In the fast-evolving world of digital assets, choosing the right crypto wallet is essential for securely managing your investments. Whether you're just starting out or already deep in the decentralized ecosystem, understanding the difference between hot wallets and cold wallets can make all the difference in protecting your holdings.
Hot wallets are internet-connected applications ideal for frequent transactions, while cold wallets are offline hardware devices designed for long-term, secure storage. While exchanges like Coinbase or Binance handle custody for you, crypto wallets give you full control—making them a preferred choice for users who value autonomy and security.
This guide breaks down the top crypto wallets of 2025 based on security, supported assets, ease of use, DeFi integration, and overall functionality.
🔥 Top Hot Crypto Wallets in 2025
Hot wallets offer convenience and quick access to your crypto, making them perfect for active traders and DeFi users. Most are free and come with built-in features like staking, trading, and NFT support.
Zengo – Best for MPC Security
- Assets supported: 300+
- Cold storage conversion: Yes (via WalletConnect)
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Zengo stands out with its innovative use of multi-party computation (MPC) technology, eliminating the need for traditional seed phrases. Instead of relying on a single private key, Zengo splits cryptographic access across multiple secure channels—reducing the risk of theft or loss.
As of April 2025, no Zengo wallets have been compromised, a strong testament to its security model. It’s especially appealing for beginners who want self-custody without the stress of managing recovery phrases.
👉 Discover how MPC-powered wallets are changing crypto security.
However, Zengo doesn’t support every major cryptocurrency—missing notable ones like Bitcoin Cash and Polkadot—which may limit its appeal for diversified portfolios.
Crypto.com Onchain – Best for DeFi Integration
- Assets supported: 1,000+
- Cold storage conversion: Yes (desktop only)
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Formerly known as Crypto.com DeFi Wallet, this app is built for users diving into decentralized finance. It allows seamless interaction with DeFi protocols across Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and other major networks.
Its tight integration with the main Crypto.com exchange makes it easy to transfer funds between centralized trading and self-custody. Plus, desktop users can pair it with Ledger hardware wallets for enhanced security.
Keep in mind: There’s a 0.0008 BTC withdrawal minimum (~$60), so small balances can’t be moved instantly.
Guarda – Best for Education & Multi-Platform Access
- Assets supported: 300+
- Cold storage conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Guarda is a versatile, non-custodial wallet available as a mobile app, desktop client, and browser extension. It supports over 300 cryptocurrencies and integrates with Ledger for cold storage backup.
What sets Guarda apart is its rich library of educational content—ideal for newcomers learning about blockchain basics, staking rewards, or wallet safety.
It also offers built-in staking options for popular coins like ADA and DOT, helping users earn passive income directly from their wallet.
Other Leading Hot Wallets to Consider
Exodus
- Assets supported: 250+
- Cold storage conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Exodus combines an intuitive interface with powerful tools, including a desktop app, mobile app, and browser extension. Its integration with Trezor hardware wallets allows smooth transitions from hot to cold storage.
The wallet also features an in-app exchange and staking services, along with beginner-friendly guides and tutorials.
Trust Wallet
- Assets supported: Over 10 million digital assets across 100+ blockchains
- Cold storage conversion: Yes (via Ledger browser extension)
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
As the official wallet of Binance, Trust Wallet offers direct access to one of the largest crypto ecosystems. It supports an enormous range of tokens—though this number includes many obscure or defunct projects.
Despite lacking a full public list of supported coins, its broad blockchain coverage ensures compatibility with most modern cryptocurrencies and dApps.
👉 See how top wallets integrate with major blockchain networks.
Coinbase Wallet
- Assets supported: Thousands
- Cold storage conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Separate from the Coinbase exchange, this non-custodial wallet gives users full control over their private keys. It’s an excellent entry point for those already familiar with Coinbase’s platform.
With mobile and browser-based access to dApps and NFTs, it’s well-suited for Web3 exploration—even though it lacks a standalone desktop app.
MetaMask
- Assets supported: 650,000+ (ERC-20 compatible)
- Cold storage conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
MetaMask remains the go-to wallet for Ethereum enthusiasts. As a browser extension and mobile app, it connects effortlessly to thousands of Web3 applications on Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains.
Users can manually add unsupported tokens and access staking through MetaMask Portfolio. It also pairs with Ledger and Trezor devices.
But if you're not focused on Ethereum-based assets, MetaMask’s utility diminishes significantly.
🧊 Best Cold Crypto Wallets for Secure Storage
Cold wallets provide maximum protection by keeping private keys offline. Though they require an upfront purchase, they’re worth it for long-term investors holding significant value.
Ledger – Most Trusted Hardware Wallet
- Assets supported: 5,500+
- Online conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Ledger leads the cold wallet market with robust security features, including secure chip technology and two-factor authentication. Its suite includes a mobile app, desktop software, and browser extension.
Compatible with popular hot wallets like Guarda and Crypto.com, Ledger lets you manage your portfolio across platforms while keeping keys offline.
Prices range from $79 to $399 depending on model and features.
Trezor – Premium Build & Built-In Services
- Assets supported: 9,000+
- Online conversion: Yes
- Staking/DeFi support: Yes
Trezor offers high-end hardware with models starting at $49 (Model One) and advanced versions at $169 featuring touchscreens.
It supports staking, crypto purchases, and integrates with Exodus and other software wallets. The absence of Bluetooth is intentional—Trezor prioritizes security over convenience by minimizing attack vectors.
While it lacks native mobile apps beyond Trezor Suite Lite, its desktop experience is polished and user-friendly.
How We Evaluate Crypto Wallets
Our assessment considers over 15 criteria:
- Number of supported cryptocurrencies
- Security architecture (e.g., MPC, seed phrase backup)
- Cross-platform availability
- Integration with DeFi and staking
- Ease of use and customer education
- Hardware compatibility
- Recovery options
Each wallet is rated on a scale from poor (1 star) to excellent (5 stars), ensuring transparent and independent recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the difference between hot and cold crypto wallets?
A: Hot wallets are connected to the internet and ideal for frequent transactions. Cold wallets are offline hardware devices offering superior security for long-term storage.
Q: Are non-custodial wallets safer than exchange accounts?
A: Non-custodial wallets give you full control over your private keys, reducing reliance on third parties. However, they require responsible management—loss of keys means permanent loss of funds.
Q: Can I recover my crypto if I lose my wallet?
A: For hot wallets, recovery is often possible via email or account reset. For cold wallets, you can restore access using your 12- or 24-word recovery phrase on a new device.
Q: Do any wallets support both DeFi and NFTs?
A: Yes—most top hot wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet support NFT storage and DeFi interactions across major blockchains.
Q: Is it safe to store large amounts in a hot wallet?
A: Not recommended. Hot wallets are more vulnerable to hacking. For significant holdings, use a cold wallet or split assets between hot (for spending) and cold (for saving).
Q: Can I stake crypto directly from my wallet?
A: Many modern wallets—including Zengo, Guarda, and Ledger—offer built-in staking features that let you earn rewards without transferring funds elsewhere.
👉 Start securing your digital assets with advanced wallet solutions today.
Whether you're building a diversified crypto portfolio or diving into DeFi and NFTs, selecting the right wallet is your first step toward financial sovereignty. Prioritize security, compatibility, and ease of use—and remember: not your keys, not your crypto.