Trezor
score
Fees: one-time device purchase; free companion app
A great fit for privacy- and transparency-minded users who value open-source verifiability above all. The key caveat is that older secure-element-free models can be compromised with physical access, so choose a Safe-series device and always use a passphrase for high-value holdings.
What Trezor is
Trezor is a line of hardware wallets made by SatoshiLabs, the Czech company that shipped the first commercial hardware wallet back in 2013. The idea is simple: your private keys live on a small dedicated device and never touch your internet-connected computer or phone. You confirm every transaction on the device itself, so malware on your desktop cannot quietly move funds. The current line-up runs from the entry-level Safe 3 up to the touchscreen Safe 5, all managed through the free Trezor Suite app.
Where it stands out
Transparency is Trezor's headline strength, and our 9.5 there reflects it: both firmware and hardware are fully open-source, so independent researchers can audit exactly what the device does. Supported assets score a 9 thanks to broad coverage across major chains and thousands of tokens, and the Suite app earns 8.5 for a mature, readable experience with on-device confirmation. Security model lands at 8 rather than higher because protection depends on which generation you buy, a point worth understanding before purchase.
What it costs
There is no subscription. You pay once for the device and the Trezor Suite companion app is free to use, which is why value sits at a healthy 8.5. Cheaper models cover the essentials while the higher-end touchscreen unit adds comfort and a secure element. As with any wallet, buy directly from the maker or an authorised reseller to avoid tampered units.
The caveat to understand
The original Model One and Model T shipped without a secure element, meaning an attacker with physical possession of the device can potentially extract the seed. The newer Safe 3 and Safe 5 add an EAL6+ secure element while keeping the open-source design, which is the combination we recommend. Whichever model you hold, enabling a passphrase adds a layer that defeats physical seed-extraction, though the passphrase and other advanced features can trip up newcomers.
Who should buy it
Trezor is the natural pick for privacy- and transparency-minded users who want verifiable code rather than a promise. If you value auditability above brand polish and are willing to learn a passphrase workflow, choose a Safe-series device and you get one of the most trusted names in self-custody. This is a review, not financial advice, so match the model to how much you are protecting.
Overall 8.6 / 10 — the weighted average of the criteria above. How we score →
- + Fully open-source firmware and hardware, the gold standard for auditability
- + Newer Safe 3/Safe 5 models add an EAL6+ secure element while retaining openness
- + Broad multi-asset support and mature Trezor Suite app with on-device confirmation
- + Strong long-running track record and active security research community
- − Original Model One/Model T lacked a secure element and are vulnerable to physical seed-extraction attacks
- − Passphrase and advanced features can confuse newcomers
- − On-chip PIN-brute-force resistance depends on model generation
Is Trezor safe to use?
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Trezor keeps your keys offline and confirms every transaction on-device, and it earns a strong 8 on our security model. The important nuance is model choice: the older Model One and Model T lack a secure element and can be compromised with physical access, so we recommend a Safe 3 or Safe 5 and a passphrase for larger holdings.
What does Trezor cost?
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It is a one-time purchase with no subscription, and the Trezor Suite app is free. Prices vary by model, with the entry-level Safe 3 cheaper than the touchscreen Safe 5. Always buy from Trezor or an authorised reseller to avoid tampered devices.
Is Trezor better than Ledger?
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They trade blows. Trezor wins decisively on transparency with fully open-source firmware and hardware, while Ledger offers broader coin support and a more polished app. If verifiable code matters most to you, Trezor is the stronger pick; if breadth and app features come first, Ledger may suit you better.
What is a Trezor passphrase and do I need one?
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A passphrase is an extra word you add on top of your PIN and seed, creating a hidden wallet that resists physical seed-extraction. It is optional but strongly worth using for high-value holdings. Be aware it adds complexity and, if forgotten, the hidden wallet cannot be recovered.
Which Trezor model should I choose?
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For most people we suggest a Safe-series device (Safe 3 or Safe 5), because they add an EAL6+ secure element while keeping the open-source design. The touchscreen Safe 5 is the most comfortable to use; the Safe 3 covers the essentials at a lower price.