Air-gapped cold wallets are not new. They have been around for a while. But they have become more popular lately because of some big crypto hacks and thefts.
For example, do you remember Mt. Gox or Coincheck? They were huge crypto exchanges that got hacked and lost millions of dollars worth of bitcoins and tokens. That’s why you must be careful with your digital assets and use an offline wallet.
This blog post will tell you more about the advantages and features of air-gapped wallets. We will also show you some of the best air-gapped crypto wallets that you can buy right now.
Our Top Picks (Recommended)
[ELLIPAL Titan 2.0]
- No WiFi, Bluetooth, USB, or networks
- CC EAL 5+ Secure Element
- 10,000+ supported coins
- Anti-disassembly & anti-tamper features
- Mobile app (Built-in swap)
- Supports up to 10 hidden accounts
[Keystone 3 Pro]
- PCI-Level Anti-temper
- Three secure element chips
- QR code transactions (air-gapped)
- 5,500+ coins and tokens supported
- Fully open-source for community trust
5 Best Air-gapped Crypto Hardware Wallets
Here is the list of top air-gapped cryptocurrency wallets you should consider:
- ELLIPAL Titan: 100% air-gapped Cold Wallet
- Keystone Pro: Safest air-gapped Hardware Wallet
- NGRAVE ZERO: Best QR Code AirGap wallet
- SafePal S1: Best Offline Crypto Wallet by Binance Labs
- Coldcard Mk4: Best air-gapped Bitcoin Wallet
1. ELLIPAL Titan: 100% air-gapped Cold Wallet
- Supported Coins: 10,000+ on 51 blockchains
- Product Models: Ellipal Titan and Mini
- Price: $79-$119
- Security: SE chip, Auto-self destruct, PIN entry, Password entry, Anti-disassembly & Anti-tamper
- Display: 4-inch touchscreen
- Connectivity: QR code air-gapped
- Mobile App: Yes (iOS and Android)
ELLIPAL Titan is a highly secure, durable, and fully air-gapped hardware wallet that is never connected to the internet.
Security is a top priority for the ELLIPAL Titan. The wallet utilizes a secure element chip for storing private keys, providing protection against hardware and software attacks. It also supports multi-signature (multi-sig) wallets.
It has a unique QR code scanning mechanism that helps users verify the authenticity of a transaction, preventing phishing attacks and unauthorized transactions.
The wallet uses a 12-word mnemonic phrase, which serves as a backup of the wallet’s private keys. This allows for easy recovery of the wallet in case of loss, damage, or theft of the physical device. You can read the full ELLIPAL Titan review.
Key Features
- The device features a large 4-inch touchscreen display for easy navigation and interaction with the wallet’s user interface.
- The Ellipal Titan can be easily managed and controlled through a mobile app.
- The wallet supports 10,000+ cryptocurrencies on 51 blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and many others.
- It is equipped with anti-tampering sensors that detect any physical tampering attempts.
2. Keystone Pro: Safest air-gapped Hardware Wallet
- 5500+ Coins Supported
- Compatible with over 25+ Popular Software Wallets
- EAL 5+ Secure Element Chip and open source
- Fingerprint Sensor
- Self-Destruct Mechanism and MicroSD Card Firmware Upgrading
- Rechargeable Battery
- $139 hardware cost
Keystone Pro is an air-gapped cryptocurrency wallet with a 4-inch OLED screen, making it easy to navigate and manage transactions.
It also supports transaction signing offline using a QR Code, allowing users to verify and sign the transaction without being connected to the internet, further enhancing security.
It also utilizes an EAL 5+ certified Secure Element (SE) chip with open-source firmware. EAL 5+ is one of the highest levels of security certification that a product can achieve.
The SE chip used in Keystone Pro is specifically designed for securing digital assets, and it provides a high level of protection against various attacks, such as physical tampering, side-channel attacks, and malware. For more info, read Keystone Pro review.
Key Features
- Fingerprint for device security
- It has an intuitive user interface and is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
- It supports multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.
- Integrate with 20+ various top software wallets
- Transaction Signing via QR Code
- 5500+ Assets supported
- Multi-signature supported
3. NGRAVE ZERO: Best QR Code AirGap wallet
- 4000+ Coins Supported
- EAL 7+ Secure OS (custom build)
- Fingerprint and light Sensor
- Anti-temper functionality
- $398 hardware cost
- MetaMask integration for dApps
- True NFT Cold storage
The NGRAVE ZERO helps you to have full control and ownership of your crypto assets, with high security and comfort. It works with the NGRAVE LIQUID app, which lets you receive and sign transactions without showing your private keys.
It also works with the NGRAVE GRAPHENE backup, which is a metal plate that saves and recovers your Perfect Key if you lose or break your device. ZERO is air-gapped, so it does not need any network or USB to connect with other devices. It uses QR codes to send and receive data, which stops hackers and malware. You can also read the NGRAVE vs ELLIPAL comparison.
Key Features
- It has the best security certification in the world, EAL7, which means it has passed many tests by experts.
- It has a biometric sensor that adds more security for login and transaction. Your fingerprint is part of your Perfect Key.
- It has a 4-inch touchscreen that lets you easily see and manage your coins, tokens, and NFTs with a swipe and tap. You can keep up to 100 accounts and see your art collections on your device.
4. SafePal S1: Best Offline Crypto Wallet by Binance Labs
- Supported cryptocurrencies: unlimited on 54+ blockchains
- Security: EAL 5+ certified SE Chip
- Price: $49.99
- NFT Storage: Yes (Multi-blockchain)
- Connectivity: Camera QR Code scanning
- Mobile App: Yes (iOS/Android)
SafePal S1 is a cold storage wallet designed to securely store and manage cryptocurrencies by Binance Labs. It also utilizes a secure chip and encryption to safeguard your private keys and prevent unauthorized access to your digital assets.
The Wallet can be easily paired with the SafePal mobile app, available on both iOS and Android, allowing you to manage your cryptocurrencies.
It is also a popular air-gapped crypto wallet. QR code is used for transactions and buttons are used for the signing mechanism.
Key Features
- SafePal S1 Supports unlimited digital assets on 54+ blockchains.
- It is designed to be durable and portable, allowing you to carry it with you wherever you go.
- No KYC or registration required
- Supports shipping to over 180+ countries
- Store NFTs and easy DeFi Integration
5. Coldcard Mk4: Best air-gapped Bitcoin Wallet
- Supported cryptocurrencies: Only Bitcoin (BTC)
- Security: Dual Secure Element, Verifiable Source Code, True Air-gap [Uses PSBT (BIP174)]
- Price: $147.94
- NFT Storage: No
- Connectivity: USB-C or Micro-SD data transfer
- Mobile App: No
If you are looking for a Bitcoin-only hardware wallet that keeps your funds safe and private, you might want to check out ColdCard Mk4. It is made by Coinkite, a company that specializes in Bitcoin products and services.
It does not need to connect to the Internet or any other device to sign transactions. You can transfer data using a MicroSD card or an optional NFC chip. This makes it very secure and isolated from hackers.
Coldcard has two different secure elements from different vendors to store your seed phrase and private keys. These chips are very hard to break or tamper with, even if someone tries to attack your wallet physically.
Key Features
- It has many features such as multisig, PSBT, BIP39 passphrases, duress PIN, brick me PIN, and countdown to brick PIN. These features help you prevent coercion, theft, or loss of your wallet.
- The wallet has a USB-C connector, a sliding cover, and a large screen. It also has different colors and styles that you can choose from to match your taste.
- It works well with many popular Bitcoin software wallets such as Electrum, Wasabi, BlueWallet, Sparrow, Specter, and more.
What is an Air-Gapped Crypto Wallet?
An air-gapped wallet is a secure and isolated digital wallet that operates “offline“, ensuring maximum protection against cyber threats.
To put it simply, an air-gapped crypto wallet is not connected to any online or external networks, such as the “Internet or Bluetooth“.
It is kept offline at all times, disconnected from the prying eyes of hackers or malware that may attempt to infiltrate your wallet and steal your cryptocurrencies.
Air-gapped Wallet Means:
- No Bluetooth
- No NFC
- No Cellular
- No WiFi
Comparison between best Air-gapped Hardware Wallets
| Feature | ELLIPAL Titan | NGARVE ZERO | SafePal S1 | Keystone Pro | ColdCard Mk4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air-gapped | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Supported Coins | 10,000+ | 5,000+ | unlimited on 54+ blockchains | 5,500+ | BTC only |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | No | No |
| Smart Phone App | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Price | $79 – $169.00 | $398 | $49.99 | $119.00 | $147 |
| Overall Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.2/5 | 3.5/5 |
How Does an Air-gapped Wallet Work?
Air-gapped crypto wallets work by creating a physical barrier between your digital assets and the internet. By using a QR code or USB drive, you can transfer your digital assets from your online device to your air-gapped wallet.
Since the air-gapped wallet is entirely disconnected from the internet and other networks, it’s virtually impossible for hackers to gain access to your private keys and steal your cryptocurrency.
Related: Best Cold Wallets for Crypto
Advantages of an Air-gapped Crypto Wallet
There are several advantages of using an air-gapped crypto wallet:
- Security: Air-gapped wallets offer unparalleled security for your digital assets, as they’re entirely disconnected from the internet and other networks, making them virtually immune to hacking attempts and cyber attacks.
- Privacy: By using an air-gapped wallet, you can ensure that your digital assets remain private, as there’s no way for hackers or other third parties to access your private keys.
- Control: With an offline wallet, you have complete control over your digital assets, as you’re the only one with access to your private keys.
Types of Air-gapped Crypto Wallets
There are different types of air-gapped crypto wallets, including:
Hardware Wallets
Crypto Hardware wallets are physical devices that store your private keys and allow you to manage your digital assets offline. These wallets are usually small and portable, and they connect to your computer or mobile device via a USB cable.
Hardware wallets are considered the most secure type of air-gapped crypto wallet, as they use advanced encryption and security features to protect your private keys.
Paper Wallets
Paper wallets are physical pieces of paper that contain your private keys. To create a paper wallet, you need to generate a random private key and then print it out or write it down on a piece of paper.
Since paper wallets are completely offline, they offer a high level of security. However, paper wallets are also more susceptible to damage or loss, and you need to keep them safe and secure at all times.
DIY Air-gapped Wallets
If you’re tech-savvy, you can also create your own air-gapped wallet using a computer that’s never been connected to the internet. This involves installing a wallet application on the offline computer, generating a private key, and then transferring it to a USB drive or other physical storage device.
While DIY air-gapped wallets require more technical knowledge, they offer a high level of customization and control.
Another type of crypto wallet:
- Hot Wallet
- Software Wallet
- Mobile Wallet
How to Set up an Air-gapped Crypto Cold Wallet
Setting up an air-gapped device is relatively simple, but it requires some technical knowledge. Here are the general steps:
- Choose the type of air-gapped wallet you want to use (Types of wallets: hardware, paper, or DIY).
- Install the appropriate wallet application on your offline computer or device.
- Generate a new private key using the wallet application.
- Transfer the private key to your air-gapped wallet using a QR code, USB drive, or another physical storage device.
- Store your air-gapped wallet in a safe and secure location, away from potential threats or damage.
Best Practices for Using an Air-gapped Crypto Wallet
While air-gapped crypto wallets are considered the most secure way to store your digital assets, there are still some best practices you should follow to ensure maximum security:
- Keep your air-gapped wallet offline at all times, except when transferring digital assets.
- Use a strong password or passphrase to protect your wallet.
- Keep a backup of your private keys in a safe and secure location.
- Regularly update your wallet software to ensure the latest security features and bug fixes.
- Be cautious of potential physical threats, such as theft, loss, or damage to your wallet.
Potential Risks and Disadvantages of Air-gapped Crypto Wallets
While air-gapped crypto wallets offer an unparalleled level of security, they’re not without their potential risks and disadvantages:
- Physical damage or loss of your air-gapped wallet can result in the loss of your digital assets.
- DIY air-gapped wallets require more technical knowledge and may be more prone to errors or vulnerabilities.
- If you lose your private keys or forget your password, you may lose access to your digital assets forever.
- Air-gapped wallets may not be as convenient as online wallets, as they require additional steps to transfer digital assets.
Conclusion: Which Cold Wallet is better?
Air-gapped crypto wallets are the most secure way to store your digital assets. They offer protection against online threats like cyber attacks, malware, and hacking attempts, and give you full control over your private keys.
The ELLIPAL Titan, SafePal S1, Keystone Pro, and NGRAVE ZERO are all excellent choices for QR code transaction signing without connecting to the internet. Please note that hot wallets like MetaMask or Trust Wallet cannot be AirGap.
Also Read: NGRAVE ZERO vs Ledger
FAQs
Are air-gapped wallets completely hack-proof?
While air-gapped wallets are much more secure than online wallets, they are not completely hack-proof. It’s important to use a trusted and reputable air-gapped wallet, keep your device updated with the latest security patches, and store your private keys in a secure location.
What happens if I lose my air-gapped wallet?
If you lose your air-gapped wallet, you can still recover your digital assets as long as you have your private keys. It’s important to keep your private keys in a secure location, such as a safe or a safety deposit box.
Are air-gapped wallets easy to use?
Air-gapped wallets can be a bit more complicated to use than online wallets, but they typically come with user-friendly interfaces and clear instructions. It’s important to take the time to familiarize yourself with the device and its features before using it to store your digital assets.
Are Ledger wallets air-gapped?
No, Ledger wallets are not air-gapped. They need to be connected to your smartphone or desktop to complete transactions. Ledger Nano X also has Bluetooth. This makes them vulnerable to online malware attacks.
What is the best air-gapped Bitcoin wallet?
There are many air-gapped BTC wallets such as ELLIPAL Titan, NGRAVE ZERO, and Keystone Pro hardware wallet.
Is Tezor Model T airGap?
No, Trezor is not an air-gapped wallet. It requires connecting a USB cable to a computer or smartphone to send and receive transactions.
