Trezor vs Ledger: Which is Better in 2025?
Eliza Thornton
Trezor and Ledger are two leading hardware wallet manufacturers known for their enhanced security and reliability in storing cryptocurrency. Unlike hot wallets, both offer immunity to computer viruses and feature PIN encryption for added protection. I must say that with secure verification required directly on the hardware device, Trezor and Ledger stand out as trusted solutions for safeguarding digital assets.
Trezor vs Ledger: Quick Overview
| Trezor | Ledger | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Wallet | Cold / Hardware | Cold / Hardware |
| Currencies | 1000+ | 5500+ |
| Device Size | Trezor Model T, 64mm x 39mm x 10mm | Ledger Nano X, 72mm x 18.6mm x 11.75mm |
| Price | $59 to $179 | $79 to $279 |
| Mobile App | iOS/Android | iOS/Android |
| Link | Get Wallet | Get Wallet |
Let me dive into how these two popular crypto-hardware wallets compare against each other.
Difference between Trezor and Ledger
Here are the main differences that I came across while using Trezor and Ledger wallets.
Trezor vs Ledger: Wallet Features
Both Trezor and Ledger offer similar features, such as connecting via a USB cable. Trezor devices come in a unique shape and are housed inside a plastic casing. On the other hand, I noticed that Ledger devices have a sleek design akin to an ordinary steel universal serial bus storage device.
Trezor vs Ledger: Versions/Models
There are two versions of Trezor wallets available:
| Trezor | Ledger |
|---|---|
Trezor Safe 5, which was released on 14th of June, 2024. It features a secure EAL6+ certified element and advanced options like FIDO2 two-factor authentication. |
Ledger introduced the Ledger Nano S in 2016 and the Ledger Nano X in 2019. Both the wallets integrate a certified secure chip, but the latter wallet allows the storage of a more significant number of applications. |
Trezor Model T was released on 26 February 2018. The premium hardware wallet has a colored touchscreen, a modern design, and an SD card slot. |
The Ledger Nano X also comes with a Bluetooth connection, allowing users to manage their cryptocurrency assets anywhere. |
Trezor vs Ledger: Operations
Trezor Wallets:
Trezor hardware wallets offer robust protection for users’ private and public keys, shielding them from both online and physical threats. I learned that the device itself does not store coins; instead, it secures the keys that unlock the coins, enabling them to be transferred to a new address when necessary. The seed phrases are safely stored in the internal memory, with keys kept isolated to prevent network access. I like the fact that Trezor enforces strict security protocols, creating a limited interface with specific commands. When a transaction is initiated, the device accurately receives its details for signing with the stored keys, ensuring a secure process.
Ledger Wallets:
Ledger wallets function similarly to other hardware cryptocurrency wallets, requiring users to connect the device to their computer and set up a PIN. To enhance security, I was provided with a 24-word seed phrase. Ledger also utilizes BOLOS, a unique open-source blockchain operating system. For added protection, I had to enter my password directly on the device.
Trezor vs Ledger: Security
Trezor models rely on a single chip base and utilize closed-source firmware, limiting third-party vulnerability testing. However, they enhance private key security with the Shamir Backup feature. On the other hand, Ledger hardware wallets employ a double chip base. They combine a general-purpose 32-bit microcontroller (STM32F042K) with a bank-grade secure element (SE) for added security.
Trezor vs Ledger: Display
Every cryptocurrency-related product must offer an exceptional user experience, and Trezor certainly excels in this area. As per my experience, the Trezor Safe 5 comes with a 240×240 pixel display, while the Trezor Model T stands out with a 240×240 pixels LCD touchscreen. Ledger wallets also deliver impressive features, with the Ledger Nano X offering a 128×64 display and Bluetooth connectivity and the Ledger Nano S featuring a 128×32 display. While the Trezor Model T has a larger display, I’ll admit the Ledger’s Bluetooth capability sets it apart, offering a unique advantage.
Size
I noticed that Trezor and Ledger wallets are quite similar in terms of size. The largest Trezor model, the Trezor Model T, measures 64mm x 39mm x 10mm. On the other hand, the largest Ledger model, the Ledger Nano X, is slightly larger at 72mm x 18.6mm x 11.75mm.
Mobile Transactions
Trezor wallets feature a USB Type-C connector, allowing mobile transactions and providing flexibility for users on the go. Additionally, Trezor uses a web wallet interface to handle ERC20 token transactions. In contrast, I noticed that Ledger wallets are designed solely for wired transactions and do not support mobile functionality.
Currencies
Trezor wallets support over 1,000 cryptocurrencies, while both versions of the Ledger wallet provide compatibility with more than 5,500 cryptocurrencies.
Price
| Wallet Name | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Ledger Nano S | Approximately $59.00 (52.92 EUR) | |
| Ledger Nano X | Approximately $149.00 (133.65 EUR) | |
| Trezor Model T | Approximately $210.70 (189 EUR) | |
| Trezor Safe 5 | 169 EUR | |
| Tangem Wallet | $54.90 |
Many people prefer the Ledger Nano X as it provides Bluetooth connectivity at a lower price.
Interface
When comparing the interface of Trezor vs Ledger wallets, Trezor stood out to me since it offers a touchscreen, making it easier to interact with crypto assets. In contrast, Ledger wallets rely on physical buttons for navigation. Additionally, Ledger users must install separate apps for each token they wish to use. For those accustomed to larger displays and touchscreens, navigating Ledger’s physical buttons may feel less intuitive and tricky.
Appearance
In my experience, Trezor wallets felt more intuitive due to their larger screen and user-friendly interface. On the other hand, the Ledger Nano S allows storage for around three apps simultaneously, while the Nano X supports up to 100 apps.
Mobile App
If you’re looking for mobile-friendly options, Ledger wallets are the ideal choice. Trezor users must rely on the Trezor Suite, which is compatible with Linux, Windows, and Mac but lacks a dedicated mobile app. Instead, while using Trezor, I had to install a Trezor Bridge or use a Chrome extension to interact with my wallets. On the other hand, with the Ledger Live application, I could manage my accounts, send and receive cryptocurrency, and check balances in real time, all from my desktop or mobile device.
Source Code
Trezor wallets use open-source firmware and software. In contrast, Ledger operates on a custom operating system called BOLOS, which is not open source. Many users appreciate Trezor’s open-source approach due to its transparency. It allows others to review the code and report potential vulnerabilities, promoting a higher level of trust.
Operating System
Both Ledger and Trezor support a range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android OS. However, as per my observation, Trezor provides broader compatibility by supporting more versions of the Windows operating system, making it accessible to a wider user base.
App Compatibility
Both Ledger and Trezor wallets offer broad app compatibility. Ledger wallets work seamlessly with a range of popular apps, including Electron Cash, GreenBits, MyCrypto, Binance, Ledger Live, Electrum, Copay, Mycelium, and Magnum, among others. Similarly, Trezor wallets are compatible with apps such as MyTrezor, Copay, Magnum, GreenBits, Electrum, and Mycelium.
User Interface
When it comes to user interfaces, Trezor and Ledger offer distinct options. Trezor uses the Trezor Suite as its main interface. However, it is not only compatible with various systems but is easy to set up and use, thus providing a straightforward user experience. On the other hand, I saw that Ledger’s Live interface is packed with features. It consists of four main elements: application controls, a menu, starred accounts, and a main viewer, making navigation seamless.
Security Vulnerabilities
The Trezor Safe 5, which uses the Certified EAL6+ chip, has a notable security vulnerability due to its flawed write-protection feature. This flaw compromises the protection of the bootloader. In contrast, Ledger wallets implement an attestation check to verify the authenticity of their firmware. This is achieved by having the Secure Element instruct the MCU to send the firmware code, ensuring better firmware integrity.
Applications
Trezor and Ledger are hardware wallets that store a user’s private keys and let them take those funds offline, called cold wallets. When it comes to security, I must say it’s tough to determine precisely which wallet is better, and it comes down to a user’s preference.
Many users regard Trezor’s open-source software as one of the safest solutions in the cryptocurrency market. However, those who prioritize international standards for banking cards and state requirements may prefer Ledger for its Secure Elements, which offer a higher level of compliance and security.
Staking
Staking is a method of earning income by using your hardware wallet and holding a certain kind of cryptocurrency. Only those cryptocurrencies and tokens which run on a Proof-of-stake algorithm can yield staking income for users.
When it comes to staking, Trezor hardware wallets do not support direct cryptocurrency staking. However, users can connect their Trezor Model T or Trezor Safe 5 wallet to third-party validators or staking pools. Additionally, they can use the Exodus wallet as a staking interface. On the other hand, Ledger wallets provide more flexibility, allowing users to stake up to seven cryptocurrencies at once, either through the Ledger platform or an external wallet. The supported cryptocurrencies for staking include Ethereum, Tezos, Tron, Cosmos, Algorand, and Polkadot.
Bluetooth Compatibility
When I compared Trezor and Ledger, I realized that Trezor has chosen to omit Bluetooth connectivity, prioritizing security by minimizing potential attack surfaces. In contrast, Ledger provides Bluetooth compatibility through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication, thus ensuring end-to-end encryption to safeguard user privacy. I learned that even in the unlikely event of a Bluetooth compromise, attackers would still be unable to access private keys, making Ledger a secure yet convenient choice.
Customer Support
When it comes to customer support, Trezor’s response time is slower, making Ledger the more reliable option for timely support. Therefore, in comparison, Ledger stands out by providing faster and more sincere assistance when needed.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Trezor Wallet
| Advantages of Trezor Wallet | Disadvantages of Trezor Wallet |
|---|---|
| Trezor wallets come with a color touchscreen that enables easy visibility | Trezor wallets do not support Bluetooth connections |
| Trezor wallets are installed with open-source firmware that offers multiple ways to solve an issue or bug and increases security risks | Trezor is less physically secure than Ledger and is priced steeply compared to other hardware wallets |
| Trezor wallets offer Shamir Backup, based on the Shamir Secret Sharing cryptographic algorithm |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Ledger Wallet:
| Advantages of Ledger Wallet | Disadvantages of Ledger Wallet |
|---|---|
| Ledger wallet devices come with optional Bluetooth connectivity | Ledger wallets do not have a touchscreen interface |
| The Ledger live mobile app provided by Ledger is one of the most intuitive apps of its kind | In the past, Ledger had its database breached, exposing client data belonging to almost 270,000 clients |
| Ledger wallet devices have a durable steel case, which adds both style and protection to the device |
How to Set Up Trezor Wallets?
Setting up Trezor wallets is fast; it took me about ten to fifteen minutes. Users have to connect the device with the USB cable provided.
Step 1) Users will have to first go to trezor.io/start. They will then be redirected to wallet.TREZOR.io, where they can install either the TREZOR Bridge or the TREZOR Chrome Extension.
Step 2) As no firmware is installed in a new device, users will have to install it with the latest firmware version.
Step 3) They should then follow instructions to generate the PIN. Trezor uses a grid-based PIN generation system.
Step 4) After the PIN has been generated, users should note down the unique combination of 24 words generated.
How to Set Up Ledger Wallets?
Setting up Ledger wallets is pretty simple and can be completed in simple steps. Here’s how I did it:
Step 1) Users will have to wait for the device to generate private keys to provide them access to their crypto assets.
They will also have to write down their unique recovery phrase (24 words), which serves as a backup of the user’s private keys.
Step 2) To begin the set-up process, users simply have to connect the device to the computer and wait for the Welcome message.
After navigating through the instructions, users have to press both buttons simultaneously to start setting up a new device.
Step 3) After that, follow the steps to choose a PIN code. After selecting the checkmark, users have to press both buttons to confirm their choice.
The device will now display the 24-word recovery phrase, which you should write/note down.
Trezor vs Ledger: Which is better?
Trezor and Ledger are two popular hardware wallets available in the market. According to my research, both devices are user-friendly and provide the highest degree of security for cryptocurrency storage.
They both support thousands of cryptocurrencies and allow access to exchanges. However, as per my observation, the Ledger Nano X offers Bluetooth, while the Trezor’s Model T is easy to use. Ledger beats Trezor in terms of price, mobile app, iOS compatibility, and more cryptocurrency support. However, users who prefer a touchscreen and want Shamir Backup should go for Trezor’s Model T.
