Ledger is a French company specializing in the production of hardware wallets for storing cryptocurrencies. Hardware wallets such as Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano X are among the most popular devices for holding digital assets thanks to their high level of security. Ledger also offers software solutions, for example the Ledger Live app, which lets you manage crypto, check balances, and make transactions without putting assets at risk.
Ledger was founded in 2014. Among the eight co-founders are Éric Larchevêque, Thomas France, Nicolas Bacca, Ian Rogers, and Cédric Menias. Each had prior experience in the crypto industry.
Security and convenience
Secure Element: keys are generated and stored inside a chip resistant to extraction and side-channel attacks.
Closed firmware: not for line-by-line community audit; signed and attested updates block malicious firmware.
On-device confirmations: nothing happens until you press the buttons — for transactions, messages, and installs.
Backups: 24-word BIP39 seed + optional passphrase (“the 25th word”). Keep it offline; steel beats paper in emergencies.
Genuine check: Ledger Live verifies the device on first connection, reducing supply-chain risks.
“Your funds follow the seed phrase, not the ‘USB stick.’ Initialize the device yourself, run the genuine check in Ledger Live, and keep the seed offline.”
Software
Ledger Live is the control center: portfolio, swaps, staking, and partner services in one app with clear on-device confirmations. For taxes, export a CSV from Ledger Live and import it into services like ZenLedger (Imports → Exchanges → Ledger Live).
Supported assets and staking
Ledger supports 5,000+ assets across leading L1 and L2 solutions. Manage BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, XRP, and many more in Ledger Live or via compatible apps. Staking for major networks is available in Live or through partners.
How Ledger compares to wallets in 2026
Typical street prices from late 2026; confirm current offers before buying.
Wallet
Open-source?
SE
Connection
Best for
Typical price
Standout traits
Ledger Nano S Plus / X / Stax
Closed (audited)
Yes
USB-C; X/Stax with BT
Multi-chain
$79 / $149 / $279
Large ecosystem; 5k+ assets; Ledger Live
Trezor Safe 3 / Safe 5 / Model T
Open firmware
Safe 3/5: yes
USB-C
Open-source preference
~$79 / ~$169 / ~$219
Shamir backup; polished UX
Coldcard Mk4 (BTC-only)
Open-leaning
Yes
USB-C + microSD (air-gap)
Bitcoin multisig
~$157
PSBT mastery; duress/brick PIN
BitBox02 (BTC-only / Multi)
Open firmware
SE + MCU
USB-C
Simple desktop
~$149
microSD backup; clean app
Keystone 3 Pro
Open
Yes
QR (air-gapped)
Camera/QR signing
~$169
Great with Sparrow/Specter/Nunchuk
Ellipal Titan 2.0
Closed
Yes
QR (air-gapped)
Phone-centric
~$169
Sealed metal body; app-driven hub
SafePal S1
Closed
Yes
QR + app
Budget
~$50
Low cost; broad coin list
NGRAVE ZERO
Closed (audited)
Premium
QR (air-gapped)
Security-max
~$398–$499
GRAPHENE steel; tamper evidence
Setup and daily use
Initialize the device, write down the 24 words, set a PIN, install coin apps in Ledger Live, and add accounts. BTC power users connect Sparrow/Specter for full coin control and multisig. For ETH/DeFi, use WalletConnect via Ledger Live and verify contract calls on the screen before approving.
On-device review before every approval
Verdict on Ledger hardware wallets
Ledger Stax is the best choice for experienced users who value advanced security features and convenience. Its curved touchscreen and wireless charging make it comfortable for active everyday use.
Ledger Flex suits users who want a modern wallet with a touchscreen without paying for the most premium features. It balances price and functionality, though it lacks wireless charging.
Ledger Nano X is ideal for those who frequently use a smartphone. Bluetooth provides mobility and convenience without compromising security.
Ledger Nano S Plus is an excellent starting point for beginners or anyone who wants an affordable and reliable cold wallet. It covers the basics for secure storage without extras like a touchscreen or Bluetooth.
Q&A
What is Ledger?
Ledger is a company specializing in hardware wallets for the secure storage of cryptocurrencies and other digital assets. Ledger hardware wallets offer a high level of protection, including isolation of private keys.
When was the first Ledger wallet released?
The first Ledger wallet (the Ledger Nano model) was released in 2014 and quickly gained popularity thanks to its mix of security and ease of use.
How do I use Ledger Nano S?
Connect the device via USB and install Ledger Live. Go through initialization: set a PIN, write down the recovery phrase, then add the cryptocurrencies you need in Ledger Live. After that you can safely send, receive, and manage assets.
How do I use Ledger Nano X?
Connect Nano X to a computer via USB or to a phone via Bluetooth, install Ledger Live, set a PIN, and write down the recovery phrase. Add coins and use the wallet for secure storage and operations. Bluetooth makes the model convenient for mobile scenarios.
How do I connect Ledger to MetaMask?
Install the MetaMask extension, connect Ledger to your PC, and open the Ethereum app on the device. In MetaMask, choose to connect a hardware wallet (Ledger) and follow the on-screen steps. After pairing, you can safely interact with dApps and manage assets in MetaMask using Ledger.
I’ve been really happy with my experience so far — the device is super user-friendly. After thinking it over for a while, I went with the Nano X back in 2023 because it had its own dedicated app at the time, which felt like the most practical wallet option. I like that you can buy or sell crypto directly through the platform and even stake your coins. The only thing I was a bit unsure about was the whole recovery feature. Everyone online keeps saying, “Not your keys, not your crypto,” but what most people don’t mention is that storing your keys with the company is completely optional. As long as you don’t enable it, your keys aren’t kept anywhere — at least that’s how I understand it. I’d definitely recommend the Nano X to anyone who wants a discreet design and easy mobile access to their coins.
@Ethan Collins Totally agree with you. I’ve been using the Nano X since last year too, and it’s been super reliable. The recovery thing confused me at first as well, but yeah — it’s optional, and you can just ignore it if you prefer full control. I also like how smooth the Bluetooth connection is with the mobile app. Honestly, one of the best hardware wallets I’ve owned.
Same experience here — I’ve had my Nano X for over a year, and it’s been rock solid. Setup was quick, and the app makes managing coins super easy. I agree about the cable though — I swapped mine out right away. Also not a big fan of the new Recover feature, but as long as it stays optional, I’m fine with it. Still one of the most secure wallets out there in my opinion.
The wallet works as advertised, but the setup process took longer than I expected. The buttons feel a bit stiff, and the cable that comes with it didn’t work properly — had to use my own. I’m also not a fan of the new subscription idea; it goes against the point of self-custody. The product is secure, but Ledger should focus more on keeping it simple and transparent.
I’ve been using the Ledger Nano X for over a year now — it’s a great choice for long-term crypto storage. The device feels solid, compact, and reliable. The Bluetooth connection works fine, and the app interface is clear even for beginners. It’s reassuring to know my assets are safely offline. Definitely worth it if you value security and peace of mind.
The device works fine, but I don’t like the whole subscription/recovery service idea. It feels against the purpose of a cold wallet. Also, the included cable didn’t work properly — had to use my own.
Great hardware wallet — feels very secure and the app makes it simple to manage coins. I like that I can stake and buy directly through it, and the design is sleek and compact.
Nano X - I am very satisfied because the user-friendliness is so good. After a long time thinking it over, I decided on the Ledger Nano X. Since it had developed its own app at the time (2023), it seemed to me the most practical form of a wallet. On top of that, you can buy or sell your crypto directly from the platform. Staking is also possible.
The only downside back then was the Ledger Recovery feature. “Not your keys, not your crypto” was preached by every possible blogger. What is often forgotten to mention, however, is that it’s a voluntary option to have your keys stored by Ledger. As long as you don’t opt in, your keys are not stored anywhere—at least that’s how I’ve understood it so far.
I can recommend the Ledger Nano X to anyone who appreciates a discreet design and wants good mobile accessibility to their coins.
I have had the Ledger Nano X for about 3 months and it does what it’s supposed to do. Operating the device with only two buttons is a bit cumbersome, but you get used to it quickly. The Live app, on the other hand, makes operating it from the desktop side quite convenient. Overall, a good mix.
In the medium term, I will probably buy a more expensive wallet and then keep the Nano X as a backup. In any case, I have the impression that it will last for years, if not decades. Customer support is good in the sense that I have found answers online to all my questions so far – including the integration into Blockpit, where I had to look up and modify some code. But it worked.
Points deducted because I wanted to exchange Bitcoin for TRUMP on Solana in the wallet, and after installing an “Exchange” app, the wallet told me it was not supported.
Conclusion: Good for long-term storage, less suitable for trading. But that is exactly the purpose of a cold wallet.
· 2 months ago@Ethan Collins Totally agree with you. I’ve been using the Nano X since last year too, and it’s been super reliable. The recovery thing confused me at first as well, but yeah — it’s optional, and you can just ignore it if you prefer full control. I also like how smooth the Bluetooth connection is with the mobile app. Honestly, one of the best hardware wallets I’ve owned.