Menu
Dave Miller – Tech Enthusiast & Security Expert – February 8th, 2022
With Bitcoin having achieved and well beyond its unprecedented all-time peaks in 2017, the worth of your crypto-assets is becoming increasingly essential. If you’ve lately purchased a significant amount of bitcoin or another cryptocurrency, you might wish to move your assets to a safe crypto wallet. The easiest solution to accomplish this is to buy a hardware wallet like Ledger Nano S and Nano X, and perhaps the finest wallets are manufactured by the French company Ledger.
If you want to safeguard your wealth against internet dangers appropriately, both the Ledger Nano S and Nano X “miraculously” do…
What is it about these gadgets that make them so safe? Moreover, as of February 2022, what is the most incredible Ledger device to keep hackers out? You’ll learn why Ledger wallets protect you from hacker threats, which gadget best meets your requirements, and how to preserve money with our review of the Ledger Nano S vs Ledger Nano X.
Ledger was created in 2014 by eight competent specialists. These thought leaders are experts in various sectors, including cryptocurrency, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity. They are all working together to create safe and protected blockchain technology.
Ledger released its Nano S hardware wallet only two years after its formation. Since Ledger’s hardware wallet is meant to safeguard users’ confidential data entirely, it swiftly is one of the foremost highly prized tools for users around the cryptocurrency industry.
Following the success of the Nano S (over a million Ledger Nano S crypto wallets have been sold), attractive competitors like the Trezor Model T hardware wallet have become increasingly popular. However, as proven by the release of a successor hardware wallet, the Nano X, in 2019, Ledger stood its own against the rivalry.
I’ll go through the capabilities and operation of both wallets in greater detail later, but be confident that you’re utilizing high-quality equipment when you buy a Ledger hardware wallet.
Ledger produces both the Ledger Nano S and the Ledger Nano X. The X is a more potent, more expensive variant of the Nano S that has become one of the highly most significant and commonly crypto hardware wallets to existence. Both hardware crypto wallets are mainly designed for cold storage of cryptocurrency. Users may store cryptocurrency on their hardware wallets in the Ledger Live app, transmit and receive payments, and swap cryptocurrency. Those who want to switch one form of cryptocurrency for the other might find the exchange a helpful tool. However, other platforms are likely to be more efficient for regular crypto trading.
Individuals who are fresh to hardware wallets or crypto generally can benefit from the Ledger Nano S. This wallet is also more cost-effective than the Nano X, charging half as much. The Nano X includes a few more functions and a bigger screen, but it doesn’t provide anything special. As a result, the Nano X is unlikely to be worth the additional $60 for most new consumers.
We compared the safety, accepted currencies, and other characteristics of both wallets to give you a good idea of which is best for you.
In 2016, the Ledger Nano S was released, quickly establishing itself as a must-have tool for everyone involved in cryptocurrency. In a brief period of time, it became synonymous with hardware wallets. However, these are gadgets with remarkable properties that entirely secure the private keys, popularly called “cold storage.”
The Ledger Nano S has beaten the rivalry of Trezor as well as other companies’ gadgets to the point where every devotee, trader, or shareholder can’t live without the French company’s “key.” But, a newer and more innovative gadget known as the Ledger Nano X has been available since 2019. So, what’s the point of starting over?
To find out, let’s compare the specs of the Ledger Nano S to the Ledger Nano X.
Because the Ledger Nano S is a hardware wallet, the secret keys it needs to validate transactions aren’t ever exposed. The Ledger Nano S is a microcomputer known as BOLOS (Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System). The USB Micro-B to USB-A connection included in the box transfers information from this device to computers. A USB connection connects the Ledger Nano S to a laptop. When a Ledger Nano S is linked to a computer through USB, the secret keys are kept in a tamper-proof system memory only available by the Ledger equipment in response to O.S. calls.
A “secure element” guards these secret keys. The Common Criteria (CC) EAL5+ method is used to certify this secured chip is protected with a PIN.
Said, even if you used your Ledger Nano S on compromised P.C.s, your bitcoins would be safe since the encryption keys never left the device’s restricted region.
The “Ledger Live” smartphone app incorporates Bluetooth connectivity, utilizing it wirelessly through phones or tablets. It is a low-energy (BLE) connection that eliminates a massive battery in the gadget. In addition, Bluetooth connections are end-to-end secured to respect the confidentiality of users.
Even if attackers were to get access to Bluetooth transmission, they would not be successful in obtaining the secret keys or authorizing a transaction that the owner did not intend to transmit.
This time, the rationale should be evident: the secret keys are always contained within the encrypted chip that safeguards them. In any case, if users don’t require wireless connectivity, you may turn off Bluetooth at any moment. The Ledger Nano X may also be utilized with the USB-C to USB-A connection, connecting the gadget to either Computers or laptops.
You may examine all payments made or the account where you want the costs to be transferred based on the screen size. It is preferable to have a bigger screen. Customers will feel more comfortable moving around the apps as well. Make that the transfer address in the wallet and the one on the internet-connected device are the same. Then, to confirm the transaction, secure it on the wallet’s own by tapping two buttons.
The Nano S is lighter, comprising 57 x 17.4 x 9.1 mm, compared to 72 x 18.6 x 11.75 mm for the Nano X. This translates to a 26 percent increase in height, a 7% increase in width, and a 29 percent increase in thickness. Unfortunately, it’s also double as hefty, at 34g vs. 16.2g (approximately 1.1 oz and 0.56 oz). Nevertheless, because it’s still lightweight and simple to use, you won’t notice much of a variation in reality.
The Nano X also appears to be a little more sophisticated. Two tiny buttons protrude significantly from the sides of the S, which are used to navigate through choices and confirm activities. On the other hand, the X has flat circular buttons on each side of its screen that is more unobtrusive. Unfortunately, they don’t stand out just like the S’s since they’re tight against the wallet’s front.
The screen brightness on the Ledger Nano S is blue on black, but the screen contrast on the Nano X is whiter on black. This is because they’re both made in the same style. Polished stainless steel and plastic were chosen as the primary materials. It improves the Ledger wallet’s durability and portability while also providing it with an attractive appearance.
The Ledger Nano S features two navigation buttons on the top of the gadget, whereas the Ledger Nano X features two navigation buttons on both sides. It’s more user-friendly because it’s akin to the use of a smartphone. You may return to the Ledger Nano X’s main screen by holding down both buttons for a long time. Again for Nano S, head to settings, then downwards to quit, and finally double click to return to the home screen
The first difference is that the Ledger Nano S can run up to 20 applications, while the Nano X can run 100. The application required to accept and distribute any specific cryptocurrency is referred to as an “app.” If you wish to store Bitcoin on your Ledger, you must first download the Bitcoin app. Likewise, to save Ethereum, you must first install the Ethereum application. This implies that if bitcoin seems to be the only cryptocurrency you hold (or plan to acquire), the Ledger Nano S will suffice.
The Nano X has more app storage than the Nano S, which is a significant reason why many customers chooses the Nano X to the Nano S. If you decide on the Nano S, you can delete apps once they have been set up.
Your secret keys will not be deleted if you remove the applications. Instead, they remain attached to the gadget. As a consequence, you’ll be able to delete and reinstall apps as needed, freeing up space on your smartphone.
The Ledger system might be a bit unclear regarding which currencies these wallets accept. There are two points to bear in mind: the number of coins enabled and the range of applications that may be run simultaneously on the smartphone.
Ledger’s storage space is restricted, and each application consumes a significant amount of space. In this context, an app is essentially a platform-specific application for managing a cryptocurrency’s value.
A Ledger customer may, for instance, download the Bitcoin (BTC) app, transfer BTC, and then uninstall the BTC app. The person’s BTC amount would stay in the wallet. However, you would be unable to do anything at all until the relevant software was reinstalled. Other currencies are the same way.
These wallets, though, support more than 1,800 distinct coins when this pertains to currencies. However, there is a significant difference in the number of crypto assets that may be handled at the same time.
The Ledger Nano S only can store three applications at the moment, but the Ledger Nano X can hold 100. The Nano X may be a preferable alternative for people who wish to control multiple cryptocurrencies on a regular basis without having to remove and reinstall applications.
Bluetooth
Another distinction is that the Ledger Nano X enables Bluetooth, whilst the Ledger Nano S doesn’t seem to.
Since it has Bluetooth connectivity, the Ledger Nano X is used with Ledger’s mobile application (Ledger Live). In simple terms, you may use the Nano X to transmit Cryptocurrencies while on the road. The Nano S, on the other hand, requires you to link the wallet to your pc through the included Micro-B USB cable in order to use it.
This connection is going to be crucial if you frequently travel – and trade cryptocurrency. The Ledger Nano S, on the other hand, should serve if you’ve just purchased one or three cryptocurrencies and plan to keep them for the foreseeable future.
The Ledger Nano S and X are nearly similar in terms of security. Whereas the X employs the latest ST33 secure component and the S employs the ST31, both have been fully validated by ANSSI (the French National Cybersecurity Agency). As a result, they’re both are as safe as one another. So you don’t have to worry about sacrificing safety by going with the less expensive Nano S.
It’s also important to remember that only open data is transferred to your smartphone or computer via the Ledger Nano S and X. Either gadget never communicates the secret keys that govern your cryptocurrency, nor is the seed phrase that you can have used to recover your device if it is broken, destroyed, or lost. This is useful to understand, mainly because the Ledger Nano X can interface with your phone over Bluetooth.
Even if this is your first time using a hardware wallet, the Ledger Nano X and Nano S are basic and straightforward to use. The user interface is simple and easy to use, and the program is sleek and trendy.
Many users appreciate the fact that device apps can only be executed locally rather than via an internet browser. The disadvantage is that you may need to delete and reinstall the software on a frequent basis. On the other hand, a wholly local gadget is less prone to result in asset theft or illegal access.
There is no need for a battery in the Ledger Nano S.
The Ledger Nano X features a 100 mAh battery. It may be recharged by attaching it to a P.C. or laptop through a USB wire. The battery capacity of the gadget is 8 hours when used continuously. On the other side, if the battery is left inactive, it can last three months.
The battery performance should be considered because the Ledger Nano X may be operated without a wire.
The Ledger X costs $119, which is double the Price of the Nano S. You may operate 100 distinct crypto wallets in one go, interact with their cryptocurrency wallet from your smartphone, and run the account from battery capacity for six to 8 hours for that extra fee.
In many circumstances, consumers may find it difficult to justify spending an additional $60 for the Nano X when the Nano S offers almost all they can get to store and handle their cryptocurrency safely. However, if you want to keep a few coins, don’t want to use the wallet on the move, and don’t need a more prominent display, the Ledger Nano S could be a better alternative.
I’ve just gone over the many features of Ledger hardware wallets. However, it’s crucial to find out which is the better option for your situation.
There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” approach. The option chosen is determined by the person’s specific requirements. For example, you may only require one gadget, both for use in tandem or even more devices.
If you’re a long-term user who only makes transactions once in a while, the Ledger Nano S, which can be utilized on a P.C. or laptop, could be suitable for you.
Suppose you don’t believe you’ll ever need to transmit or receive bitcoins via phone or tablet, at any moment and from anywhere. In that case, you might choose to pass on the Ledger Nano X. Overall, and the Ledger Nano S is unsuitable for people who want a gadget that can be used alongside smartphones and tablets at any moment without the need to link it to P.C.s or laptops directly.
If a wired network isn’t an issue, you may still link your Ledger Nano S to Android phones or tablets with this OTG connection. Apart from its technological qualities, you could choose a Ledger Nano S since it is less expensive. Since it is outdated and has fewer functionality, the Ledger Nano S is less expensive than the Ledger Nano X.
The Ledger Nano X is the best option for those who wish to transmit payments even when they are not at house or do not have a computer with them. For example, if you’re in the mall and need to execute a transaction – whether for trading purposes or to compensate someone – and only have a phone, you may send or receive cryptocurrency at any moment owing to the Ledger Nano X’s Bluetooth capability.
Another incentive to use a Ledger Nano X is its larger storage capacity.
Whenever the memory on your Ledger Nano S is filled, you must eliminate some software to make room for others. For instance, if you want to download the Ethereum application but don’t have enough space, you must first uninstall another (for example, the Binance app).
Deleting an app does not lead to the deletion of the cryptocurrency linked with it. In any case, most users find this approach to be time-consuming. As a result, in this regard, the Ledger Nano X is appropriate for customers who wish to handle multiple cryptocurrencies and must download different programs.
Take into account that the Ledger Nano X can hold up to 100 applications simultaneously, while the Ledger Nano S storage capacity can only hold up to four apps.
I’ve stated it before, but it’s evident that Ledger puts a lot of effort into ensuring their devices are safe.
Furthermore, both the Nano X and Nano S are slim hardware crypto wallets with many functionalities. Along with the Ledger Live app, all of this contributes to a potent tool for controlling digital assets. That isn’t to say that all these devices are faultless. Bluetooth is a little clumsy, and the user experience might need some work.
However, they are gadgets that perform precisely whatever you want them to accomplish. They’re not flawless, and however, when it refers to crypto hardware wallets, they outperform the competitors. When determining which one to purchase, consider what you need or require from a hardware wallet.
Some individuals prefer Bluetooth connections, but others don’t want to expose themselves to the threat. Furthermore, the number of applications you wish to utilize will influence your selection. It’s difficult to go astray when it comes to protecting and storing your digits, irrespective of the cold storage hardware wallet you pick.
**Onlinecloudsecurity.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for websites to earn advertising revenues by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate we earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.**
Dave Miller is an IT Consultant for Online Cloud Security and has over 7 years of experience in the Information Technology space. He also specializes in repairing laptops & computers. In his spare time, he loves to talk about new technologies and hosts monthly IT and Cyber Security meetings in the Houston area.
Click any button down below to share this article on the following channels:
Online Cloud Security is here to recommend you the most secure devices, from laptops to smartphones, we only want to provide you with products that we have tested and used ourselves for online security. Every product that we recommend is heavily inspected and tested for security against hackers, viruses, malware, and any other intruders that may want to steal your information.
Online Cloud Security is here to recommend you the most secure devices, from laptops to smartphones, we only want to provide you with products that we have tested and used ourselves for online security. Every product that we recommend is heavily inspected and tested for security against hackers, viruses, malware, and any other intruders that may want to steal your information.
Your Trusted Source for Online Security
