Best Crypto Wallets for January 2026 – Top Wallets Compared

MetaMask and Phantom also make the cut for EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) and Solana users, thanks to wide dApp connectivity and a simple setup.

We score wallets on security, supported chains, user experience, pricing, and other key factors using a detailed methodology, giving each a rating on a five-point scale.

This guide shows our top choices and helps you pick the wallet that matches how you invest, trade, and store cryptocurrencies.

10 Best Crypto Wallets to Use in January 2026

Here’s a curated list of the best crypto wallets for investors in 2026:

1. Best Wallet – The overall best crypto wallet app for iOS and Android users
2. MetaMask – The most popular browser wallet for Ethereum and EVM-based tokens
3. Phantom – Highly rated hot wallet and mobile app specializing in Solana
4. Trust Wallet – Globally popular app supporting over 100 blockchains
5. Base App – A good option for first-timers seeking non-custodial storage
6. Binance Wallet – Best option for users of the Binance CEX and BNB chain
7. Trezor Safe 5 – Best hardware solution for long-term holders and large portfolios
8. Electrum – The best open-source desktop wallet for safely storing Bitcoin
9. Zengo – Flexible crypto wallet with multi-party computation for security
10. Exodus – Great choice for storing cryptocurrencies on Windows or Mac

Best Crypto Wallets for Beginners

If you’re new to crypto, then we recommend you try one or more wallets from our top wallet picks.

1. Best Wallet (4.9⭐) – Our Top Wallet Pick for Storing Cryptocurrencies on a Mobile Device

Best Wallet is a non-custodial Web3 wallet for iOS and Android, with a launchpad for crypto presales. It supports multiple blockchains, including Bitcoin, and the app has cross-chain swaps and staking. Due to Multi-Party Computation (MPC), users can set up a wallet with just an email address without needing to manage seed phrases.

Best for: Web3 users, people who don’t want to do KYC, presale buyers.

Visit Best Wallet Official Website

2. MetaMask (4.5⭐) – Top-Rated Hot Wallet Extension with Over 100 Million Users Worldwide

MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet, available for mobile and web browsers. It supports EVM-compatible chains. Solana is supported, but can be difficult to use. MetaMask includes a built-in DEX, cross-chain swaps, NFT support, and a fiat on-ramp.

Best for: Beginners looking for a user-friendly interface and simple token swaps.

3. Phantom (4.7⭐) – Free Mobile and Browser Wallet for the Solana Ecosystem

Phantom is a Web3 wallet that started on Solana and is now a multi-chain app and browser extension. There are built-in swaps via Solana DEXs like Jupiter.

The mobile app has a 4.8 rating on Google Play from 126K reviews and over 10M downloads (December 2025), making Phantom a strong choice.

Best for: People who primarily trade on Solana.

4. Trust Wallet (4.4⭐) – Highly Rated for Managing a Diversified Portfolio

Trust Wallet is a non-custodial mobile wallet that provides a decent multichain trading experience. It supports over 100 blockchains. There is a dApp browser, and WalletConnect enables quick access to DeFi apps like Pancakeswap and NFT marketplaces.

Best for: Users seeking a widely used wallet with good safety features.

Trust Wallet has over 210 million installs and over $750M locked in staking.

5. Base App (4.3⭐) – User-Friendly Non-Custodial Crypto Wallet Tied to Coinbase

Base App (formerly Coinbase Wallet) is a non-custodial mobile wallet. After July’s 2025 rebrand, it’s now a so-called “everything app”, combining standard wallet features, like swaps, with social chat and mini-apps.

Best for: Coinbase CEX users, BASE blockchain users.

6. Binance Wallet (4.1⭐) – Best Wallet for Beginners in the Binance Ecosystem

Binance Wallet is a Web3 self-custody wallet integrated in the Binance app. It uses MPC to remove the need to remember seed phrases, and allows users to export their wallet to a traditional private key type in case of emergency. It connects to multiple chains and dApps with a built-in DEX, cross-chain swaps, and the Binance Alpha launchpad.

Best for: Binance users who want a Web3 option available on mobile, web, and through a browser extension.

Visit Binance Wallet’s Official Website

Best Crypto Wallets for Advanced Users

If you’ve been around for a while or want to do more with your crypto, or maximise safety, then try these.

1. Trezor Safe 5 (4.8⭐) – Multi-Currency Hardware Wallet With Institutional-Grade Security

Trezor Safe 5 is an open-source hardware wallet with a touchscreen. It stores private keys offline and requires on-device confirmation for each transaction for maximum security. There’s support for thousands of coins. The Safe 5 is around $169, while the Safe 3 is approximately $79, and the Model One is $49.

Best for: Users who want a high-end hardware wallet and maximum security, especially for long-term holders and those with large portfolios.

Visit Trezor Official Website

2. Electrum (4.2⭐) – An Original Bitcoin Wallet Aimed at Long-Term Holders

Electrum is an open-source, time-tested wallet, built exclusively for Bitcoin. True to cypherpunk ideals, it’s non-custodial and keys are stored locally. There are no swaps or on-ramps as the focus is on secure BTC storage. Electrum supports hardware wallets or creating an offline wallet for ultimate security. It’s available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Best for: Bitcoin maxis who value advanced security features like multisig and view-only wallet modes.

3. Zengo (4.6⭐) – Enhanced Safety Ideal for Beginners Who Want to Actively Use Web3

Zengo is a non-custodial wallet that replaces seed phrases with MPC. This means you can recover your account using 3FA: 3D face biometrics, a cloud-stored recovery file, and an email magic link. The core wallet is free. Zengo Pro adds a firewall, risk alerts, theft protection systems, and an inheritance feature.

Best for: Users who want a hot wallet that has extra security layers.

Visit Zengo Official Website

4. Exodus (4.5⭐) – Free and Secure Crypto Storage via User-Friendly Desktop Software

Exodus is a non-custodial wallet for Windows and macOS, and also mobile. Its features include ease of use and supporting 50 blockchains+, a broad range of cryptocurrencies, and custom tokens. The desktop app has a portfolio tracker and staking, where available. Users can on-ramp fiat through card, bank, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

Best for: Users who want wallet access on desktop, mobile, and browsers, and those who value a clean and intuitive UI.

Wallets That Didn’t Quite Make the Cut

While the following wallets didn’t make our Top 10, they each bring unique strengths for specific use cases, such as Tangem’s physical card for safety while trading, or Ledger’s Bluetooth and connectivity options.

1. Ledger Stax – Advanced Cold Wallet for Long-Term Crypto Security

Ledger Stax is Ledger’s premium hardware wallet. It has an e-Ink touchscreen, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity, and can be used with a mobile. The device costs around $399 (December 2025) and measures 3.35 × 2.13 × 0.24 inches.

• Why it fell short: Ledger is a good option and features secure hardware chips, but its proprietary nature means that users must place trust in the company.
• Stronger option: Trezor is the cold wallet of choice for many, as its open-source nature gives it more transparency.

2. Bybit Wallet – In-App Web3 Wallet and Chrome Extension for Bybit Users

Bybit Wallet is a self-custody Web3 wallet in the Bybit CEX app. It offers DEX routing and cross-chain swaps for low fees. It supports 30+ blockchains, has an app, and a Chrome extension.

• Why it fell short: Although it’s a decentralized wallet, ties to the Bybit exchange (and the February $1.5B hack) make it less appealing than independent Web3 wallets.
• Stronger option: Best Wallet offers similar features, such as access to airdrops, and without KYC.

3. Margex Wallet – Exchange-Linked Self-Custody for Active Traders

Margex Wallet bridges centralized and decentralized trading, letting users move funds between spot, futures, and Web3 with one login. It supports MPC security, simple swaps, and in-wallet access to staking and yield tools.

• Why it fell short: The wallet is tightly bound to the Margex platform, which limits its appeal for users seeking independent non-custodial storage.
• Stronger option: Zengo offers a more advanced self-custody setup.

4. Tangem – Card-Based Hardware Wallet with NFC Simplicity

Tangem stores private keys offline on a physical card. This keeps it off the internet and safer from hacks, while enabling the ability to quickly tap to approve transactions on a mobile device. The device costs around $55 (December 2025) and measures 3.37 × 2.13 × 0.04 inches.

• Why it fell short: Limited ecosystem integrations reduce flexibility for advanced users.
• Stronger option: Trezor offers more advanced features than Tangem.

Top Crypto Wallets Compared

The best crypto wallets in 2026 are compared below:

Best Crypto Wallet by Use Case

Whether you’re focused on DeFi, Bitcoin security, or trading meme coins, some wallets are better suited for specific goals. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

Scenario-Based Recommendations

If you’re a complete beginner: Zengo or Best Wallet for mobile or Exodus for desktop. They don’t have seed phrases and are easy to set up.

If you’re storing over $10,000: Get a hardware wallet. Trezor Safe 5 provides tested security.

If you only want Bitcoin: Electrum for desktop or Trezor Safe 5 for hardware security.

If you’re already trading or know you want to use Web3 with:

• Web3/DeFi access – MetaMask / Phantom / Zengo
• Multiple chains – Trust Wallet / Exodus
• Buying presales – Best Wallet

If you already use a centralized exchange:

• Binance users – Binance Wallet
• Coinbase users – Base App

What Is a Crypto Wallet?

A crypto wallet is a digital tool that allows you to securely store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin, Dogecoin, or Solana, a wallet is essential for managing your cryptocurrencies and interacting with the blockchain.

Think of it like a bank account, but for crypto, not fiat. The key advantage, especially when using a non-custodial wallet, is that you retain full control of your funds. This means no centralized third party (like an exchange) can access your cryptocurrencies or block transactions.

Crypto wallets also unlock access to Web3: dApps, DeFi, token swaps, and NFTs.

Without a self-custodial wallet, you’ll need to rely on custodians such as exchanges like Binance. In those cases, they control the private keys, limiting your ability to move funds freely. By contrast, non-custodial wallets eliminate that counterparty risk, giving you full ownership and flexibility, but also responsibility.

How Do Crypto Wallets Work?

Crypto wallets generate and manage a pair of cryptographic keys: a public address used to send and receive funds, and a private key that authorizes transactions. When you send crypto, the wallet signs a transaction with your private key and broadcasts it to the blockchain for verification.

Below, we’ll explain how wallet addresses, private keys, and backup passphrases interact to secure and recover your cryptocurrencies.

Wallet Addresses

Wallet addresses are a bit like bank account numbers, allowing users to receive cryptocurrencies from another location. The address will be unique to your crypto wallet, generated when creating it.

Wallet addresses are usually long and complex, containing upper/lowercase letters and numbers.

For example, here’s what an example Bitcoin wallet address looks like:

• 3PXBET2GrTwCamkeDzKCx8DeGDyrbuGKoc

Ethereum Virtual Machine addresses usually start with 0x and look like this:

• 0x95222290dd7278aa3ddd389cc1e1d165cc4bafe5

Now, wallet addresses can only be used to receive cryptocurrencies, so you can safely give them to others. However, wallet addresses are trackable on the blockchain, meaning anyone can check your balance and trading history.

Private Keys

Private keys are a secret string of numbers and letters that are unique to the wallet. Keeping private keys secure is vital, as whoever holds them has full control of the wallet. Back up your private key!

This is where custodianship comes into the equation:

• Non-custodial wallets like MetaMask ensure that only the user can access the private keys. This is like storing crypto in a safe, with only the owner knowing its combination.
• Custodian wallets are more aligned with traditional bank accounts. The custodian holds the private keys and will help you to recover your account if necessary.
• Private keys are highly sought-after by crypto hackers. A successful breach will mean the hacker can access the wallet and withdraw the funds. There will be no accountability, as wallet hacks are anonymous.

Backup Seedphrase/Wallet Words

You should also understand the role of seed phrases or wallet words when choosing the best crypto wallet. Most providers offer a 12-word passphrase, aka seed phrase, which, just like private keys, is unique to the wallet.

Backup passphrases enable users to recover the wallet balance if access is no longer possible.

• For example, suppose you’re using a desktop wallet, but the laptop storing it is stolen.
• You could download the same software wallet and import the backup passphrase.
• The original wallet balance will now be available on the new device.

Just like private keys, keeping the backup passphrase secure is vital. Misplacing it will mean your wallet funds can be stolen.

Why Do You Need a Crypto Wallet?

You need a crypto wallet because it’s the only way to truly own, store, and control your cryptocurrencies. A wallet enables transfers without intermediaries and connects you to decentralized finance and Web3.

Centralized exchanges let you trade without one, but relying on them means surrendering control and missing out on opportunities, from using dApps, receiving staking rewards, (most staking rewards on CEXs are lower than rewards from staking directly on-chain).

You’ll also need a crypto wallet to participate in upcoming crypto ICOs, join crypto airdrops, and get new crypto coins, since most token launches require direct on-chain interaction for contribution and claim steps.

Portfolio Tracking and Management

Crypto wallets help to track and manage your portfolio, especially when holding cryptocurrencies from multiple blockchains and protocols.

The best crypto wallets support dozens of blockchains, so that all investments can be managed from one place. You can normally view real-time portfolio data, displayed in your preferred currency. However, only certain wallets can see DeFi activities, so you may find a portfolio checker like Zerion or Debank useful.

Some crypto wallets come with built-in trading tools, too. However, be aware of swap fees before, as there is often a markup. If you’re comfortable using a DEX, you can usually get better prices from aggregators like DeFiLlama swap for EVM chains or Jupiter for Solana.

Types of Crypto Wallets

While all wallets serve the same basic purpose, they can offer vastly different features, security measures, and token offerings. They are typically split into four main categories: custodial wallets, non-custodial wallets, hot wallets, and cold wallets.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types of crypto wallets that you need to know about.

Here’s more info to help explore the various wallet types: hot vs cold, and custodial vs non-custodial, to help you make the correct choice for your needs.

Hot vs Cold Wallet

Hot and cold wallets offer unique advantages and trade-offs that suit different needs.

Hot Wallets – Best for Active Crypto Investors

Hot wallets are always connected to the internet, so transacting is ideally easy. Options include mobile apps, browser extensions, and desktop software. This means immediate access to your crypto.

For example, the best crypto wallets are often made for iOS and Android smartphones. This means you can send and receive crypto from any place. Hot wallets also grant access to DeFi and dApps.

However, there is a downside when it comes to security. Because of their connection to the internet, they are vulnerable to hacking attempts. Risks include viruses, malware, keyloggers, phishing, social engineering, and smart contract hacks, leading to wallets being drained.

Cold Wallets – Best for Storing Large Amounts

Cold wallets are designed with security first. The private keys are stored within a physical device, which is never connected to the internet. By extension, this eliminates online hacking attempts.

When people want to use their cold wallet, transactions are usually confirmed via a USB-C cable or Bluetooth. The user physically enters a PIN on the device before any transactions are authorized.

This means the wallet funds are safe even if the hardware device is stolen. Recovery is possible remotely by entering the backup passphrase from another wallet (hot or cold). However, while cold wallets provide institutional-grade security, they’re cumbersome for active traders to manage as each transaction needs to be signed with a long process.

When cold wallets are unhelpful:

• For example, suppose you’re on a long daily commute and read about a new meme coin.
• You want to buy that meme coin, but can’t do so until you get home. This is because the transaction can only be verified on the hardware device itself.
• The meme coin markets move quickly, so the opportunity could have been lost by the time wallet access is available.

Now compare the experience when using a mobile crypto app. As long as you have your phone, it takes seconds to make a trade.

Custodial vs Non-Custodial Wallet

Choosing between a custodial and non-custodial wallet is an even more important choice. This determines who holds and controls the private keys, and therefore who truly holds the crypto.

Custodial Wallets – Allow a Third-Party to Control Your Private Keys

With custodial wallets, you’re entrusting your cryptocurrencies with a centralized third party. The majority of custodial wallets are offered by exchanges, with popular providers including Gemini, Binance, and Kraken.

Here’s an overview of how custodial wallets work:

• Suppose you buy Bitcoin with a credit card on Kraken.
• That Bitcoin is then added to your Kraken wallet. You can view the Bitcoin balance at any time by logging into the Kraken account.
• However, only Kraken has control of the wallet’s private keys.
• So, if you want to transact, you need to place a request and wait for Kraken to approve it.
• Only then will the Bitcoins be released.

The issue is here control. Unlike non-custodial wallets, you can’t freely make transfers, let alone connect with DeFi ecosystems. While Kraken is a legitimate exchange with enhanced security, the same thing was said about FTX before it went bankrupt.

Crypto exchanges can also be hacked, which could impact any stored cryptocurrencies.

Non-Custodial Wallets – Truly Build Crypto Wealth Through Private Key Ownership

The only way to truly own your cryptocurrencies is with a non-custodial wallet. Once you download the preferred wallet, the private keys will be encrypted and stored on your mobile, hardware, or desktop device. Nobody else, including the provider, can access the private keys.

You can send and receive cryptocurrencies at any time; permission from third-party custodians isn’t needed. Moreover, you won’t get a KYC request with threats of account closure. Any stored cryptocurrencies are yours to store, transfer, or trade.

However, there is a drawback to consider. While having full control is a major perk, you’re also solely responsible for security. Mistakes will be costly, such as connecting the wallet to a malicious platform. Stolen funds will be unrecoverable, so following wallet best practices is a must

How to Pick a Crypto Wallet

You should pick a crypto wallet based on how you plan to use your cryptocurrencies (long-term storage, active trading, or DeFi participation), while prioritizing security, supported blockchains, and usability. Below, you’ll know what that means in practice and what to compare before making your choice.

Wallet Type and Custodianship

• Those storing large amounts of Bitcoin should get a hardware device like the Trezor Safe 5.
• Those looking to actively trade Solana meme coins will prefer a hot wallet app like Phantom.

Available Blockchains and Supported Cryptocurrencies

The best crypto wallets support a wide range of cryptocurrencies and blockchains. This makes it easy to actively store and trade tokens across different ecosystems.

However, not all wallets are compatible with such a broad selection of blockchains. Some, such as Electrum, only support Bitcoin.

Security

After choosing a recommended wallet, consider additional safeguards like two or three-factor authentication, facial ID, multisig permissions, and address whitelisting. Specific security controls can vary depending on the crypto wallet type.

Pricing

You won’t need to pay fees to install a wallet unless you’re purchasing a hardware device, or you want to add on features with a subscription like the one offered by Zengo.

No fees are required when receiving or storing cryptocurrencies, regardless of the wallet type.

How to Get a Crypto Wallet

After choosing the best crypto wallet, the next step is getting everything set up.

Here’s an overview of the required steps when using a hot wallet:

• Step 1: Download the Wallet. First, download the chosen wallet to your device, whether that’s a desktop or mobile.
• Step 2: Secure the Wallet. You’ll likely be asked to choose a PIN/password or biometrics. Writing down the backup passphrase is also crucial.

Follow these steps when using a cold wallet:

• Step 1: Purchase a Hardware Wallet. Purchase a hardware wallet directly from the manufacturer. This ensures you’re buying a legitimate wallet that hasn’t been tampered with.
• Step 2: Download the Wallet’s Software. Ensure you’re downloading the software directly from the manufacturer’s website.
• Step 3: Secure the Wallet. Now complete the security steps, such as choosing a PIN and writing down the backup passphrase.

If you’re just getting started, see our explainer on how to buy crypto.

How to Check a Crypto Wallet is Safe

Safety should always be the priority when choosing the best wallet for crypto.

Here’s what to check when selecting a provider:

• Public Reviews: Researching public reviews is one of the most effective safety strategies. The best crypto wallets have positive reviews across multiple platforms. Reviews should have validity, meaning they’re based on thousands of independent ratings.
• Open-Source: The safest crypto wallets are often open-source. This means the wallet’s code is publicly viewable, allowing the developer community to scrutinize it. Open-source wallets also benefit from fast patches when vulnerabilities are discovered.
• Always go directly to the wallet provider: Whether you’re buying a hardware device or downloading a free browser-based wallet, always go directly to the source. Never obtain a wallet from a third party – it could be fake. This means any cryptocurrencies deposited could be immediately compromised.
• Audits: Some wallets have been audited by reputable security firms, adding an extra layer of credibility.
• Time in the Market: Another safety check is to assess when the wallet was launched. Established wallets are often preferred, considering they have a longer track record. You should also avoid wallets that have previously been hacked.

Wallet Best Practices to Avoid Costly Mistakes

No crypto wallet is 100% immune to hacks or mistakes. Following wallet best practices is a must.

Here’s what you need to know:

• • Use Separate Devices or Logins: If possible, it’s always best to use a separate device or login account specifically for storing and managing cryptocurrencies. You’ll reduce the risks of downloading viruses or clicking on malicious links.
  • Use Two-Factor Authentication: A code will be sent to the primary device when verifying transactions (e.g., an SMS). This means both devices would need to be compromised for a hacking attempt to succeed.
  • Using the Right Blockchain: Another common mistake is sending cryptocurrencies to the wrong chain. For example, sending Ethereum to a Solana address. There is no way to recover the funds when incorrect blockchains are used, so always double-check.

• Be careful when approving transactions: A big part of wallet security is being careful about what links you click and which websites you connect to. For safety, regularly revoke smart contract access that you no longer need.

Crypto Wallet Market Trends & Analysis (January 2026)

In January 2026, there have been some important developments in crypto wallet technology, affecting user security and product functionalities. Our curated insights explain what these updates mean for you.

MetaMask Confirms MASK Token and Offers Rewards In-app

MetaMask and LINEA founder, Joe Lubin, tweeted in September that a MASK airdrop was coming soon. The mobile app is currently rewarding swaps with boosted point rewards. This will qualify users for a LINEA airdrop, which will later likely provide eligibility for a MASK airdrop.

Takeaway: Loosening regulations around tokens is likely to encourage the long-awaited MetaMask token, teased since 2021.

Telegram Wallet Adds Tokenized U.S. Stocks

Telegram’s integrated Wallet, in partnership with Kraken and Backed, will enable trading of over 60 tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs via xStocks, including Apple (AAPLx), Tesla (TSLAx), and SP500 (SPYx).

Takeaway: Telegram is now offering an easy way to trade stocks, potentially driving mass adoption of tokenized assets through 1B+ user social app.

Rainbow Wallet Unveils RNBW Token

Rainbow Wallet announced its upcoming RNBW token and a proposed acquisition of launchpad Clanker, but Clanker’s founder publicly denied agreeing to the deal. Rainbow’s Phase 3 update introduces real-time pricing and perps trading.

Takeaway: The controversy highlights growing friction as wallets expand into DeFi and trading.

Investment Risk Warning

Crypto offers real innovation, but the risks are structural. Prices are highly volatile, 50% drawdowns can happen even in major cryptocurrencies, and there is no FDIC-style insurance. If a wallet is hacked, a device fails, or you lose a seed phrase, funds are typically gone for good. Regulation also remains changeable worldwide, so new rules or enforcement can change or restrict crypto access, force delistings, or change how wallets and tokens operate.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wallet is an important step when investing in the crypto markets. Non-custodial wallets are always recommended, ensuring you own and control the purchased crypto.

We found that Best Wallet is a solid choice in 2026, especially if you prefer managing cryptocurrencies on a user-friendly app. Security features include biometrics and MPC. Best Wallet also offers staking rewards and instant token swaps, and early access to presale tokens.

FAQ