Ledger Stax vs Trezor Safe 3: In-depth comparison (2025)

When it comes to securing your Bitcoin or crypto, selecting the right hardware wallet is critical. Both Ledger and Trezor offer high-quality devices, but they come with different features, security protocols, and price points. In this article, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of the Ledger Stax and Trezor Safe 3, covering security, usability, connectivity, supported cryptocurrencies, and overall suitability for various types of users.

Quick Decision Guide

Here's a quick overview of which wallet might be best for your specific needs:

Stax

Best For:

• Users who want a premium hardware wallet with a modern touchscreen interface
• Managing a diverse altcoin portfolio with support for over 5,500 cryptocurrencies.
• Those who prioritize Bluetooth and NFC connectivity for seamless mobile use.

Safe 3

Best For:

• Budget-conscious individuals who want a reliable and secure hardware wallet without extra frills.
• Users who prefer an open-source, auditable security model for full transparency.
• Bitcoin-only users looking for dedicated firmware and advanced backup options like Shamir Backup.

Both wallets are designed to store private keys securely, but they differ in build, functionality, and approach to security. Here’s a quick overview:

• Ledger Stax is a premium device featuring an innovative e-ink touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a sleek design.
• Trezor Safe 3 is a cost-effective option with a simple button-based interface and a fully open-source firmware approach.

Both devices are built with strong security in mind, yet they approach it differently:

Ledger Stax

Stax uses an industry-grade Secure Element chip (ST33K1M5) with a CC EAL6+ certification, similar to those used in passports and credit cards. This chip securely stores your private keys and adds robust protection against physical attacks. Ledger’s security model is somewhat closed-source – it runs on a proprietary operating system (BOLOS) that is not publicly auditable. Despite this closed design, Ledger devices have a spotless track record: no known successful hacks have compromised a Ledger wallet’s keys. The Stax also supports entering a passphrase (25th word) directly on the device’s touchscreen for an extra layer of security, so you never have to trust a computer or phone with that secret.

Trezor Safe 3

Safe 3 is open-source – Trezor’s firmware (the code handling your seed and keys) is public and audited by the community. In a significant upgrade from earlier Trezor models, Safe 3 includes an EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip. This secure element (an Infineon OPTIGA Trust M chip) doesn’t hold your main recovery seed directly but works in tandem with the main processor: it stores a secret that unlocks the encrypted seed on the device only after correct PIN entry. This design improves physical security. Safe 3 also supports a passphrase feature for added security (you can require a passphrase in addition to the PIN), and it introduced Shamir Backup (SLIP39), allowing you to split your seed into multiple shares for safer backups. Trezor’s transparent approach (all code visible) gives users and security researchers confidence to audit how it works. Its casing is designed to be tamper-evident, with durable PMMA plastic and an anodized aluminum backplate that show any attempt to pry it open.

Stax supports over 5,500 tokens, making it ideal for users with diverse portfolios. Safe 3 supports over 1,000 tokens and offers an optional Bitcoin-only firmware for those who want a dedicated Bitcoin security model.

If you require a wide range of cryptocurrency support, Ledger Stax is the clear winner. If you prioritize Bitcoin-only security, Trezor Safe 3 provides a tailored experience.

Both wallets support passphrases and multisig setups, allowing advanced users to enhance security.

However, neither device supports multiple seed phrases or automatic backup and recovery options. Users will need to manually back up their seed phrases and store them securely.

Ledger Stax supports USB, Bluetooth, and NFC, offering a wide range of connectivity options. Trezor Safe 3 is limited to USB and does not support Bluetooth, NFC, or QR-based signing.

Ledger Stax

Ledger’s newest model is designed with a smooth user experience in mind. It features a large 3.7-inch E-Ink touchscreen (400×672 pixels, in 16-level grayscale) that curves around the device. The interface allows you to tap through menus and enter PINs or passphrases directly on the screen, which is faster and more intuitive than using button sequences.

The always-on E-Ink display can even show your chosen image or NFT artwork as a custom lock screen when idle, adding a personal touch. The Stax’s form factor (85×54×6 mm) is about credit-card sized, with a premium aluminum casing and embedded magnets that let you snap multiple Stax devices together securely. At 45 g weight, it feels solid but still pocketable. Its battery (200 mAh rechargeable) means the device can stay powered for months in standby, so you can sign transactions on the go without it being plugged in. Overall, the Stax provides a modern, smartphone-like experience with slick navigation and clear signing details on its big screen. This makes reviewing transaction details (like crypto addresses) much easier and reduces risk of mistakes, since more information is visible at once.

Trezor Safe 3

Safe 3’s design is an evolution of the classic Trezor One, emphasizing simplicity and reliability. It has a small OLED screen (0.96-inch, 128×64 px, monochrome) and two physical buttons for navigation and confirmation. There is no touchscreen – instead, you confirm actions by pressing buttons, and for things like PIN entry, Trezor uses a clever method: the device shows a scrambled keypad and you enter the PIN on your computer/phone, so the actual digits you press are never revealed to the host. Safe 3’s interface is straightforward and minimalistic, which is great for basic use. However, the tiny screen means you often scroll to view long addresses or details. The device itself is very compact (59×32×7.4 mm) and lightweight (only 14 g) – about the size of a small key fob. The Safe 3 has no internal battery (it draws power when plugged in), so it must be connected to a USB power source during use.

Final Thoughts

Ledger Stax – Premium positionin and Advanced Interface

With its e-ink touchscreen, Bluetooth, and vast coin support, Ledger Stax is for users who want a modern, high-end hardware wallet with an intuitive interface.

Trezor Safe 3 – Affordable and Open-Source

For those prioritizing open-source transparency, optional Bitcoin-only firmware, and budget-friendly pricing, Trezor Safe 3 is an excellent choice.

Both wallets offer robust security, but your decision depends on whether you prioritize cutting-edge features or open-source transparency. Self-custody is essential—whichever you choose, make sure to securely store your recovery phrase. Happy hodling! 🚀