Simply put, the Ledger Nano X is like a safe deposit box for your cryptocurrency, only in the size of a thumb drive. If you think it’s okay to store your coins in an exchange, congratulations, you’re playing roulette with your own money.
The Ledger Nano X is the flagship hardware wallet from French company Ledger SAS, released in 2019 as the successor to the popular Nano S. It is a device the size of an ordinary flash drive, but with one important feature: it can securely store private keys of more than 5,500 cryptocurrencies and tokens without an internet connection.
The main goal: to maximize the security of crypto assets through cold storage with mobile management capability.
Key features:
- Bluetooth support for smartphone connectivity
- Built-in 100mAh battery
- Military-grade CC EAL5+ secure chip
- BOLOS operating system
Main features
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Wallet type | Hardware (cold) |
| Platforms | Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux, Android 10+, iOS 9+ |
| Cryptocurrencies | 5500+ coins and tokens |
| Developer | Ledger SAS (France, founded in 2014) |
| Dimensions | 72 × 18,6 × 11,75 mm |
| Weight | 34 g |
| Display | 1,09″ OLED monochrome |
| Connectivity | USB-C, Bluetooth Low Energy |
| Battery | 100 mAh (3-4 hours of operation) |
| Security chip | ST33J2M0 (CC EAL5+) |
Functionality
Ledger Nano X works in conjunction with the Ledger Live app, which allows you to:
- Send and receive cryptocurrencies
- Track portfolio balance
- Buy cryptocurrencies with fiat money
- Exchange coins via built-in SWAP
Surprisingly, this “conservative” wallet knows how to work with decentralized applications:
- Connect to Uniswap, 1inch, Paraswap
- Work with MetaMask, MyEtherWallet
- WalletConnect protocol support
- Access to ~100 DeFi applications Access to
As of 2021, Ledger Live supports NFT:
- View, send and receive NFTs
- Integration with OpenSea, Rarible
- Support for Ethereum, Polygon, Tezos
You can earn from steaking directly from your wallet:
- Direct Steaking: Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Tezos, Cosmos
- Via partners: Polkadot, Algorand, Tron
- Yield: 4-12% per annum depending on the network
New Ledger Recover feature (optional, $9.99/month):
- Split cid-phrase into 3 encrypted fragments
- Storage on different providers
- Recover on 2 out of 3 fragments
- Requires KYC procedure
Note: The feature has been controversial in the community due to the trade-off between convenience and decentralization ideology.
User interface and usability
Desktop version
The Ledger Live app is available for Windows, macOS and Linux:
- Intuitive interface
- Manage your portfolio from one place
- Built-in charts and analytics
Mobile version
The Nano X’s main feature is Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone:
- Works with Android 10+ and iOS 9+
- Full functionality without a computer
- Encryption of all Bluetooth connections
Physical interface
Control via 2 buttons and OLED display:
- Navigation: left/right button
- Confirmation: both buttons simultaneously
- Display full address on screen
Installation and setup instructions
In the box you will find:
- Ledger Nano X
- USB Type-C cable
- 3 cid-phrase cards
- Keychain
- Getting Started Instructions
- Turn on the device – press the button for 3 seconds
- Create a PIN – up to 8 digits
- Write the cid-phrase – 24 words ON paper, not in the phone!
- Confirm your cid phrase – enter a few words for verification
- Download Ledger Live from the official website
- Connect your device via USB or Bluetooth
- Install the apps for the desired cryptocurrencies
Popular services to connect to:
- Zerion – for tracking DeFi portfolio
- 1inch – for exchanges with minimal commissions
- MetaMask – for working with Ethereum DApps
Comparison with peers
Ledger Nano X vs Trezor Model T
| Parameter | Ledger Nano X | Trezor Model T |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149 | $219 |
| Screen | 1,09″ monochrome OLED | 1,54″ color touch |
| Connectivity | USB-C + Bluetooth | USB-C + SD card |
| Cryptocurrencies | 5500+ | 1456 |
| Open Source | Software Only | Hardware + Software |
| Security | CC EAL5+ Secure Element | CC EAL6+ + no Bluetooth |
| Mobility | Full iOS/Android support | iOS viewing only |
Comparison Verdict
Choose Ledger Nano X if you want mobility and maximum cryptocurrency compatibility.
Choose Trezor Model T if you prioritize open source code and absence of potential attack vectors via Bluetooth.
Summary and Recommendations
Who Ledger Nano X is suitable for
- Active traders – need mobility and support for multiple coins
- DeFi-enthusiasts – integration with decentralized applications is important
- Beginners – want ease of setup with maximum security
- Stackers – plan to make money from steaking various coins
Who is NOT suitable
- Bitcoin- Maximalists – overpay for unnecessary features
- Security paranoiacs – Bluetooth could be a potential attack vector
- Economical users – Nano S Plus for $79 will cover 90% of needs
Usage tips
The Ledger Nano X is like an iPhone among hardware wallets: expensive, but works like clockwork. If you are serious about working with cryptocurrencies and are willing to pay for convenience, this is your choice.
