BitBox02 is a simple and easy-to-use but secure cryptocurrency wallet that supports the most popular cryptos such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin but also more than 1500 less-known ones. The hardware wallet is controlled through the BitBoxApp, which features a straightforward user interface. The App’s and BitBox02’s source code is open-source and has been audited by an independent security company.
This hardware wallet, which is produced by Shift Crypto in Switzerland, employs high-level security measures and has a dual-chip design to further increase the security of the crypto storage. What sets BitBox02 apart from most other wallets is the ability to use a microSD card with the wallet’s backup information, thus eliminating the need to enter a 12- or 24-word phrase every time you want to run the wallet. In addition, when connecting to the wallet through the BitBoxApp, users can opt into Tor forwarding, which further increases the security and privacy of the wallet. Worry not, the communication between your computer and your hardware wallet is also encrypted, which minimizes the risk of man-in-the-middle exploits and attacks. For Bitcoin purists, BitBox02 is also available as a Bitcoin-only firmware, which removes ballast code and further reduces the risk of exploits.
Pros of Shift Crypto BitBox02:
- OLED display and responsive touch controls
- Open-source externally audited source code
- Tor forwarding feature
Cons of Shift Crypto BitBox02:
- No app for iOS devices
- Rather expensive (139€ or $153)
The bottom line: There are plenty of options on the market for keeping your crypto safe
By selecting a hardware wallet with a secure backup system that is built out of robust and durable materials, users can be confident that their crypto assets are safeguarded. It is also of key importance to check that the hardware wallet of your choosing supports all your favorite cryptocurrencies.
The prices of commercial cryptocurrency hardware wallets range from around $50 to more than $200. But even the purchase of an expensive high-end hardware wallet packed with security features should not be hard to justify if you are holding a large crypto portfolio. If, however, your portfolio is considered small, you only hold a small number of different coins and rarely interact with DeFi apps, you could do just fine with a lower-end hardware wallet.
Just remember that each and every hardware wallet featured on our list is incomparably safer than keeping your coins on an exchange. Do remember (and live by) the age-old crypto saying: “Not your keys, not your coins!”
If you really want to up your crypto security game to the next level, we suggest investing in metal crypto wallets for seed phrase storage. This method of storing your seed phrase is much better than writing it down on a piece of paper, as paper is susceptible to various forms of damage.
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