5 best ETH wallets: What they offer and how to choose one
Dec 10, 2025・5 min read
Bitcoin (BTC) may still be the most popular cryptocurrency according to most metrics, but Ethereum (ETH) is quickly catching up. More platforms and traders are investing heavily in the ETH ecosystem, and if you want to do the same, now is the perfect time.
But first, you’ll need to set up a crypto wallet to safely store ETH, one that’s a good fit for this cryptocurrency’s growth rate and security requirements. In this article, we’ll cover five of the best ETH wallets, so you can find the right solution for managing your tokens and blockchain activity.
What’s an ETH wallet?
An ETH wallet is a digital or physical tool that stores private keys used to access and transfer ETH, as well as other tokens built on the Ethereum network. This wallet doesn’t actually hold your coins – those stay on the blockchain – but it lets you sign transactions when buying and trading. Many modern ETH wallets offer additional features too, like built-in staking dashboards and non-fungible token (NFT) tracking.
Ethereum wallets come in two main formats:
- Hot wallets: Always connected to the internet for quick access and trading
- Cold wallets: Hardware devices or offline storage solutions for added security
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5 top ETH wallets
Here are five ETH wallets that deliver a good mix of protection and flexibility. To compare them fairly, we’ve included a security index that rates each wallet out of 10 by looking at its key storage, scam protection, and hardware wallet support.
1. MetaMask
Security index: 8.5/10
MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet built with open-source code. It’s available as a mobile app or browser extension, although there’s no desktop app. This wallet supports ETH and Ethereum virtual machine (EVM) chains such as Arbitrum and Optimism, offering compatibility with nearly every decentralized app (dApp) and NFT marketplace.
Because MetaMask is a hot wallet, it’s exposed to online risks like hackers and malware. But this wallet includes built-in Blockaid alerts before you sign transactions, so it’s reasonably safe as long as you keep your devices and private keys secure.
Other key features include ETH token swaps, NFT collection management, optional hardware wallet integration, and access to decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols directly within the app.
MetaMask is best for NFT collectors and traders who like to explore new projects and want easy wallet integration right in their browsers.
2. Base App
Security index: 7.5/10
Base App (formerly Coinbase Wallet) is a non-custodial wallet backed by the regulated Coinbase exchange ecosystem. Private keys are stored locally, and users can enable encrypted cloud backups for easier recovery. This wallet supports Ethereum, Base, Arbitrum, and Polygon, letting you connect to dApps and stake ETH directly.
Since Base App integrates with Coinbase Pay and supports fiat on-ramping, it’s a good choice for new crypto enthusiasts coming over from centralized exchanges. However, the optional cloud backups and mobile connectivity introduce mild custodial risks when a device or account is compromised.
Some of this tool’s other core features include an NFT gallery, token swaps, multi-chain management, and staking rewards visibility.
Base App is a solid option for beginners who want ETH exposure with simple recovery options and Coinbase integration.
3. Trust Wallet
Security index: 7/10
Trust Wallet is a self-custody wallet known for secure Ethereum storage and compatibility with more than 100 EVM chains. Your private keys are stored locally in the device, and a built-in security scanner flags suspicious smart contracts before approving transactions.
As a hot wallet, Trust Wallet is convenient for everyday ETH transactions but carries standard online risks. It does offer hardware integration with Ledger, but that only supports Ethereum, not BTC or other popular chains.
You can stake ETH and access Ethereum-based dApps directly through Trust Wallet’s Web3 browser extension, which works with Chrome, Brave, Opera, and Edge.
This wallet is worth a look for mobile-first users who want easy Ethereum storage and access along with fast swaps and NFT management.
4. Rabby Wallet
Security index: 8.5/10
Built for DeFi users, Rabby Wallet emphasizes ease of use on multiple blockchains. It supports ETH and over 100 EVM chains, automatically switching networks as you browse dApps. This tool was first created as a browser extension, but it now features an Ethereum wallet app as well.
Even though it’s a hot wallet, Rabby Wallet has additional safety features that make it more secure than many competitors. For example, before confirming an ETH transaction, this tool shows you a transaction simulation and flags any risky approvals.
This wallet is open source and integrates directly with the Ledger and Trezor hard wallets. Rabby Wallet’s primary risk stems from browser exposure, since it’s a hot extension, but pairing it with hardware devices raises your overall protection.
We’d recommend Rabby Wallet for more experienced ETH and DeFi users who value a multi-chain approach and hardware wallet compatibility.
5. Ledger
Security index: 9.5/10
Ledger is one of the best ETH hardware wallets, storing your private keys on an offline device rather than relying on constant internet connectivity. Transactions are signed inside a secure element chip and confirmed manually on the device.
Ledger supports ETH and ERC-20 tokens, as well as staking through Ledger Live. It also offers integrations with MetaMask and Rabby Wallet for DeFi access.
Ledger devices require safe backups for seed phrases and periodic firmware updates. They also come with a higher cost than most hot wallets, and are less convenient for managing frequent token swaps. But Ledger is one of the safest ways to store your crypto, making it ideal for long-term ETH holders and stakers.
Connect your ETH wallet to CoinTracker
A reliable wallet is essential for anyone who wants to be part of the Ethereum network. Having a secure ETH wallet gives you control over your assets and protects your private keys. It also allows you to manage staking, NFTs, and DeFi activity in a safer and more organized way.
Want a clear view of your assets at all times? With CoinTracker, link your wallets and exchanges to monitor your portfolio’s performance in real time. Create a free account and see why crypto investors trust us.
Disclaimer: This post is informational only and is not intended as tax advice. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.
FAQ
What are the top 5 ETH wallets?
Five of the best ETH wallets are MetaMask, Base App, Trust Wallet, Rabby Wallet, and Ledger. The first four are “hot” wallets that are always connected to the internet, while Ledger is a “cold” wallet that offers more security in exchange for higher costs and less convenience.
What’s the best ETH wallet?
Ledger is one of the best ETH wallets for cold storage and long-term security. MetaMask and Rabby Wallet are in the lead for active DeFi and NFT users, and Base App (formerly Coinbase Wallet) is popular for its ease of use and connection to a reputable exchange.
Is MetaMask good for ETH?
MetaMask is a great ETH wallet for beginners, because it’s easy to use and available as a browser extension. This wallet is useful for everyday ETH transactions and DeFi exploration, although you may want to pair it with a hardware wallet for added security.
Are ERC-20 wallets also ETH wallets?
ERC-20 tokens are built on top of the Ethereum network, so any wallet that can hold ETH can also hold ERC-20 tokens. In addition, every ERC-20 transfer requires ETH for paying gas fees, so you always need a little ETH in your wallet in order to move tokens around.
What’s the best ERC-20 wallet?
For token traders and DeFi enthusiasts, Rabby Wallet offers precise approval controls and hardware integration. For casual crypto holders, MetaMask is a secure and widely supported choice for ERC-20 transactions.