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Set up a Bitcoin wallet using the wallet maker’s official instructions, create a fresh recovery phrase yourself, and record it offline exactly as shown. The phrase can restore access to the wallet; anyone who obtains it may be able to access the associated funds. Never share it or store it digitally.
Choose a wallet that fits how you plan to use Bitcoin
A software wallet on a phone or computer can be convenient for everyday use. Bitcoin.org advises keeping only small amounts on those devices and describes hardware wallets as a way to balance security and usability. A hardware wallet is an option to consider when you want greater separation between signing transactions and an internet-connected device, but it does not remove every risk.
Your choice depends on the amount involved, how often you need access, your comfort with managing a physical backup, and the threats you need to account for. Bitcoin.org’s general guidance is available in its wallet security guide.
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Set up the wallet and create your own backup
- Get the wallet from its official source. Use the maker’s official website or the app store listing linked from that website. Follow the wallet’s own setup instructions; the exact screens differ by wallet.
- Initialize a new wallet yourself. Let the wallet generate its recovery phrase during setup. Do not use a phrase supplied by another person, seller, website, or preconfigured device.
- Record the phrase using the wallet’s provided method. Write each word exactly as displayed and in the same order. Keep the words legible, and do not leave the phrase visible to other people.
- Complete the backup check if the wallet offers one. Some wallets ask you to confirm selected words or perform another verification. Follow the wallet’s directions so you can catch a transcription error before relying on the backup.
- Finish setup and secure the device. Use the wallet’s recommended device security, such as a PIN or passcode where available. A device lock protects the device; it does not replace protecting the recovery phrase.
Keep the recovery phrase private and offline
A recovery phrase is not an ordinary password to enter for support or troubleshooting. Anyone who has it may be able to restore the wallet and access its funds. Treat unsolicited requests for the phrase as phishing, even if the person claims to represent the wallet maker. Trezor states in its wallet-backup guide: “We will never ask for your wallet backup!”
#1 Best Overall
- BITCOIN EXCLUSIVE, PHONE VERIFICATION: Bitkey is designed from the ground up exclusively for bitcoin — a dedicated hardware wallet for secure bitcoin storage. Approve transactions with a tap using your phone and NFC. No device screen is required.
- SELF-CUSTODY, NO EXCHANGE OR CUSTODIAN REQUIRED: You hold two of the three keys in the Bitkey system – one on your phone and one on your Bitkey device. The third is stored on Bitkey’s server and cannot move your bitcoin on its own.
- NO SEED PHRASE: Set up and use Bitkey without creating or storing a seed phrase.
- 2-of-3 MULTISIG: Three keys are stored separately across your phone, Bitkey device, and Bitkey’s server. Any two keys are required to move your bitcoin.
- BUILT-IN RECOVERY: Encrypted backup and recovery tools can help you regain access if you lose your phone or Bitkey device. You can also designate a Recovery Contact.
- Do not photograph or scan the phrase.
- Do not put it in email, a cloud note, a password manager, a chat, or another online service.
- Do not type it into a computer or phone connected to the internet.
- Do not share it with a support agent, friend, or anyone asking you to “verify” or “sync” the wallet.
A paper card or another physical record can keep the backup offline, but anyone who can read or take it may be able to use it. Choose a private storage place that is accessible to you when needed and protected against likely damage or unauthorized access.
Balance physical durability with privacy
Paper can be damaged or become unreadable. A purpose-made metal backup may offer a more durable physical record, but durability is not confidentiality: a person who finds or reads the words may still be able to access the wallet. Select a storage method and location based on both risks, rather than assuming a sturdy container makes the phrase secure. Ledger’s seed phrase security guide discusses offline storage and physical protection.
Rank #2
- Unparalleled Security: Protect your assets NDA-free EAL 6+ Secure Element, offering robust defense and complete transparency
- Simple & Secure Interface: Manage your digital assets easily with a clear OLED screen for secure on-device confirmations
- Supports 1000s of Coins & Tokens: Securely handle thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more, all in one wallet
- Effortless Asset Management: Monitor and transact seamlessly with Trezor Suite, our intuitive desktop and mobile app
- Enhanced Backup Solution: Rest assured with Multi-share Backup, eliminating single points of failure for secure cold wallet recovery
Avoid improvising by splitting the words into arbitrary groups. That can make recovery harder and introduce mistakes. Some wallets support documented multi-share backups, but those are specific formats and should be used only as directed by the wallet maker.
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Recovery phrases do not all have the same length or format, and a phrase may not be compatible with every wallet. For example, Trezor documents BIP39 backups of 12 or 24 words and SLIP39 backups of 20 words; availability depends on the device and backup method. Before restoring on another device or wallet, check its official recovery instructions and confirm that it supports the backup format. See Trezor’s explanation of 12-, 20-, and 24-word wallet backups.
Rank #3
- Unparalleled Security: Protect your assets with EAL 6+ Secure Element, offering robust defense and complete transparency
- Simple & Secure Interface: Manage your digital assets easily with a clear OLED screen for secure on-device confirmations
- Supports 1000s of Coins & Tokens: Securely handle thousands of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more, all in one wallet
- Effortless Asset Management: Monitor and transact seamlessly with Trezor Suite, our intuitive desktop and mobile app
- Enhanced Backup Solution: Multi-share Backup eliminates single points of failure for secure cold wallet recovery
If the phrase is exposed or the backup is lost
If someone else may have seen or copied the phrase, treat the wallet as compromised. Consult the wallet maker’s official guidance promptly about securing the funds and moving them to a newly created wallet with a fresh backup. Do not enter the exposed phrase into a site or app found through an unsolicited message.
If the physical record is lost or damaged but the wallet is still accessible, follow the wallet’s official instructions for creating and verifying a new backup. Do not erase, reset, or discard a device until you understand whether you can still access the wallet and have confirmed a usable replacement backup.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Effortlessly build your crypto portfolio via the all in one Ledger Wallet app: buy, sell, send, receive, swap, stake and more across popular blockchains. 15,000+ coins & tokens in a single dashboard. Keep a close eye on the market. Compare service providers. Track performance. Get timely alerts. Build your portfolio with confidence.
- Enjoy Bluetooth connectivity, iOS access, and hours of battery use with this mobile-first, secure backup signer. Freedom you can depend on.
- Genuine Check: confirm your signer is authentic during setup with the Ledger Wallet app.
- Protect your signer: keep it in mint condition at all times with a bespoke Pod or Case to avoid scratches and everyday wear and tear.
Rank #4
- Dual-chip architecture for maximum protection: The next-gen, fully auditable TROPIC01 chip works alongside a certified EAL6+ Secure Element—completely NDA-free—to deliver radically transparent, industry-leading defense against physical attacks.
- Quantum-ready security: Get protection against future threats with the first-ever hardware wallet designed with quantum-ready architecture.
- See every detail with confidence: Our largest high-resolution color touchscreen makes it easy to navigate your assets, review transactions and manage your coins with clarity.
- Wireless freedom with encrypted Bluetooth control: Manage, buy, swap and stake securely using Trezor Suite on desktop or mobile. Qi2-compatible wireless charging keeps your Trezor powered up. No cables required—security meets convenience.
- Works seamlessly with Android, iOS and desktop: Connect wirelessly or via USB-C to your phone or computer. Manage your crypto anywhere with our companion Trezor Suite app.
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