The seed phrase acts as a key that unlocks the cryptocurrency wallet. This phrase, which is made up of a group of words, allows you to restore your wallet and access it again in case your wallet is stolen, lost, or deleted from your device. If you lose your wallet’s seed phrase, you will never be able to access your wallet again. This is why using a seed phrase storage wallet is vital.
Every cryptocurrency wallet has a seed phrase, usually 12 or 24 words. Anyone with this phrase can access the wallet. In fact, the phrase “not your keys, not your crypto” comes from this very fact. While there are several ways to keep your seed phrase safe and secure, the best is to use a metal crypto wallet. Storing the seed phrase offline makes it immune to hacking attempts, which can drastically increase the security of your digital assets.
In this article, we will look at the best crypto seed storage products for 2023 and examine their advantages and potential flaws so you can make an informed decision on the best way of keeping your seed phrase secure.
Here are our picks for the 14 best seed phrase storage options in 2023:
- The Billfodl – Virtually indestructible metal case for seed phrase storage
- Cryptosteel Capsule– Seed phrase storage with a unique design
- Cryptotag Zeus– Premium solution for seed phrase storage
- Cryptosteel Cassette– Crypto seed storage with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee
- Shamir HODL Pack– The ultimate seed phrase storage and hardware wallet combo
- SafePal Cypher Seed Board– Customizable, multi-format, lightweight seed phrase storage
- imKey Safe Kit– A metal crypto wallet with imKey Pro compatibility
- Keystone Tablet Plus– Break and bend-resistant seed phrase storage
- Ellipal Mnemonic Metal– Seed phrase storage made of aluminum
- Steelwallet– Crypto seed wallet with metal pages
- Blockplate 24– Two-plate mnemonic wallet made of hardened stainless steel
- X-SEED Pro– SecuX’s best metal seed phrase storage option
- Coinplate Alpha – Metal seed phrase backup device with straightforward design and quality construction
- Chaindeck – Innovative seed phrase backup solution
For a quick comparison of the best metal crypto wallets for seed phrase storage, check the table below:
Price Security Description The Billfodl $99 Very high Flat plate Cryptosteel Capsule $99 Very high Cylinder Cryptotag Zeus $139 Very high Flat plate Cryptosteel Cassette $190 Very high Flat plate Shamir HODL Pack $513 Very high Hardware wallet + Trezor hardware wallet SafePal Cypher Seed Board $45 High Flat plate imKey Safe Kit $129 High Flat plate + imKey hardware wallet Keystone Tablet Plus $49 High Flat plate Ellipal Mnemonic Metal $59 Medium Flat plate Steelwallet $69 Medium Metal pages in a binder Blockplate 24 $79 High Two flat plates X-SEED Pro $89 Very high Flat plate Coinplate Alpha $79 Very high Two flat plates Chaindeck $100 Medium Deck of cards
The 14 best metal crypto wallets for seed phrase storage: Examining top picks for 2023
A seed phrase (also known as mnemonic code or mnemonic seed phrase) is a collection of words that allow access to a cryptocurrency wallet and shouldn’t be confused with a “private key”. With that in mind, here are the 14 best metal seed phrase storage options in the market:
1. The Billfodl – A virtually indestructible metal case for seed phrase storage
The Billfodl is hands down one of the best options for seed phrase backup. This stylish and portable case, built out of solid steel, is designed to resist fire and water with ease. According to the spec sheet, Billfodl is capable of withstanding temperatures that are more than double that in an average house fire, can resist shocks of up to 1 million volts, and is designed to be completely immune to rust.
These features make Billfold virtually indestructible and if stored in a secure location, one of the best ways of keeping your seed phrase secure. In addition, Billfodl is very easy to set up – simply slide the first four letters of each of the 24 mnemonic seed phrase words into the metal case. Once done, close the case by screwing in the top screw.
Billfodl, used in combination with a quality crypto hardware wallet such as Ledger Nano X, for example, is the premier crypto security solution your money can buy in 2023.
Pros of Billfodl:
- Immune to rust thanks to its marine-grade 316 stainless steel construction
- Can withstand shocks of up to 1 million volts
- Capable of withstanding more than double the average house fire
Cons of Billfodl:
- Uninspired design
Buy The Billfodl
2. Cryptosteel Capsule – Seed phrase storage with a unique design
Cryptosteel Capsule is another premium seed phrase storage solution sold by Ledger, the leading cryptocurrency wallet manufacturer. It offers similar protection as Billfold, just in a different form factor. To set up the Cryptosteel Capsule, you need to slide the first four letters down the central rod. You can use an included separator to separate each of the 24 recovery words.
Cryptosteel Capsule is made out of 303 and 304-grade stainless steel and is capable of resisting temperatures of up to 2500 °F (1400 °C). Moreover, the all-metal capsule can withstand up to 150,000 N of pressure.
To accommodate the needs of cryptocurrency users who take their security very seriously, Trezor sells a bundle of five Cryptosteel Capsules in combination with their flagship crypto hardware wallet, Trezor Model T.
Pros of Cryptosteel Capsule:
- Unique design
- Water- and fireproof
- Made out of stainless steel
Cons of Cryptosteel Capsule:
- Can be cumbersome to retrieve the seed phrase due to the shape
Buy Cryptosteel Capsule
3. Cryptotag Zeus – Premium solution for seed phrase storage
Cryptotag Zeus is the top-of-the-line product offering in the seed phrase storage space. It is made out of 6mm-thick titanium that’s highly resistant to fire, water, and corrosion. In fact, it can resist temperatures of up to 1665 °C, cannot be penetrated by a pneumatic hammer, and can survive even the harshest weather.
In addition, Cryptotag Zeus has reached the highest score on the Jameson Lopp test, which consists of a high-intensity corrosion, heat, and pressure stress test. The manufacturer guarantees that the Cryptotage can last a lifetime, which is why it’s shipping with a lifetime warranty.
Pros of Cryptotag Zeus:
- Premium design and build quality
- Lifetime warranty
- Highest score on the Jameson Lopp test
Cons of Cryptotag Zeus:
- High price tag
Buy Cryptotag Zeus
4. Cryptosteel Cassette – Crypto seed storage with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee
Cryptosteel Cassette is a metal wallet made of 304-grade stainless steel, protecting your seed phrase from rust, fire, hackers, water, and more, this wallet has a $129 price tag. Cryptosteel Cassette is waterproof, fireproof up to 1200 °C, shock and shock-resistant.
Cryptosteel provides a lifetime satisfaction guarantee for the product, which was launched in collaboration with Trezor, one of the leading cryptocurrency wallet manufacturers. In addition to the metal case, the packaging includes an 800-tile letter set.
Pros of Cryptosteel Cassette:
- Robust and durable
- Simple design
- Lifetime satisfaction guarantee
Cons of Cryptosteel Cassette:
- Quite expensive
- Tiles can be hard to arrange
Buy Cryptosteel Cassette
5. Shamir HODL Pack – The ultimate seed phrase storage and hardware wallet combo
Shamir HODL Pack is one of the best crypto wallet and seed phrase storage kits in the crypto space. It consists of Cryptosteel capsules and Trezor Model T crypto wallet, one of the best cryptocurrency hardware wallets available. While the kit retails at a hefty price of more than $600, this is still less than buying a separate Model T and five Cryptosteel Capsules.
Cryptosteel capsules are stainless steel and designed to be shockproof, waterproof, and fire-resistant. Trezor Model T is a hardware wallet that also acts as an authenticator and digital ID. Together, they provide uncompromised security for sensitive digital information from potential hacks, thefts, and natural disasters.
Pros of Shamir HODL Pack:
- A combination of one of the best hardware wallets and seed phrase storage products
- Allows to decentralize physical seed phrase storage easily
- The kit is cheaper than its individual items bought separately
Cons of Shamir HODL Pack:
- It might be overkill for most crypto users
Buy Shamir HODL Pack
6. SafePal Cypher Seed Board – Customizable, multi-format, lightweight seed phrase storage
SafePal Cypher Seed Board is a mnemonic wallet constructed of 304-grade stainless steel, designed to keep your seed phrase secure. Its user-friendly design offers flexibility in storing various passwords, and its durable material ensures longevity without damage from moisture or scratches.
The wallet’s lightweight and customizable features, including various font and design options, make it easily portable. Compatible with BIP39, BIP44, and BIP66 formats, it has 8 storage slots and a cost of $45.
Pros of SafePal Cypher Seed Board:
- Highly durable (accounting for the price)
- Low price tag
Cons of SafePal Cypher Seed Board:
- Not as damage-resistant as some competitors
Buy SafePal Cypher Seed Board
7. imKey Secret Box – A metal crypto wallet with imKey Pro compatibility
imKey Secret Box is a kit that consists of a stainless-steel metal seed phrase storage product and the imKey Pro hardware wallet. It is fireproof, waterproof, and shockproof, which can also be used to store passwords, private keys, and other sensitive data. Even in the event of any natural disaster or accident, your seed phrase will be safe.
imKey has 2 seed phrase storage surfaces. There are a total of 24 words on these two surfaces. The wallet, which is only a few centimeters in size, is made of very durable materials.
Pros of imKey Secret Box:
- High durability
- It can be turned on and off with the remote
Cons of imKey Secret Box:
- On the heavy side
Buy imKey Secret Box
8. Keystone Tablet Plus – Break and bend-resistant seed phrase storage
Keystone Tablet Plus is a metal crypto wallet that is an upgrade of Keystone Tablet. Made of 304-grade steel, this case is made to protect your seed phrase from all kinds of physical damage. The front of the tablet has 18 small screws that prevent the tablet from bending. The wallet is built to withstand temperatures of 2651°F and 1455°C.
Working with BIP39 compatible wallets, this metal wallet is used with anti-tamper tags. Each letter of the alphabet is laser engraved on these stickers. BIP39 phrases of 12, 18, and 24 words can be stored simply with this wallet. Keystone Tablet Plus comes in at a price of $49.
Pros of Keystone Tablet Plus:
- Resistant to all kinds of physical damage
- Installation is simple
- Reasonable price
- It is very difficult to break and bend
Cons of Keystone Tablet Plus:
- On the larger side
Buy Keystone Tablet Plus
9. Ellipal Mnemonic Metal – Seed phrase storage made of aluminum
Ellipal Mnemonic Metal is a unique metal seed phrase storage product that is specifically designed to securely store 12 or 24-word recovery phrases. Unlike other wallets on the market, it is constructed of aluminum and features a clamshell form factor, measuring 86mm x 60mm x 8mm. The wallet is waterproof, fireproof, and even pest-resistant, providing robust protection against various physical threats, including natural disasters. However, it should be noted that the wallet is not entirely indestructible and may be subject to damage if subjected to excessive force, such as being crushed by a heavy object.
The wallet is compatible with the BIP39 recovery phrase format and can store the first four letters of each word of the seed phrase, up to 24 words. BIP39-compatible wallets can automatically fill in the words when typed in the first four letters. The package includes a variety of letter stamps and a screwdriver for easy use. Once the letters are inserted into the slots, the front panel can be screwed on and the wallet can be locked with a padlock for added security. The Ellipal Mnemonic Metal wallet retails for $49.
Pros of Ellipal Mnemonic Metal:
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons of Ellipal Mnemonic Metal:
- Since it is produced from aluminum, its resistance to temperature is not very high
- It can break with strong blows
Buy Ellipal Mnemonic Metal
10. Steelwallet – Crypto seed wallet with metal pages
Steelwallet is an offline metal storage option that protects your seed phrase from electric shock, fire, water, and corrosion. Coming with an automatic stapler and engraved stainless steel sheets, both pages of the wallet can store 12 recovery words.
The stainless-steel construction of the wallet is even resistant to radiation and mechanical force. This wallet, which has no useful life, serves to store seed phrases of up to 24 words in total. In the wallet, which is compatible with the BIP-39-word list, you must first tick the boxes of the letters and then punch these boxes with a puncher. For a 12-word seed phrase, you need 48 punches.
This Swiss-made low-tech metal wallet costs $70.
Pros of Steelwallet:
- Letters can still be read even if the wallet takes physical damage
- Simple to use
Cons of Steelwallet:
- The size is quite big
- Relatively high price despite the low-tech approach
Buy Steelwallet
11. Blockplate 24 – Two-plate mnemonic wallet made of hardened stainless steel
Blockplate 24 is a rugged metal wallet that is engineered to safeguard seed phrases. It is a low-tech but highly durable product, similar to Steelwallet, and can withstand prolonged use without succumbing to wear and tear. The wallet is composed of a double-sided stainless-steel plate, on one side it has a 24-word seed phrase engraved, and on the other side, an engraved QR code.
The plates of the Blockplate metal wallet are constructed of 304 grade hardened stainless steel, a material that is highly resistant to water, fire, and physical damage. This makes the wallet an effective tool for protecting your private keys from a wide range of potential threats. One thing to note is that the Blockplate metal wallet does not come with an automatic center stapler.
Pros of Blockplate 24:
- Metal that does not bend or break
Cons of Blockplate 24:
- High price despite low technology
- Extra charge for an automatic center stapler
Buy Blockplate 24
12. X-SEED Pro – SecuX’s best metal seed phrase storage option
X-SEED Pro is a highly durable and secure device made by SecuX, engineered to safeguard seed phrases and private keys. It is designed to withstand a wide range of environmental factors, including water, weather, moisture, and fire, and can withstand temperatures of up to 1454°C or 2649°F.
The wallet’s stainless-steel plates are treated to resist corrosion, ensuring that the engraved letters remain legible and remain intact in any climate. The wallet’s thickness of 6mm makes it resistant to high-pressure impacts and will only break under severe impact. The wallet boasts a sleek and compact design, making it easy to carry and transport. The X-SEED Pro metal wallet is priced at $89.
Pros of X-SEED Pro:
- It can be purchased along with the SecuX hardware wallet
- Highly resistant to physical damage
Cons of X-SEED Pro:
- A bit heavy
Buy X-SEED Pro
13. Coinplate Alpha – Metal seed phrase backup device with straightforward design quality construction
Coinplate Alpha is a metal seed phrase backup device constructed out of German stainless steel. This ensures that the device is resistant both to water damage and corrosion, and can withstand temperatures up to 1,400 degrees Celsius (2,500 degrees Fahrenheit).
The Coinplate Alpha has a simple system for backing up a seed phrase. It consists of two stainless steel plates that are split into 24 sections (corresponding to the number of words in a seed phrase) with engraved letters.
For each word in your seed phrase, you only need to punch in the first four letters using the provided tool. The reason why only four letters of each word are needed is the BIP39 seed phrase design in which only the first four letters are required to unambiguously identify the word they represent. In total, you’ll need to punch in 96 holes to back up a 24-word seed phrase.
One Coinplate Alpha wallet is currently selling for $79. However, if you buy 3 wallets, the “value pack” costs $189, which works out to $63 per wallet. This is a fairly affordable price given the quality of the product itself.
Pros of Coinplate Alpha:
- Very sturdy construction
- Process of backing up a seed phrase is fairly straightforward
- You can receive a discount if you purchase multiple wallets
Cons of Coinplate Alpha:
- Users who don’t need extreme levels of security can opt for a cheaper metal wallet
Buy Coinplate Alpha
14. Chaindeck – Innovative seed phrase backup solution
Chaindeck is a physical seed phrase backup device with a very unique design. This backup solution consists of a deck of 100 cards. The user arranges the deck in a specific order (based on a 3-digit PIN), writes their seed phrase on the side of the deck of cards, and then shuffles the deck to encrypt their seed phrase. Setting up your back up in this way will usually take around 45 minutes if you’re doing it for the first time.
To be clear, the Chaindeck is not a metal seed phrase backup, but we’re still featuring it in this article since it’s a physical method for backing up your seed phrase. The cards are made out of professional-grade card stock, which means that the Chaindeck is not a suitable option if you’re worried about water or fire damage.
We appreciate the innovative design of the Chaindeck and this way of backing up a seed phrase is more resistant to theft (since it takes some time to decipher the deck) than the designs implemented by most metal seed back up solutions.
It’s difficult to justify the $100 price tag of the Chaindeck since it’s just a deck of cards at the end of the day. Still, it might be worth buying if you appreciate the novelty and design of this seed phrase back up solution.
Pros of Chaindeck:
- Innovative and aesthetically appealing design
- Deciphering the seed phrase takes time, giving you an opportunity to respond if your Chaindeck is stolen
Cons of Chaindeck:
- Not resistant to fire or water damage
- Price is too high for what you’re getting
Buy Chaindeck
Seed phrase storage FAQs
What is the best way to store seed phrases?
The best way to store seed phrases is by using offline methods that prioritize security. Some common options include hardware and paper wallets. The most secure way to store a seed phrase is to engrave your seed phrase on a metal plate (what metal crypto wallets are, essentially), providing physical durability and protection against fire and water damage.
What is a metal crypto wallet?
A metal crypto wallet, often referred to as a “metal backup,” is a physical storage solution for cryptocurrency seed phrases or private keys. It involves engraving or etching these sensitive cryptographic keys onto a piece of metal, usually stainless steel or titanium. This provides durable protection against various potential hazards like fire, water damage, and physical wear and tear. Metal crypto wallets are a secure way to back up your crypto assets and ensure their long-term safety.
Are hardware crypto wallets safe?
Yes, hardware crypto wallets are considered one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrency. They are designed to keep your private keys offline, protecting them from online threats like malware and phishing attacks. Hardware wallets often require physical confirmation for transactions, adding an extra layer of security.
How secure is a 24-word seed?
A 24-word seed phrase is highly secure when generated correctly. It provides a vast number of possible combinations, making it extremely resistant to brute-force attacks. The strength of a 24-word seed lies in the entropy it offers, which is a measure of randomness. As long as you keep your seed phrase confidential and use secure storage methods like hardware wallets, metal backups, or encrypted digital storage, it is considered a very robust and secure way to safeguard your cryptocurrency assets.
The bottom line: Invest in a quality seed phrase storage product and hardware wallet to keep your crypto safe and secure
With the abundance of hacking attempts and stories of stolen digital assets, it should be obvious to anyone by now that investing in security is mandatory to keep your crypto safely tucked away from any malicious actors.
A combination of quality seed phrase storage and a cryptocurrency wallet is an unbeatable combination that offers improved security, portability, easy backup, and recovery options. In addition, it eliminates the need for third-party crypto handlers, which prevents your crypto from being tied up in the event of a cryptocurrency exchange going under (such as in the case of FTX). As such, it is a very important part of investing in crypto.
Now that you’ve examined the best seed storage options, you can check the best crypto hardware wallets to create a crypto security kit that best suits your needs. While having a quality crypto phrase storage and hardware wallet is very important, it is worth learning about other methods that can help you secure your crypto.
