Ledger’s hardware cryptocurrency wallets are among the most popular in the world. According to the company, more than 6 million users who seek to ensure a high level of protection for their digital assets choose solutions developed by Ledger for this purpose.
In this article, we will consider what is special about hardware or “cold” wallets, whether it is worth buying a separate device for storing cryptocurrency, and we will also analyze what advantages Ledger Stax – the most expensive product from this manufacturer – can provide.
The purpose of a hardware cryptocurrency wallet
Hardware wallets are special devices whose main purpose is to store private keys in a special environment protected from external influences and without access to the Internet.
Protecting private keys is the basis of user security, as they provide access to cryptocurrency and the ability to sign transactions. Software services can encrypt this data, divide it into fragments, etc., however, the most reliable is the use of hardware wallets for so-called “cold”, that is, isolated storage.
As a rule, such devices have their own operating system and security protocols that prevent external access to the private key and manipulation of transaction data, such as changing the sending address. Getting information from a hardware wallet is extremely difficult, even if an attacker has physical access to it and special tools, not to mention less sophisticated theft attempts.
A brief history of Ledger products
Ledger is a French company founded in 2014 that specializes in the development of hardware cryptocurrency wallets.
All the company’s products consist of a software component in the form of the Ledger Live application, which is installed on a PC or a mobile device, and a hardware part — a device that stores a private key and is synchronized with the program via USB or wireless means of communication.
Throughout its history, Ledger has released relatively few models of wallets that enjoyed more or less success in the market.
Ledger Nano S
Ledger’s first product, announced in 2016. The device supported up to 8 networks, and its appearance and dimensions resembled a USB storage device. The model was discontinued in 2021 and replaced by the more advanced Ledger Nano S Plus.
Ledger Blue
The release of this model took place at the end of 2016. Ledger Blue received a color touch screen with a diagonal of 3.5 inches and resembled a miniature tablet. However, the solution did not gain popularity among users, so its support and production ceased in 2019.
Ledger Nano X
Introduced in 2019. Externally similar to the Ledger Nano S, however, unlike its predecessor, it is equipped with Bluetooth and is compatible with iOS. The main advantage of this model is its optimization for interaction with mobile devices through a wireless connection.
Ledger Nano S Plus
Modified version of Nano S from 2021. This solution received the design of its predecessor, but was compatible with NFT, and also equipped with a USB-C connector and a larger amount of built-in memory.
Ledger Stax
Ledger’s most expensive product introduced in 2023. It has an improved design with a flexible E Ink touch screen and NFC. The device supports Qi wireless charging and has a more modern data storage chip.
Ledger Flex
Ledger’s latest product, released in June 2024. Positioned as a more affordable version of the Stax model, it is also equipped with the “Secure Touchscreen” solution, which allows you to use the touch screen without the risk of third-party interference with the wallet.
Detailed overview of Ledger Stax
A special feature of Ledger Stax is a special protective case that protects the device not only from mechanical damage, but also from electromagnetic influence that can damage data. In addition, the cover serves as an additional way to customize the product.
The package includes the wallet itself, instructions for use, sheets for recording a mnemonic phrase (recovery phrase) and a USB-C cable. The device is protected from mechanical damage by a special film.
Ledger Stax is about the size of a standard bank card. The body is made of aluminum and plastic. A single hardware button is used to turn the wallet on and off.
Settings
To set up a new Ledger Stax device, you need to:
- Turn on the wallet by pressing the power button, and then choose which version of Ledger Live to synchronize with – mobile or computer.
- In the first case, the device will provide a QR code for downloading the application, in the second case, you need to download Ledger Live from the manufacturer’s website .
- After installing the application, you need to specify the model of your wallet and connect it to the device where Ledger Live is installed via a USB cable or a wireless communication channel.
- The program will check the originality of the device and, if necessary, update the software version.
- After that, you can set the name that will be displayed in the application, as well as on the side touch panel of the wallet.
- The next step is to set a PIN code to protect the device, create a new address and save a mnemonic phrase. You can also import an existing wallet to your device.
- The last step is to connect the necessary networks to Ledger Live.
This completes the initial setup of the device. However, the user can change some settings such as the language, sounds or images on the lock screen directly through the Ledger Stax interface.
Security
Ledger Stax uses a protected ST33K1M5 microcontroller chip with CC EAL6+ certification, which confirms the high level of security of the product’s hardware.
The Ledger Recover service is also available to users, which allows you to restore a mnemonic phrase in case of its loss. The service is accessed through Ledger Live and requires identity verification.
Price
In the official Ledger store, the Stax model can be purchased for UAH 18,028 (~$400). However, at the time of writing, all wallets have been redeemed, so users can pre-order with fulfillment in October 2024. Wallet owners can also buy accessories for it, such as a wireless charger or additional covers.
It is worth noting that this is the most expensive model in the entire Ledger line and one of the two wallets equipped with a touch screen. The high cost is due to the use of high-quality materials and the increased protection class of the microcontroller.
Pros and cons of Ledger Stax
The advantages of Ledger Stax include:
- safety High level of data security thanks to a more secure chip;
- touch screen . Increases the convenience and speed of interaction with the wallet;
- the presence of NFC . The device provides the ability to store two-factor authentication (2FA) keys for services that support it (X, Discord, etc.);
- lock screen with monochrome background image support;
- battery . According to the manufacturer, the wallet works up to 10 hours without recharging and can be in standby mode for several days;
- support for wireless Qi charging ;
- protective magnetic cover included;
Cons of Ledger Stax:
- the price Ledger Stax is the manufacturer’s most expensive product;
- lack of display backlight , which makes it impossible to use the device in the dark.
Overall, Stax is a product that is designed to take the user experience when interacting with a hardware wallet to a new level, while maintaining the reliable protection characteristic of less convenient devices. The main advantage and feature of the model is its design.
Conclusion
Over 10 years of working in the crypto industry, Ledger has released a line of hardware crypto wallets, most of which have proven successful and are in demand among users due to their high quality and level of asset protection.
The manufacturer’s most expensive model — Ledger Stax — is a hardware wallet of the new generation, which replaced “USB drives” and combines high security, modern design and ease of use. However, aside from the touchscreen display, this model has the same basic functionality as other Ledger devices and requires interaction with Ledger Live to access all features.
