Ledger Nano X vs S: The Ultimate 2025 Showdown for Your Crypto
Welcome to the definitive comparison of the Ledger Nano X vs S. If you’re serious about cryptocurrency, you’ve heard the phrase “not your keys, not your coins.” In a world of exchange hacks and digital threats, securing your assets is no longer optional—it’s essential. This is where hardware wallets come in, and Ledger stands as a titan in the industry.
But choosing the right device can be tricky. You have the battle-tested, budget-friendly option and the premium, feature-rich powerhouse. Which one is right for you?
This guide will break down everything you need to know about the Ledger Nano X vs the Ledger Nano S Plus (the successor to the original Nano S). We’ll compare them on design, features, security, and price to help you make a confident, informed decision. By the end, you’ll know exactly which wallet will best protect your digital future.
Why a Hardware Wallet is Non-Negotiable for Crypto Investors
Before we dive into the specifics of the Nano X vs S, let’s quickly cover why you absolutely need a hardware wallet. Think of it as the difference between keeping cash in your pocket versus in a locked, private vault.
- Hot Wallets: These are software wallets connected to the internet (e.g., mobile apps, browser extensions). They’re convenient for daily transactions but are vulnerable to online attacks, malware, and phishing scams.
- Cold Wallets: These are hardware wallets, like the Ledger devices. They are physical devices that keep your private keys completely offline, isolated from the internet. This is called “cold storage.”
When you want to send crypto from a hardware wallet, the transaction is created online, but it must be signed and verified offline on your physical device. This means even if your computer is compromised, a hacker cannot access your keys and steal your funds. A hardware wallet is the gold standard for long-term, secure storage.
Meet the Contenders: A Quick Look at the Ledger Nano X and Nano S Plus
Ledger has refined its offerings over the years. The original, iconic Ledger Nano S has been discontinued and replaced by the significantly improved Ledger Nano S Plus. For this 2025 comparison, we’ll be focusing on the two current champions in Ledger’s lineup.
The Ledger Nano S Plus: The Reliable Workhorse, Reimagined
The Ledger Nano S Plus is the evolution of the world’s most popular hardware wallet. It takes everything that made the original great—simplicity, robust security, and an affordable price—and supercharges it. It features a larger screen for easier transaction verification and, most importantly, significantly more memory. This allows you to manage thousands of different crypto assets simultaneously without juggling apps.
It’s the perfect entry point for beginners or for “HODLers” who primarily manage their portfolio from a desktop computer.
The Ledger Nano X: The Premium, Mobile-First Powerhouse
The Ledger Nano X is the flagship model, designed for users who demand flexibility and convenience without compromising on security. Its standout feature is Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to securely manage your crypto on the go directly from your smartphone. Combined with an internal battery, the Nano X offers a truly mobile experience.
It’s built for active traders, DeFi users, and NFT collectors who need to connect and sign transactions anywhere, anytime.
Ledger Nano X vs S Plus: A Head-to-Head Feature Comparison
Let’s put these two devices side-by-side and see how they stack up across the most important categories.
Design and Build Quality
Both devices are discreet and portable, resembling a standard USB stick. The Nano S Plus has a slightly smaller, more compact feel with a plastic body and the classic brushed stainless steel swivel cover. The Nano X is a bit heavier and wider, giving it a more substantial, premium feel in hand. Both feature two physical buttons for navigation and confirming transactions.
The screens are identical in resolution. While the Nano X’s screen is technically slightly larger in diameter, the practical difference is negligible. Both offer a clear, crisp display for verifying addresses.
Connectivity: The Bluetooth Game-Changer
This is the single biggest difference between the Ledger Nano X and S Plus.
- Ledger Nano S Plus: Connects to your computer or Android phone using a USB-C cable. It’s simple and reliable, but it tethers you to another device.
- Ledger Nano X: Offers both USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Bluetooth capability of the Nano X is a massive quality-of-life improvement. It allows you to pair your device seamlessly with the Ledger Live app on your iPhone or Android. You can check your balance, send and receive assets, and interact with dApps without ever needing a cable. This freedom and flexibility are what define the premium Nano X experience.
App Capacity and Coin Support
In the past, the biggest drawback of the original Nano S was its tiny storage, which could only hold 3-5 apps at a time. This was a major headache for anyone with a diverse portfolio.
Thankfully, Ledger fixed this with the S Plus. Both the Ledger Nano X and the Nano S Plus can hold up to 100 applications simultaneously. Both devices also support the exact same library of over 5,500 coins and tokens via the Ledger Live app.
In terms of what assets you can store, this category is now a dead heat. You won’t have to compromise on portfolio diversity with either device.
Battery and Portability
Here we see another clear advantage for the Nano X. It contains a small 100mAh battery that lasts for several hours of active use or up to 8 hours on standby. This, combined with Bluetooth, makes it a truly standalone device for mobile management. You can approve a transaction while waiting for a coffee, no cables required.
The Nano S Plus has no internal battery. It must be powered via the USB-C cable connected to a computer or phone. This makes it less convenient for on-the-go use, solidifying its position as a desktop-first wallet.
Security: Is One Safer Than the Other?
This is a critical point: the Ledger Nano X and Nano S Plus offer the exact same level of industry-leading security.
Both wallets are built around a top-of-the-line Certified Secure Element (CC EAL5+) chip. This is the same type of chip used in passports and high-security credit cards. It is designed to withstand sophisticated attacks and ensures your private keys never leave the device.
They also both run on Ledger’s custom-built operating system, BOLOS. Whether you choose the S Plus or the X, you are getting one of the most secure crypto storage solutions on the planet. The choice comes down to features and convenience, not security.
Price Point: Budget vs. Investment
The Ledger Nano S Plus is the clear winner on price, typically retailing for around $79. It provides elite security for an incredibly accessible price.
The Ledger Nano X comes in at a higher price point, usually around $149. You’re not paying more for security; you’re paying for convenience. You are investing in the freedom of Bluetooth, the flexibility of an internal battery, and a more seamless mobile user experience.
Who Should Buy the Ledger Nano S Plus?
The Ledger Nano S Plus is an exceptional hardware wallet and is the perfect choice for:
- The Budget-Conscious Buyer: If you want top-tier security without the premium price tag, the S Plus is an unbeatable value.
- The Long-Term HODLer: If you plan to buy crypto and store it securely for years with infrequent transactions, the extra features of the X may be unnecessary.
- The Desktop-First User: If you do all your crypto management on a laptop or desktop computer, the USB-C connection of the S Plus is perfectly sufficient.
Why the Ledger Nano X is the Superior Choice for Most Users in 2025
While the Nano S Plus is a fantastic device, the Ledger Nano X represents the future of self-custody. In an increasingly mobile world, the ability to manage your assets securely from your phone is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Here’s why the Nano X is the better investment for the majority of crypto users today:
- Ultimate Convenience: Managing your portfolio from anywhere via Bluetooth is a transformative experience. No more searching for cables or needing a computer to send funds.
- DeFi and NFT Power Users: If you regularly interact with decentralized applications (dApps) or trade NFTs, doing so from your mobile phone is far more fluid. The Nano X makes this process secure and simple.
- Future-Proofing: As the crypto space evolves, mobile integration will only become more important. The Nano X is built for this future, ensuring your hardware won’t feel outdated in a year.
- The Complete Experience: The combination of an internal battery and Bluetooth removes all friction from the user experience. It just works, seamlessly and securely.
The extra cost of the Nano X is a small price to pay for the immense convenience and flexibility it provides. It empowers you to truly take control of your crypto finances, wherever you are.
The Verdict: Why We Recommend the Ledger Nano X
Let’s be clear: you cannot go wrong with either device. Both the Ledger Nano S Plus and the Ledger Nano X offer world-class security that will protect your digital assets from hackers.
The Nano S Plus is an amazing, affordable wallet that gets the core job of security done perfectly. For beginners or those on a strict budget, it’s an excellent choice.
However, for anyone who sees themselves being active in the crypto space for years to come, the Ledger Nano X is the undisputed winner. The convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and the freedom of an internal battery are not just minor upgrades; they fundamentally improve how you interact with your crypto. The ability to securely manage your entire portfolio from the palm of your hand is the new standard.
Investing in a Ledger Nano X is an investment in ease of use, mobility, and your own financial sovereignty.
Ready to secure your digital assets with the best hardware wallet on the market?
Click here to purchase your Ledger Nano X today and experience true financial freedom!
Ledger Nano X vs S: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Ledger Nano X’s Bluetooth connection secure? Yes. The Bluetooth connection is only used to transport public transaction data. All critical operations, like signing the transaction with your private key, happen exclusively within the Secure Element chip on the Nano X. Your private keys never leave the device.
2. Can I use both a Nano X and a Nano S Plus with the same recovery phrase? Absolutely. You can set up multiple Ledger devices with the same 24-word recovery phrase. This is a great way to have a primary device (like the Nano X for daily use) and a backup (like the S Plus) stored in a separate, safe location.
3. What happens if I lose my Ledger device? Your crypto is safe! As long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase backed up securely, you can simply purchase a new Ledger (or any other compatible hardware wallet) and restore full access to all your funds. The assets are on the blockchain, not the physical device.
4. Does the Ledger Nano X support the same coins as the S Plus? Yes. Both the Nano X and the Nano S Plus support the exact same list of over 5,500 coins and tokens through the Ledger Live application and approved third-party wallets.
5. Is the original Ledger Nano S still worth buying? No. The original Nano S has been officially discontinued. The Ledger Nano S Plus is superior in every way, especially with its massive increase in app storage and a better screen. Avoid any old stock of the original Nano S.
6. How does the Ledger Nano X compare to a Trezor Model T? The Trezor Model T is another excellent premium hardware wallet. The main differences are that the Trezor has a color touchscreen, while the Nano X uses physical buttons. The Nano X has Bluetooth, which the Model T lacks. Both offer exceptional security, and the choice often comes down to personal preference for the user interface and mobile connectivity.