Hardware wallets are the safest crypto storage option, but there are many, making it difficult to choose, especially for the new users in the blockchain space. In this article, we will take a look at two popular crypto hardware wallets: Tangem vs Ledger Nano X. We will compare their supported coins, security measures, prices, and many other factors to help you decide which one is suitable for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Tangem Wallet is priced more affordably than Ledger Nano X, with options starting at $54.9 (compared to the price of $149 from Ledger Nano X).
- Both Tangem Wallet and Ledger Nano X provide robust security features, with Tangem using CC EAL6+ and Ledger Nano X using CC EAL5+ secure chips.
- The Tangem Wallet works on NFC technology, whereas the Ledger Nano X supports Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
- Tangem Wallet supports thousands of cryptocurrencies on over 59 blockchain networks, while Ledger Nano X supports more than 5,500 cryptocurrencies.
Tangem vs Ledger Nano X: The Complete Comparison
| Tangem Wallet | Ledger Nano X | |
| Supported Cryptocurrencies | 1,000+ (59+ blockchain networks) | 5,500+ |
| Price | $54.9 (2-card pack), $69.9 (3-card pack) | $149 |
| Security | CC EAL6+ secure chip, biometric authentication | CC EAL5+ secure chip, BOLOS operating system, PIN code, passphrase |
| Battery | None (NFC powered) | 100mAh rechargeable, up to 8 hours use |
| Platform Compatibility | Android, iOS | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| User Experience | Very easy (simple NFC tap) | Require technical knowledge |
| Dimensions | 85.6 x 54 mm (credit card size) | 72 x 18.6 x 11.75mm |
| Weight | 6g (per card) | 34g |
| Backup Options | Multi-card recovery system, optional seed phrase | Seed phrase |
| Durability | IP68+ rated (dust, water, and temperature resistant) | Not specifically rated |
| NFT Support | No | Yes (Ethereum and Polygon NFTs) |
| Integration with dApps | Yes (via WalletConnect). | Yes (via Ledger Live and other third-party wallets). |
| Storage Capacity | Not applicable (card-based storage) | Can install 100+ apps |
1. Supported Coins
Tangem Wallet supports thousands of cryptocurrencies. This includes major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, as well as numerous ERC-20 tokens. Plus, it supports various emerging blockchains like Solana, Cardano, Avalanche, and Polygon. The wallet supports 59+ blockchain networks.
Ledger Nano X supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies. Similar to Tangem Wallet, it covers all the major coins, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP, along with a significantly larger selection of lesser-known altcoins and DeFi tokens. Additionally, NFTs (Ethereum and Polygon) can also be stored in the Ledger Live app.
Winner: Ledger Nano X is better than Tangem in terms of supported coins, with support for over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, slightly more than Tangem Wallet.
2. Price
Tangem presents a distinctive offering by presenting its wallet as physical cards, typically available in packs. Hence, Tangem offers two wallet options: a two-card pack for $54.9 and a three-card pack for $69.9. However, we recommend the three-card pack for enhanced backup.
The Ledger Nano X retails for $149. This higher price point reflects its advanced features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a larger screen, a 100 mAh built-in battery, and higher storage capacity.
Winner: Tangem Wallet is more cost-effective than the Ledger Nano X, with card packs costing less significantly.
3. Security
Tangem utilizes a secure element chip certified with Common Criteria Evaluation Assurance Level 6+ (CC EAL6+). This chip stores your private keys in a secure enclave isolated from the rest of the card’s functionalities. The Tangem Wallet app also supports biometric authentication. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to verify your identity through a fingerprint or facial recognition.
Tangem wallet also utilizes a user-defined access code for added security. This PIN-like code is necessary to access your wallet and perform any transactions, preventing unauthorized use even if the physical card falls into the wrong hands. The physical Tangem cards boast an IP68+ rating, signifying exceptional resistance to dust, water immersion, and extreme temperatures.
While Tangem is a relatively new company, it has undergone independent security audits by reputable firms like Kudelski Security and Riscure.
On the other hand, Ledger Nano X utilizes a secure element chip certified with CC EAL5+. Ledger devices run on a proprietary operating system called BOLOS (Boot Loader Secure). This operating system is specifically designed for security and has been extensively audited and tested over several years.
Ledger also allows you to create hidden wallets within the device itself. These hidden wallets require a separate passphrase for access, adding an extra layer of protection in case your main PIN code is compromised. It also offers optional integration with third-party 2FA applications like Google Authenticator for added security when accessing the Ledger Live companion app.
Ledger has a longer track record in the hardware wallet space. While this translates to a more established security posture, it’s important to acknowledge that Ledger has experienced two security incidents in the past. One involved a data breach where customer information was leaked, and another involved a vulnerability in the Ledger Connect Kit.
Winner: Tie- Both Tangem and Ledger offer robust security features for protecting your cryptocurrencies. Despite Ledger’s security concerns, its longevity, established security history, and specialized operating system, BOLOS, make it a reliable choice. Tangem offers unique security benefits with its multi-card recovery system, IP68+ rating, and CC EAL6+ chip.
4. Warranty
Tangem offers a 25-year warranty on their cards, covering any manufacturing defects that may arise during that period. You can also use its 30-day return policy if items are unused and the original packaging is intact.
Ledger Nano X includes a 1-year warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and any hardware issues that may occur under normal usage conditions. Ledger provides robust customer support and a comprehensive 14-day return policy, ensuring users can get replacements or repairs if needed.
Winner: Tangem Wallet has a better warranty deal compared to Ledger Nano X. The 25-year warranty on Tangem cards offers significantly longer coverage compared to Ledger’s 1-year warranty.
5. Battery
Tangem Wallet does not require a battery, as it is powered by Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. This design choice eliminates concerns about battery life and the need for recharging. The wallet is activated by simply tapping it against an NFC-enabled device, such as a smartphone. This battery-free operation makes Tangem Wallet highly reliable, as there are no worries about the device running out of power.
The Ledger Nano X has a 100mAh built-in rechargeable battery that can last up to 8 hours of continuous use. The battery can last several months on standby.
Winner: Tangem Wallet outperforms Ledger Nano X in terms of battery design. Its battery-free design eliminates the need for charging and offers a more worry-free long-term storage solution.
6. Platform Supported
Tangem Wallet supports both Android and iOS platforms. The wallet uses NFC technology for transactions, which is compatible with most modern smartphones. This wallet also offers integration with various decentralized applications (dApps) through “WalletConnect”.
The Ledger Nano X is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. Its Bluetooth functionality allows for wireless connectivity with smartphones, while the USB-C port enables connection with computers. Ledger Live, the companion app, is also available across all these platforms. You can also use your Nano X with over 50 software wallets (hot wallets) like MetaMask, Electrum, Trust Wallet, and more.
Winner: Ledger Nano X is better than the Tangem wallet regarding the platform supported. The Ledger Nano X supports a wider range of platforms, including desktop operating systems, making it more versatile.
7. User-Friendly
Tangem Wallet is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The wallet’s NFC-based operation makes transactions straightforward, as you only need to tap the card against your smartphone. The Tangem app that accompanies the wallet boasts a clean and intuitive interface. The lack of a battery and display simplifies the user experience, reducing potential technical issues.
However, some users may find the recovery process involving multiple cards less straightforward compared to Ledger’s traditional seed phrase. However, you can also resolve this issue by using Tangem’s optional 12-24 word seed phrase backup system.
On the other hand, Ledger Nano X features a secure but slightly more technical setup process that involves setting a PIN code and passphrase. While the display is generally small, the two-button confirmation system might require some adaptation for users accustomed to touch screens. Plus, Ledger requires users to download and manage individual apps for specific cryptocurrencies on the device, which can be time-consuming for those holding a diverse portfolio.
Winner: Tangem Wallet is easier to use than Ledger Nano X. The Tangem’s simplicity and intuitive design make it more user-friendly, especially for beginners.
What is the Tangem Crypto Wallet?
Tangem Wallet is a secure hardware wallet to store and manage your cryptocurrency. The company (Tangem) was founded in 2017, and the wallet was launched in 2021. Unlike some other cold wallets that use a touchscreen display or buttons, the Tangem Wallet is a physical card, similar to a credit card. Each card has a CC EAL6+ certified security chip inside, which keeps your private keys protected.
It supports thousands of cryptocurrencies across more than 59 blockchain networks. Tangem Wallet uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to communicate with your phone. NFC is a short-range wireless communication method commonly used in bank cards or passports. By tapping your Tangem Wallet on your phone and using the Tangem app, you can buy, sell, transfer, and swap your cryptocurrency.
The Tangem mobile app is open-source, meaning its code is publicly available for security experts to review. Furthermore, the firmware, which is the software running on the Tangem Wallet chip, has been independently audited by a security firm, Kudelski Security and Riscure.
Pros of the Tangem Wallet
- The device uses a CC EAL6+ secure chip to protect private keys.
- Store up to 1,000 different cryptocurrencies on 59+ networks.
- The card is IP68+ rated with resistant to water and extreme temperatures.
- Easy to use with the simple tap of the card on a smartphone.
- Highly portable and convenient to carry around.
Cons of the Tangem Wallet
- The Tangem App does not support NFT storage.
- Losing the card means losing access to the funds (if optional seed phrase backup is not activated).
Who should choose the Tangem Crypto Wallet
Based on our research on this wallet, we believe the Tangem crypto wallet could be a suitable fit for the following types of users:
- Who Prefers a Portable Hardware Wallet: Tangem wallets are designed to be compact and convenient (just 6 grams in weight), resembling credit cards. This makes it ideal to carry them around.
- Who Favors NFC Connectivity: Unlike some hardware wallets that rely on Bluetooth or USB connections, Tangem utilizes NFC (Near Field Communication) for interaction with your smartphone. This can be advantageous if your computer lacks compatible ports or you find NFC simpler to use.
- Who Seeking an Affordable Wallet: Compared to some high-end hardware wallets like Ledger Nano X ($149) and Trezor Model T (€149), Tangem offers a competitive price point of just $54.9 for a 2-card pack.
What is Ledger Nano X Crypto Wallet?
Ledger Nano X is one of the most popular hardware wallets in the crypto industry. Launched in 2019, the Ledger Nano X represents an enhanced version of its predecessor, the Ledger Nano S. It boasts a large storage capacity, allowing you to install 100+ apps for managing over 5,500 different cryptocurrencies and tokens.
Plus, Ledger Nano X is known for its user-friendly design. It’s a small, portable device with a built-in screen and buttons, so you can easily manage your crypto on the go.
It connects to your smartphone using Bluetooth and allows you to securely approve transactions through the Ledger Live app for even more convenience. It is a companion app that lets you view your account balances, send and receive cryptocurrency, and even swap between different coins directly.
Pros of Ledger Nano X
- Utilizes a Secure Element (SE) chip, ensuring robust security for private keys.
- Allows wireless crypto transactions and management through Bluetooth.
- Can hold up to 100 different apps simultaneously.
- Equipped with a 100mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of continuous usage.
- It is lightweight (34g only) and portable.
Cons of Ledger Nano X
- It is much more expensive than the Tangem Wallet.
- Smaller displays may not be convenient for beginners.
Who should choose the Ledger Nano X?
The Ledger Nano X is a great choice for users:
- Who Prefers Wireless Connectivity: Unlike its competitor, Tangem Wallet, the Ledger Nano X boasts Bluetooth connectivity. This allows for a more cable-free experience when interacting with crypto via your smartphone.
- Who Prefers Built-in Battery: The Ledger Nano X comes with a 100mAh rechargeable battery, offering portability and convenience. You can manage your crypto assets without needing a constant computer connection.
- Who wants Easy DeFi Access: The Nano X integrates seamlessly with Ledger Live, the companion app that connects to various DApps. This allows you to perform a variety of activities such as staking, swapping, farming, and more. You can also interact with NFT marketplaces.
Conclusion
In the comparison of Tangem vs Ledger Nano X, both hardware wallets have unique strengths. Tangem Wallet stands out for its affordability, simplicity, and long warranty, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those who value straightforward usage. Its NFC technology and card format offer a unique user experience.
On the other hand, Ledger Nano X excels in supporting a wider range of cryptocurrencies and offers advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and NFT storage. It is ideal for more experienced users who require extensive functionality and integration with various platforms.
FAQs
Is Tangem the best wallet?
Tangem is the best wallet due to its affordability and ease of use, especially for beginners. It uses NFC technology and offers robust security features. However, the best wallet depends on individual needs and preferences. If you prefer Bluetooth connectivity or NFT storage, it might not be suitable for you.
What are the disadvantages of Tangem?
Tangem Wallet does not support NFT storage, and losing all the cards can result in losing access to funds if a backup seed phrase is not activated. Its reliance on NFC may not appeal to everyone who prefers Bluetooth connectivity.
Is Tangem legit?
Yes, Tangem is a legitimate hardware wallet. It uses a secure element chip certified with CC EAL6+ and has undergone independent security audits. Its open-source app adds to its credibility.
Can Tangem Wallet get hacked?
While no system is entirely hack-proof, Tangem Wallet uses advanced security measures like a secure element chip and biometric authentication to protect your assets, making it highly secure against hacking attempts.
