Cryptocurrency staking has emerged as one of the most effective ways to generate passive income from digital assets. With the widespread adoption of Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanisms, an increasing number of blockchains now allow users to earn rewards by participating in network validation. However, security remains a top concern—especially when connecting wallets to staking platforms.
Using a hot wallet for staking exposes your private keys to the internet, making them vulnerable to hacking attempts and phishing attacks. This is where hardware wallets shine. Designed to store private keys offline, they offer military-grade protection while still enabling seamless interaction with staking protocols through companion apps.
In this guide, we’ll explore the five best hardware wallets for staking in 2025, focusing on devices that support native staking via first-party software. These are not just secure cold storage solutions—they’re powerful tools tailored for long-term investors and DeFi enthusiasts who want full control over their staking activities.
Why Use a Hardware Wallet for Staking?
Staking directly from a hardware wallet—also known as cold staking—ensures your private keys never leave the device. Transactions are signed offline, then broadcasted securely through connected apps like Ledger Live or Trezor Suite. This minimizes exposure to online threats while still allowing you to earn rewards.
Key benefits include:
- Enhanced security: Private keys remain isolated from internet-connected devices.
- Native staking support: No need to rely on third-party dApps or custodial services.
- User-friendly interfaces: Most come with intuitive mobile/desktop apps for managing stakes.
- Multi-chain compatibility: Support for major PoS networks like Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and more.
Now, let’s dive into the top five hardware wallets built for secure, hassle-free staking.
1. Ledger Nano X – The Best All-Around Staking Wallet
The Ledger Nano X stands out as the most versatile and widely trusted hardware wallet for crypto staking. As Ledger’s flagship model, it supports over 5,000 cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), Polkadot (DOT), and many others.
Equipped with both USB and Bluetooth connectivity, the Nano X allows secure pairing with smartphones and desktops without compromising private key safety. It integrates seamlessly with Ledger Live, a powerful app that simplifies asset management, transaction signing, and—most importantly—staking.
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Through Ledger Live, users can stake directly on supported networks:
- Ethereum: Via Lido or Kiln for liquid staking
- Solana: Direct delegation to validators
- Cardano: Stake pool participation
- Tezos, Algorand, Cosmos, and more
For Ethereum stakers, options like Lido provide liquidity by issuing stETH tokens, allowing continued use in DeFi while earning rewards. The Nano X also supports NFT storage and DeFi integrations like MetaMask, making it ideal for advanced users.
With robust security architecture—including a Secure Element chip—and ongoing firmware updates, the Ledger Nano X delivers peace of mind without sacrificing functionality.
2. Ledger Nano S Plus – Best Value for Secure Staking
If budget is a concern but security isn’t, the Ledger Nano S Plus offers exceptional value. It retains nearly all core features of the Nano X at almost half the price.
While it lacks Bluetooth and has slightly less storage capacity, it still supports:
- Over 5,500 coins and tokens
- Native staking for ETH, SOL, ADA, DOT, NEAR, and others
- Full integration with Ledger Recover, a seed phrase backup service using Shamir’s Secret Sharing across trusted custodians
This makes it one of the safest entry points into cold staking. You get enterprise-level security without paying a premium.
The device pairs with Ledger Live, where users can monitor stakes, claim rewards, and delegate to preferred validators—all while keeping private keys offline.
Ideal for beginners and intermediate users alike, the Nano S Plus proves you don’t need extra bells and whistles to enjoy top-tier protection during staking.
3. Trezor Model T – Top Alternative to Ledger
For those seeking an open-source alternative, the Trezor Model T is a compelling choice. Developed by SatoshiLabs, it features a full-color touchscreen, advanced passphrase protection, and transparent firmware that’s independently auditable.
The Model T supports native staking through the Trezor Suite desktop app. While its ecosystem is smaller than Ledger’s, it excels in specific areas:
- Cardano (ADA) staking: Users can delegate to multiple verified stake pools directly within Trezor Suite
- Solana (SOL) and NEAR Protocol: Full sending, receiving, and staking support
- Upcoming Ethereum staking support expected in future updates
Although Ethereum staking isn’t yet available natively, Trezor wallets can connect to external interfaces like MetaMask or Rabby Wallet. This opens access to liquid staking protocols such as Lido and Rocket Pool—though transactions must be confirmed on-device for security.
With strong community trust, open development practices, and excellent customer support, the Trezor Model T is a solid pick for privacy-conscious stakers.
4. CoolWallet Pro – Slim Design with Cold/Hot Flexibility
The CoolWallet Pro breaks the mold with its credit-card-sized design—ultra-portable and perfect for on-the-go users. Despite its slim profile, it packs serious security: a CC EAL6+ certified secure element chip ensures resistance against physical tampering.
One standout feature is its dual-mode operation via the CoolWallet App:
- Cold Wallet Mode: For secure long-term storage and staking
- Hot Wallet Mode: For quick access to funds when interacting with dApps
This hybrid approach lets users keep most assets offline while moving small amounts online when needed—ideal for active DeFi participants.
Supported staking assets include:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Solana (SOL)
- TRON (TRX)
- Tezos (XTZ)
- Cosmos (ATOM)
Rewards are automatically credited back to the wallet after each epoch. The app provides real-time tracking of rewards and validator performance.
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With NFC-based pairing and military-grade encryption, CoolWallet Pro combines convenience with enterprise-level security.
5. SafePal S1 Pro – User-Friendly Interface with Full Staking Control
Priced at just $89, the SafePal S1 Pro offers premium features at a competitive cost. Its standout feature is a large color screen paired with a D-pad controller—making navigation intuitive even for less tech-savvy users.
It runs on SafePal Wallet, a unified platform supporting both hardware and software wallet management. From this single interface, users can:
- Stake directly on supported chains
- Manage multi-chain assets (BSC, Ethereum, Solana, etc.)
- Store and view NFTs
- Interact with DeFi protocols securely
Staking is handled natively—no third-party apps required—for networks including:
- Binance Coin (BNB) on BSC
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Solana (SOL)
- Cardano (ADA)
SafePal emphasizes security with air-gapped QR code transaction signing and offline key generation. Firmware updates are delivered via microSD card to prevent remote exploits.
For beginners looking for an affordable yet powerful entry into cold staking, the S1 Pro is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I lose money staking with a hardware wallet?
A: While staking itself carries minimal risk if done correctly, slashing penalties can occur on some PoS networks if validators misbehave. However, using reputable validators and following best practices significantly reduces this risk. Your funds remain under your control at all times.
Q: Do hardware wallets earn staking rewards automatically?
A: Yes—once you delegate your coins to a validator through the wallet’s app (like Ledger Live or Trezor Suite), rewards are typically credited automatically after each reward cycle.
Q: Is cold staking safer than using exchange-based staking?
A: Absolutely. Exchange staking is custodial—you don’t control your private keys. With cold staking via a hardware wallet, you maintain full ownership and reduce counterparty risk.
Q: Can I unstake my crypto anytime?
A: It depends on the blockchain. Ethereum has withdrawal delays (~days), while others like Solana allow near-instant unstaking. Always check lock-up periods before delegating.
Q: What happens if I lose my hardware wallet?
A: As long as you’ve securely backed up your recovery phrase (e.g., on a metal plate), you can restore access to your funds on another device.
Q: Are there any fees for staking via hardware wallets?
A: The hardware wallet itself doesn’t charge fees. However, some networks apply small network fees or validator commissions (usually 5–10%).
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hardware wallet for staking comes down to balancing security, supported assets, user experience, and budget. Whether you're a beginner dipping into passive income or an experienced DeFi user managing diverse portfolios, these five devices represent the gold standard in cold staking solutions.
From Ledger’s comprehensive ecosystem to SafePal’s affordability and CoolWallet’s portability, there’s a secure option for every type of investor.
👉 Start protecting your digital wealth while maximizing returns through secure staking.
Remember: Always safeguard your seed phrase, enable all available security features, and verify firmware authenticity before use. With the right tools and practices, you can stake confidently—and safely—in 2025 and beyond.