Looking for the best non-custodial wallet for trading, staking, or HODLing? There are dozens to choose from, so how do you know which one’s best for your needs? Researching every non-custodial wallet out there can be confusing and time-consuming, especially if you’re new to crypto.
We’re here to help. We’ve done the research to bring you a curated list of the seven best non-custodial wallets available today. Whether you prioritize top-notch security, beginner-friendly design, multichain support, or access to DeFi and NFTs, we’ve got you covered.
Our top picks include trusted names like Best Wallet, Zengo, and Cypherock, as well as other standout non-custodial wallets that offer powerful features for both casual users and serious crypto traders.
Overview – Our Top Picks of The Best Non-Custodial Wallets in 2025
Before we dive into our in-depth review of each wallet, here’s an overview of our top picks for the best non-custodial wallets.
Best Wallet | All-in-one crypto security and staking with seamless multichain support |
Zengo | Seedless recovery and biometric security for effortless self-custody |
Cypherock | Failproof key management with shard-based recovery for ultimate resilience |
Ledger | Trusted cold storage with vast crypto compatibility for dependable long-term safety |
Tangem | Portable simplicity with NFC card access for convenient everyday use |
Ellipal | World’s first air-gapped cold wallet with EAL 5+ certified chip |
Trezor | Open-source reliability with offline key security for transparent peace of mind |
What is a Non-Custodial Wallet?
A non-custodial wallet is a type of crypto wallet where only you hold the private keys – and therefore have full control – over your cryptocurrency.
Unlike custodial wallets, no third party (like an exchange or wallet provider) can access or freeze your funds. This makes non-custodial wallets a popular choice for users who value privacy, security, and financial sovereignty.
Cold wallets are generally less convenient for trading but great for HODLing. Hot wallets are more convenient for frequent transactions, but they also carry a higher risk from hackers.
Custodial vs Non-Custodial Wallet – What’s the Difference?
The key difference between custodial and non-custodial wallets lies in who holds the private keys.
Custodial wallets are managed by a third party. While convenient, this setup means you don’t technically own your crypto, as you rely on the custodian to grant access. If the provider is hacked, shut down, or mismanages your funds, your assets could be at risk.
Most traders prefer a non-custodial wallet because they see it as a more secure option. However, you do need to remember to take care of your security keys. If you lose these, you also lose access to your wallet.
In the table below, we’ll look at non-custodial vs custodial wallets and some of their key differences.
Non-Custodial Wallet | Custodial Wallet | |
---|---|---|
Ease of use | Some technical knowledge and self-management required (for example, generating and storing seed phrases) | No setup is needed, making these more beginner-friendly |
Control over assets | The user retains control over assets | A third party controls your assets |
Security | More secure (resistant to exchange hacks) | Considered less secure (vulnerable to platform breaches) |
Privacy | More private as know-your-customer (KYC) checks are often not needed for basic transactions | Less private as often requires KYC checks, and a third party holds your keys |
Backup and recovery | The user is fully responsible | Managed by the provider |
Verdict – Best for | Long-term HODLing, DeFi, and privacy-focused users | Frequent traders or beginners |
Reviewed & Analyzed – Best Non-Custodial Crypto Wallets Today
Finding the best non-custodial wallet for your needs doesn’t have to mean spending days, weeks, or months researching the best options. Here’s an in-depth review of each non-custodial wallet that made our list.
We’ve looked at everything from which crypto each wallet supports to compatible platforms, staking, security features, and more.
1. Best Wallet – All-in-One Crypto Security and Staking With Seamless Multichain Support
- Wallet type: Hot wallet
- Crypto support: Over 1K across multiple chains
- Compatible platforms: Android, iOS
Best Wallet stands out as the best non-custodial wallet for Bitcoin and altcoin holders who want to earn passive income while keeping full control of their crypto. With support for over 1K digital assets across several chains, it’s an ideal all-in-one wallet for traders and long-term investors alike.
As a non-custodial wallet, Best Wallet ensures you retain full ownership of your private keys, which are securely encrypted and stored on your device, with security features including biometrics (face or fingerprint), two-factor authentication (2FA) for added login protection, and encrypted backups that sync with iCloud or Google Drive.
Importantly, even if a hacker gets hold of your recovery file, they cannot access your funds without your biometric data and email verification, making unauthorized access extremely difficult.
It’s important to note that though you can no longer buy, sell, or swap crypto directly on the platform, you can do so via integrated third-party exchanges. Best Wallet is currently only available on iOS and Android, and the app lets you buy, sell, store, swap, and stake thousands of assets across all popular networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, all from one interface, wherever you are.
It’s also the only cryptocurrency wallet that gives you access to the best crypto presales before they launch on exchanges. It also has a native token, Best Wallet Token ($BEST), currently on presale. Buying $BEST unlocks exclusive rewards, for example, lower transactions and greater staking APY.
Best Wallet is especially great for long-term holders (HODLers). There are no fees for receiving or storing assets, making it a cost-effective option for those looking to park their crypto securely. Network and processor fees apply when transferring crypto, but these fees are standard and not changed by Best Wallet itself.
If you’re looking for the best non-custodial crypto wallet, Best Wallet is a popular option to manage your assets on the go, with plenty of security features to keep your funds safe. Our Best Wallet review discusses its features in-depth if you’re interested in learning more.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL BEST WALLET WEBSITE TODAY
2. Zengo – Seedless Recovery and Biometric Security for Effortless Self-Custody
- Wallet type: Hot wallet
- Crypto support: 380+ across six blockchains
- Compatible platforms: Android, iOS, desktop
Zengo stands out for its unique approach to wallet security. Rather than relying on traditional seed phrases, Zengo leverages multi-party computation (MPC) to eliminate any single point of failure — making it one of the safest hot wallets for HODLers and active users alike.
Instead of storing a private key in one place, Zengo splits it into two ‘shares:’
- One is securely stored on your device
- The other lives on Zengo’s encrypted servers
To breach your wallet, a hacker would need to compromise both — and also pass 3D biometric verification and email authentication.
There are numerous reasons why users love Zengo. For starters, there are no recovery phrases or passwords to remember, and it’s free to use on iOS, Android, or desktop.
The wallet also supports 380+ cryptocurrencies, and you can send and receive funds for free, although fees apply when trading.
It’s free to use the app, or you can sign up for Zengo Pro at $9.99 per month to access additional features such as priority support and discounted trading. You also benefit from Legacy Transfer, which lets you pass assets to family/friends if something happens to you.
Though Zengo is a great choice for HODLing long-term crypto investments, you can also buy, sell, and stake your crypto via the app or desktop site, with staking options including Ethereum ($ETH) and Tezos ($XTZ) for earning passive income. The platform also supports fiat payments via various payment methods, including credit and debit cards and Apple/Google Pay.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL ZENGO WEBSITE TODAY
3. Cypherock – Failproof Key Management With Shard-Based Recovery for Ultimate Resilience
- Wallet type: Cold wallet
- Crypto support: 9K+
- Compatible platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux (Android and iOS coming soon)
Cypherock is a durable, non-custodial hardware wallet with a tamper-resistant case and a built-in Faraday cage to shield it from electromagnetic signals – a feature few other wallets offer. Weighing just 200 g and measuring only 6.4 cm x 3 cm x 1.5 cm, it’s perfectly portable, making it great for frequent travelers who want to keep their assets with them at all times.
The wallet uses Shamir’s Secret Sharing (SSS) to split your private keys into five encrypted parts across one X1 vault and four NFC-enabled X1 smart cards, each with EAL6+ certified secure elements. You only need a combination of any two out of the five shares to sign transactions, so you can store them in geographically spread locations.
The method eliminates a single point of failure, for example, losing your key. Making a transaction is as simple as tapping one of the cards on the X1 vault.
For those unaware, EAL (Evaluation Assurance Level) is a global security benchmark used to assess tech products. Ratings range from EAL1 (basic security) to EAL7 (ultra-secure, military-grade protection). Cypherock’s EAL6+ rating is equivalent to bank-grade security, making it one of the most secure crypto wallets available.
Cypherock is also completely open source. Developers worldwide can review the code on Git Hub and help identify any potential vulnerabilities, ensuring security patches are deployed fast.
Cypherock is also compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux computers, with USB-C connectivity for ease of use. Plus, we can expect Android and iOS device support soon.
Its minimalist design features an OLED display, so you can clearly see your transactions, and a five-way joystick to easily navigate between them. However, as with most hardware wallets, there’s a greater upfront investment than with software wallets. The device will set you back $190. However, we think it’s a premium device, and the advanced architecture justifies the cost.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL CYPHEROCK WEBSITE TODAY
4. Ledger – Trusted Cold Storage with Vast Crypto Compatibility for Dependable Long-Term Safety
- Wallet type: Cold wallet
- Crypto support: 5.5K+ across 10+ chains
- Compatible platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
The Ledger wallet lineup includes four devices, from the entry-level Nano S Plus to the luxurious Ledger Stax with its curved E-ink touchscreen. These easy-to-use hardware wallets allow you to buy, swap, or stake over 5.5K assets through third-party exchanges via the Ledger Live app on Android devices or computers running Windows or macOS.
Aside from portability, security is another reason to choose a Ledger wallet. Each wallet uses Ledger’s custom Blockchain Open Ledger operating system (BOLOS) to prevent vulnerabilities. There’s also a tamper-proof Secure Element Chip, which stores private keys offline to reduce hacking risk. You also have MFA and passkey support via the Security Key app.
Though the Ledger Stax is more expensive than some other hardware wallets from competitors such as Cypherock and Ellipal, you can grab Ledger’s entry-level Nano S Plus for just $79. It’s a good starting point for beginners, though you don’t get the e-ink touchscreen.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL LEDGER WEBSITE TODAY
5. Tangem – Portable Simplicity with NFC Card Access for Convenient Everyday Use
- Wallet type: Cold wallet
- Crypto support: 6K+ on Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRPL, Solana, BNB, and other networks
- Compatible platforms: Android, iOS
Shaped like a credit card, Tangem is a perfectly portable cold wallet – just slip it into a pocket for trading while traveling. It stores your private keys offline in the card’s certified microchip to ensure they’re not at risk from hackers, with biometric authentication and 2FA.
Although it doesn’t have a touchscreen display, transacting couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is tap the card against your phone. Tangem pairs with its open-source Android and iOS app, but there’s no desktop support.
Tangem supports 6K+ cryptocurrencies, with WalletConnect integration for trading, buying, and swapping crypto, plus NFC for speedy communication.
This is one of the more intuitive hardware wallets out there, which makes it a great choice for those new to crypto. It’s affordably priced, starting at $70, and comes with a 25-year warranty should anything go wrong.
With its competitive pricing, this lightweight, secure hardware wallet is an excellent choice for crypto beginners or anyone looking for a cold wallet that doesn’t break the budget.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL TANGEM WEBSITE TODAY
6. Ellipal – World’s First Air-Gapped Cold Wallet With EAL 5+ Certified Chip
- Wallet type: Cold wallet
- Crypto support: 10K+ on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and others
- Compatible platforms: Android, iOS
For those looking for the best non-custodial wallet for HODLing, Ellipal is well worth considering. It is the world’s first air-gapped cold wallet, which means it never connects to the internet or other devices via USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Think of it as a ‘physical gap’ in communication that makes it practically immune to attacks.
Private keys are stored entirely offline, and it also packs a CC EAL5+ certified chip, a hidden secondary wallet, and features 2FA with your PIN or password and QR code verification via the Android or iOS app. There’s no desktop support, though.
Ellipal devices support over 10K cryptocurrencies, including all the most popular assets, and have WalletConnect integration for trading.
While chunkier than some credit card-sized competitors like Tangem, Ellipal wallets make up for this with unique, real-world security protection. A self-destruct feature wipes your data if someone steals your device and tries to break the metal seal. Just don’t forget to store your seed phrase somewhere safe. You’ll need to use it on a compatible wallet to regain access to your funds!
There are three Ellipal devices on the market, from the $99 Titan Mini to the Titan and Titan 2.0, which costs around $169. All have a color touchscreen, making trading and managing your crypto a cinch. However, you’ll need to remember to charge the battery.
Ellipal is a great option for long-term asset storage, particularly if you’re serious about security.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL ELLIPAL WEBSITE TODAY
7. Trezor – Open-Source Reliability with Offline Key Security for Transparent Peace of Mind
- Wallet type: Cold wallet
- Crypto support: 9K+ across multiple chains
- Compatible platforms: Android (via USB or Trezor Suite), iOS (via Trezor Suite Lite), macOS or Windows (via USB)
Trezor wallets have long been the go-to for crypto holders who value open-source transparency. Every line of code is publicly available, so developers anywhere can help spot potential vulnerabilities, meaning they can be patched before they are exploited.
There are three Trezor devices, from the entry-level Trezor Model One ($49) to the Trezor Safe 3 ($79) and the top-of-the-line Trezor Safe 5 ($169). Only the top-end model has a 1.54-inch color touchscreen, while the other two devices have a smaller monochromatic display.
Security is top-notch across the lineup. You can set a customizable PIN of up to 50 digits, and both the Safe 3 and Safe 5 models come with bank-grade EAL6+ security. All the devices also have tamper-evident casing for real-world protection.
There are various backup and recovery options, with the Trezor Safe 5 offering a 20-word standard wallet backup to protect your assets.
Speaking of assets, Trezor can support over 9K cryptocurrencies in total, either natively through Trezor Suite or through third-party wallets.
While Trezor doesn’t offer built-in NFT management or native staking, it integrates with platforms like Exodus and offers crypto purchases and staking via software products. The Trezor Suite Lite app for Windows, macOS, and Linux computers and Android devices makes it easy to manage your portfolio. There’s also an iOS app, but this is currently view-only.
Trezor devices are compact and travel-friendly. The Safe 3 and Safe 5 models feature USB-C charging, while the entry-level Model One uses micro-USB charging, which may be less convenient depending on what chargers you have at home.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL TREZOR WEBSITE TODAY
How We Chose The Best Non-Custodial Wallets
We know it can be hard to choose the best non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet – especially with so many options out there. That’s why we carefully evaluated each wallet across several key factors – from security measures and backup options to platform compatibility, crypto support, and accessibility – to bring you this list of the most reliable and user-friendly picks. We’ll share these below.
Security measures
We prioritized wallets with an excellent reputation for security, which is great for HODLing. We looked for features such as 2FA, biometrics, backup and recovery options (in case you forget your seed phrase and private keys), plus EAL5+ or EAL6 certified security. You’ll find these features in wallets like Ellipal, with its real-world protection, and Ledger, with its Secure Element Chip to protect your private keys.
Cross-platform compatibility
Most wallets we chose work across multiple platforms. Some have Android, iOS, and desktop apps. Others have mobile apps only. Whether you prefer mobile or desktop, there’s likely a wallet here that fits your workflow. Those that aren’t yet available on multiple platforms have updates on the way.
Integrations
We favored wallets that integrate smoothly with decentralized apps and services – whether it’s for trading, staking, or connecting to NFT marketplaces via WalletConnect or similar tools.
Crypto support
Whether you prefer Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, or newer altcoins, our top wallets support thousands of tokens so you can manage your portfolio in one place.
Ease of use
Where possible, we tried to choose wallets that are intuitive and don’t offer a steep learning curve. Wallets like Ledger and Tangem stood out for making self-custody more approachable for new users.
Price
We tried to include options to suit all budgets list, from free software wallets like Best Wallet to premium hardware devices like Trezor and Cypherock. Whether you’re just starting out or building a serious long-term cold storage setup, there should be something for all price points for users.
Should You Use a Non-Custodial Wallet? – Pros and Cons
Non-custodial wallets give you full control over your crypto, but with great power comes great responsibility. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide if self-custody is right for you.
Non-Custodial Wallet Pros:
- Full control over your keys and assets: You retain control over your private keys and, therefore, your assets without any third-party involvement or risks.
- Protection against hacking: Retaining control of your private keys and wallet protects you from hackers.
- Offline accessibility: Cold wallets don’t require internet access to view your assets.
- Interaction with native DeFi apps: Direct access to DeFi apps directly from the wallet for trading, staking, and swaps, for example.
- Anonymity: No KYC or verification procedures are required for non-custodial wallets (though third-party exchanges may require these).
Non-Custodial Wallet Cons:
- Less intuitive: There can be more of a learning curve with some non-custodial wallets and less support compared to a custodial crypto exchange.
- More responsibility: Because you retain control of your private keys, you could lose access to your funds if you lose your seed phrase and private keys.
- Slower trading: Trading can be slower with cold wallets that rely on third-party decentralized exchanges.
Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own thorough research before choosing a non-custodial wallet.
How to Use a Crypto Wallet
Non-custodial wallets are designed to be easy to use, even for beginners, though the process varies slightly between hot and cold wallets. Below, we’ll take you through how to set up Best Wallet, our top non-custodial wallet that’s beginner-friendly and simple to get started with.
1. Download the Best Wallet App
Download the official Best Wallet iOS or Android app by clicking the link on the Best Wallet website home page.
2. Set Up Your Account
First, you’ll need to enter your email address. Best Wallet will send you a verification code via email, which you need to enter to proceed.
3. Set Up Security Features
The app will ask you to choose a four-digit passcode that you’ll use to log in to your account. Don’t choose anything that’s easy to guess, like your date of birth.
Then, you’ll need to set up 2FA on your device. You can also enable biometrics in the app settings so you can log in via a face scan or your fingerprint.
Best Wallet will generate a 12-word backup phrase, which will display on your device. Make sure you note it down and keep it somewhere safe, as you’ll need it to recover your account if you forget your PIN or lose your phone. Don’t share this with anyone or write it down so that someone can easily find it.
4. Add Funds to Your Wallet
You can deposit crypto from an external wallet or buy cryptocurrency with fiat. Here’s how to transfer funds from an external wallet:
- Select the cryptocurrency you want to deposit to get its unique wallet address.
- Copy the address or scan the QR code.
- Transfer funds from your external wallet or exchange to this address.
And here’s how to buy crypto with fiat money:
- Click ‘Trade > Buy.’
- Choose the crypto you want to purchase (for example, Ethereum).
- Select your payment method, amount, and currency.
- Confirm your purchase and enter your payment details.
Crypto deposits can take up to 10 minutes to appear in Best Wallet.
Summing Up Our Guide to the Best Self-Custodial Wallets
If you’re looking for the best non-custodial wallet in 2025, we hope this guide has helped you find the right wallet for your HODLing and trading needs.
Because choosing the right wallet depends on what you need it for – long-term storage, daily use, DeFi access, or all three – there is no true ‘best’ option for everyone. Always check user reviews, ensure the wallet of your choice has top-notch security, and take time to check that the wallet you’re considering has all the features that are most important to you.
Please note that nothing in this article constitutes financial advice. Always conduct your own thorough research before choosing a non-custodial wallet.
FAQs
1. Which is the best self-custody crypto wallet for 2025?
We’ve chosen Best Wallet as our best non-custodial crypto wallet for 2025 thanks to its strong security, ease of use, and the ability to earn passive income. That doesn’t mean it will necessarily be the best choice for you, as every individual’s needs vary.
2. Is Best Wallet non-custodial?
Best Wallet is the best self-custodial wallet on our list. It allows you to retain control of your private keys, storing and encrypting them on your device. It also uses 2FA and biometrics to secure your account, with recovery files backed up to your Google Drive or iCloud account.
3. Are hot non-custodial wallets safe?
Yes, hot wallets like Best Wallet are safer than custodial wallets because you retain control of your keys. However, cold wallets are still the best option for long-term storage. If you choose a hot wallet, go with one that includes advanced security like 2FA, biometrics, and backup protection.