11 best non-custodial wallets in 2025

Compare some of the best non-custodial crypto wallets for secure self-custody of your digital assets.

Frank Corva's headshot
Stacie Hurst's headshot

By

Frank Corva

&

Stacie Hurst

Updated

Fact checked

We’ve scoured the market to find the best non-custodial wallet in Canada, reviewing products for safety, functionality, cost and supported digital assets—including coins, tokens and NFTs. The safest non-custodial wallets are hardware wallets, but we’ve included a range of self-custodial options to help you decide which is best for your needs.

Best non-custodial wallets in Canada for 2025

This is not an endorsement of cryptocurrency or any specific provider, service or offering. It is not a recommendation to trade or use any services.

1. Best non-custodial wallet overall: Trezor Model T

Trezor Model T Wallet
Go to siteRead review

Trezor Model T Wallet

★★★★★
Finder score
$129
Price (USD)
1,000+
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
The Trezor Model T is our pick for best non-custodial wallet for it's dynamic, security-rich features. Its large, colorful touch screen makes signing off on transactions easy. Crypto pros will appreciate the Model T's support for Taproot, which upgrades the Bitcoin network's safety and efficiency. Plus, you can set up Multi-share backup (similar to multisignature) to split up your recovery phrase into multiple parts.
Pros
  • Advanced Bitcoin transaction types
  • Large touchscreen
  • Customizable security features
  • Transaction anonymity
  • Integration with MetaMask for additional usability and DeFi
  • In-app swaps and purchases
Cons
  • Trezor Suite only supports around 14 blockchains (more with third-party apps)
  • Expensive
  • Not iOS compatible

2. Best value non-custodial wallet: Trezor Model One

Trezor Model One Wallet
Go to siteRead review

Trezor Model One Wallet

★★★★★
Finder score
$59
Price (USD)
9,000+
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
For many years, the Trezor Model One—the original hardware wallet—has been a go to for private key management among crypto enthusiasts. This small, USB cold-storage device lets you securely hold your private keys in cold storage and put your digital assets to work via staking. It's also great for using with DeFi applications on Ethereum, including Layer 2 networks.
Pros
  • Affordable hardware wallet
  • Easy-to-use interface and software
  • Can be linked with MetaMask for use with Web3 and DeFi
Cons
  • Not iOS compatible
  • Doesn't support some cryptos like XRP, SOL, ADA and XMR

3. Best non-custodial wallet for beginners: Exodus

Exodus Wallet

Exodus Wallet

Free download
Price (USD)
1,000+
Assets
Mobile
Desktop
Web3
 Wallet type
Our top self-custodial wallet for beginners, Exodus is a desktop and mobile software wallet that supports many cryptos and has a built-in exchange. While many wallets only let you manage coins on a single network, Exodus supports unlimited tokens on popular Web3 networks. The portfolio overview makes it easy to see what you own, and you can store asset keys on a Trezor hardware wallet, making it easy to upgrade down the road.
Pros
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Supports tokens and coins on a variety of blockchains
  • Great customer support
Cons
  • Does not support two-factor authentication (2FA)
  • Less secure than a hardware wallet

4. Safest non-custodial crypto wallet: NGRAVE ZERO

NGRAVE ZERO
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NGRAVE ZERO

★★★★★
Finder score
$398
Price (USD)
2,700+
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
The NGRAVE ZERO is a non-custodial crypto hardware wallet with an impressive EAL7 security rating. It's fully air-gapped, allowing you to securely store the private keys to digital assets like BTC, ETH, XRP, DOGE and SOL as well as ERC-20 or MultiversX (ESDT) tokens offline 100% of the time. Use the NGRAVE LIQUID app (available for Android and iOS) when you wan to transact crypto.
Pros
  • Fully air-gapped (100% offline)
  • High EAL7 security rating
  • Optional passphrases and biometric authentication
  • Integrates with MetaMask and Rabby Wallet
  • 4 inch colour touchscreen and sturdy build
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Code isn't fully open-source
  • Doesn't support some popular cryptos like ADA and DOT
  • No native staking support (requires third-party app)

5. Best non-custodial exchange wallet: Coinbase Wallet

Coinbase Wallet
Read review

Coinbase Wallet

Free download
Price (USD)
450,000+
Assets
Mobile
Desktop
Web browser
 Wallet type
The Coinbase Wallet seamlessly integrates with the Coinbase exchange, so users can easily trade crypto. The self-custodial wallet works on desktop or via mobile app and features an easy-to-follow interface as well as support for many blockchains, including Ethereum, Solana and all EVM-compatible chains.
Pros
  • Sync directly to Coinbase exchange
  • Mobile app and browser extension
  • Easy user interface
  • Buy with selected fiats in-wallet
Cons
  • Fee for coin swaps in the wallet
  • Not as secure as a hardware wallet

6. Best non-custodial Web3 wallet: MetaMask

MetaMask Wallet
Read review

MetaMask Wallet

Free download
Price (USD)
500,000+
Assets
Mobile
Web browser
 Wallet type
MetaMask is a go-to wallet in the crypto community, impressing millions with its range of features, including dApp connectivity, NFT support and the ability to trade crypto across several blockchains. As a non-custodial wallet, MetaMask doesn't store any personal info—asset ownership is entirely in your hands and you can buy and sell crypto without providing any personal information.
Pros
  • Easy to set up and install
  • No personal identification required
  • Supports multiple blockchains, including testnets
  • Set spending limits for added security
  • Buy and sell crypto in the app
Cons
  • Only supports ETH and ETH-based tokens (no native BTC support)
  • Limited customer support

7. Best non-custodial wallet for Bitcoin: COLDCARD Mk4

COLDCARD Mk4

COLDCARD Mk4

$167.94
Price (USD)
1
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
The COLDCARD Mk4 may not be as feature-rich as popular Ledger or Trezor wallets, but Bitcoiners love its uncompromising security and bitcoin-exclusive design. Created by cypherpunks—technologists who advocate for privacy-enhancing cryptography—the Mk4 uses its own microprocessor as well as two chips from different vendors. You can connect to your wallet via USB-C, AirGap SneakerNET (microSD card), NFC Tap and virtual disk.
Pros
  • No computer connection required
  • Multiple chips from different vendors for added security
  • High-contrast OLED screen
  • Multisig-enabled
Cons
  • Only supports BTC
  • Expensive
  • Not possible to factory reset
  • MicroSD card adapter sold separately

8. Best non-custodial desktop wallet for Bitcoin: Sparrow Wallet

Sparrow Wallet

Sparrow Wallet

Free download
Price (USD)
1
Assets
Desktop
 Wallet type
Sparrow is a free non-custodial Bitcoin wallet that you can use as a standalone desktop application (hot wallet) or as an interface for a hardware wallet. The lightweight, open-source software has multisig capability and works with major hardware wallets in both USB and air-gapped mode. For a free non-custodial wallet, Sparrow has a lot to offer, but it's best suited to tech-savvy bitcoin experts, not crypto newbies.
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Desktop hot wallet or hardware wallet integration
  • Lets you label transactions
  • Multisig-enabled
  • Connect to a public server, Bitcoin Core node or private Electrum server to manage BTC
Cons
  • Only supports BTC
  • No mobile app
  • Not beginner-friendly
  • Very limited customer support

9. Best non-custodial wallet for staking: Ledger Nano S Plus

Ledger Nano S Plus Wallet
Go to siteRead review

Ledger Nano S Plus Wallet

★★★★★
Finder score
$79
Price (USD)
5,500+
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
When used with the Ledger Live app, the Ledger Nano S Plus hardware wallet can be used to stake a variety of crypto assets, including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA) and Polkadot (DOT). To stake even more digital assets, connect your wallet to third-party apps like MetaMask or the Crypto.com DeFi Wallet. Ledger Live can also be used to buy or swap crypto.
Pros
  • Supports 5,500+ tokens
  • CC EAL6+ security rating
  • Stores NFT private keys
  • Syncs with 25+ third party apps
  • Similar to the Nano X but cheaper
Cons
  • Not Bluetooth enabled
  • Not iOS compatible
  • Mostly (not fully) open-source code

10. Best on-the-go non-custodial hardware wallet: Ledger Nano X

Ledger Nano X Wallet
Go to siteRead review

Ledger Nano X Wallet

★★★★★
Finder score
$149
Price (USD)
5,500+
Assets
Hardware
 Wallet type
Free shipping
Unlike the Ledger Nano S Plus, the Ledger Nano X hardware wallet is Bluetooth enabled and can be used with Android or iOS mobile devices, making it a great travel companion. The Nano X's convenient features and wide range of supported cryptos are part of why we think it's a great option for the best non-custodial wallet in Canada.
Pros
  • Supports 5,500+ cryptos
  • CC EAL 5+ security rating
  • Desktop and mobile (Android/iOS) compatible
  • Stores NFT private keys
  • Syncs with 25+ third-party apps
Cons
  • Fairly expensive (yet similar to the cheaper Nano S Plus)
  • Mostly (not fully) open-source code

11. Best non-custodial wallet for NFTs: Ctrl Wallet (formerly XDEFI)

Ctrl Wallet (formerly XDEFI)

Ctrl Wallet (formerly XDEFI)

Free download
Price (USD)
10,000+
Assets
Web browser
 Wallet type
XDEFI, Ctrl's predecessor, was the first multichain wallet in the world. The recently rebranded Ctrl software wallet supports millions of assets and NFTs on more than 2,300 blockchains and testnets—far more than just about every other wallet. The non-custodial wallet's gallery makes it easy to see your NFTs from 30+ blockchains in a single place. For extra safety, you can connect to Ledger and Trezor hardware wallets.
Pros
  • Supports 15 blockchains for NFTs and 200+ blockchains for crypto trading
  • View NFTs/assets across blockchains in one place
  • Broad desktop and mobile compatibility
  • Connect to Ledger and Trezor hardware wallets
  • Easy login via Google or social accounts
Cons
  • Ctrl was recently released, so reviews are sparse
  • Ctrl Wallet is still early access, as of the time of writing

★ Bonus ★ Best recovery phrase backup device: Billfodl

Billfodl
Go to site

Billfodl

$89
Price (USD)
N/A
Assets
Seed backup device
 Wallet type
Free shipping
Billfoldl deserves an honourable mention because it safeguards your hardware wallet recovery phrase in the event of fire, flooding or decay. With most hardware wallets, you have to write down a recovery phrase. But Billfodl lets you stamp up to 24 words using letters engraved on metal tiles that slide on and off the device. The phrase is concealable with a solid steel swivel case.
Pros
  • Works with any wallet
  • Better preserves your recovery phrase than pen and paper
  • Quality stainless steel design
Cons
  • Pricey add-on to your crypto hardware (but cheaper than some competitors)
  • Sliding tiles into place can be a clumsy experience

What is a non-custodial wallet?

Also known as a self-custodial wallet, a non-custodial wallet is a digital or physical device used to store the private keys to your crypto or other digital assets. If you lose the wallet, you can recover your private keys using a 12- to 24-word seed phrase (recovery phrase).

A common misconception is that digital assets are stored in non-custodial wallets. In fact, digital assets are stored on blockchains, and a wallet stores your private keys to these assets.

Some non-custodial wallets are software wallets, which remain connected to the internet at all times. Examples of non-custodial software wallets include Exodus and MetaMask.

Other non-custodial wallets are hardware wallets, which are disconnected from the internet (offline) when not in use. Examples include wallets made by Trezor, Ledger and COLDCARD. Storing private keys offline is sometimes referred to as cold storage.

Why are non-custodial wallets important?

When you leave your crypto in the custody of a centralized exchange like Coinbase or Kraken, you don’t technically own it. Instead, you own an IOU for it, and that IOU is only as good as the solvency of the exchange that holds it for you.

Crypto has a chequered history when it comes to insolvent exchanges, including high profile cases like FTX and BlockFi. While security has improved over time, there will always be a risk associated with leaving your crypto on an exchange.

To actually take ownership of the digital assets you’ve purchased, you have to move the assets from the custody of an exchange to a non-custodial wallet, which lets you hold the private keys to your assets.

If the best non-custodial wallet you’ve found is a software wallet, it’s good practice to pair it with a hardware wallet for added security and to use multisig protection if possible.

🔑 What is a private key?

Sometimes referred to as secret keys, private keys are long, randomly generated strings of letters and numbers that cannot easily be guessed. When paired with a specific public key, a private key is used to access cryptographically encoded information.

Private keys should be stored securely in secret locations.

Custodial vs. non-custodial wallet

Here are the key differences between a custodial and non-custodial wallet.

Custodial wallet

  • Private keys are held by a third party like a crypto exchange
  • Third party custodian may be considered the true owner of your crypto, even though you bought it. If the third party fails, you may lose your crypto.
  • Usually connected to the internet (“hot wallet”)
  • Access digital assets via custodian. No need to keep track of a seed recovery phrase.

Non-custodial wallet

  • You hold the private keys to your digital assets. Therefore, you’re the true owner.
  • Disconnected from the internet most of the time (“cold storage wallet”)
  • You must write down a 12- to 24-word seed recovery phrase

How do I know if I’m using a non-custodial wallet?

You know you’re using a non-custodial wallet if you had to write down a 12- to 24-word seed phrase—sometimes called a recovery phrase—when you set up the wallet. If you weren’t prompted to write down such a phrase, then you’re using a custodial wallet and the private keys to your digital assets aren’t in your control.

Non-custodial wallet pros and cons

Pros
  • You have true ownership of your digital assets
  • You’re don’t rely on the solvency of a third-party custodian like a centralized exchange
  • You can use your digital assets in decentralized applications
Cons
  • You’re fully responsible for managing the private keys to your digital assets
  • There may be an upfront cost if you decide to purchase a hardware wallet

How to choose the best non-custodial wallet

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the best non-custodial wallet for your needs.

  • Software vs. hardware. Custodial software wallets are always connected to the internet and are therefore less secure. Non-custodial hardware wallets remain mostly disconnected from the internet and are therefore more secure.
  • Price. Non-custodial software wallets are often free to download, while you have to purchase a non-custodial hardware wallet.
  • Features. Consider if you want to do more than just hold the private keys to your digital assets in your own custody. Some non-custodial wallets let you stake your digital assets or access dApps.
  • User interface (UI). You might want to test out a few non-custodial wallets or watch a few YouTube tutorials before deciding which is best designed for you.

Ask the experts: What are the most important features in a crypto wallet besides security?

A wallet should have an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. The ability to store and manage a variety of cryptocurrencies is crucial, as the crypto market consists of numerous digital assets. A good wallet should provide a reliable backup and recovery system to protect against data loss or theft of the wallet's private keys. Access to transaction history and reporting features is essential for tracking your cryptocurrency holdings and activities.

Paul Levy

Paul Levy
Senior Lecturer, University of Brighton

Interoperability with Web3-enabled sites is probably the most important feature after security for crypto wallets today. WalletConnect makes it possible to use a wide range of wallets to interact with Web3 sites. Cross-chain compatibility and the ability to do swaps inside the wallet can also make life a lot easier.

Ruadhan O'Flanagan

Ruadhan O'Flanagan
Creator, Seasonal Tokens

The wallet should be easy to use and navigate. Users should be able to easily send, receive, and store their cryptocurrencies. The wallet should support the cryptocurrencies that users want to use. Multi-signature wallets require multiple signatures to authorize transactions. This makes them more secure than single-signature wallets.Cold storage wallets allow users to store their cryptocurrencies offline. This is the most secure way to store cryptocurrencies, as it protects them from hackers. Some crypto wallets offer additional features, such as staking, lending, and decentralized exchange (DEX) integration.

Mitesh Shah

Mitesh Shah
Founder & CEO, Omnia Markets

Risks of using a non-custodial wallet

Consider the following risks of using a non-custodial wallet:

  • Personal responsibility. You bear the responsibility of writing down and securely storing your 12- to 24-word seed phrase.
  • Sending assets to the wrong address. You run the risk of accidentally transferring your assets to the wrong address.
  • Inputting the wrong passcode. It’s possible to get locked out of a hardware wallet if you enter the wrong passcode enough times. In this case, you’d have to purchase a new hardware wallet and regain access to the private keys for your digital assets using your 12- to 24-word seed phrase.
  • Internet connectivity. Software wallets are always connected to the internet and more easily hacked. Plus, if a software wallet uses closed-source code, you’re trusting the creator of that wallet to not extract your private keys and gain access to your digital assets.
  • Software vulnerabilities. Hardware wallets are usually (sometimes always) offline when not in use and are generally more secure than software wallets. But if the wallet has software issues, your private keys could possibly be extracted. If available, enable multisig security, so two or more wallet keys must sign transactions before your crypto can be accessed.

Bottom line

Taking self-custody of the private keys to your digital assets can be empowering, but it comes with responsibility. It’s important to do your research to choose the bets non-custodial wallet for your needs. Consider cost, supported cryptos, additional features and whether you’d like a software or hardware wallet.

By building a deeper understanding of secure digital asset storage and comparing a number of the best crypto wallets on the market, you’ll be in a better position to keep your crypto investments safe.

Frequntly asked questions

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrencies are speculative, complex and involve significant risks – they are highly volatile and sensitive to secondary activity. Performance is unpredictable and past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Consider your own circumstances, and obtain your own advice, before relying on this information. You should also verify the nature of any product or service (including its legal status and relevant regulatory requirements) and consult the relevant Regulators' websites before making any decision. Finder, or the author, may have holdings in the cryptocurrencies discussed.

Frank Corva's headshot
Written by

Writer

Frank Corva is business-to-business (B2B) correspondent for Bitcoin Magazine and formerly the cryptocurrency writer and analyst for digital assets at Finder. Frank has turned his hobby of studying and writing about crypto into a career with a mission of educating the world about this burgeoning sector of finance. He worked in Ghana and Venezuela before earning a degree in applied linguistics at Teachers College, Columbia University. He also taught writing and entertainment business courses in Japan and worked with UNICEF in Namibia before returning to the US to teach at universities in New York City. Earlier in his career, he spent years working as a publicist and graphic designer for record labels like Warner Music Group and Triple Crown Records. During that time, he was also a music journalist whose writing and photography was in published in Alternative Press, Spin and other outlets. See full bio

Stacie Hurst's headshot
Co-written by

Associate editor

Stacie Hurst is an editor at Finder, specializing in loans, banking, investing and money transfers. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Writing, and she has completed FP Canada Institute's Financial Management Course. Before working in the publishing industry, Stacie completed one year of law school in the United States. When not working, she can usually be found watching K-dramas or playing games with her friends and family. See full bio

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