Best Crypto Wallets in the UK for 2025

Choosing the right crypto wallet in the UK requires balancing security with accessibility. Whether you need FCA-regulated protection or cold storage for long-term holdings, this guide covers the top 7 wallets tested for UK users—from beginner-friendly options to advanced hardware solutions for serious investors.

What’s the Best UK Crypto Wallet Right Now?

eToro Money Wallet ranks as the best overall choice for UK users due to its FCA registration and seamless integration with trading platforms. For maximum security, Trezor Model T and Ledger Nano S Plus provide offline cold storage. Beginners benefit from eToro’s custodial safety, while experienced holders prefer hardware wallets for complete control.

These wallets represent the strongest options across hot and cold storage categories. eToro leads for regulatory compliance and ease of use, making it ideal for first-time investors. Trezor and Ledger dominate the cold wallet space with proven security records and broad cryptocurrency support. MetaMask serves DeFi users needing Web3 access, while Coinbase Wallet and Trust Wallet offer non-custodial alternatives. Ledger Nano X adds Bluetooth connectivity for mobile users who want cold storage convenience.

Top 7 Crypto Wallets for UK Users: Quick Comparison

Rank	Wallet Name	Type	Cost	Coins Supported	Security Rating	Mobile Support	Best For
1	eToro Money Wallet	Hot	Free	120+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✓	Beginners & UK traders
2	Trezor Model T	Cold	£200-£220	1500+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✗	Long-term security
3	Ledger Nano S Plus	Cold	£70-£90	5500+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✗	Budget cold storage
4	Coinbase Wallet	Hot	Free	100+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✓	Multi-currency support
5	MetaMask	Hot	Free	EVM chains	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✓	DeFi & Web3 users
6	Ledger Nano X	Cold	£120-£140	5500+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✓	Mobile + cold storage
7	Trust Wallet	Hot	Free	100+	★ ★ ★ ★ ★	✓	Free mobile wallet

Comparison of the top 7 crypto wallets available to UK users in 2025 ranked by overall suitability for different investor profiles and security requirements.

Here’s the Top 7 Crypto Wallets in the UK:

eToro Money Wallet – Best for Beginners
FCA-regulated wallet integrating with eToro’s trading platform, ideal for first-time investors managing / buying crypto alongside stocks and ETFs.
Trezor Model T – Best for Long-Term Security
Open-source hardware wallet with touchscreen verification and Shamir Backup, supporting 1,800+ cryptocurrencies for maximum cold storage protection.
Ledger Nano S Plus – Best Budget Cold Wallet
Affordable hardware security supporting 5,500+ tokens with certified secure chip—perfect for cost-conscious long-term holders.
Coinbase Wallet – Best for Multi-Currency Support
Non-custodial wallet offering complete private key control with seamless Coinbase exchange integration and built-in dApp browser.
MetaMask – Best for Ethereum & DeFi
Essential Web3 wallet connecting to decentralized applications across multiple EVM-compatible blockchains with hardware wallet integration.
Ledger Nano X – Best Mobile-Compatible Cold Wallet
Premium hardware wallet with Bluetooth connectivity enabling secure mobile portfolio management for active investors on the move.
Trust Wallet – Best Free Mobile Wallet
Completely free non-custodial wallet supporting 100+ blockchains with built-in staking and dApp browser—ideal for mobile-first users.

eToro Money Wallet – Best FCA-Regulated Wallet for Beginners

eToro Money Wallet cryptocurrency dashboard interface

eToro Money Wallet combines regulatory oversight with user-friendly design, making it the safest entry point for UK crypto investors. The wallet integrates directly with eToro's trading platform, eliminating the need for external transfers while maintaining FCA-registered status. It supports over 120 cryptocurrencies with institutional-grade cold storage for most assets. Best suited for traders who want seamless portfolio management alongside stocks and ETFs, though advanced users may prefer non-custodial alternatives for complete key control.

Get eToro Money Wallet →

FCA-regulated security for UK investors

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

Pros

FCA-registered providing UK regulatory protection
Seamless integration with eToro trading platform
Two-factor authentication and cold storage security
Supports 120+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and Ethereum
Internal transfers within eToro are free

Cons

Custodial wallet meaning eToro controls your private keys
Higher withdrawal fees compared to non-custodial options
Only available to existing eToro account holders

Fees & Costs

Free wallet with no setup charges. Withdrawal fee of £5 applies when moving crypto to external wallets. Network blockchain fees still apply.

Security & FCA Compliance

FCA-registered provider with mandatory two-factor authentication. Cold storage protects majority of user funds. Custodial model means eToro holds private keys with institutional security protocols.

Trezor Model T – Best Cold Wallet for Long-Term Storage

Trezor Model T hardware wallet with touchscreen display

Trezor Model T delivers hardware-level security through offline private key storage and touchscreen verification for every transaction. The open-source firmware undergoes continuous security audits while supporting 1,800+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and major altcoins. Touchscreen interface simplifies setup compared to button-only devices, and Shamir Backup splits recovery seeds across multiple locations. Ideal for investors holding significant crypto long-term who prioritize security over daily trading convenience.

Get Trezor Model T →

Maximum security for long-term holdings

Pros

Completely offline cold storage eliminates online hack risks
Touchscreen interface for easier transaction verification
Open-source firmware with regular security audits
Shamir Backup for advanced recovery seed protection
Supports 1,800+ cryptocurrencies

Cons

Higher initial cost at £200-£220
No Bluetooth connectivity requiring USB connection
Learning curve for first-time hardware wallet users

Fees & Costs

One-time purchase of £200-£220 with no recurring fees. Network transaction fees apply when sending crypto but are determined by blockchain not Trezor.

Security Features

PIN protection with brute-force attempt blocking. Offline private key storage with touchscreen transaction verification. Optional passphrase adds extra security layer beyond recovery seed.

Ledger Nano S Plus – Best Budget Cold Wallet

Ledger Nano S Plus hardware crypto wallet with USB-C connection and display screen

Ledger Nano S Plus provides enterprise-grade security at an accessible price point with support for 5,500+ cryptocurrencies and tokens. The certified secure element chip protects private keys with bank-level encryption while the larger screen improves transaction verification compared to older models. USB-C connectivity works with desktop and mobile devices through Ledger Live software. Perfect for cost-conscious investors who want hardware wallet security without premium pricing, though it lacks the Bluetooth convenience of higher-end models.

Get Ledger Nano S Plus →

Secure your crypto with bank-grade protection

Pros

Affordable hardware wallet at £70-£90
Certified secure element chip with bank-grade encryption
Supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies and NFTs
Larger screen than previous Nano S model
Regular firmware updates from Ledger

Cons

No Bluetooth connectivity requiring cable connection
Limited app storage space on device
Must be connected to computer or phone to operate

Fees & Costs

One-time purchase price of £70-£90. No subscription or maintenance fees. Users pay only standard blockchain network fees when transacting.

Security Features

CC EAL5+ certified secure element chip guards against physical attacks. PIN code required for device access. 24-word recovery phrase stored offline only.

Coinbase Wallet – Best for Multi-Currency Support

Coinbase Wallet offers non-custodial control over 100+ cryptocurrencies with seamless transfers from Coinbase exchange accounts. The mobile and browser extension supports Ethereum, Bitcoin, and major ERC-20 tokens while providing direct access to decentralized applications and NFT marketplaces. Biometric authentication streamlines access on mobile devices and the interface prioritizes simplicity over advanced features. Best for users who want self-custody combined with easy Coinbase exchange integration, though GBP deposits still require the main exchange platform.

Get Coinbase Wallet →

Self-custody with exchange integration

Pros

Non-custodial giving you complete private key control
Supports 100+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and Ethereum
Direct integration with Coinbase exchange for easy transfers
Biometric authentication on mobile devices
Built-in dApp browser and NFT support

Cons

Not FCA-regulated unlike Coinbase exchange
High Ethereum gas fees during network congestion
No direct GBP deposit functionality

Fees & Costs

Free to download and use. Network transaction fees apply based on blockchain congestion. In-wallet swaps include spread markup above standard exchange rates.

Security Features

Non-custodial with user-controlled private keys. AES-256 encryption for stored data. Biometric login available on iOS and Android. Vulnerable to phishing if users access fake websites.

MetaMask – Best for Ethereum & DeFi

MetaMask dominates Web3 connectivity with browser extension and mobile app access to Ethereum-based decentralized applications. The wallet supports Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and other EVM-compatible networks while connecting to platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and OpenSea. Open-source code enables community security audits and hardware wallet integration adds extra protection for larger holdings. Essential for DeFi traders and NFT collectors but lacks Bitcoin support and faces frequent phishing attempts targeting users.

Pros

Seamless connection to DeFi protocols and dApps
Supports multiple EVM-compatible blockchains
Hardware wallet integration with Ledger and Trezor
Open-source code with community audits
Free browser extension and mobile app

Cons

No Bitcoin or non-EVM blockchain support
High phishing attack risk from fake websites
Ethereum gas fees can be expensive
Steeper learning curve for beginners

Fees & Costs

Free wallet with no download or setup costs. MetaMask adds 0.875% fee on token swaps. Ethereum gas fees vary widely based on network congestion.

Security Features

Private keys stored locally on device. Password and optional biometric protection. Hardware wallet compatibility for enhanced security. Users must verify website authenticity to avoid phishing.

Ledger Nano X – Best Mobile-Compatible Cold Wallet

Ledger Nano X combines cold storage security with Bluetooth connectivity enabling mobile portfolio management through the Ledger Live app. The device supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies with a rechargeable battery allowing wireless transaction signing from iOS and Android devices. Increased memory capacity lets users install up to 100 apps simultaneously compared to entry-level models. Ideal for active investors who need cold wallet security while managing portfolios on the move, though the higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Get Ledger Nano X →

Mobile-friendly cold storage security

Pros

Bluetooth connectivity for mobile device compatibility
Rechargeable battery for wireless operation
Supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies and tokens
Larger app storage capacity than Nano S Plus
Works with Ledger Live on desktop and mobile

Cons

Higher cost at £120-£140
Battery requires periodic charging
Bluetooth adds minimal attack surface risk

Fees & Costs

One-time purchase of £120-£140. No recurring fees or subscriptions. Standard blockchain network fees apply when sending transactions.

Security Features

CC EAL5+ certified secure element chip. Bluetooth encryption protects wireless connections. PIN code and optional passphrase security. Private keys never leave device even when using Bluetooth.

Trust Wallet – Best Free Mobile Wallet

Trust Wallet delivers multi-chain support across 100+ blockchains through a mobile-first interface backed by Binance ownership. The non-custodial wallet integrates with decentralized exchanges and supports staking for earning passive income on holdings. Built-in Web3 browser enables dApp access and NFT management directly from the mobile app. Perfect for mobile-only users who want free non-custodial storage with broad cryptocurrency support, though desktop access remains limited compared to competitors.

Pros

Completely free with no hidden fees
Supports 100+ blockchains and millions of tokens
Built-in staking for passive income
Integrated dApp browser and DEX access
Non-custodial with user-controlled keys

Cons

Mobile-only with limited desktop functionality
Owned by Binance raising centralization concerns
Customer support can be slow
Higher risk for mobile device theft or loss

Fees & Costs

Free download and use with no wallet fees. Network transaction fees vary by blockchain. In-app token swaps charge minimal spread fees.

Security Features

Non-custodial with encrypted private key storage. Biometric authentication on compatible devices. 12-word recovery phrase backup. Users responsible for device security and phishing awareness.

Hot Wallets vs Cold Wallets: Which Should You Choose?

Hot wallets stay connected to the internet providing instant access for trading and transactions, making them ideal for active users who need frequent liquidity. Cold wallets store private keys completely offline on hardware devices, eliminating online hack risks but requiring physical device access for every transaction.

UK investors holding under £5,000 often prefer hot wallets for convenience, while those with larger holdings typically split assets between hot wallets for daily use and cold wallets for long-term storage. Security-conscious users adopt a hybrid approach keeping 10-20% in hot wallets and 80-90% in cold storage, balancing accessibility with protection against exchange hacks and phishing attacks.

Hot Wallet Pros & Cons

Hot wallets excel at providing immediate access to funds for trading, purchasing, and transferring cryptocurrencies without hardware device requirements. Free options like MetaMask and Trust Wallet eliminate upfront costs while supporting multiple blockchains and DeFi protocols. However, constant internet connectivity exposes users to hacking, phishing, and malware risks that have resulted in millions of pounds lost annually across the UK crypto community.

Hot Wallet Advantages

Instant access for trading and transactions
Free to use with no hardware purchase required
Easy setup taking minutes not hours
Perfect for DeFi and dApp interaction
Mobile and desktop accessibility

Hot Wallet Disadvantages

Higher vulnerability to hacking and phishing
Reliance on device security and antivirus protection
Exchange custody risks for custodial wallets
Recovery phrase compromise if stored digitally
Less suitable for large long-term holdings

Cold Wallet Pros & Cons

Cold wallets provide maximum security through offline private key storage on dedicated hardware devices immune to remote hacking attempts. Physical possession requirements and transaction verification on device screens protect against unauthorized access even if computers become compromised. The upfront cost and slower transaction process create friction for frequent traders, but long-term holders benefit from peace of mind knowing their assets remain protected from the vast majority of crypto theft methods.

Cold Wallet Advantages

Maximum security with offline key storage
Protection from remote hacking and malware
Physical transaction verification on device
Suitable for large holdings and long-term storage
Recovery possible even if device is lost

Cold Wallet Disadvantages

Upfront cost of £70-£220 for hardware
Slower transaction process requiring device connection
Risk of physical loss or damage
Less convenient for frequent trading
Learning curve for first-time users

How to Choose the Right Crypto Wallet in the UK

Selecting the right crypto wallet depends on your investment size, trading frequency, technical knowledge, and security priorities.

UK investors holding under £1,000 typically choose free hot wallets like Coinbase Wallet or Trust Wallet for convenience, while those with £5,000+ investments should consider hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor for enhanced security.

FCA registration matters for beginners seeking regulatory protection through platforms like eToro, whereas experienced users often prioritize non-custodial control. For more info see our full etoro review.

Consider your primary use case whether daily DeFi trading requiring MetaMask, long-term Bitcoin storage needing cold wallets, or multi-asset portfolios benefiting from Ledger’s broad support.

Match wallet features to your technical comfort level and always verify FCA status if regulatory protection influences your decision.

Security Features That Matter

Two-factor authentication should be non-negotiable for any wallet protecting significant value, adding extra verification beyond passwords through SMS codes or authenticator apps.

Hardware wallet users benefit from PIN protection and physical transaction verification preventing unauthorized access even if recovery phrases become compromised. Biometric authentication through fingerprint or face recognition streamlines access on mobile devices while maintaining security standards above simple passwords.

FCA Regulation & Why It Matters

FCA registration means crypto providers comply with UK anti-money laundering regulations and maintain specific operational standards, though it does not provide Financial Services Compensation Scheme protection.

eToro Money Wallet currently holds FCA registration making it the only reviewed wallet with UK regulatory oversight. Non-regulated wallets like Ledger and MetaMask operate legally but without FCA supervision, placing full security responsibility on users to protect their private keys and recovery phrases.

Setting Up & Using Your Crypto Wallet

Crypto wallet setup requires downloading software or purchasing hardware, creating secure passwords, and safely storing recovery phrases offline. The process takes 10-30 minutes depending on wallet type, with hot wallets offering faster setup through mobile apps and cold wallets requiring additional firmware installation and device initialization steps.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Download your chosen wallet from official sources only, verifying URLs match legitimate provider websites to avoid phishing scams
Create a strong password combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols exceeding 12 characters minimum
Write down your 12-24 word recovery phrase on paper never storing it digitally or photographing it
Enable two-factor authentication immediately after account creation
For hardware wallets, install the companion app like Ledger Live or Trezor Suite before connecting devices
Verify device authenticity through holographic seals and tamper-evident packaging before first use
Complete initial wallet funding with a small test transaction to confirm everything works correctly

How to Send & Receive Crypto Safely

Receiving Cryptocurrency:

Open your wallet and navigate to the receive section
Select the specific cryptocurrency you want to receive
Copy your wallet address or display the QR code
Share only the public address never your private keys or recovery phrase
Wait for blockchain confirmation which takes 10-60 minutes depending on network

Sending Cryptocurrency:

Click send or transfer within your wallet interface
Enter or paste the recipient’s wallet address carefully
Double-check every character of the address as transactions cannot be reversed
Enter the amount you wish to send
Review network fees and adjust priority if needed
Send a small test amount first when using new addresses
Confirm the transaction and wait for blockchain verification

Crypto Wallet Security Best Practices

Crypto security depends entirely on protecting private keys and recovery phrases since blockchain transactions offer no chargeback protection or fraud reversal. UK users lose millions annually to phishing scams, fake apps, and compromised devices making security protocols essential for any holding size. Following established best practices reduces theft risk by over 95% according to blockchain security researchers.

Protecting Your Recovery Phrase

Write recovery phrases on paper or metal plates never storing them in cloud services, password managers, or digital photos

Store physical copies in multiple secure locations like home safes and bank deposit boxes
Never share recovery phrases with anyone including customer support representatives
Consider splitting phrases across locations for high-value holdings using Shamir Backup on compatible hardware wallets
Test your recovery phrase backup by restoring a wallet before funding it with significant amounts
Keep copies in fireproof and waterproof containers for physical disaster protection.

Avoiding Phishing & Scams

Verify wallet website URLs before downloading software checking for exact domain spelling
Only download wallet apps from official Apple App Store or Google Play Store
Check developer names match wallet providers exactly before installing
Ignore unsolicited messages offering wallet support or promising cryptocurrency returns
Enable address whitelisting on exchanges allowing withdrawals only to pre-approved addresses
Never click links in emails claiming to be from wallet providers
Bookmark official wallet websites to avoid typing URLs that could lead to phishing sites
Use hardware wallets for large holdings as they require physical confirmation for transactions

UK Tax & Regulatory Considerations

HMRC treats cryptocurrency as property subject to capital gains tax when sold, traded, or used for purchases above annual allowances. UK crypto investors must maintain detailed records of all transactions including dates, amounts, and GBP values at transaction time for accurate tax reporting.

HMRC Capital Gains Tax on Crypto

Capital gains tax applies when disposing of cryptocurrency through sales, trades, or spending with rates of 10% for basic rate taxpayers and 20% for higher rate taxpayers on gains exceeding £3,000 annual allowance for 2024/25 tax year. Each cryptocurrency disposal creates a taxable event requiring calculation of gain or loss based on GBP value at acquisition versus disposal. HMRC requires reporting crypto gains on self-assessment tax returns even if gains fall below the £3,000 threshold when total proceeds exceed £15,000 annually.

Final Verdict: Which Wallet Should You Choose?

UK beginners should start with eToro Money Wallet for FCA-regulated security and ease of use when holding under £5,000. Investors with £5,000-£50,000 need hardware wallets like Ledger Nano S Plus for budget-conscious security or Ledger Nano X for mobile convenience. Serious holders with £50,000+ should use Trezor Model T with Shamir Backup and consider multi-signature wallets for additional protection. DeFi users require MetaMask for Web3 access regardless of other wallet choices. The optimal strategy combines hot wallets for 10-20% of holdings for trading and cold wallets for 80-90% long-term storage.

Get eToro Money Wallet → Get Trezor Model T →

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

FAQs

Do I need a wallet to buy Bitcoin?

You can buy Bitcoin through some of the top crypto exchanges like eToro or Coinbase without a separate wallet

Are crypto wallets legal in the UK?

Yes, crypto wallets are completely legal in the UK. The FCA regulates providers for anti-money laundering compliance. UK residents must report crypto gains exceeding £3,000 annually to HMRC for capital gains tax purposes.

What's the safest crypto wallet?

Hardware wallets like Trezor Model T and Ledger Nano S Plus offer maximum security through offline storage. For regulatory protection, eToro Money Wallet provides FCA registration. Cold wallets eliminate online hacking risks entirely.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

Losing your recovery phrase means permanent loss of wallet access and funds. No company can recover cryptocurrencies without it. Always store multiple copies in secure physical locations like safes or deposit boxes.

How much do crypto wallets cost?

Software wallets like MetaMask and Trust Wallet are free. Hardware wallets cost £70-£90 for Ledger Nano S Plus or £200-£220 for Trezor Model T. All wallets charge blockchain network transaction fees.

References

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – Cryptoasset firms register
HM Revenue & Customs – Cryptoassets Manual
eToro – Security & Regulation Information
Trezor – Security Best Practices
Ledger – Supported Cryptocurrencies List
MetaMask – Security Documentation
Coinbase – Wallet Security Features
Trust Wallet – Multi-Chain Support
HM Revenue & Customs – Capital Gains Tax rates and allowances
Financial Conduct Authority – Consumer Warning on Cryptoassets

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