Discover the most secure ways to
store Bitcoin
Compare wallets, learn best practices, and choose the right solution
for maximum privacy and protection.
Bitcoin: Digital Money That You Control
Bitcoin is a decentralized currency that exists without banks or governments. It's secure, borderless, and entirely yours to own
— if you protect your private keys.
Losing access to those keys means your Bitcoin is gone forever, with no way to recover it. That's why understanding secure storage is essential for every Bitcoin owner.
Custodial vs. Non-Custodial Wallets
A custodial wallet is one where a third party — such as an exchange or online service — holds your private keys for you. This means they control your funds, and you must trust them to keep your Bitcoin safe. If they get hacked, go offline, or freeze your account, you could lose access.
A non-custodial wallet puts you fully in control of your private keys. Only you can access your funds, and only you are responsible for keeping your keys secure.
| Feature | Custodial Wallet | Non-Custodial Wallet |
|---|---|---|
| Who controls the keys? | Third party (exchange, service provider) | You control your private keys |
| Security risk | Vulnerable to hacks, service shutdowns, and freezes | Only as secure as your backup & storage practices |
| Ease of use | Often simpler, but less control | Requires more responsibility, but full control |
| Access to funds | Can be restricted or lost if provider fails | Always available if you hold your keys |
| Recommendation | Not recommended for long-term storage | Recommended for true Bitcoin ownership |
We only recommend non-custodial wallets — because control over your Bitcoin means control over your future.
Online Convenience vs. Offline Security
Hot wallets are always online, making them incredibly quick and convenient for sending or receiving Bitcoin whenever you need it. They're ideal for everyday spending, trading, or moving funds in and out of exchanges. But that instant access comes with a trade-off: being connected to the internet leaves them more vulnerable to hacking attempts, phishing scams, and malicious software.
Cold wallets operate completely offline, storing your Bitcoin in a secure environment that's unreachable by hackers. Think of them as a high-security vault for your digital wealth — perfect for long-term storage and large balances. By keeping your private keys off the internet, you dramatically reduce the risk of theft. Many Bitcoin users choose a hybrid approach, keeping a small amount in a hot wallet for quick use and the rest in a cold wallet for maximum protection.
Hot Wallets
Fast, internet-connected wallets ideal for everyday Bitcoin transactions — perfect for spending, but less secure for long-term savings.
Learn MoreHardware Wallets
Specialized offline devices that keep your private keys safe, offering the highest level of protection for Bitcoin self-custody.
Learn MorePaper Wallets
A printed record of your Bitcoin keys, stored completely offline for simple, low-tech, and cost-effective long-term storage.
Learn MoreMetal Seed Storage
Durable metal backups for your recovery phrase, built to resist fire, water, corrosion, and the test of time.
Learn MoreExplore Our Bitcoin Articles & Guides
Explore our collection of simple, beginner-friendly Bitcoin guides. Learn about topics like how to choose a wallet for long-term storage, recovering wallets and understanding BIP standards, what the Lightning Network is, why Bitcoin stands apart from other cryptocurrencies, and even whether you can actually buy things with Bitcoin. Perfect for anyone curious to dive deeper without getting lost in technical jargon.
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