Before jumping into investing in the crypto market, it is important to understand the differences between hot and cold crypto wallets.
When you understand this difference, match your wallet choice with your trading habits and security needs.
Always back up your private keys and enable safety features.
If you're investing in crypto, choosing the right crypto wallet can make all the difference. This time around, it’s not just about storing your assets, it's about protecting them.
There are so many wallet options out there, and each of them offers different features and security levels. This means that finding the best fit can be confusing.
This is a guide that breaks down the main types of wallets, as well as steps to help you pick the right one.
Contrary to popular belief, a crypto wallet doesn’t actually store crypto. Instead, it stores private keys. Think of private keys as code that lets you access your digital assets on the blockchain. Wallets are like keychains. They hold no money, but they hold the keys that unlock your assets.
With this fact now out of the way, you should note that crypto wallets fall into two main categories, namely hot wallets and cold wallets. Each type offers different advantages and works for different user needs.
Hot wallets are connected to the internet. This makes them great for daily trading and easy access. However, this also makes them slightly easier to hack.
There are several classes of wallets to be aware of, including:
Exchange Wallets
These wallets are offered by platforms like Binance, Coinbase and Kraken. They're easy to use but don’t give you control over your private keys. If the platform gets hacked, your funds could be gone.
Software Wallets (Desktop & Mobile)
These kinds of wallets are apps you install on your device. Examples include Exodus and Trust Wallet. They give you full control over your keys, but your devices could be a loophole that hackers can take advantage of.
Web Wallets
These wallets are accessible via browsers and are quick to set up. However, their safety depends on the provider.
Cold wallets store your crypto offline and away from internet threats. They’re harder to work with in terms of access but are great if you’re holding large amounts of crypto and don’t need to spend them regularly.
The two most popular kinds of cold wallets include:
Hardware Wallets
Hardware wallets are physical devices like Ledger or Trezor, which store your private keys offline. To make a transaction, you must connect them to your computer or phone. They’re considered the most secure option.
Paper Wallets
These kinds of wallets are exactly what their name implies. They are simply printed pieces of paper that contain your public and private keys. While they are safe from hackers, they are not ideal for frequent transactions.
How much are you investing? If you’re holding a large amount of crypto, go for a cold wallet. Hot wallets are better for smaller amounts that you access regularly. Always use wallets that support two-factor authentication (2FA) and have a strong security track record.
Are you an active trader? If yes, a hot wallet will suit you better. If you’re holding your assets for months or years, choose a cold wallet that reduces your exposure to online threats.
If a wallet controls your private keys (like exchange wallets), this means that you're trusting that provider with your funds. Software and hardware wallets give you full control, but you must protect those keys yourself. If you lose them, your crypto is gone.
Before choosing a crypto wallet to use, you must assess your goals. Why are you holding crypto? How much do you have? Are you actively trading or holding long-term?
Once you have answers to these questions, be sure to stay informed. Read reviews, compare features, and make sure that the wallet you choose is compatible with your coins.
Also, test whichever wallet you choose with a small amount of crypto, and make sure you understand how it works.
Finally, always back up your wallet. Store your seed phrase or recovery phrase safely, and don’t share it with anyone.
Do your research, take your time, and never compromise on safety. Once you have the right wallet, you are one step closer to becoming a capable crypto investor.
Disclaimer: Voice of Crypto aims to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, but it will not be responsible for any missing facts or inaccurate information. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile financial assets, so research and make your own financial decisions.