This tutorial will guide you in your selection of the best Monero Wallets. Understand how to use these wallets and compare them for your purpose of selection:
Monero is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency that can be mined on a computer, sent instantly from one person to another globally, and at a very low cost with convenience. Monero can be stored, traded, and bought through different wallets that can be installed on different platforms, as we shall see.
Monero is regarded as a more advanced privacy cryptocurrency in the crypto community. It obfuscates transactions to hide their identity. This also improves the security of transactions and the safety of those transacting with them.
This tutorial discusses Monero, how it works, the best Monero wallets, and how to use each one of them.
Table of Contents:
Monero Wallets – Complete Review
Market Trends:
- Monero or XMR is a blockchain-based cryptocurrency that is mineable on a computer (PC) and GPU. It is a decentralized privacy coin as it allows sending transactions that are hard to trace (hard to trace to the sender where the wallet is not associated with real-world identity).
- You can buy, sell, and hold Monero on over 80+ wallets, exchanges, and apps – with these apps being of decentralized and centralized types. It can be traded as a spot and perpetual future product. CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko rank these markets based on 24-hour trading volume. We can use more factors, like functionality to rank. About 336 wallets are running Monero nodes.
- Monero can be stored, received, and sent through peer-to-peer blockchain-based wallets. The cryptocurrency can be sent and received globally, legally, and securely, with minimal restrictions by anyone, including governments.
- It can be used by merchants and traders for payments for goods and services. These transactions are instant and at very low fees compared to fiat (USD and other national currencies) transaction costs. Thus, it can move value across international borders at a very low cost.
- It can be traded for fiat like USD and others on crypto exchanges and apps we will discuss.
Top 10 Monero markets by daily trading volume:
[image source]
Expert Advice:
- We can select the best wallets for Monero based on their functionality. Hardware and software wallets like Ledger Nano S, Nano X, Trezor, Guarda, Atomic, and Exodus come with extra functionality beyond storing, sending, and receiving Monero. They are categorized as the best wallets for Monero because they allow you to buy Monero for fiat currencies like USD and exchange it for other cryptos in-app. The last three come with earning opportunities (staking) for holders although Monero is not supported.
- For extra security, you can opt for hardware wallets, although it comes at a cost. Ledger Nano S is a cheaper option for hardware wallets.
- All wallets – including Monero desktop wallets and mobile wallets – provide the functionality to secure your crypto and recover the wallet through mnemonic or passphrases in case you forget your password or lose the device. Make sure to observe the backup protocols to not lose crypto.
The image below shows the all-time Monero Price:
Types of Monero Wallets
#1) Software Wallets/Hot Wallets: These include cloud-based, web-based, mobile-based, and desktop applications that store private keys on a cloud server or on the user’s device that is always connected to the Internet.
The private key is exposed to malware and hacking while transacting, although modern-day software wallets are much more secure to prevent this. For instance, they strongly encrypt the private key.
#2) Hardware Wallets/Cold Wallets: These are hardware pieces that store the private key on a component (the hardware) that is separate from the ordinary computer, mobile, or cloud-based connection that is always connected to the Internet. They can verify and send transactions without being connected to a computer/mobile, where a syncing app is installed.
Some are air-gapped so they do not connect to the computer (for instance, using USB), Internet, Bluetooth, NFC, or WiFi devices.
#3) Other categorizations for Monero Wallets: Based on device e/g. desktop, mobile, web wallets (based on the web), or cloud-based wallets; printable formats that allow users to print private keys in hard copy – so-called Monero paper wallets; based on OS platform (Windows Monero wallets, Linux Monero wallets, Android Monero wallets, MacOS wallets, iOS Monero wallets).
We also have decentralized/distributed Monero wallets and centralized Monero wallets depending on the technology (blockchain or cloud database) they are based on blockchain and the mode of network governance (distributed or centralized).
There are also full-node wallets that require downloading and syncing with the entire Monero blockchain and lightweight Monero wallet clients that do not. For that reason, we have two minor groups – mining Monero wallets and those wallets that cannot be used for mining.
List of the Top Monero Wallets
Popular and remarkable XMR wallets list:
- XMRWallet
- Cypherock X1
- Uphold
- Monero GUI
- MyMonero
- Cake Wallet
- Ledger Nano S
- Monerujo
- Exodus Wallet
- Trezor Model T
- Atomic Wallet
- Guarda
- Ledger Nano X
Comparison Table of Some Best Wallet for Monero
Wallet name | Main features | Cryptos supported | Platforms | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
XMRWallet | Strong privacy measures for secure Monero transaction | Monero | Web-based, iOS and Android | Free |
Cypherock X1 | Open source, EAL6+ Secure element, No seed phrase backup | Over 3000 digital assets supported | — | $159 |
Monero GUI | Storing, sending, receiving, mining Monero | Monero | Windows, Linux, and macOS. | Free. |
MyMonero | Storing, sending, receiving Monero | Monero | Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS. | Free |
Cake Wallet | Buy with USD and other fiat, send, receive, store, and exchange crypto including Monero. | XMR, BTC, LTC, XHV, ERC20 tokens, and other cryptos | Android and iOS. | Free |
Ledger Nano S | Buy with USD and other fiat currencies, send, receive, store, and exchange crypto including Monero | 1100 cryptocurrencies including XMR and NFTs. | Windows 64 bit, Linux 64, MacOS Intel | $59 |
Monerujo | Trade Monero for other cryptos, send, receive, and store Monero. | Monero, BTC, LETC, ETH, DASH, and Doge. | Windows 8+ (64 bit), macOS 10.8+, Linux, Android 7+. | Free |
Detailed reviews:
#1) XMRWallet
XMRWallet is a cryptocurrency wallet designed specifically to facilitate Monero transactions. With XMRWallet, you’ll be able to easily generate new wallets, send and receive Monero, and get a clear overview of all your transactions over time. Monero also allows you to create sub-wallets.
These sub-wallets enable users to categorize their funds and manage different wallets within a single account. XMRWallets also arms its users with a built-in address book, which helps users save frequently referred addresses for convenience.
What we like about XMRWallet the most is its emphasis on security. Strong privacy measures are implemented by the wallet at default. It also integrates seamlessly with Monero’s official Tor browser, thus allowing users to transact in complete anonymity.
How to Use XMRWallet
- Access the XMRWallet website or launch the Mobile app
- Create an account by Clicking on ‘Create Wallet’.
- Log in after you create an account
- Once logged in, you’ll be directed to your account’s dashboard
- To send Monero, Click on the ‘Send’ button and enter the recipient’s Monero address. Verify the details and confirm the transaction.
- To receive Monero, Click on the ‘Receive’ button to generate a new receiving address. Share the address with the sender.
Features:
- Built-in Address Book
- Sub Wallet Creation
- Two Factor Authentication
- Mobile app for iOS and Android available
Pros:
- Robust privacy features
- Secure local storage
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Monero-exclusive
- Limited integrations
Verdict: If you are looking for a secure, privacy-focused wallet to manage Monero transactions, then you’ll adore XMRWallet. You get a solution that user-friendly and accessible via a mobile phone.
#2) Cypherock X1
With Cypherock X1, you get a wallet that can help you store and manage over 3000 different types of digital assets, including Monero. The best aspect of Cypherock X1 is its ability to distribute private keys into 5 cryptographic parts. Each of these parts is stored separately on a tamper-proof hardware. You only need any 2 of the 5 parts to make a transaction. The wallet assures further security by enabling no seed phrase backup.
Cypherock X1’s hardware wallet is small and quite sturdy. The joystick makes interacting with the wallet very simple. The wallet is powered by Cypherock X1’s own companion app called CySync. Easy to use, the software make the prospect of storing, managing, sending, and receiving cryptos look like a walk in the park.
How to Use Cypherock X1:
- Log into your Cypherock X1 Vault
- Authenticate your card to make the wallet accessible.
- To send funds, hit the ‘Send Crypto’ button, choose the token, and enter the recipient’s address
- To receive funds, hit the ‘Receive Crypto’ button, select the token you wish to get, and generate a receiving address.
Features:
- Open Source
- Trustless recovery
- Over 3000 assets supported
- No seed phrase backup
- EAL6+ Secure element
Pros:
- 24/7 supported
- Import and export up to 4 existing seed phrases
- Bank grade security
Cons:
- Some may find the wallet price expensive
Verdict: With a sturdy hardware and a robust software to boast, Cypherock X1 makes the prospect of storing and managing Monero extremely simple and highly secure.
Price: $159
#3) Uphold
Uphold let’s you buy, sell, send , and receive crypto in your wallet. You can trade Monero for other assets including stocks, fiat, and crypto.
The wallet can also be used for storing Monero and is also best known for the Uphold Card, a debit card that let’s you spend crypto easily at any ATM and merchant store. You avoid using middlemen to convert crypto to cash to spend it this way and also get cashback on your purchases.
Uphold supports or lists over 210 crypto assets. It also links to third party systems and banks allowing you to withdraw your monero into a bank account.
Supported platforms/operating systems: Web, Android, and iOS.
Supported cryptocurrencies: 210+
How to use Uphold wallet:
Step 1: Visit the website or Android/iOS app and sign up. Verification will be required to use the platform.
Step 2: Deposit fiat in form of USD or other currencies. Uphold also accepts deposits in crypto. You can send Monero to store in the wallet, send it to other wallets, or trade actively in the wallet.
To deposit crypto, find the crypto’s wallet address from the dashboard’s Crypto Wallet and choose the cryptocurrency to deposit. To deposit fiat money, tap/click on Transact and select the payment method from the From drop-down menu. Uphold allows depositing via credit/debit card, bank transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other methods.
Uphold lets you exchange crypto for other assets or vice versa – assets include stocks, precious metals, and fiat. Use the Transact menu and choose the source from the From tab and destination (the type of asset to which you will exchange the asset) on the To tab.
You can also withdraw crypto to your bank using Uphold. It also allows withdrawing to other third-party networks.
Features:
- Crypto withdrawal to a bank account.
- Hosted custodial wallet.
- Rewards for crypto staking and purchasing with crypto. Cashback is 2% when paid in crypto, 1% when paid in fiat.
- Multiple deposit or payment options.
- Lower-than-industry trading spreads.
Pros:
- Low minimum deposit of just $10.
- Anything-to-anything trading – convert one asset to another seamlessly.
- Spend crypto with minimal hassle thanks to the platform’s branded debit card.
Cons:
- Custodial wallet.
- Variable trading spreads.
Verdict: Uphold allows you to convert Monero assets to any other asset – whether other cryptos, fiat money, precious metals, or stocks seamlessly. It is also preferable for security or safety-agnostic users since the funds are insured and 90% of them are kept in cold storage.
#4) Monero GUI
Monero Graphics User Interface is a native wallet for Monero, used to download and run about a third of the entire Monero blockchain node, unlike other full Monero node wallet clients.
This is one of the best wallets for Monero for die-hard Monero fans who also want to solo mine the XMR or Monero cryptocurrency with a CPU because it supports that. Make sure to deactivate the antivirus to do so.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Windows 64 bit, Linux 64, MacOS Intel.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero
How to create and use a Monero GUI wallet:
Step #1: Head over to the Monero.org website and on the Downloads page, download the wallet as per your operating system. Install it just like other Monero desktop wallets.
Step #2: Choose a language, click Continue, and choose wallet mode (Advanced allows you to connect to remote nodes). Click Next and Select the Create a Wallet option.
Other options allow you to create a new wallet from select hardware wallets, open a pre-existing wallet backed up as a backup file on your computer, or restore a pre-existing wallet from keys or mnemonic seed you have already written and saved somewhere.
Step #3: Suppose you are creating a new wallet, fill in the details of the name, computer location for the wallet file, and restore height. Click Next, create a password, then Next. Write down the mnemonic seed and save the paper somewhere. You can copy the seed or mnemonic phrase and private keys on the Settings>Seeds & Keys tab on the wallet.
Features:
- Run either a local or remote node.
- Open Address book.
- Create as many Monero wallet addresses to which to receive cryptocurrencies.
- Display QR codes to customers and easily receive cryptocurrency payments. Send payments with custom messages embedded. You can generate Proof of Payment (with tx ID, address, and any message you typed in the message section) from the History/Transactions tab. With the tx ID, you can check in the Advanced>My Wallet>Prove/Check tab if the payment was sent.
Pros:
- Detailed wallet with rich features such as mining, signing/verifying, connecting to a remote node, running a node locally, and improving the privacy of ring signatures. Some of these can be useful for advanced users.
- Simple solo mining, ability to connect to remote Monero node found online (helps you avoid running a local node), and ability to run a local node.
- Ability to trade with fiat. Buy Monero in USD and other currencies. This is possible if you sync Ledger or Trezor devices and create Monero wallets on them. They let you buy crypto with fiat via third-party platforms.
- Secure because it is non-custodian and the private keys remain on your device. You can also easily restore from a backup or passphrase.
Cons:
- No other cryptos are supported.
- No in-built exchange with Fiat or other cryptos.
Verdict: Monero GUI wallet and the CLI wallet are suitable for Monero enthusiasts who want to mine, run nodes to support the Monero network, and hold XMR. It is not best for people looking for a wallet to hold, trade, mine, and invest in more than one cryptocurrency.
Price: Free to download and use.
Website: Monero GUI
#5) MyMonero
MyMonero is a lightweight Android, web, and PC wallet native to Monero blockchain only and which eliminates the need to wait for hours or days synching the entire Monero wallet on a full node wallet client. You do not need to download the entire Monero blockchain to create or make use of this wallet.
In addition to ordinary functionality like sending, receiving, and holding Monero, there is in-built support for exchanging XMR to BTC. They will add more pairs.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero.
Further Reading => Most Popular Crypto Faucets of the Year
How to use MyMonero Wallet:
Step #1: Download the wallet from the website (or Android and iOS store) based on your device, unpack the archive, install the bitmonerod.exe, and open the app from the device; or open the web wallet app.
Step #2: Click/tap Create a new wallet from the main page after opening. Save the passphrase or seed phrase by writing on a paper and storing it safely, create a strong password, and confirm having saved the passphrase by re-entering it on the next page. Choose a language.
Step #3: Visit the Exchange page from where you can also buy Monero with USD and other fiat currencies through a third-party website. This is through Visa, Mastercard, SEPA, and 16 other currencies available internationally.
Features:
- Integrate MyMonero to your enterprise via APIs. For instance, an exchange supporting Monero trading. Features include mass sending to multiple Monero addresses at once, high scalability for cases where there are large client bases, etc.
- Send by scanning QR codes with the device camera or typing the wallet address. Include a payment ID when sending. Request Monero from others with the amount, optional custom memo and payment IDs included alongside the payment request transaction.
Pros:
- Non-custodial means it is extremely secure to hold crypto.
- Easy to use – no blockchain syncing and you need a password created during the setting up.
- Support for buying with 19 fiat currencies, including USD, Euro, and others, is very important for beginners.
Cons:
- Not hierarchical deterministic. It does not automatically create a new wallet address for each newly received transaction.
- No multi-sig features for group signing and approvals.
Verdict: The wallet is lightweight and supports buying Monero with 19 currencies, including USD. It also supports exchanging XMR for BTC and they intend to add more. These are great features. However, it does not support other cryptos on a dedicated, in-built exchange, which would be useful for diversified users.
Price: No fees to use it. Just mining fees of around 0.015 Monero per transaction.
Website: MyMonero
#6) Cake Wallet
Cake Wallet supports the trading of XMR, BTC, LTC, XHV, and other cryptos and tokens (including ERC20, USDT, DAI). It also supports buying BTC with fiat right from the exchange. The latter is done using credit and debit card deposit methods.
Being a non-custodial wallet, it lets people keep their private keys on their devices and write down and save their recovery passphrases for self-wallet restoration.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Android and iOS.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero, BTC, ETH,
How to use Monero wallet on Cake Wallet:
Step #1: Go to the website’s homepage and click/tap links to download respective Android and iOS apps from the app stores. Install. The next screen lets you set app security. It supports Face ID and a numeric PIN.
Step #2: The next screen allows you to either create a new wallet or restore an existing one. Tap the relevant button and hit the Continue button. Save the mnemonic passphrase by writing it down and saving the write-up properly.
Step #3: Head over to Dashboard or explore the Wallet, Exchange, and Settings tabs to use the app. You can select Monero from the available list of cryptos to create the Monero wallet, or if willing to trade it, select it from the list of cryptos supported on the exchange.
Features:
- Swap cryptos, including Monero, for others. Up to a maximum of 20 BTC for BTC.
- Set fingerprint or FaceID from the Settings tab.
- Create multiple wallet accounts.
- Connect remote nodes or run local ones.
- Send Monero by entering addresses or scanning QR codes.
Pros:
- Fiat exchange is a plus for beginner traders.
- Secure given its decentralized nature and the fact that users keep their private keys and recovery phrases.
- Multiple crypto support fits diversified users.
Cons:
- Limited products beyond buying and exchanging cryptos. Limited fiat buying methods.
Verdict: Cake Wallet is a more preferable option for XMR or Monero users who want to diversify in buying, trading, and holding other cryptocurrencies as well. This is preferable in a volatile market and Cake Wallet does better in solving this by supporting stablecoins.
Price: Free.
Website: Cake Wallet
#7) Ledger Nano S
Ledger Nano S is one of the affordable basic hardware or cold wallets on which one can hold, buy, and trade over 1100 cryptocurrencies and NFTs in a secure way. It comes with integrated crypto buying and exchanging functionalities through the Ledger Live mobile, web extension, and PC app.
It connects to PCs via USB and to smartphone mobile devices via USB-C. Ledger Nano S works by the user connecting it to the computer, then they have to set it up via the Ledger Live app installed on the same computer or phone as an app or extension on the browser, and from there, they can trade cryptos via the app and sign all the send transactions offline with the device.
The portable device measures 56.95 by 17.4 by 9.1 mm and weighs 16.2 grams or 0.0357 pounds.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Windows 8+ (64 bit), macOS 10.8+, Linux, Android 7+.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: XMR, BTC, and 1,098+ others.
How to use Monero wallet on Ledger Nano S:
Step #1: Connect the Ledger Nano S to the computer via the USB. Download and install the Ledger Live app.
Step #2: The device will show the welcome screen. Continue till the Choose Pin message shows up. Type in by using the right or left button.
Step #3: Write down the passphrase that shows in the next process.
Step #4: Press both buttons together to access Dashboard. From here, you can access the apps installed and the device settings.
Step #5: From the Ledger Live app, click/tap Manager to search and install Monero or other apps. You can add more than one Monero account. The Exchange tab in the Ledger Live lets you swap cryptos, including Monero.
Features:
- NFT tokens are supported. Minting and trading.
- Crypto lending.
- Sell crypto for fiat through Coinify. Buy crypto with fiat via Wyre or Coinify.
- FIDO two-factor authentication for extra security.
- Restore the device if lost or damaged – using the 24-word recovery phrase.
Pros:
- Affordable hardware or cold wallet – costs just $59.
- Secure than software or hot wallets. Not only do private keys never leave the device when using it but the chip is CC EAL5+ certified in terms of security. This is in addition to the capability to sign all send transactions offline with the device.
- Buying and selling crypto with fiat currencies like USD.
- Crypto staking with Lido (Monero not supported).
Cons:
- The company has stopped supporting this product and hence one would need to buy S Plus or Nano X.
- Supports installing only 6 apps hence one has to keep deleting to manage and trade multiple cryptos.
Verdict: Ledger Nano S is considered more secure than software wallets but also provides more features than most Monero wallets listed here. It can be used to buy and sell Monero and other cryptos with fiat.
Price: $59
Website: Ledger Nano S
#8) Monerujo
Monerujo is an Android wallet that features different functionalities, like sending crypto by just scanning a QR code; sending and receiving Monero, and restoring an existing Monero wallet using a passphrase.
You can also use it to trade, send and receive Monero and other cryptos using integrated SideShift.ai exchange; and move back and forth seamlessly between several wallets.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Android.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero, BTC, LETC, ETH, DASH, and Doge.
How to use Monerujo wallet:
Step #1: Visit the website and click/tap the indicated links to download it from the Google app store or FDroid.
Step #2: Install and tap the + button on the main screen. Tap Create a new wallet, type the name of the wallet, enter a password, allow access, choose if to use fingerprint as login security, and tap Make me a wallet already.
Step #3: Write down the mnemonic seed phrase and store the paper safely and securely. The alternative is to write down the Restore Height and Restore Password. Tap you have noted the mnemonic seed.
Step #4: If restoring an existing wallet, tap the dots menu at the top right of the screen. Click Import Wallet, browse to upload a backup file, and restore.
Step #5: To send Monero or other cryptos, open the wallet, tap Give, enter the address and amount, and confirm.
Features:
- Trade Monero for BTC, LETC, ETH, DASH, and Doge. Also, pay services that accept these cryptos.
- Files are encrypted with CrAZyPASS secure password on your device.
Pros:
- Lightweight, easy, and quick to use and manage assets.
- More crypto is supported for trading for Monero. The integrated exchange allows trading as low as $1.
Cons:
- No buying or selling crypto for fat currencies.
Verdict: Monerujo is not only lightweight and simple to use for beginners but supports more crypto for buying and selling than just Monero. Therefore, it is recommended for beginners and advanced users.
Price: Free
Website: Monerujo
#9) Exodus Wallet
Exodus Wallet is a desktop, mobile, and web software wallet that also lets you increase crypto security by connecting Ledger and Trezor hardware wallets. It not only supports sending, receiving, and exchanging Monero but also 225+ other cryptos through the FTX exchange app.
It is made for beginners and advanced users alike, who can buy crypto with/for fiat directly from the app using credit, debit cards, Apple Pay, and bank account.
Exodus also features apps (DeFi and Web3 apps) that you can install and extend its functionality. For instance, you can stake cryptocurrencies.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, Trezor hardware wallet, and browser extension.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero and other 225+ cryptocurrencies.
How to use Monero wallet on Exodus:
Step #1: Visit the website and download as per your device requirements. Install the wallet.
Step #2: Launch the wallet from your device. Click or tap Create a new wallet to create a new one from scratch, or if you have a wallet to restore an existing wallet from a previously backed mnemonic passphrase.
Step #3: Set a password and copy the restore seed passphrase or mnemonic seed. Confirm the passphrase by re-entering it. That is it.
Step #4: Click/tap the wallet icon at the top right, go to the magnifying glass on the left and type XMR or Monero, click/tap Monero to activate the wallet.
You can now send or receive by clicking/tapping Send or Receive buttons. It reveals your address and balance. The wallet syncs with the Monero blockchain but does not download the entire Monero blockchain.
Step #5: To trade, create an account with FTX exchange, click Install apps, locate the FTX Exchange app, and install it. You can now open and log in.
Features:
- Real-time charts for Monero traders.
- Manage crypto and transactions from within the wallet.
- Non-custodial wallet. Restore the wallet using a 12-word recovery passphrase.
Pros:
- 225+ cryptos for diversified traders, investors, and holders.
- There also are extra revenue-earning opportunities like staking cryptos.
- Sync with Trezor hardware wallet to improve security and confirm transactions offline.
- Quick to use and install. It also supports buying and selling crypto for fiat.
Cons:
- No Monero mining is supported.
Verdict: The Exodus Monero wallet is excellent for diversified beginner and advanced users looking for something more than just storing Monero. It allows for staking, exchanging, and buying/selling other cryptocurrencies for fiat/USD and other currencies.
Price: Free
Website: Exodus Wallet
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#10) Trezor Model T
The Trezor Model T is a hardware wallet that lets you securely store, trade, and manage over 1200 cryptocurrencies and tokens on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android devices. The device is CE and RoHS secure certified.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Windows 64 bit, Linux 64, MacOS Intel.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero and other 225+ cryptos.
How to use Monero wallet with Trezor:
Step #1: Connect the device via USB and follow screen instructions. Open trezor.io/start on your browser.
Step #2: Choose the Trezor Model T option. Visit the wallet’s website and install Trezor bridge and refresh the page. It should recognize the device and ask to install the firmware. Install and click/tap Create a new wallet and confirm actions on the device’s touchscreen.
Step #3: You will see the message Your Trezor is not backed up. Click/tap Create a backup in 3 minutes. Copy the 12 recovery seed words on a paper, confirm by entering them on the hardware device, and store the paper safely.
Step #4: It will display a Pin not set message. Set the pin on the device.
Step #5: To buy with debit/credit cards or receive crypto, select Monero on the left side list or click/tap Transactions. It can generate new wallet addresses to receive crypto or just use one.
To Send, click/tap Send from the Transactions tab. To Exchange, use Exchange from the same tab. It also has a Sign and Verifies tab for signing and verifying transactions and messages.
Step #6: To sign a send transaction, use the normal process to send by entering the wallet address and amount, and once you click/tap Send, it will ask to confirm the transaction on the Trezor device touchscreen. Check address is correct and press the checkmark.
Features:
- Also used for identity management. Manage SSH login, passwords, GPG, wallet, and U2F.
- Measures 2.52 by 1.54 by 0.39 inches, and weighs 22 grams. It connects to a mobile or desktop device via a USB-C cable.
- The touchscreen makes it easy to use.
- ChromeOS is not officially supported but can work via Google’s WebUSB.
- U2F 2-factor authentication for extra security. It also utilizes Trusted Display to show details of authentication requests before approving them. The wallet is also secured with a password and passwords can be locked with a secure Trezor Password Manager. It also implements Shamir Backup for extra security.
- Back up the entire wallet and restore the wallet from recovery seeds.
Pros:
- The touchscreen makes it easy to use.
- Trade (sell and buy) crypto for fiat using the Trezor app or extension.
- Many security features.
- Support for multiple cryptos beyond Monero.
Cons:
- Previous security breaches.
- Expensive.
Verdict: Trezor Model T is an expensive crypto hardware wallet but one that is very secure for sending, receiving, holding, and trading cryptocurrencies for fiat. It is recommended for advanced crypto users.
Price: 249 Euros
Website: Trezor Model T
#11) Atomic Wallet
Atomic wallet is an Android and iOS cryptocurrency wallet used for buying, staking, and exchanging 60+ cryptocurrencies including Monero. You receive 1% cashback when exchanging crypto on the app.
It also allows for buying crypto with bank cards (although Monero is not supported, you can buy others and exchange them for Monero on the app) and managing crypto portfolios.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Android and iOS.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: 60+ cryptocurrencies including Monero.
How to use Monero wallet with Atomic Wallet:
Step #1: Download Monero from the Android app store. Install and either tap Create a new wallet or Restore from backup. If new, set up a password and copy the 12-word passphrase on a piece of paper.
Confirm the passphrase by re-entering it on the app. Store the paper securely and safely. The passphrase can also be accessed from the Settings tab.
Step #2: The send, receive, exchange, buy, swap, account history, airdrops, and wallet settings are all accessible once you install the wallet.
Features:
- Monitor transaction history.
- Exchange Monero for other cryptos for just a 0.5% fee.
- Restore from backup and mnemonic seed.
Pros:
- Huge cryptos supported. It provides a good variety for traders, holders, and stakers.
- Integration with Bitcoin, Solana, Polkadot, EOS, and Tron.
- Buying crypto with fiat currencies (multiple including USD) is an added advantage.
- Easy to install and set up.
- Supports extra products for holders like staking.
- In-build AWC platform token.
Cons:
- High fees – 2% flat rate.
- Not compatible with hardware wallets.
Verdict: The benefits of using the Atomic Wallet includes easy setup, support for multiple cryptocurrencies, support for staking, buying with fiat is possible, and the fact that it helps users exchange more cryptos than just Monero. It is recommended for beginner and advanced users.
Price: Free. Exchange fees may apply.
Website: Atomic Wallet
#12) Guarda
Guarda is a lightweight wallet client that facilitates buying, storing, and exchanging (swapping) Monero and 400+ other cryptocurrencies, as well as buying 300+ cryptos (including Monero) using credit and debit cards. It supports 400+ cryptos across 50 major blockchains in total.
Other services include allowing users to earn up to 40% APY income from staking cryptocurrencies.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Android, iOS, desktop (MacOS, Windows, and Linux), web app, Chrome extension.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: 400+ including Monero.
How to use Monero wallet with Guarda:
Step #1: Go to the wallet website and click/tap the relevant download link per your device OS on which you intend to install it.
Step #2: Install. Launch and click/tap Create a new wallet (or Import or Restore wallet from an existing passphrase). Enter a password, copy the shown passphrase on a paper and confirm it by re-entering it on the app.
Step #3: The Send, Receive, Buy, Exchange, History and other tabs are clear on opening the app after setup. Select Monero in each of these tabs to trade Monero or monitor transaction history for Monero trades and transactions.
Features:
- Buy Monero and other cryptos for fiat with debit and credit cards.
- Online support and academy for traders and crypto users.
Pros:
- Cross-platform support.
- 400+ cryptos including Monero.
- Fiat buying support is added advantage (works via Guardarian and Simplex third party).
- Income earning opportunity for crypto holders through staking.
- Developer products – it features a Payment Deeplink to allow merchants receive payments in a single click/tap, Mnemonic Converter, Extension API, Backup Decoder (to decode backup codes), and Mnemonic Code Converter for generating mnemonic passphrase and converting them from one protocol to another.
- Non-custodial wallet. It utilizes AES encryption for security hence it is a pretty secure software wallet.
Cons:
- High in-app crypto purchase fees – 5.5%.
Verdict: Guarda can be used for buying, exchanging, and holding Monero and is recommended for advanced crypto users looking for more than just a Monero wallet. However, it does not sync with hardware wallets for extra security functionality.
Price: Free to use
Website: Guarda
#13) Ledger Nano X
Ledger Nano X is an advanced version of Ledger Nano S hardware wallet so it provides almost similar features and products. Except that it costs more and allows you to install 100 apps compared to 6 on Ledger Nano S. It supports 6,000 cryptocurrencies.
It lets you send, receive, buy and sell (through the MoonPay, Coinify, and Wyre), lend, and monitor transactions through the Ledger Live app.
Supported Platforms/Operating Systems: Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, Chrome extension, and macOS.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Monero and other 6000+ cryptos.
How to use Monero wallet with Ledger Nano X:
Step #1: Connect hardware to the computer. Download the Ledger Live app as per your device.
Step #2: Set up the wallet. Create a password and back up the recovery passphrase.
Step #3: Open Ledger Live and access the buy/sell, swap, manage, send, and receive tabs to do the various things. The Accounts tab allows you to add crypto accounts. Open Manager and find the Monero app and install it to add a Monero account.
Features:
- Support for NFTs minting and trading.
- Bluetooth-enabled.
- Lending crypto for passive income.
- 2.83 by 0.73 by 0.46 inches. It weighs just 34 grams (1.2 ouches).
- 1 TB of memory storage.
Pros:
- Secure crypto with passwords, offline confirmation of sent transactions, and transacting on a secure chip.
- 6000+ cryptos supported.
- Buying crypto for fiat is an added advantage. You don’t need to use a secondary exchange.
- Portable and lightweight.
Cons:
- Only 100 apps are supported.
- More expensive than the basic hardware wallets.
Verdict: The hardware wallet is worth the cost of $149 – it provides functionality to secure crypto more than software wallets when buying, selling, and holding. It is also lightweight and portable.
Price: $149
Website: Ledger Nano X
XMR Wallet FAQs
Monero GUI, MyMonero, Cake Wallet, Ledger Nano S, Ledger Nano X, Trezor, Monerujo, Guarda, Exodus, and Atomic wallets are some of the best wallets for Monero going by the functionality they possess. They allow you to mine, buy, sell, trade, swap, and store Monero.
Suggested Reading =>> Compare the XRP Wallet Apps
Yes. You need a wallet to store and trade Monero. Other wallets support mining of Monero, buying with or for fiat like USD, etc. Ensure that you can follow the wallet backup procedures.
MyMonero lets you run a lightweight wallet client without having to download the entire blockchain. This makes it easy and quick to sync with the Monero blockchain. It can be installed on Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Conclusion
This tutorial explored top Monero or XMR wallets. We recommend software wallets for beginner holders and traders holding just a few coins, although they provide excellent security for large volumes as well.
For ardent Monero holders and miners and those who want to support the network, we suggest Monero GUI. Monerujo and MyMonero are also for loyal Monero users except that the latter comes with functionality to buy crypto for fiat like USD.
Hardware XMR wallets (Ledger Nano S and Nano X), except that they are expensive, are the best for storing crypto. They also come with extra features like portfolio management, price tracking, transaction history tracking, swapping crypto, buying crypto for fiat, etc.
Guarda, Atomic, and Exodus come with extra features than all – they include staking functionality, although Monero is not supported for staking (it is supported for other features) unless you deposit Monero and exchange it for other supported cryptocurrencies.
Also Read =>> What is Blockchain Wallet
- Wallets listed for review: 20
- Wallets reviewed: 10
- Time taken to research and write the tutorial: 24 hours