My Honest Review of the Tangem Wallet: The Best Hardware Wallet I’ve Used
Since diving into crypto in 2017, I’ve tested over 15 hardware wallets, and I’ve found one that stands out for its simplicity, affordability, and security: the Tangem Wallet. I’ve been using it since early 2023, and it’s the only wallet I recommend to both beginners and seasoned crypto users. In this post, I’ll share why Tangem is my top choice, how it saves me hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually, and how it compares to traditional wallets like Ledger or Trezor. My goal is to inform you about its benefits so you can decide if it’s right for you.
Why You Need a Hardware Wallet
If you hold more than $1,000 in cryptocurrency, it’s time to consider a hardware wallet. Storing crypto on exchanges or software wallets like MetaMask can be risky. Hacks, scams, or platform failures happen too often. I see stories daily of people losing funds after clicking malicious links on Discord, Telegram, or even SMS. A hardware wallet, or cold wallet, keeps your private keys offline, requiring physical access to the device and a password to make transactions. This setup adds a critical layer of security, giving you peace of mind. With a one-time cost of around $50, a hardware wallet like Tangem lasts for years. Mine comes with a 25-year guarantee.
Why Tangem Stands Out
After two years of using the Tangem Wallet, here’s why I think it’s the best hardware wallet available:
1. Incredibly Easy to Use
Tangem is the simplest hardware wallet I’ve tried. Traditional wallets like Ledger often require connecting to a computer, installing apps, and navigating clunky interfaces with buttons, which can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners handling large sums. Tangem, on the other hand, is just a card you tap against your phone. Using the Tangem app, you set it up in about a minute by scanning the card and setting a password (or using biometrics). Sending or receiving crypto is just as straightforward. Tap the card, enter your password, and you’re done. This ease of use makes managing crypto feel intuitive and stress-free, even for significant transactions.
2. Saves Money on Transaction Fees
One of the biggest reasons I love Tangem is how much it saves me on transaction fees. Traditional wallets like Ledger often limit you to specific blockchain networks, like Ethereum’s ERC-20, which can cost $10 to $20 per transaction. For example, storing Chainlink (LINK) on Ledger typically requires using the expensive ERC-20 network, and while other blockchains are possible, they involve complex, non-intuitive steps. Tangem supports thousands of coins and multiple blockchain networks right in the app, letting you choose cheaper options that cost just cents per transaction. If you’re frequently moving crypto, these savings add up fast. It’s hundreds or thousands of dollars a year in my case.
3. Affordable Price
Tangem is one of the cheapest hardware wallets available. The 3-card pack costs around $55.90, and the 2-card pack is about $43.90. You can buy it here and even get 10% off with the code “NORDIC” or up to 20% off during special promotions. Check Tangem’s website for details. Compare that to Ledger or Trezor, which start at $150 and can go up to $250 for similar features. Tangem’s low upfront cost, combined with its support for cost-effective blockchain networks, makes it a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality.
4. Top-Notch Security
Security is my top priority, and Tangem delivers. Its chip has EAL6+ certification, the same level used in passports, which is higher than most other hardware wallets. Unlike traditional wallets that rely on seed phrases (which can be stolen if seen), Tangem stores your private key securely on the card’s chip, inaccessible to you, Tangem, or anyone else. The wallet comes in a 2- or 3-card pack for backups. Store them in separate safe locations, and as long as you have one card and your password, you can access your funds. Even if a thief gets one card, they can’t access your crypto without the password.
What sets Tangem apart is its non-updatable firmware. Many traditional wallets rely on firmware updates, which have historically been exploited as backdoors for hacks. With Tangem, the card’s firmware is fixed, eliminating this risk. The app on your phone is just an interface and can’t access your funds without the card. If your phone is lost or stolen, simply install the app on a new device, tap your card, and enter your password to regain access. Plus, the cards are durable. They’re waterproof, dustproof, and built to last 25 years with no battery required.
5. Broad Token and DeFi Support
Tangem supports thousands of tokens across multiple blockchain networks, making it incredibly versatile. Unlike traditional wallets with storage limits or app requirements for each coin, Tangem’s app handles everything seamlessly. It also integrates with DeFi platforms like PancakeSwap or LiFi via WalletConnect, allowing you to swap tokens or bridge assets across chains by scanning a QR code and tapping the card. This combination of cold wallet security and DeFi flexibility is something I haven’t found in other wallets.
Final Thoughts
After testing over 15 hardware wallets since 2017, I can confidently say the Tangem Wallet is the best I’ve used. It’s affordable, easy to use, supports a wide range of tokens and networks, and offers security I trust. The 2- or 3-card system ensures safe backups, and its DeFi compatibility adds versatility. Whether you’re new to crypto or a pro, Tangem makes securing and managing your funds simple and cost-effective.