can still be stolen in case someone manages to hack it.
The main advantage of such wallets is usability. To access online wallets you will only need to have an internet connection. Also, it’s super easy to make transactions because your private keys are stored on their servers.
All things considered, online wallets can be only recommended if you store small amounts of cryptocurrencies. Otherwise, you should go for more secure options.
Software/App Wallets
If you’re planning on making daily trades, then software wallets can be a really good choice. They’re more secure than online storage, however, not as reliable as hardware wallets.
Software or app wallets are super easy to use. What is more, you can keep track of your assets on the go by using a mobile app. The reliability of software wallets completely depends on the platform. There are some really secure options that I’ll introduce when talking about the best Cardano wallet, however, you can also come across less reliable providers, not in this article, though.
All in all, software wallets are recommended for people who make multiple transactions throughout the day, and also for those who store small amounts of cryptocurrencies in them.
Hardware Wallets
When looking for the best Cardano wallet, you’ll notice that the most recommended options are hardware wallets. They’re also known as cold wallets because your private keys are stored offline, so there won’t be any hacking issues.
The majority of high-quality hardware wallets are made of durable materials, meaning that you shouldn’t be worried about dropping or breaking them. Also, the recovery process is usually pretty simple in case you lose it.
Of course, when it comes to hardware Cardano wallets, they’re not as easy to use as online or software ones, however, if you store huge amounts of cryptocurrencies, getting such a wallet is a must.
Paper Wallets
While paper wallets are considered to be the most secure, in case you lose them or some kind of water accident happens, your cryptocurrencies are lost. This is the only non-technical way to store your cryptocurrencies.
If you choose a paper wallet, then you will need your public keys every time when making a transaction. Needless to say, it can be really time-consuming, however, such wallets are amazing if you consider ADA coins as a long-term investment.
Now that you have a basic understanding, let’s take a look at the best Cardano wallets.
Best Cardano Wallet: Evaluation Criteria
In this “best Cardano wallet” list, you've found a variety of picks. However, you should be aware of different factors when choosing the best ADA wallet for your needs:
- Security. Security is definitely the most important factor you should consider when deciding which Cardano wallet to choose. All the other aspects are not important if your security is at risk.
- Usability. A good cryptocurrency wallet should be easy to use and have a clear interface. This factor may not be as important for those who consider ADA coins as a long-term investment, however, is crucial for those who perform multiple transactions throughout the day.
- Mobility. How easy it is to access a wallet? Also, if we’re talking about a hardware wallet, make sure that the recovery process is easy in case you lose it, and take into account the materials that it’s made of. They should be physically damage resistant.
- Supported coins. Even though now you’re looking for the best Cardano wallet, you might decide to use it for storing other cryptocurrencies in the future. That's why it’s important to make sure that the wallet supports a good amount of cryptocurrencies. You’ll be surprised to hear that some of them support thousands of different assets.
Each option in the best wallet for Cardano list above comes with different pros and cons, that’s why every individual should evaluate them and choose a wallet based on their personal wants and needs.
Conclusions
When picking the best Cardano wallet, always consider the most crucial aspects that we already talked about: security, usability, accessibility and the number of supported cryptocurrencies. While each of these aspects is significant, security should come first. Keep that in mind.
Each of the wallets in the list has its own pros and cons, so it completely depends on your personal needs and which one you're going to pick. In general, if security is the number one feature that you’re looking for in a device, then you should definitely go for hardware wallets, such as Ledger Nano X or Trezor Safe 5.
However, if you’re storing only small amounts of cryptocurrencies and are looking for the easiest way to buy and store cryptocurrencies as well as make transactions, you might want to consider software wallets. When picking the best software wallet for Cardano, you should take into account the Coinbase Wallet. It provides both cryptocurrency exchange and a secure wallet.
If you don’t have ADA coins yet, you should also pick a secure crypto exchange platform to purchase this cryptocurrency. A few of the most reliable and recommended platforms include Binance, Bybit, and Kraken.
I hope that this guide helped you to find the best Cardano wallet for your needs. Don’t forget that security should always come first.
Other Crypto Wallets in This Category
Here are other crypto wallets related to the category but not as favored by BitDegree readers yet. In my personal opinion, today there are much more optimal crypto wallets in the list with the higher rating that I'd recommend for the same price range or less.
Guarda Wallet - Multi-Platform Crypto Wallet
- + Good security measures
- + Easy to use
- + Live customer support
- + High number of supported cryptocurrencies
- - Still new company
- - Relatively high fees
Guarda is a multi-platform cryptocurrency wallet that offers web, desktop and mobile wallets. What’s amazing about this wallet is that it’s compatible with Ledger. For this reason, you can keep part of ADA coins in a hardware wallet and a part of them in the Guarda wallet.
Guarda wallet offers both online and software wallets that are known to be less secure than hardware ones. However, it comes with good security features, such as encrypted backups, face or ID recognition.
When it comes to supported cryptocurrencies, Guarda supports more than 400k+ crypto assets. That said, some consider it not only the best Cardano wallet but also a really good option for other cryptocurrencies.
Finally, the Guarda wallet is very easy to use, it has a clear interface and helpful features. That’s why this wallet is recommended for beginners.
What is the Guarda Wallet Pricing?
Guarda wallet is completely free, just like the majority of other online and software wallets. Guarda desktop wallet is available for both Windows and macOS users. The mobile version can be downloaded for iOS and Android devices.
Atomic Wallet - Great Usability
- + Easy to use
- + Supports more than 300 cryptocurrencies
- + Secure
- + ShapeShift and Changelly integrations
- + 24/7 live customer support
- - Not as secure as a hardware wallet
- - Few coins can be 'atomically-swapped'
The final option on the “best wallet for Cardano'' list is the Atomic wallet. Atomic is a software-based crypto storage platform that also has an integrated exchange for additional functionality. It means that you can use Atomic not only for storing crypto but also for buying, selling and trading various cryptocurrencies.
The Atomic wallet was created back in 2017, the year when the cryptocurrency market was booming. The creator of this wallet is Konstantin Gladych, who’s also the man behind Changelly - one of the most reliable cryptocurrency exchange platforms.
At the moment, Atomic wallet supports more than 1,000+ cryptocurrencies and all of the existing ERC-20 tokens. While the number may not be the most impressive we’ve seen, but it’s definitely more than enough, especially if you’re looking for the best Cardano wallet.
As previously mentioned, it’s a software wallet, meaning that it might lack some security. However, when compared to online wallets, it’s definitely a better option. Atomic wallet is still new, however, I haven’t noticed any customer reviews that would be very negative about the security of this wallet.
Atomic wallet is very easy to use. All you need to do is download the app and create an account. Once it’s done, you can transfer ADA coins from another wallet to Atomic, or simply purchase this cryptocurrency on the platform. Also, if you have any questions, you can always contact the company’s customer support. According to users, Atomic wallet customer support is really helpful when it comes to various questions related to usability issues.
What is the Atomic Wallet Pricing?
Just like other software wallets on this list, it won’t cost you anything to download Atomic wallet.
Ledger Nano S - Great Price-Quality Ratio
- + Super secure
- + Protection against physical damage
- + Supports more than 1500 coins and tokens
- - Relatively expensive
Update 2023: The Nano S has been discontinued and replaced with the Nano S Plus. You can find more information about the latter above.
If you were looking for the best Cardano wallet before, I bet you came across Ledger Nano S multiple times. It’s a hardware wallet that allows you to not only store but also send and receive crypto assets.
Ledger Nano S supports more than 1,500 different cryptocurrencies (26 coins and more than 1,500 tokens), including ADA coins, of course. Even though there’s no wallet that supports all the existing cryptocurrencies, Ledger Nano S is improving its list of supported cryptocurrencies every day.
One of the reasons why Ledger is often considered the best Cardano wallet is security. Different from software wallets, your private keys are stored within the actual device - offline. What is more, you’ll need to choose a pin code that must include at least 4 digits, and you’ll be given a 24-word recovery phrase that’s needed in case you forget your pin.
While there are some concerns when it comes to the durability of hardware wallets, there shouldn’t be any doubts about Ledger Nano S. The device is made from stainless steel that makes it resistant to physical damage.
Now, while the Ledger Nano S is the company’s more popular model there’s also an improved version - Ledger Nano X. It has a bigger screen that allows you to see full wallet addresses as well as all the other needed details.
Even though Ledger Nano S may not be as easy to use as software or online wallets, it strongly improves usability by providing an app that allows you to purchase ADA cryptocurrency as well as manage it. That said, all you need is a single app.
An exceptional aspect about both Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano X is that they have custom OS (BOLOS) that ensures applications are isolated from one another, and also protects you from malicious attacks. It also integrates a Secure Element (SE) that hosts your private keys securely and can protect you from serious attacks.
What is the Ledger Nano S Pricing?
One of the main reasons why people often choose online or software wallets instead of hardware ones is that you actually have to own them. The fact is that some of them can be relatively expensive, however, what is Ledger Nano S pricing?
Ledger Nano S will cost you only $59, which is relatively inexpensive considering the fact that provides you with ultimate security, great features, and a sleek design.
The device will be shipped immediately after you make a payment, so you can expect to receive it in as fast as one business day.
Both Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano X can be considered the best Cardano wallet, however, you should pick one based on your personal preferences.
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