Recently, there have been growing concerns about Ledger’s security, especially regarding its cloud-based recovery feature.
This particular incident has made a lot of crypto investors rethink where to store their crypto and, especially, their seed phrases.
Trusting a hardware wallet depends on its transparency, being truly offline, and freedom from proprietary apps or firmware.
If you value privacy and control, you need an air-gapped, open-source, and tamper-proof cold wallet.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Ledger alternatives in 2025, comparing leading hardware wallets across a variety of categories.
Why Look for a Ledger Alternative?
Ledger was the gold standard in hardware wallets for security.
But then, when Ledger announced its Ledger Recover feature, something changed.
From Trust to Doubt: What Changed with Ledger
Ledger Recover was marketed as a “convenient” backup solution, giving you the ability to store seed phrases with third-party custodians.
This immediately raised red flags across the crypto community, as this new feature required firmware updates to provide key sharding.
In theory, key sharding was thought to be impossible, as Ledger claimed that users’ private keys could never leave the device.
But with this elective, paid-by-subscription feature, Ledger takes your seed phrase and splits it into three pieces.
Apart from firmware concerns, Ledger’s closed-source codebase, increasing KYC regulations, and cloud-based features have created distrust for many users.
🛡️ What You Really Want in a Hardware Wallet |
|---|
| Offline storage (air-gapped): Completely removes online attack vectors. QR code and MicroSD-based signing are preferred. |
| No backdoors or hidden processes: Hardware wallets must offer full transparency with open-source firmware and no hidden access. |
| No forced firmware updates via proprietary apps: Independence from cloud-connected ecosystems that add risk. |
| Tamper-proof physical design: Secure chips, epoxy-filled casings, and tamper-evident packaging. |
| Ease of use for non-technical users: To support broader adoption, security must be paired with an intuitive design and simple setup. |
What to Look For in a Ledger Alternative
1️⃣ Fully Offline by Design (No USB or Bluetooth)
Unlike USB- or Bluetooth-connected wallets, which are vulnerable to malware, air-gapped wallets never connect to a networked device.
Instead, they use QR code signing to transfer transactions.
This eliminates the potential exposure to online threats.
2️⃣ No Forced Apps or Hidden Code
A trustworthy wallet should avoid proprietary apps and support open-source tools.
With verifiable firmware, you remain in full control.
No forced updates and no closed systems.
3️⃣ Tamper-Proof, Transparent Hardware
The best Ledger alternatives are open-source and independently auditable hardware.
Top 5 Ledger Alternatives for 2025
If you are looking for a Ledger alternative in 2025, then these five wallets are good options.
They provide stronger offline security, greater transparency, and more user control.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, one of these options is likely a better fit for your needs.
Material Bitcoin (Standard & Shadow Editions + Material DIY)
Material Bitcoin is a 100% offline cold wallet that is made entirely of stainless steel.
It has tamper-evident security features, with no electronic components, making it immune to digital attacks.
It’s the perfect solution and ideal for long-term storage or inheritance.
Paired with the Material DIY seed phrase wallet, both your private keys and recovery phrase are protected offline and in your control.
✅ Pros |
⚠️Cons |
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🔐 Key Features
- Completely offline
- Privacy-conscious cold storage
- Resistant to physical damage (waterproof and fireproof)
🎯 Best For
- Long-term holders, families securing inheritance, and ultra-high security users
Coldcard Mk4
This is a Bitcoin-only hardware wallet with advanced features.
It’s a favorite among tech-savvy users as it has intricate encryption, transparent firmware, and a lack of wireless connectivity.
✅ Pros |
⚠️ Cons |
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🔐 Key Features
- PSBT over MicroSD
- PIN & anti-phishing protections
- Supports multisig setups
🎯 Best For
- Advanced users
Keystone Pro
Keystone Pro is an air-gapped wallet that uses QR code scanning for signing transactions.
With a color touchscreen and open-source firmware, it is easy to use on the go while also providing security.
✅ Pros |
⚠️ Cons |
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🔐 Key Features
- Open-source firmware
- Biometric authentication
- 4-inch touchscreen
🎯 Best For
- Intermediate users who want privacy and usability
BitBox02
BitBox02 is a compact, Swiss-made hardware wallet that is fully open-source.
It has an intuitive setup with a minimalist design.
The wallet connects via USB; it is not fully air-gapped but is trusted for daily use.
✅ Pros |
⚠️ Cons |
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🔐 Key Features
- Touch sensor interface
- Backup via MicroSD
🎯 Best For
- Minimalists who want a balance of ease and security
Arculus Wallet
Arculus is a sleek, card-shaped wallet that uses NFC (tap-to-sign) technology with a companion mobile app.
We have to emphasize that this wallet is not open-source but is a good, secure option for portability and quick access.
✅ Pros |
⚠️ Cons |
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🔐 Key Features
- EAL6+ secure element
- Multi-asset support
- PIN-based access
🎯 Best For
- Mobile users and travelers who want convenience with decent cold storage security
Comparison Table: Security, Privacy & Usability
| Wallet | Air-Gapped | Open Source | App-Free | Beginner-Friendly | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material Bitcoin | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Long-term holders, inheritance, and families |
| Coldcard Mk4 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | Tech-savvy users, privacy purists |
| Keystone Pro | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Privacy-focused users with some experience |
| BitBox02 | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | Minimalists wanting ease and security |
| Arculus Wallet | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | Mobile-first users, on-the-go cold storage |
Which Wallet Is Best for You?
Choosing the right wallet depends on your experience level, security needs, and how you plan to use your crypto.
For Beginners
Recommended: Material Bitcoin Standard, or BitBox02
If you’re new to crypto, simplicity is best.
These wallets have a straightforward setup and easy recovery options, with no apps or complex settings to worry about.
For Advanced Users
Recommended: Coldcard Mk4, or Keystone Pro
These wallets let you sign transactions offline with no Bluetooth or cloud services involved. They offer more advanced features and usability options.
For Long-Term Holders and Families
Recommended: Material Bitcoin SHADOW
If your focus is on safe, long-term storage or passing down assets.
The Material Bitcoin Shadow wallet gives you strong physical protection, backup options, and security protection for two family members.
👉 Still not sure where to start?
Take our 1-minute Wallet Match Test to find which option suits your security needs, experience level, and investment profile best.
Why Ledger Isn’t the Only Option Anymore
Ledger may have once led the hardware wallet space, and although it’s still a good hardware wallet option, its shift toward cloud-based features and reliance on third parties has left users rethinking their security.
Alternatives exist that prioritize offline storage and 100% self-custody of your private keys and seed phrase.
Using a separate seed phrase backup wallet alongside Ledger is also a smart option.
No matter your choice, just make sure it aligns with your needs and crypto goals.
FAQs
What happened with Ledger that caused concern?
- Ledger introduced a feature called “Ledger Recover” that allowed seed phrase backups with third-party providers. This caused firmware changes that many users thought of as a breach of trust.
What if I lose my crypto wallet?
- As long as you have your 12- or 24-word recovery phrase backed up, preferably on a metal backup wallet, you can recover your funds.
How do I send BTC without an app?
- Air-gapped wallets like Coldcard, Keystone, and Material Bitcoin use QR codes or MicroSD cards to sign transactions.
Can I set this up without any crypto knowledge?
- Yes. Wallets like Material Bitcoin are beginner-friendly and come with clear guides to help you set up and secure your crypto safely.
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