Top 5 crypto wallets in 2024

crypto wallets review

Overview of Self-Custody Wallets

DeFi wallets make decentralization of funds possible which means funds are not controlled by central authority. Users have full control over their private keys and manage their funds. Unlike custodial wallet which is integrated into crypto exchange and do not give access to private keys, self-custody wallet is not integrated into any trading platform. You can use such wallet on any DeFi platform like NFT marketplaces, and DEXs.

In the recent years, multi-chain functionality has also become popular feature of crypto wallets. Multi-chain wallets allow users to manage cryptocurrencies from different blockchains in a single interface. In this review, we explore features and reliability of top 5 multi-chain wallets.

Choosing the Best Wallet

The DeFi wallets are web-based wallets connected to internet. Without robust security measures, they can be hacked. That’s why researching about security measures like encryption technologies, multi-signature support and network security of wallet providers is necessary to ensure you choose a reliable wallet. The supported crypto assets, multi-chain functionality, user-friendliness, DeFi integration and reputation are other important factors to consider when choosing a crypto wallet. Here are the top 5 multi-chain wallets:

  1. Trust Wallet

Trust wallet is one of the most popular crypto wallets with multi-chain access. Mobile app is also available so users can manage their assets from their smartphone. The reason we consider this as the top wallet is its vast blockchain support. Trust wallet supports 250,000 cryptocurrencies across 65 blockchains. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use for beginners. Users can manage their assets through a single interface.

You can send, receive, swap and stake wide range of coins and tokens. Another interesting feature is the ability to view and manage NFTs. Initially, this wallet was developed by Trust Wallet B.V but later acquired by Binance. Company utilizes strong encryption, security audits, monitoring systems, and bug bounty program to maintain the wallet security. Overall, it is a very good option for new and experienced traders.

  • MetaMask

It is a popular multi-chain wallet used to manage crypto assets. It mainly supports EVM-compatible blockchains like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain and other networks. It is available as browser extension and mobile app. It provides access to wide range of Ethereum-based tokens and staking service. Its user-interface is more technical than beginner-friendly.

Metamask has also publicly revealed the security audit reports by security experts which proves its dedication to the security of platform. Moreover, it can also be integrated with hardware wallets which can further enhance security. Metamask is a good option for those who want to manage Ethereum-based tokens.

  • Coinbase wallet

It is a reliable crypto wallet developed by Coinbase company. It supports wide range of cryptocurrencies and provides access to decentralized applications. Its user-friendly interface makes it a good option for beginners. Its industry-leading security also makes it a reliable wallet. The prominent feature is its integration with Coinbase exchange which allows users to transfer funds to the exchange for trading. Beginners can also use the educational material provided by the Coinbase specifically about the wallet’s functionality.

For transactions, users pay the network fees which can vary depending on network congestion. Moreover, despite being self-custodial wallet allowing users the full control over their private keys, its still managed by centralized company which may be subject to regulatory compliance.

  • Crypto.com wallet

It is another popular wallet developed by crypto.com. Users who trade crypto on crypto.com can use this wallet for storing and transferring assets. This wallet also provides access to many decentralized applications and support NFTs. It supports 36 blockchains and 700 tokens. It can be considered one of the top wallets with diverse blockchain support. Being integrated with crypto.com exchange, users can easily transfer funds between exchange and wallet allowing them to benefit from centralized services of the exchange.

When using this wallet, you have the option to choose preferred network fee and confirmation speed. If you are a crypto.com trader, this wallet would be a good option.

  • Gemini wallet

It is a beginner-friendly crypto wallet that enables users to manage their assets. Users can store, withdraw and swap coins easily. This wallet was developed by Gemini which also operates crypto exchange. It supports over 100 cryptocurrencies and provides staking service. Users can stake coins to earn rewards while also having the ability to manage these assets. This wallet supports 8 blockchains and is considered very secure. Gemini traders can use this wallet for trading crypto while also taking advantage of high-security standards of Gemini. The intuitive user interface makes it very easy to use which is its top feature.

How to set up crypto wallet?

crypto wallet

Overview of Crypto Wallets

Hosted wallets or hot wallets are blockchain-based applications in which you store your crypto and you can transfer these assets to any other crypto application. These are user-friendly applications that utilize blockchain technology and can be used for various purposes. One unique feature is that they are versatile. If crypto investors want to participate in airdrops, trade NFTs or transfer crypto to any person, they can use dedicated wallets.

These wallets are connected to internet and their security relies on infrastructure and security measures taken by the wallet provider. That’s why, always choose reliable and reputed wallet provider. Though these wallets are not immune to hacks because they are connected to internet.

Top Reliable Crypto Wallets

In crypto exchanges, if you put crypto in your account, these crypto assets are actually stored in custodial wallets integrated into crypto exchange. Separate web3 wallets are better for storing crypto if you want to utilize crypto for multiple purposes rather than trading. For example, if you want to trade NFTs, or utilize crypto for other purposes, you need to set up a hosted wallet.

  1. MetaMask

It is one of the most reliable crypto wallets that supports ETH coin and tokens built on Ethereum blockchain. MetaMask was developed by ConsenSys, a blockchain software company. The interesting thing about this wallet is that, it supports wide range of ETH-based tokens. This wallet does not support staking. But if you want to trade NFTs, MetaMask would be a good option for you.

  • Coinbase wallet

It is a web3 wallet provided by Coinbase for storing crypto and NFTs. This wallet is considered a very secure and reliable wallet. It supports diverse range of coins and tokens not limited to ETH-based tokens. Most importantly, this wallet is a self-custodial wallet which means you have complete control over your private keys just like MetaMask.

  • Crypto.com Wallet

This is another self-custodial wallet provided by Crypto.com. Being a DeFi wallet, it supports wide range of coins and tokens. Despite the fact that it is self-custodial wallet, it is integrated with Crypto.com services. You can also deposit NFTs on it. It is one of the most reliable crypto wallets.

Complete Process to Set Up Wallet

With a crypto wallet, you can transfer crypto assets to anyone and also access various DeFi services. Being a blockchain-based application, this wallet directly interacts with blockchains. Which means you can transfer your assets to any other DeFi application using these wallets.

Once you have selected a reliable wallet provider, next step is to download the wallet for PC or android. Also ensure you download it from legitimate site of provider and not from a fake similar-looking website. Double-check the URL of the site from where you download it. Hackers often create fake wallets to access users’ funds.

In next step, create account by filling information like name, email, and password. Some wallets also require identity verification where you may need to submit picture of your government-issued ID card.

Finally, you can transfer crypto assets to your wallet. Though, you can also transfer fiat to it using bank payment or debit/credit card and then convert them into crypto. You can also transfer crypto from other platforms. Once, you have assets in your wallet, now you also have to keep your private key or seed phrase safe. This key is necessary to access your crypto.

Conclusion

Crypto wallets are blockchain-based applications built for storing crypto. They enable transfer of crypto to any DeFi application like staking platforms or decentralized exchanges. These wallets also enable trading of NFTs. Because these wallets are self-custodial, you have to take care of the private keys of the wallet to keep your funds safe. It is important to ensure, you always choose wallet from reliable providers so you can be rest-assured your assets are safe.