How We Review
Our Four-Stage Review Process
Every wallet we test goes through rigorous evaluation to verify security claims, custody controls, and real-world protection against irreversible losses
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Intake & Claims Check
We identify the product type, map the threat model, and list every security claim that must be proven or falsified
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Setup & Key Custody
We verify onboarding, seed phrase or key generation flows, backup and restore, account discovery, passphrase options, and safeguards against user-error lockouts
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Security Controls & Exposure
We examine device and app permissions, transaction confirmation integrity, update mechanisms, phishing resistance, and wallet behavior under common attacker playbooks
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Reproducibility & Scoring
We repeat critical flows, document what changed across firmware and app versions, and publish a scorecard explaining exactly why points were gained or lost
Scoring Framework
Transparent criteria, practical tests, and repeatable documentation that readers can verify
- Security
- 10
- Transparency
- 9
- Reproducibility
- 8
- Usability
- 9
- Support
- 10
Key Takeaways
- We rate protection of keys and recovery data above convenience features
- Every score is tied to observable behavior, not brand reputation
- We penalize unclear update paths and weak transaction-confirmation design
- We reward clear documentation that helps users avoid irreversible mistakes
- We separate beginner-safe guidance from power-user configuration advice
- We disclose conflicts and paid relationships clearly, near relevant links
Frequently Asked Questions
What Counts as Evidence
Evidence includes official documentation, observable in-app or on-device behavior, and repeatable steps you can reproduce on your own setup
Do You Update Reviews
Yes. If firmware or app updates materially change security controls, recovery behavior, or signing user experience, we revisit the score and note what changed
Affiliate Links and Sponsorships
If we may receive compensation including affiliate commissions, we disclose that relationship clearly and conspicuously near the relevant recommendation so readers can judge potential bias
Disclosure Standards We Follow
We align disclosures with FTC guidance on endorsements and material connections and effective online disclosures. The FTC revised its Endorsement Guides in June 2023, and its dot-com Disclosures staff guidance addresses making digital disclosures effective
Lower Scores and Fit
Sometimes a wallet with a lower score may still be right for you. Lower scores may reflect complexity, weaker transparency, or limited support — tradeoffs that some advanced users knowingly accept
Compare wallets with the same yardstick
Ready to see how every wallet stacks up using repeatable, evidence-backed criteria? Browse our reviews and find the wallet you can trust