Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (2024)

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Hardware wallets, software wallets, custodial, non-custodial, hot and cold. It would be an understatement to say there are a ton of different phrases and words when discussing cryptocurrency wallets.

This can be especially confusing if you are new to the space and do not really understand the difference between something like MetaMask, a Ledger Nano S, and an exchange wallet. The confusion can be compounded further when you realize that a lot of different cryptocurrencies need different wallets, but not all of them do.

In this edition of Ask CryptoVantage we will take a look at whether different cryptocurrencies need different wallets, and what exactly that means for you as a user.

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (1)
Evan Jones

Written by Evan Jones Arrow Right Cryptocurrency expert and consultant

Evan Jones was introduced to cryptocurrency by fellow CryptoVantage contributor Keegan Francis in 2017 and was immediately intrigued by the use cases of many Ethereum-based cryptos. He bought his first hardware wallet shortly thereafter. He has a keen and v...

|Jul 16, 2024

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (2)

Do Different Cryptocurrencies Need Different Wallets?

Technically yes. You need different a different wallet for different cryptocurrences. Bitcoin wallet for your BTC, an Ethereum wallet for your ETH, and a Cardano wallet for your ADA.

You cannot store BTC in a Cardano wallet (or even send it there), and vice versa. For something like Ethereum, your Ethereum wallet can store any ERC-20 token, so you do not need a new wallet for Uniswap (UNI), Polygon (MATIC), or Synthetix (SNX) tokens, as they are compatible with any Ethereum wallet such as MetaMask or My Ether Wallet. The same is true of a Binance Smart Chain wallet and any BEP-20 asset such as PancakeSwap (CAKE).

There are, however, as multi-asset wallets like Exodus, Trust Wallet, Ledger, Trezor have the ability to have many different wallets on one device or piece of software.

How Many Wallets Will I Need?

Wallets through exchanges like Crypto.com Exchange and Binance contain wallets for every asset you own, and when you deposit a new asset a new wallet address is created for that asset. In other words, they are multi-asset wallets. What this means is that if you are comfortable using a custodial wallet service (most exchanges are custodial, meaning you do not own the keys), then you do not need to worry at all about having different wallets, as the exchange will take care of all of that for you.

While not as much of an issue nowadays, keeping your assets on an exchange means potentially leaving them in “hot” wallets, which are wallets that are active and potentially a target for hacks, as exchanges pool user funds. Most exchanges now try and keep 90% or more of users’ assets in cold wallets.

Software and Hardware Wallets Made Easy

The reality is that with most non-custodial software and hardware wallets you will not need more than one piece of software or hardware despite needing different wallets for each different cryptocurrency asset. This is because the majority of them are multi-asset wallets, meaning you can have lots of different addresses for different crypto assets tied to the same wallet, you just have to select the asset you wish to deposit and send it to the address the wallet provides. Something like the Exodus software wallet allows you to store Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Cosmos, Binance Coin and many more. One piece of software will likely cover all your wallet needs.

Meanwhile, with hardware wallets like the Ledger Nano X, you simply have to install the wallet app for whichever asset you want to store using your Ledger and then send the asset to the address provided. There are hundreds of supported cryptocurrencies on most hardware wallets, whether Ledger or Trezor, meaning that you can essentially buy one hardware wallet that holds every cryptocurrency you may be interested in.

In summary most modern cryptocurrency wallets are multi-asset wallets but it’s important to understand they technically hold a variety of different wallets for each cryptocurrency. The key takeway is that you should never try and send Bitcoin to an Ethereum address or vise versa as you risk losing your coins.

Below is a quick list of the best wallets to get you started:

Best for Beginners: Coinbase Wallet

To get started in cryptocurrency you’re going to need crypto. One of the best on-ramps for new crypto investors is Coinbase Exchange thanks to its intuitive UI and easy set-up. The site also offers a non-custodial DeFi wallet, which is a great place to start if you want to try self-custody.

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (3)

Coinbase Wallet

  • Non-custodial wallet developed by Coinbase team
  • Easy to swap assets between Coinbase wallet and Coinbase exchange
  • Support for over 100 crypto assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDC
  • One of the most secure software-based wallets
  • Ability to store NFT assets

Cryptocurrencies100+ (BTC, USDC, Ethereum, ERC20 Tokens)

CostFree

Best for Desktop: Exodus

Exodus is a great wallet on desktop as it supports nearly every major cryptocurrency (BTC, ETH, SOL etc) and has a great UI. It’s completely free and can be secured with a Trezor wallet for extra piece of mind.

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (4)

Exodus

  • Free to download for desktop & mobile
  • Supports multiple hardware wallets
  • Supports over 100 cryptocurrencies
  • Great customer support

CostFree

Cryptocurrencies100+

Platforms SupportedWindows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Visit ExodusRead Review

Best for Bitcoin: Ledger Nano S

If you’re serious about Bitcoin than you are probably going to want to invest in a hardware wallet. The Ledger Nano S is a great hardware wallet that doesn’t offer much support for altcoins (you can only have three crypto apps installed) but it’s perfect for Bitcoin purists. It also only costs $60.

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (5)

Ledger Nano S

  • Excellent value at price point
  • Easy to use
  • Supports 1000+ digital assets
  • Very secure

Cost$60-$80

Cryptocurrencies1,100+

Platforms SupportedWindows, MacOS, Linus

Visit LedgerRead Review

Frequently Asked Questions About Crypto Wallets

This is a point of contention among crypto users. Most crypto purists prefer withdrawing their coins to their own wallet so they can guarantee security. In other words, if a crypto exchange is hacked, they don’t have to worry about it.

On the other hand there are plenty of crypto users who don’t trust themselves with crypto and prefer the security of a highly regulated exchange to hold their crypto.

The choice is ultimately up to you.

There are plenty of crypto wallets that hold huge amounts of different cryptocurrencies including Exodus, Ledger, Trezor, Trust Wallet and Coinbase Wallet. There isn’t really one industry leader in this category.

Absolutely. You can have as many wallets as you want. You could theoretically have a thousand Bitcoin wallets with $.50 on each one.

No. While technically each cryptocurrency does live in its own wallet, there are plenty of multi-asset wallets that actually offer many different wallets in one interface.

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About the Author

EvanJones

Evan Jones was introduced to cryptocurrency by fellow CryptoVantage contributor Keegan Francis in 2017 and was immediately intrigued by the use cases of many Ethereum-based cryptos. He bought his first hardware wallet shortly thereafter. He has a keen and vested interest in cryptos involving decentralized backend exchanges, payment processing, and power-sharing.

Learn more aboutEvan Jones

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Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? (2024)

FAQs

Ask CryptoVantage: Do Different Crypto Coins Need Different Wallets? ›

Do Different Cryptocurrencies Need Different Wallets? Technically yes. You need different a different wallet for different cryptocurrences.

Do I need different wallets for different coins? ›

You don't necessarily need a different wallet for each cryptocurrency, as there are universal or multi-coin wallets available that can store multiple cryptocurrencies in one place. Examples include software wallets like MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, and hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor.

Should I use multiple crypto wallets? ›

Enhanced security: Having several wallets can protect your assets from being compromised all at once. If one wallet is at risk, it doesn't spell disaster for your entire crypto portfolio. Organizational clarity: Different wallets can be allocated for various purposes — daily spending, long-term savings, or trading.

Does each crypto have a different wallet address? ›

A: Typically, you need to use different wallet addresses for different cryptocurrencies because they operate on separate blockchain networks. Using the wrong address can result in the loss of your funds. But, multi-chain wallets can accommodate some different transaction types.

Are all crypto wallets connected? ›

A hot wallet is always connected to the internet or a device with an internet connection. It's ideal for those who trade or use cryptocurrencies frequently. A cold wallet, on the other hand, is not connected. It's a hardware storage device that looks like a USB device and is used to keep the data offline.

What is the most trusted crypto wallet? ›

10 Best Cryptocurrency Wallets (September 2024)
WalletBest ForRating
Coinbase WalletBeginners4.8 stars
MetaMaskEthereum4.8 stars
GuardaCryptocurrency Selection4.2 stars
Crypto.com DeFi WalletDeFi Staking4.2 stars
6 more rows

Does it matter which crypto wallet you have? ›

Both types protect your public and private keys — the cryptographically generated strings of letters and numbers that can authorize your crypto transactions. The right type of wallet for you depends on how much crypto you hold, your security preferences and how easily accessible you need your funds to be.

Can I put all my crypto in one wallet? ›

It might sound counterintuitive to consolidate your crypto wallets just after diversifying them, but it can be a smart move for several reasons. In fact, we think consolidating your crypto wallets is a crucial final step that will allow you to gain complete control over your crypto portfolio.

How many crypto wallets can one person have? ›

How many crypto wallets can one person have? Since crypto wallets are not typically regulated or tracked by financial institutions or governments, there is no limit on how many wallets an individual may own. It is recommended that you use multiple wallets from different providers for different purposes.

Should I move all my crypto to a wallet? ›

Storing your crypto in a private wallet, especially a hardware wallet, enhances security. Ownership and Control:Moving your crypto to a private wallet gives you full ownership and control of your private keys. On an exchange like Coinbase, you don't have direct control over your private keys.

Can someone steal my crypto with my wallet address? ›

Your crypto addresses are safe to display anywhere you would like to accept tips, payments, or donations. It is not possible to steal digital currency with a public address alone.

Can crypto wallet address be traced? ›

Yes, a cryptocurrency wallet address can be traced to its owner through blockchain analysis and linking transactions to identifiable information. Methods include tracking IP addresses, exchange records, and linking wallet activity to real-world identities.

Is it safe to show your crypto wallet address? ›

Can I share my wallet address publicly? Yes, sharing your wallet address publicly is safe, as it only allows others to send funds to your wallet. However, do not share your private keys or any other sensitive information.

Which crypto wallet is best for beginners? ›

Best for Beginners: Coinbase Wallet

The app connects to most major bank accounts and can store popular coins, such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin and BNB, as well as all ERC-20 tokens and tokens on EVM-compatible blockchains.

What are the three types of crypto wallets? ›

There are two subcategories of wallets: hot and cold. A hot wallet has a connection to the internet or to a device that has a connection, and a cold wallet has no connection. Lastly, there are three subcategories of wallets—software, hardware, and paper. Each of these types is considered either a hot or cold wallet.

How to pick a crypto wallet? ›

When you're comparing crypto wallets, you may want to consider details such as price and security measures. If you also use a hot wallet, you should check to make sure the hardware you're considering will work with your software wallet. Here are some of NerdWallet's top picks for cold crypto wallets.

Can you link different crypto wallets? ›

You can have multiple Bitcoin wallets, but they won't share the same wallet address. Each wallet generates its unique addresses. However, you can transfer BTC between these wallets(Bitget Web3 wallet) by sending transactions from one address to another.

Can you transfer coins to another wallet? ›

Quick answer: Access your Bitcoin wallet: Open the Bitcoin wallet that holds your BTC. Navigate to the send option: Find and click on the "Send" or "Transfer" option. Enter the recipient's address: Paste the recipient's Bitcoin wallet address carefully.

Is it OK to put coins in a wallet? ›

If you only have a few coins, stick them in the wallet. While these wallets are “minimalist,” they are designed to maximize the use of space, and they still have pockets for cash where you can place your coins. If you have change after paying in cash, put the change in your wallet and it will be perfectly fine.

How do different cryptocurrency wallets differ? ›

Hot wallets are cryptocurrency wallets with a connection to the internet; cold wallets do not have a connection. Both are means for storing cryptocurrency and token private keys. It's necessary to know the differences between a hot wallet and a cold wallet so that you can store your cryptocurrency private key safely.

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