Electrum review
A free Bitcoin wallet with multisig, cold-storage options and hardware-wallet plugins.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Electrum is a free, open-source, self-custody Bitcoin wallet for people and businesses who want control of their private keys. It is available for Windows, macOS, Linux and Android, with command-line operation as another way to access the wallet. The range of wallet types makes it relevant to solo users as well as organizations that need watching-only, offline cold-storage or multisignature setups. Its focus is deliberately narrow: Electrum supports Bitcoin only, rather than serving as a wallet for multiple assets.
Its security and custody options are central to the product. Private keys are encrypted on the user’s computer, while simplified payment verification checks transaction history. Users can recover wallets with a seed phrase or export private keys. Electrum also offers a two-factor authentication wallet option, and hardware-wallet integrations are available through plugins for Ledger, Trezor, KeepKey, BitBox02, Coldcard, Jade, Digital Bitbox and Safe-T mini. This combination suits Bitcoin holders looking for layered control, though it also means prospective users should be comfortable managing a self-custody wallet and its recovery material.
Electrum is distributed at no cost, and its software is open source. Its plugin architecture and command-line interface add flexibility for users who want more than a basic wallet workflow, while the range of supported desktop systems and Android provides options across devices. The trade-off is asset breadth: people who want one wallet for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies should look elsewhere. Support is through community channels and documentation, so buyers seeking a dedicated support channel may also prefer another option. Electrum is a focused fit for Bitcoin users who value multisig, cold storage or hardware-wallet compatibility; it is not designed as a general-purpose multi-asset wallet.
Electrum pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports watching-only, offline cold-storage and multisignature wallets.
- Verifies transaction history with SPV and keeps encrypted keys on the user’s computer.
- Offers plugins for Ledger, Trezor, KeepKey, BitBox02, Coldcard and Jade.
- Where it doesn't
- Supports Bitcoin only, so it does not serve users seeking a multi-asset wallet.
- Its listed platforms are Windows, macOS, Linux and Android.
- Support channels are community and documentation.
Electrum fact sheet, pricing and score →
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