In the following article, we present the best Cardano wallets to help you securely store your ADA. However, before diving into the wallet options, it’s essential to understand some basic technical knowledge to make an informed decision.
If you’re already familiar with cryptography and wallet types, you can skip the info box and proceed directly to the best Cardano hardware wallets.
- Cold Wallets
- Hot Wallets
In a cold wallet, private keys never come into contact with the internet, making them less vulnerable to hacking attempts. In contrast, hot wallets are connected to the internet, which can expose them to potential cyber threats. This distinction is why many crypto investment firms and exchanges store the majority of their assets in cold wallets to safeguard against theft.
For individual users, secure storage of Cardano can be achieved through hardware wallets and paper wallets, both of which are types of cold wallets.
Additionally, there are three types of hot wallets, differentiated by where the private keys are stored:
- Cardano Desktop Wallets
- Cardano Mobile Wallets
- Cardano Online Wallets
The private key is a randomly generated string that signifies ownership of the cryptocurrency. The public key, on the other hand, represents the wallet address used to receive transactions. (Technically, the wallet address is a hashed version of the public key.)
While the public key or wallet address is not confidential, the private key must remain secret. Possession of the private key allows the owner to send and manage their cryptocurrency.
Beyond this foundational knowledge, here are two important tips:
1. Before purchasing Cardano, decide which wallet you’ll use to store your private key. Having this information beforehand allows you to provide your wallet address during the purchase process, potentially saving on fees. 2. It’s advisable to transfer your Cardano from an exchange or broker to your personal wallet promptly. There are two main reasons for this: firstly, as the private keys represent ownership of your cryptocurrency, they should remain under your control. Secondly, exchanges are frequent targets for hackers. Numerous exchanges have been compromised in recent years, resulting in the loss of private keys and cryptocurrencies. Therefore, it’s prudent to manage your private keys personally and keep ADA on an exchange only as long as necessary.Cardano hardware wallets
Cold storage solutions, particularly hardware wallets, remain the most secure and effective method for long-term cryptocurrency storage as of February 2025. These devices ensure that private keys remain isolated from internet exposure, significantly reducing the risk of theft. Even during transaction signing, private keys never leave the hardware wallet, ensuring that even if associated management software is compromised, unauthorized transactions cannot occur.
Leading hardware wallets, such as those from Ledger and Trezor, offer additional security features like PIN protection and two-factor authentication, providing robust defense even against physical theft. Investing in a reputable hardware wallet is a prudent decision, as the cost is minimal compared to the value of the assets they protect.
| Hardware Wallet | Info | Test |
|---|---|---|
| ⚡ OUR test champion: The Ledger Nano X | 
|
| ⚡ Best price/performance ratio: The Ledger Nano S | 
|
| ⚡ 3rd place: The Trezor Model T | |
1.Ledger Nano X
The Ledger Nano X, priced at $149, is a top-tier hardware wallet renowned for its robust security features and user-friendly design. It supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, including Cardano (ADA), and offers the following features:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for seamless pairing with smartphones, enabling users to manage their assets via the Ledger Live app without compromising security.
- Ample Storage: Capable of storing up to 100 applications simultaneously, facilitating the management of multiple cryptocurrencies.
- Improved Display: Features a clear screen that simplifies the verification and confirmation of transaction details.
- Secure Element Chip: Incorporates a certified secure element chip, providing an added layer of security against potential threats.
Conclusion: The Ledger Nano X offers a comprehensive blend of security and functionality, making it an excellent choice for securely storing Cardano (ADA) and other cryptocurrencies.
2.Ledger Nano S Plus
The Ledger Nano S Plus, priced at $79, is an enhanced version of the original Nano S, offering improved features while maintaining affordability. It supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies, including Cardano (ADA), and offers the following features:
- Increased Memory: Allows for the installation of multiple applications, facilitating the management of various cryptocurrencies.
- USB-C Connectivity: Ensures fast and secure connections to devices for efficient transaction management.
- Improved Display: Features a larger screen for easier navigation and transaction verification.
Conclusion: The Ledger Nano S Plus provides a cost-effective solution for securely managing Cardano (ADA) and other cryptocurrencies, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
Cardano (ADA) Desktop wallets
Desktop wallets are programs that are installed on your computer to store private keys and send cryptocurrencies. Compared to hardware wallets, they have the advantage that both download and use are completely free of charge. However, they belong to the category of hot wallets. As a result, they have the disadvantage that the private keys are not stored offline but come into contact with the Internet.
Storing the private keys on your own computer is a great responsibility, as the PC must always be supplied with updates and (good) anti-virus software must be installed. If the protection is not sufficient, there is a risk that the wallet will become vulnerable to hacker attacks. However, if the computer is adequately protected, desktop wallets offer significantly better protection than online and web wallets. Besides mobile wallets, they are therefore the best option if you are looking for a free wallet for Cardano (ADA).
✅ Storage of private keys on your own Computer
✅ High safety standard
✅ No acquisition costs – use is free of charge
✅ Multi-coin wallets support numerous cryptocurrencies
✅ Regular updates
❌ Less security than using a hardware wallet (more vulnerable to hacker attacks)
❌ Responsibility to protect your own PC
❌ Be careful when choosing an unknown wallet: There are known cases of fraud.
The best Cardano Desktop wallets
- Daedalus Wallet (Windows, Mac, Linux)
- Yoroi Wallet (Windows, Mac, Linux)
1.Daedalus Wallet
Daedalus is the official wallet for ADA, developed by IOHK. It is a full-node desktop wallet that downloads a complete copy of the Cardano blockchain, ensuring independent transaction validation and enhanced security. Users retain full control over their private keys, which are stored exclusively on their computers.
- Full-node wallet: Downloads the entire Cardano blockchain for independent verification.
- Support for ADA staking: Users can delegate their ADA to stake pools directly from the wallet.
- Support for Cardano NFTs and native tokens.
- High security: Private keys are stored locally on the user’s computer.
The Daedalus wallet is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS and can be downloaded from the official website.
2.Yoroi Wallet
Yoroi is a lightweight wallet for Cardano, developed by EMURGO. Unlike Daedalus, it does not require downloading the entire blockchain, making it faster and more convenient to use. Yoroi is available as a browser extension and a mobile app.
- Lightweight wallet: No need to download the full blockchain.
- Support for ADA staking.
- Compatible with hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor.
- Support for Cardano NFTs and native tokens.
Yoroi is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android and can be downloaded from the official website.
The disadvantage is that the private key is connected to the Internet. Therefore, the computer must be protected as best as possible with antivirus and anti-malware software. If this is considered, desktop wallets offer a very good level of security.
Mobile Cardano wallets for iOS and Android
Mobile wallets have the essential advantage that they can be installed on (almost) any smartphone. So you can make transactions on the go and are not tied to your stationary PC. Apart from this feature, mobile wallets are very similar to desktop wallets.
The most obvious common feature is that the private keys are stored on the user’s device, the smartphone, instead of the computer. However, like computers, smartphones are (presumably) permanently connected to the Internet, potentially putting private keys at risk.
The security problem with smartphones is even more serious, as many smartphone users use public hotspots, such as cafés and restaurants. These are, however, public networks in which the data is transmitted completely unencrypted, without any security measures of their own. Therefore it is all the more important to protect the smartphone as best as possible and, if necessary, to use a program for data encryption.
✅ Access to Cardano (ADA) via Smartphone
✅ Access to the wallet from anywhere where there is an Internet connection
✅ No acquisition costs – use is free of charge
✅ More cryptocurrencies than just Cardano are often supported.
✅ The user interface is often very simple and intuitive.
❌ Less security than a hardware wallet
❌ No deposit insurance, as offered e.g. by some custodial wallets
❌ Vulnerable to hacker or phishing attacks
The best Cardano wallets for iOS and Android
- Yoroi Wallet (iOS and Android)
- Atomic Wallet (iOS and Android)
1.Yoroi Wallet
Yoroi is a lightweight wallet for Cardano, developed by EMURGO. Unlike Daedalus, it does not require downloading the entire blockchain, making it quicker to set up and easier to use. Yoroi is available as a browser extension and mobile application.
- Lightweight wallet: No need to download the full blockchain.
- Support for ADA staking: Users can delegate their ADA to staking pools.
- Compatible with hardware wallets: Ledger and Trezor supported.
- Support for Cardano NFTs and native tokens.
Yoroi is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android and can be downloaded from the official website.
2.Atomic Wallet
Atomic Wallet is a decentralized multi-currency wallet available for both desktop and mobile platforms, including iOS and Android. It supports over 500 cryptocurrencies, including Cardano (ADA), and offers a range of features designed to enhance the user experience.
- Multi-Currency Support: Manage a diverse portfolio of cryptocurrencies within a single application.
- Decentralized Atomic Swaps: Exchange cryptocurrencies directly from the wallet without intermediaries.
- Staking: Stake various cryptocurrencies, including ADA, to earn rewards.
- Security: Private keys are encrypted and stored on the user’s device.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use.
Atomic Wallet is available for iOS and Android and can be downloaded from the official website.
Cardano online wallets
Online wallets provide a convenient method to manage Cardano (ADA) without the need for software installation. They typically require only registration and login, making them accessible, especially for beginners. However, it’s important to note that online wallets often offer a lower level of security compared to other wallet types, as they are connected to the internet and may involve third-party control over private keys.
Below is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of online wallets:
- AdaLite Wallet
- Nami Wallet
- Yoroi Wallet
1. AdaLite Wallet
AdaLite is a web-based wallet that allows users to manage their Cardano (ADA) holdings without downloading any software. Developed by Vacuumlabs, it offers a straightforward interface and ensures that private keys are stored exclusively on the user’s device, enhancing security. AdaLite is compatible with hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor, providing an added layer of protection.
2. Nami Wallet
Nami is a browser-based wallet extension designed specifically for the Cardano blockchain. It allows users to manage ADA and other Cardano tokens, interact with decentralized applications (dApps), and supports features like staking. Nami provides users with full control over their private keys, which are stored locally.
3. Yoroi Wallet
Yoroi is a lightweight wallet for Cardano, developed by EMURGO. Available as a browser extension and mobile application, it provides a quick and straightforward way to manage ADA holdings. Yoroi emphasizes simplicity and security, ensuring that private keys are stored securely on the user’s device. The wallet also supports staking, allowing users to delegate their ADA to stake pools directly from the interface.
