Trezor Hardware Wallet
Wallet Type
Cold Wallet
Supported Coins
Our Rating
Swap Fee
Trezor is a highly secure hardware wallet designed for storing cryptocurrency offline, protecting it from hacks and online threats. It is best suited for users who prioritize security over convenience.
The wallet is available in multiple models, including the Trezor Safe 5, Model T, Safe 3, and Model One, each offering different levels of security and features. The Shamir Backup feature helps users recover their assets even if the device is lost or stolen.
Trezor wallets range from $59 to over $200, with the Safe 5 and Model T offering the highest security.
Unlike Ledger wallets, Trezor lacks Bluetooth or mobile app support, making it less convenient for on-the-go users. It also does not have native staking or NFT management, requiring third-party software like Exodus or MetaMask for those functions.
Can I buy and sell crypto directly through Trezor?
Yes, Trezor Suite allows you to buy, sell, and swap crypto using integrated third-party services like MoonPay and Simplex. However, these providers may charge additional fees for transactions.
Does Trezor work with DeFi apps and NFTs?
Yes, but not natively. You need to connect Trezor to MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, or other third-party wallets to use DeFi platforms, interact with smart contracts, or manage NFTs.
How do I transfer crypto from an exchange to Trezor?
To transfer crypto, go to your exchange account, enter your Trezor wallet address, and withdraw funds. Always double-check the address and start with a small test transaction for safety.
Does Trezor require an internet connection?
No, Trezor itself does not connect to the internet. However, to make transactions or manage assets, you must connect it to Trezor Suite, which runs on an internet-connected device.
Can I use Trezor with a passphrase?
Yes, Trezor allows you to add a passphrase (an extra word on top of your recovery phrase). This creates a hidden wallet, adding another layer of security in case someone gets access to your recovery phrase.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Top-Tier Security & Cold Storage | No Mobile App or Bluetooth Support |
Supports 9,000+ Cryptocurrencies | No Native Staking or NFT Management |
Touchscreen & User-Friendly Design | Higher Price for Premium Models |
Open-Source & Transparent | No Recovery If You Lose Seed Phrase |
Tor Integration for Privacy | Limited Exchange & DeFi Integration |
Trezor Wallet Models: Key Differences
Trezor offers four main models: Trezor Safe 5, Model T, Safe 3, and Model One. Each varies in features, security, and price:
- Trezor Safe 5: The newest, most advanced, with a color touchscreen and the highest level of security.
- Trezor Safe 3: A strong balance of security and usability at a more affordable price.
- Trezor Model T: Offers a touchscreen for easier navigation and secure chip.
- Trezor Model One: The original, simplest, and most affordable option.
Trezor Safe 5 | Trezor Safe 3 | Trezor Model T | Trezor Model One | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Price
| $169 | $79 | $129 | $49 |
Interface | Touchscreen | Buttons | Touchscreen | Buttons |
Compatibility | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | Micro USB
|
Secure Chip | Yes (EAL6+) | Yes (EAL6+) | No | No |
Multi-share Backup | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Size (mm) | 65.9x40x8
| 59x32x7.4
| 64x39x10
| 60x30x6
|
Weight (g)
| 23
| 14
| 22
| 12
|
Best For
| Active crypto users, top security | Balanced security & features | Advanced users, convenience | Beginners, budget-conscious |
For maximum security, choose the Safe 5. If you want a touchscreen at a slightly lower price, go for the Model T. For budget-conscious users, the Safe 3 and Model One are solid choices.
What Cryptocurrencies & Other Assets Can You Store?
While all Trezor wallets support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, there are some differences, mainly due to the hardware limitations. You can check if your device supports each cryptocurrency here.
- Cryptocurrencies Supported by All Trezors
- Major Coins: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and many more.
- ERC-20 Tokens: All tokens built on the Ethereum blockchain are supported.
- Cryptocurrencies Supported by Trezor Safe 3, Safe 5, and Model T
These models have more memory and processing power, so they support a wider range of cryptocurrencies.
They also support BEP-20 tokens and other blockchain-based assets.
Trezor Model One has some limitations due to its memory. It doesn't support some newer coins that require more processing power, like:
- Cardano (ADA)
- Solana (SOL)
- XRP (Ripple)
- Stablecoins & NFTs
All Trezor wallets support popular stablecoins like USDT (Tether), USDC (USD Coin), and DAI, ensuring users can store digital dollars securely.
However, Trezor does not offer native NFT management. If you want to store or trade NFTs, you’ll need to connect Trezor to third-party wallets like MetaMask or Exodus.
For staking, only the Model T and Safe 5 allow it, but they also require third-party apps.
Main Features For Crypto Investors
Here are the key features that I found most appealing in Trezor wallets:
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Integration With Exchanges & DeFi: How Well Does Trezor Connect?
Trezor integrates with several exchanges and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, but it does not have direct access to major centralized exchanges like Binance or Coinbase.
Instead, users can trade crypto through Trezor Suite, which connects to third-party services for buying and swapping.
For DeFi users, Trezor works with:
- MetaMask & MyEtherWallet (to access DApps and decentralized exchanges like Uniswap).
- Exodus (for staking and additional asset management).
- Electrum & Wasabi Wallet (for Bitcoin privacy features).
Trezor’s open-source nature makes it highly compatible with many wallets and platforms, but users must rely on third-party software to interact with DeFi applications.
If you want seamless DeFi integration, other wallets like Ledger or hot wallets like MetaMask may offer a smoother experience.
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Non Custodial: Trezor Gives You Full Control
Trezor is a non-custodial hardware wallet, meaning you control your private keys at all times.
Unlike custodial wallets provided by exchanges (where they hold your assets), Trezor ensures that only you have access to your funds.
Why does this matter?
- Full control: No third party can freeze, restrict, or access your funds.
- No exchange risks: Unlike custodial wallets, your assets are not at risk if an exchange is hacked or goes bankrupt.
- Security responsibility: Because you hold the private keys, losing your recovery phrase means you could lose access to your funds permanently.
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Trezor Fees & Pricing Explained
Trezor does not charge any direct fees for using its hardware wallet, but customers need to buy the wallet and the price varied depend on your model:
Price | |
|---|---|
Trezor Safe 5
| $169 |
Trezor Model T | $129 |
Trezor Safe 3 | $79 |
Trezor Model One | $49 |
Trezor Safe 3 Bitcoin-only | $79 |
Trezor Safe 5 Bitcoin-only
| $169 |
Trezor does not charge extra fees for sending crypto, but network fees apply based on blockchain demand (for example, Ethereum gas fees).
You can customize fees within Trezor Suite to prioritize faster transactions or save on costs. Also, use of third party services has an additional cost:
- If you buy/sell crypto through Trezor Suite, the payment provider (like Simplex or MoonPay) may charge extra fees.
- Swaps and staking through third-party wallets may also have their own fees.
-
Security Features: How Trezor Protects Your Crypto
Trezor wallets are built with high-end security to protect your digital assets from hackers and unauthorized access. As a cold storage wallet, it keeps your private keys completely offline, preventing cyber threats.
Key security features include:
- Encryption: Your private keys are stored securely and never exposed, even during transactions.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): A PIN and passphrase add extra layers of security before any action is approved.
- Multi-Signature Support: Allows multiple approvals before transactions are processed, ideal for businesses or joint accounts.
- Secure Element Chip (Safe 5 & model T & Safe 3): Protects against physical attacks and brute-force attempts.
- Shamir Backup: Splits recovery keys into multiple shares, making it harder to lose access.
Unlike some competitors, Trezor does not use biometric authentication (like fingerprints) due to security concerns. Instead, its open-source code allows users to audit and verify its security measures.
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Staking With Trezor: What You Need to Know
Since Trezor is a cold wallet, Trezor wallets do not have built-in staking features, but users can still stake cryptocurrencies by connecting to third-party wallets like Exodus or MetaMask. Only the Model T and Safe 5 support staking via integrations.
If earning interest or rewards is a priority, you might need to consider hot wallets or staking through crypto exchanges instead.
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Can You Trust Trezor? A Look at Its Reputation
Trezor is developed by SatoshiLabs, a trusted and transparent company based in the Czech Republic.
Unlike some crypto companies, Trezor follows a strict open-source policy, meaning its security can be verified by independent experts.
Overall, Trezor is one of the most trusted hardware wallets, but users are responsible for protecting their private keys to ensure safety.
-
Trezor’s Shamir Backup: The Ultimate Recovery Solution
Losing access to your seed phrase is one of the biggest risks in crypto. Trezor’s Shamir Backup (available on Model T & Safe 5) helps protect against this by splitting your recovery phrase into multiple shares.
Instead of relying on one recovery phrase, you can create up to 16 different shares and store them in different locations. To recover your wallet, you need 3-5 shares – It prevents total loss if one share gets destroyed.
This means that even if someone finds one share, they can’t access your funds without the others. It also prevents total loss if one share gets destroyed.
Shamir Backup adds an extra layer of protection for those who want maximum security, making it harder to lose access and almost impossible for thieves to steal your crypto with just one recovery phrase.
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Stay Private: How Trezor’s Tor Integration Protects You
Privacy is a major concern for crypto users, and Trezor helps protect it by offering Tor integration. Tor (The Onion Router) is a network that hides your IP address and online activity, making it harder for anyone to track your transactions.
When using Trezor Suite, you can enable Tor mode, which routes your connection through multiple encrypted servers, preventing governments, hackers, or websites from monitoring your activity.
This is especially useful if you:
- Want extra privacy when making transactions.
- Live in a country with crypto restrictions.
- Are concerned about being tracked by third parties.
While Tor doesn’t make you 100% anonymous, it adds a strong layer of privacy, making it harder for anyone to trace your crypto activity.
How to Set Up the Trezor Wallet?
Setting up the Trezor Wallet is not so simple, but also possible for non-tech users. Follow these steps to get started.
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1. Unbox and Verify Your Trezor
When you receive your Trezor device, carefully check the packaging.
You'll find the hardware wallet, a USB cable, recovery seed cards, and a startup guide inside.
Connect your Trezor to a computer using the provided cable. The screen will prompt you to visit the official website (trezor.io/start) to begin the setup process. Always download software directly from the official site to avoid scams.
Our tips:
🔹 The box should have an untampered security seal—if it looks damaged, do not use the device.
🔹 If your Trezor already has firmware installed when you first turn it on, this is a red flag—contact Trezor support immediately.
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2. Install Trezor Suite & Update Firmware
Once your Trezor is connected, install Trezor Suite, the official desktop application. If your device doesn’t have firmware, you’ll be prompted to install the latest version before continuing.
After installation, follow the on-screen instructions to verify the authenticity of your device. This ensures your Trezor isn't compromised.
Our tip:
🔹 Always keep your firmware updated to get the latest security patches and features. However, be cautious—never download updates from unofficial sources, as this could be a phishing attempt.
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3. Create and Back Up Your Wallet
After the firmware is installed, you'll be prompted to create a new wallet. At this stage, Trezor will generate a recovery seed (12, 20, or 24 words, depending on the model).
Write this phrase down on paper – never store it digitally. If your device is lost or stolen, this seed is the only way to recover your funds.
For additional protection, some models (Safe 5 & Model T) offer Shamir Backup, which splits your recovery phrase into multiple parts for enhanced security.
Our tip:
🔹 Never take a screenshot or photo of your recovery phrase. If someone gains access to it, they can steal your crypto.
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4. Set Your PIN and Connect to Trezor Suite
To prevent unauthorized access, you must set a PIN code on your device. Every time you connect your Trezor, you'll need to enter this PIN before making transactions.
The Model T and Safe 5 support additional security, such as MicroSD encryption to further lock down access.
After setting your PIN, you can start adding cryptocurrencies, making transactions, and connecting Trezor to third-party wallets like MetaMask or Exodus for additional features like staking and DeFi access.
Our tip:
🔹 If you forget your PIN, you can reset your Trezor, but you'll need your recovery phrase to restore access. Without it, your crypto will be permanently lost.
FAQ
Trezor supports over 9,000 cryptocurrencies on the Model T and Safe 5, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and most ERC-20 tokens. However, some newer or niche coins may require third-party wallet integration.
Trezor wallets need to be connected to a computer or Android device via USB. Unlike some competitors, Trezor does not support Bluetooth or iOS, meaning you can’t use it directly on an iPhone.
If your Trezor is lost or stolen, you can restore your funds using your recovery seed phrase on a new Trezor device or a compatible wallet. Without the recovery phrase, your crypto is permanently lost.
Trezor wallets are extremely secure, but no device is 100% hack-proof. The most common risk is phishing attacks—scammers may try to trick you into revealing your recovery phrase. Always store your seed phrase offline and private.
Trezor itself does not charge any fees, but network fees apply when sending transactions. These depend on blockchain congestion and can be customized in Trezor Suite for speed or cost savings.
Trezor wallets are built to last and do not have a battery, meaning they don’t degrade like mobile devices. If the device breaks, you can restore your funds using your recovery phrase on a new Trezor.
Always buy from the official Trezor website or an authorized reseller. Buying from third-party sellers like eBay or Amazon can be risky, as some devices may be tampered with or preloaded with malware.
Explore Crypto Wallets
How We Rated Crypto Wallets: Review Methodology
At The Smart Investor, we evaluated crypto wallets based on their overall value, security, and usability compared to other leading alternatives. Our hands-on testing focused on key factors that matter most to crypto users, including fees, security, supported assets, and ease of use. Each wallet was rated based on the following criteria:
- Fees & Costs (20%): We prioritized wallets with low or no transaction fees, transparent pricing, and reasonable network fees. Some wallets had hidden costs for transfers, swaps, or withdrawals.
- User Experience & Interface (20%): A clean, easy-to-navigate wallet with smooth transactions and clear features scored highest. Some had confusing layouts or lacked essential functionality.
- Security & Privacy (20%): We favored wallets with strong encryption, private key control, 2FA, and cold storage support. Some had weak security features, making them riskier for holding assets.
- Automated Features (15%): The best wallets offered staking, yield farming, automated swaps, and AI-driven portfolio management. Others lacked automation or charged high fees for these services.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies (10%): Wallets that supported a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including major coins and altcoins, scored highest. Some only supported a handful of assets, limiting flexibility.
- Compatibility & Integration (10%): We rated wallets higher if they supported multiple blockchains, hardware wallet integration, and DeFi apps. Some lacked interoperability, restricting advanced users.
- Additional Features (5%): We favored wallets that offered buying/selling options, NFT support, fiat on-ramps, and seamless exchange integration. Many lacked these extras, making them less versatile.
