The Best Solana Wallets for 2024

Solana is one of the fastest-growing blockchains today, built to support all kinds of decentralized applications (dApps) while keeping fees low. Solana wallets make it easy for crypto explorers to participate in its ecosystem and participate in Solana’s vibe, community, and functionality.

Finding the right crypto wallet to manage your SOL tokens in 2024 is crucial and will make a huge difference in your crypto experience. But first, let’s explore what Solana wallets are. 

What Is a Solana Wallet?

A Solana Wallet is a crypto wallet that caters to the Solana blockchain, its dApps, functions, and ecosystem. It is a digital tool that stores and manages your private keys for Solana and SOL-based tokens. It allows you to send, receive, and engage with other Solana-based assets while providing access to dApps within the Solana ecosystem, such as DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and decentralized exchanges. 

Importantly, a cryptocurrency wallet stores only the private keys that help interact with and authorize transactions with the blockchain while your assets themselves remain on the blockchain. This makes private key security crucial. While storing your private key offline reduces hacking risks, safeguarding your seed phrase is also essential since it can restore all keys if needed.

When choosing a Solana wallet – hardware or software; it’s important to remember that self-custody is a priority. With most of these Solana wallets, you’re responsible for safeguarding your private keys, which means you have full control over your digital assets but also bear the responsibility for their security. Most custodial wallets store your keys online in centralized servers or in a compromising environment. Hardware wallets are your safest bet when it comes to securing your private keys.

If you’re in a situation where you need to use custodial wallets, it is recommended that you transfer your cryptocurrency assets frequently to hardware wallets. 

On the other hand, if you use software wallets, we recommend investing in a hardware wallet. Ledger devices are built for extreme user security, with the top priority being safeguarding your keys. They generate and store private keys offline and have never been hacked due to their battle-tested security model. 

As we explore the best Solana wallets of 2024, keep in mind that, ultimately, the burden of securing your digital assets falls on you, and this determines how your web3 experience goes.

The Best Solana Hardware Wallets

Ledger Hardware Wallets

Ledger devices are built differently. 

The same foundational security model that has protected its devices for years is found on every Ledger device. One of the integral aspects of Ledger’s security model is the Secure Element chip, the same high-end security chip used in bank cards and biometric passports.  

All Ledger devices come with secure screens, and the latest Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex bring with them the industry’s first secure e-ink touchscreens. These touchscreens are a class apart, driven directly by the Secure Element chip, meaning all interactions between your Ledger hardware wallet and the blockchain are protected from malware or tampering. 

The other parts of Ledger’s security model include its secure OS and rigorous battle-testing from its internal white-hat hacker lab, Ledger Donjon. It is due to a combination of these security pillars and even more security measures via Ledger’s web3 app interface, Ledger Live, that no Ledger device has ever been compromised. 

Ledger Flex

Ledger Flex is the latest entrant in Ledger’s hardware device lineup, offering a perfect balance of security and usability at an attractive price point. Like all Ledger devices, Ledger Flex employs the Secure Element chip, which keeps your private keys isolated and safe from potential threats. 

What sets Ledger Flex apart is its 2.8-inch Secure E Ink® touchscreen, which allows for an intuitive user interface while maintaining the same level of robust security found in other Ledger devices. 

The Ledger Flex is a hardware wallet that goes with any lifestyle.

With additional features like NFC, USB-C, Bluetooth connectivity, and a battery life of upto 10 hours on a single charge, Ledger Flex provides secure self-custody with modern conveniences, making it an ideal choice for managing Solana and other digital assets.

Ledger Stax

Ledger Stax represents the next generation of crypto wallets. 

Designed by Tony Fadell, the creator of the iPod, it is a revolutionary device with the world’s first 3.7-inch curved secure E Ink® touchscreen that wraps around the device, allowing users to customize both the lock screen and spine with images or NFTs. This customization goes even deeper, allowing people to label the spine of their devices and even ‘stack’ devices together owing to its in-built magnets.  

The Ledger Stax supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and integrates with Ledger Live for easy asset management, staking, and DeFi exploration. 

Its flagship design, magnetic stacking capability, and intuitive interface make it the perfect choice for those who demand the highest level of security and a fully personalized experience in managing their digital assets.

Both Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex provide uncompromising security that can be seen, felt, and touched. These devices elevate your Ledger experience with an enhanced UX, intuitive UI, and upgraded functionalities.

Ledger Nano X

Equipped with Bluetooth functionality, the Ledger Nano X allows users to connect seamlessly with mobile devices, supporting both Android and iOS through the Ledger Live app. This connectivity makes it easy to manage, stake, and swap digital assets directly from a smartphone or tablet. 

The Ledger Nano X is the perfect blend of security and mobility, designed for those who want to manage their crypto assets on the go.

It comes with a battery life that supports up to five hours of continuous use and a sleek OLED screen for transaction verification. Its USB-C compatibility offers flexible charging and wired connection options, making it a versatile, travel-friendly device ideal for users with diverse digital asset portfolios.

Ledger Nano S Plus

The Nano S Plus is Ledger’s entry-level hardware wallet that offers robust security for managing Solana (SOL) and other digital assets. Equipped with a Secure Element chip, the Nano S Plus ensures that your private keys are stored offline and protected from online threats, such as malware and hacking attempts. 

While it does not offer Bluetooth connectivity or iOS compatibility, it remains a highly secure and affordable option for users who prioritize safety. 

Paired with the Ledger Live app, it allows users to easily manage their cryptocurrency assets, stake Solana, and explore DeFi opportunities, all with the confidence of secure self-custody.

Alternative Hardware Wallets Providers

Other hardware wallets may seem like alternatives, but they differ from Ledger’s advanced security model. Many of these devices rely on General Purpose Microcontrollers (MCUs) rather than Secure Element chips to drive screens (or touchscreens such as those on the Ledger Flex and Ledger Stax). 

This setup exposes private keys to potential attack vectors, as MCUs make it easier for hackers to access and extract sensitive information. Even those hardware wallets that do have secure element chips do not drive their screens with them, which leaves other devices open to hacks. 

Let’s talk about screens in more detail. Typical hardware wallets feature small screens and limited touch functionality, leaving you to rely on screens on your laptop, cellphone, etc. Hackers can easily manipulate these screens. 

Additionally, hardware wallets without authenticity checks are susceptible to supply chain tampering, where devices can be compromised before they even reach users. 

Some hardware wallets also use a seedless backup approach. While innovative, this may introduce security drawbacks by eliminating traditional seed phrases. Without a seed phrase, users lose the familiar recovery method, which could create reliance on the wallet’s specific infrastructure and add complexity in case of device failure. 

Trezor

The Trezor wallet, developed by Satoshi Labs, is a hardware wallet for managing cryptocurrency assets. Launched in 2014, the hardware wallet supports Solana, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 1,200 cryptocurrencies. 

The Trezor One and Trezor Safe are the flagship models, with the Trezor Safe featuring a touchscreen. Trezor wallets operate as cold storage, keeping private keys offline and safe from online threats. They are supported by Trezor Suite, a platform for managing, buying, selling, and swapping crypto. 

SafePal

Established in 2018, SafePal is Binance Labs’ first hardware wallet investment. SafePal wallets are non-custodial, meaning users retain control over their private keys. The hardware wallet, SafePal S1, features EAL5+ certification and a self-destruct mechanism to protect against unauthorized access. SafePal supports over 54 blockchains and thousands of coins and tokens. 

Tangem

The Tangem Wallet, with its card-shaped design and NFC capabilities, supports over 13,000 cryptocurrencies across 75 networks. Users can buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrencies directly within the Tangem app. That said, the wallet lacks desktop compatibility, built-in DApp and DeFi integrations, and NFT support, which are expected to be added in the future.

Comparison of All Hardware Wallets Supporting Solana

Solana Hardware Wallets Review

The Best Solana Software wallets

To interact with dapps and platforms on the Solana blockchain, you will typically need to use a Solana software (hot) wallet. These types of wallets are installed on your laptop or smartphone as an app or operate from a browser extension. However, it’s important to note that all Solana software wallets, while non-custodial (meaning you retain ownership of your funds), are on devices connected to the internet, like your laptop or smartphone. Internet-connected devices can be hacked if they are compromised by malware or malicious software, allowing attackers to access private keys and potentially steal funds. This puts your private keys—and, therefore your crypto—at risk. For this reason, we advise against storing significant amounts of Solana in a hot wallet.

If you need to use a software wallet – perhaps to access certain decentralized applications (dApps) – your best option is still to use a hardware wallet like Ledger. This way, your private keys are generated and stored offline, and you can connect your hardware wallet to the software wallet when needed. 

Ledger Live

Ledger Live offers a secure interface to interact with Solana’s core functions, making it ideal for managing, buying, sending, and staking SOL while keeping private keys offline and protected by Ledger’s hardware security. 

However, Ledger Live currently does not display Solana-based tokens (SPL tokens like USDC and BONK) sent to your Solana account; to view and manage these tokens, users need to connect their Ledger device to a compatible third-party wallet like Solflare or Phantom.

With Ledger Live, you can access the full Solana ecosystem directly from the crypto wallet app while ensuring that your private keys remain offline and secure within Ledger hardware. A friendly app and airtight hardware security means peace of mind when exploring Solana’s dApps, and DeFi platforms safely. Ledger Live’s seamless integration with Phantom also allows you to navigate the Solana ecosystem, and simplifies the management of SOL NFTs through its direct connection with Magic Eden.

Key Features of Ledger Live for Solana:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial, multichain Web3 wallet.
• Custodianship: Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with hardware wallet: Yes, fully integrated with Ledger Flex, Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, and Ledger Stax for secure access.
• Staking: Yes, it allows Solana staking directly within the app.
• Swap: Yes, it supports token swapping through the Ledger Live interface.
• Buy on-ramp: Yes, Ledger Live includes options to buy crypto, including SOL, with traditional payment methods.
• Interface: Available on both desktop and mobile, allowing flexibility in access.
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Supports over 5,500 tokens across multiple networks, including Solana, Ethereum, Polygon, and Bitcoin.

Phantom Wallet

Phantom Wallet is a popular choice for Solana users due to its ease of use and seamless integration with dApps. You can stake your tokens, interact with Solana-based dApps, and manage NFTs all within one app. Phantom’s browser extension is user-friendly and also supports Ethereum and Polygon, making it a versatile multi-chain option for users looking to fulfill this use case. 

By connecting the ease of use of Phantom with Ledger devices, users benefit from the convenience of a hot wallet while ensuring that their private keys remain secure offline and safeguarded from online threats. With added features like token swapping and built-in staking rewards, it’s an all-in-one solution for those diving into the Solana ecosystem. 

Still, for any hot wallet, the safest approach is using it alongside a hardware wallet like Ledger, allowing users to explore Solana’s ecosystem confidently with self-custody of their digital assets.

Key Features of Phantom Wallet for Solana:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial, multichain Web3 wallet.
• Custodianship:  Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with Ledger hardware wallet: Yes, supports integration with Ledger for added security. 
• Staking: Yes, built-in staking is available within the wallet.
• Swap: Phantom offers an in-app token swap feature, enabling users to exchange tokens across supported networks. The wallet aggregates liquidity from multiple decentralized exchanges to provide optimal rates.
• Buy on-ramp: Yes, it supports buying SOL directly through partners.
• Interface: Available as a browser extension and mobile app (iOS and Android).
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Supports Solana, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Polygon, providing a multi-chain experience.

Solflare Wallet

Solflare Wallet distinguishes itself on Solana with an emphasis on security and staking capabilities, appealing to users who place a premium on safeguarding their assets. 

Unlike broader multi-chain wallets like Phantom, Solflare delivers a specialized, security-focused experience for Solana users. It provides mobile apps for both Android and iOS to handle crypto anytime, anywhere.

It has a seamless integration with Ledger devices that offers users the best of both worlds: Solflare’s user-friendly interface for everyday transactions, staking, and NFT management, with the robust security of Ledger’s offline storage for private keys. This setup allows users to enjoy the flexibility of a hot wallet while benefiting from the uncompromised security of a cold storage solution, making Solflare an excellent choice for those who want to manage their Solana assets securely and efficiently.

Key Features of Solflare Wallet for Solana:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial software wallet
• Custodianship:  Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with Ledger hardware wallet: Yes, integrates with Ledger for enhanced security.
• Staking: Yes, it allows stake SOL directly from the wallet.
• Swap: Yes, it includes token-swapping functionality.
• Buy on-ramp: Yes, it supports buying SOL directly through partners.
• Interface: Available as a browser extension and mobile app (iOS and Android).
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Focuses solely on the Solana network and SOL tokens.

Backpack Wallet

Backpack is a newcomer in the Solana wallet landscape, designed specifically for Solana enthusiasts, particularly those interested in NFTs. Backpack integrates seamlessly with Solana’s dApps and DeFi platforms, making it easy for users to stake, swap, and manage liquidity. Its standout feature is its NFT-centric design, which enhances the experience of displaying, managing, and interacting with NFTs, especially xNFTs—tokens that represent fractional ownership of real-world assets or unique experiences. 

Backpack also offers seed phrase backup for secure recovery and supports integration with hardware wallets, providing offline storage options. However, as a new wallet focused on xNFTs, it may require some learning and offer fewer customer support options than more established wallets.

Key Features of Backpack Solana Wallet:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial software wallet
• Custodianship: Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with hardware wallet: Yes
• Staking: Yes
• Swap: Yes
• Buy on-ramp: No
• Interface: Desktop and mobile
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Focused solely on Solana

MetaMask (Solflare Snap) Wallet

MetaMask (Snaps) is an extension of the popular Ethereum-based MetaMask wallet, enabling access to other blockchains, including Solana. Through MetaMask Snaps, users can interact with Solana dApps while keeping the familiar MetaMask interface. This setup makes it easy for Ethereum users to explore the Solana ecosystem without needing a separate wallet. MetaMask Snaps provide cross-chain compatibility, allowing users to manage both Ethereum and Solana networks within the same interface. 

However, because Snaps are third-party additions, their functionality may vary, adding complexity for those new to cross-chain wallets. MetaMask (Snap) is ideal for users already comfortable with MetaMask who want to try Solana but may lack some native Solana wallet features.

Key Features of MetaMask (Snaps) for Solana:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial software wallet
• Custodianship: Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with hardware wallet: Yes
• Staking: No
• Swap: Yes (Ethereum network)
• Buy on-ramp: Yes (Ethereum network)
• Interface: Browser extension
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Ethereum, Solana, and other blockchains via Snaps

Exodus Wallet

Exodus Wallet is a multi-currency wallet with an intuitive interface supporting Solana (SOL), SPL tokens, NFTs, and various DeFi features, including SOL staking and token swaps.  This wallet is known for its 24/7 support and integrated exchange. Exodus does not currently support two-factor authentication and multi-signature support. 

In a September 2024 collaboration, Exodus integrated XO Swap into Ledger Live, allowing Ledger users to securely swap thousands of crypto pairs directly from their hardware wallets. This partnership aims to enhance user control and security in crypto management, making it easier for both new and experienced users to swap assets confidently.

Key Features of Exodus Wallet:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial software wallet
• Custodianship: Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with hardware wallet: Yes
• Staking: Yes
• Swap: Yes
• Buy on-ramp: Yes
• Interface: Desktop and mobile
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Supports 200+ cryptocurrencies, including ERC-20 and SPL tokens

Atomic Wallet

Atomic Wallet is a decentralized, non-custodial wallet supporting over 1,000 cryptocurrencies, including Solana (SOL), Ethereum, and Bitcoin. It offers a user-friendly interface with features like in-app staking, portfolio management, and token swaps via ChangeNow. Users maintain full control over their private keys, secured by a 12-word passphrase. 

Additionally, while Atomic Wallet allows cryptocurrency purchases with fiat, transactions through partners like Simplex can incur higher fees. Security features include password/PIN protection and a backup passphrase, but it lacks multi-signature support and two-factor authentication. Staking yields range from 5% to 22%, appealing to users interested in growing their crypto assets while maintaining control.

Key Features of Atomic Wallet:

• Type Of Wallet: Non-custodial software wallet
• Custodianship: Users retain full control over their private keys and funds.
• Compatibility with hardware wallet: No
• Staking: Yes
• Swap: Yes, via ChangeNow (0.5% fee)
• Buy on-ramp: Yes (Simplex fees apply)
• Interface: Desktop and mobile
• Other Networks and Tokens Supported: Supports 1,000+ assets across multiple networks (Ethereum, Solana, Binance Smart Chain, etc.)

Solana Software Wallets Comparison

How to Choose the Right Solana Wallet for You

When choosing the best Solana wallet for 2024, several key factors must be considered to ensure your digital assets are secure. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right Solana wallet:

Safety and Security

The primary consideration when choosing a Solana wallet should be its security features. Ledger devices offer premium, battle-tested security across the lineup and also offer a cold storage wallet that keeps your private keys offline. 

Non-custodial software wallets like Phantom and Solflare give users sole control over their private keys, ensuring no third party can access your funds. Always look for wallets with two-factor authentication (2FA) and strong encryption methods.

Your safest bet for the best crypto experience is always going to be with a hardware wallet. Once you experience the level of security and ease of use of Ledger’s touchscreen line of devices, there’s no looking back. 

User-friendly interface

A wallet with a user-friendly interface is crucial, especially for those new to the crypto world. Wallets like Phantom and Exodus are known for their intuitive and clean designs, making it easy for users to navigate and manage their cryptocurrency assets. They have numerous features, such as tracking wallet activity, and Solana wallet alerts.

But with 3.7-inch and 2.8-inch touchscreen displays respectively, the Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex make web3 a breeze to surf through. These two larger displays make reading and signing transactions more legible and transparent, allowing you to easily understand what you’re signing. 

To add to this experience, the Ledger Live app offers a straightforward interface for easily managing your Solana assets. 

Touchscreens are an intuitive interface in our everyday lives, and with the security to back you up on your crypto journey, Ledger touchscreen devices take you one level up from your average crypto enthusiast! 

Ease of use

Ease of use encompasses the interface, setup process, and daily usability. Trust Wallet and Atomic Wallet provide easy setup processes, allowing users to quickly create a new wallet or import an existing one using a seed phrase. Features like in-app exchanges and staking options further enhance usability, making managing and growing your Solana holdings convenient.

But this convenience comes at a cost. Hot wallets are susceptible to hacks and remote attacks, and you can’t really trust your screen either, as previously mentioned. On the other hand, most hardware wallets are cumbersome to use, depending on their screens (or if they even have one).

Ledger touchscreen devices kill two birds with one bullet – not only do they offer you a better experience navigating crypto, but their time-tested security model makes it so that you are protected every step of the way. 

Supported Blockchains and Cryptos

When choosing a wallet, it’s important to consider the range of supported blockchains and cryptocurrencies. Solana-specific wallets like Phantom and Solflare offer support for Solana and its associated tokens. However, if you want to manage a diverse portfolio in the safest way possible, Ledger supports thousands of digital assets across multiple blockchains, providing greater flexibility.

Cost

Cost is another important factor to consider. Most software wallets, including Phantom, Solflare, and Exodus, are free to use, with fees only incurred during transactions. However, the tradeoff is between complete ownership. 

If you’re looking to get serious about security, a hardware wallet would be your safest bet. 

Conclusion

Picking the best Solana wallet in 2024 boils down to your security needs versus how you want to play in the ecosystem. Hardware wallets offer top-tier security, keeping your keys offline and safe like a digital vault. They’re perfect for the security-conscious.

The safest approach is to purchase a hardware wallet like Ledger to generate and securely store your private keys offline, then connect it to the software wallet as needed.

Remember, you’re in charge here. The Solana wallet you choose is your gateway to the Solana universe. Choose wisely, keep those keys secure, and enjoy the ride through Solana’s fast, low-fee blockchain. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Solana Wallets

What Are the Different Types of Solana Wallet?

Solana wallets basically come in two types: the software kind, or “hot wallets,” like Phantom and Solflare—apps or browser add-ons where your private keys are online, making them super handy but a bit risky if you’re not careful. 

Then, there’s the hardware type, or “cold wallets,” like Ledger and Trezor. These are physical devices that keep your private keys offline, giving you an extra layer of security against hackers.

How Do Solana Wallets Work?

Solana wallets, like all other crypto wallets, serve as digital storage units for your private keys, which are essential for accessing, sending, and receiving your SOL and Solana-based assets (SPL tokens). While there may be key differences between Solana wallets and other crypto wallets catering to different blockchains, they serve the same purpose—access to your digital wealth and management. Solana wallets don’t store the actual tokens; instead, they store your cryptographic keys (private keys), which authorize transactions on the Solana blockchain. Solana wallets also allow you to interact with decentralized applications (dApps) on the Solana network, making them an essential tool for managing Solana-based assets.

Do I Need a Solana Wallet?

Yes, if you plan to hold, send, or use Solana (SOL) or other digital assets on the Solana blockchain, you’ll need a compatible Solana wallet to manage your funds. A Solana wallet also lets you participate in the broader Solana ecosystem, including SOL staking, decentralized finance (DeFi), and NFTs. For added security, consider using a Solana wallet that supports self-custody, so you retain control over your private keys.

What Is the Best Solana Wallet?

The best Solana wallet depends on your needs. Phantom and Solflare are software wallets that offer user-friendly integration with dApps and NFTs. For greater security, hardware wallets like Ledger provide offline storage of private keys and are generally considered safer for long-term holdings. If you want a Solana wallet that combines flexibility and security, consider buying a hardware wallet like Ledger to generate and store your private keys offline and connect your hardware wallet to the software wallet.

How to Create a Solana Wallet?

Creating a Solana wallet is straightforward. For a software wallet like Phantom, start by downloading the wallet extension or app. Follow the setup prompts to create a new wallet, and make sure to save your recovery phrase securely, as this is essential for accessing your funds if you forget your password. Once the setup is complete, you can begin adding SOL and exploring Solana-based dApps.

For a hardware wallet like Ledger, purchase the device and set it up by following the instructions provided. Then, install the Solana app on the Ledger device through the Ledger Live app. Finally, create a Solana address and link it to your Ledger, allowing you to securely store your assets offline.

How to Add SPL Tokens Onto Solana Account Ledger?

Currently, Ledger Live doesn’t support viewing Solana SPL tokens directly. However, you can securely manage tokens like USDC, Tether, BONK, and more by connecting your Ledger device to compatible third-party wallets, such as Solflare, Phantom, or Backpack. First, ensure your Ledger device has the latest Solana app installed, then connect it to Solflare by accessing the wallet, selecting your Ledger device, and configuring the derivation path. To send SPL tokens, enable “Allow blind signing” in your Ledger’s Solana app settings, then review and approve transactions directly on your device.