Recovery Phrases Explained
What a seed phrase is, how to back it up, and why it must stay private.
How to Store Bitcoin
Choosing a Wallet
How to compare hardware, mobile, and custodial options for your situation.
Overview
Hardware wallets keep keys offline and suit long-term holdings. Mobile wallets are convenient for smaller amounts and everyday payments. Custodial accounts on exchanges are easy to use but you rely on the provider's security and policies.
Review open-source status, recovery options, fee control, and whether the wallet supports passphrases or multisig. Download only from official sources and verify checksums when provided.
Matching wallet to use case
Daily spending favors mobile apps with intuitive UX. Long-term savings point toward hardware or multisig with infrequent signing.
Active traders may keep a working balance on a reputable exchange—size it to what you need for orders, not your entire net worth.
Evaluation checklist
Prefer open-source wallets with long track records. Check seed control, fee adjustment, and transaction export.
Review backup options: seed only, optional passphrase, multisig, and cross-wallet recovery compatibility.
Setup and maintenance
Download from official sites or vendor-linked app stores. Verify checksums when published.
Update firmware and apps for security patches. Re-test recovery yearly on a spare device.
