Short answer: choose the model that matches how you use crypto. Want the simplest, lowest-footprint option for long-term Bitcoin-only storage? Consider the entry-level model. Want mobile convenience and many installed apps? Look at the Bluetooth-enabled model. Prefer a larger, tactile display for daily checks and an improved UX? The touchscreen design might suit you.
I tested several units and found the trade-offs are consistent: screen size and storage capacity affect daily comfort; Bluetooth adds mobility at a small security trade-off if you use it; larger displays make verifying addresses easier (which matters). For technical detail on secure hardware, see the secure element and firmware-updates pages.
And yes, your specific coin mix (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, others) matters because of app sizes and compatibility.
| Feature | Nano S | Nano S Plus | Nano X | Stax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form factor / screen | Small / basic | Medium / larger screen | Medium / larger screen | Large e-ink style display (horizontal) |
| Connectivity | USB-C only (corded) | USB-C only | USB-C + Bluetooth (mobile-friendly) | USB-C + Bluetooth (mobile options) |
| Battery | No | No | Rechargeable battery | Rechargeable battery |
| App/storage capacity | Limited (few apps simultaneously) | Expanded vs Nano S (more apps) | Large (many apps) | Large (many apps; bigger display) |
| Secure element | Yes (all models) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Passphrase (25th word) support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal audience | Minimalists / cold storage | Most desktop users who want more capacity | Mobile users / frequent traders | Daily users who value UX and display |
Notes: app capacity depends on which coin apps you install; larger apps (e.g., some smart-contract platforms) use more space. For how app management works in practice, see add-accounts-apps and per-model setup pages (nano-s-guide, nano-s-plus-guide, nano-x-guide, stax-guide).
Step-by-step selection ends with matching your answers to the table above. Ask yourself: do I need Bluetooth? Do I need many simultaneous apps? Those two questions resolve most choices.
But remember: storage capacity and screen size tend to be the biggest practical differences.
All models follow the same core setup: initialize device, choose PIN, write your seed phrase, and register the device in Ledger Live (or a compatible third-party wallet). For a full step-by-step initial setup see setup-initial and model-specific unboxing guides.
Daily differences you’ll notice: larger screens make address verification faster; Bluetooth-enabled models let you transact from mobile without a cable; devices without batteries need a host connection every time. In my testing, the time saved by a larger screen often felt worth the slight extra bulk.
All models include a secure element and support a passphrase (the optional "25th word"). A passphrase adds protection but also increases recovery complexity (if you lose the passphrase, you lose access). For step-by-step guidance on passphrases see passphrase-25th-word and for metal backups see metal-backup-plates.
Firmware updates patch bugs and add support for new coins. Always verify firmware authenticity (instructions: verify-firmware). If you plan multisig or air-gapped workflows, check compatibility: see multisig and air-gapped.
But never accept a device that arrives pre-initialized; always initialize a new hardware wallet yourself.
If your device breaks, recovery depends only on the seed phrase (not the company). For guidance on lost or damaged devices see device-broken and restore-recovery.
Q: Can I recover my crypto if the device breaks? A: Yes. If you have the seed phrase (and passphrase if used), you can restore on a compatible device or supported wallet. See restore-recovery.
Q: What happens if the company goes bankrupt? A: Hardware-wallet devices use open standards (BIP-39, etc.) for recovery. Funds are non-custodial; access depends on your seed phrase and supported wallet software. Read more: company-risk.
Q: Is Bluetooth safe for a hardware wallet? A: Bluetooth adds convenience and a small additional attack surface. Devices require on-device confirmation for transactions, which mitigates many remote threats. For a full security comparison see connectivity-usb-bluetooth-nfc.
Q: Which model supports the most coins? A: Support depends on app availability and memory. The models with larger app capacity let you keep more coin apps installed at once. For specifics check supported-coins and per-model guides.
Choosing between the Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, and Stax comes down to three things: the coins you hold, how you access them (desktop vs mobile), and how often you interact with your accounts. I believe most users will pick based on app capacity and connectivity needs. If you want detailed step-by-step setup or hands-on notes, read the per-model pages: nano-s-guide, nano-s-plus-guide, nano-x-guide, stax-guide, and the general device-overview.
Ready to compare features side-by-side or follow a step-by-step setup? Start at the model-compare hub or jump to the model guide that matches your use case.
(For in-depth security architecture and to verify claims about secure elements and firmware, consult the device-specific pages and the secure-element and firmware-updates documentation.)
Content sources and testing notes: hands-on testing across multiple units; manufacturer documentation and firmware release notes (see linked internal guides for references and verification steps).