Ledger Nano S Plus vs Trezor Safe 3: Which One Should You Buy in 2026?
CryptoTopping Team · Updated September 2026 · Hardware wallet comparison
If you are looking for your first cold wallet or want to upgrade your self-custody device without spending a fortune, chances are you are facing this dilemma: Ledger Nano S Plus or Trezor Safe 3. Both devices represent the entry-level standard in crypto security at a price of around €79, but they feature significantly different security philosophies, software ecosystems, and technical capabilities. We take a detailed look at their features, strengths, and key differences to help you make the right purchase decision.
⚠ RISK WARNING Cryptocurrency is a volatile, high-risk asset. You may lose your entire investment. Nothing here is financial advice.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table: Key Specifications
| Feature | Ledger Nano S Plus | Trezor Safe 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Approximate price | ~€79 | ~€79 |
| Security chip | ST33 Secure Element (EAL6+) | OPTIGA™ Trust M Secure Element (EAL6+) |
| Source code | Closed source (proprietary firmware) | Open source |
| Display | Monochrome OLED (128 x 64 px) | Monochrome OLED (128 x 64 px) |
| Connectivity | USB-C (Android / PC / Mac) | USB-C (Android / PC / Mac) |
| Cryptocurrency support | 5,500+ assets (via Ledger Live) | 8,000+ assets (via Trezor Suite) |
| iOS compatibility | No (read-only via cable) | No |
| DeFi / NFT support | Very broad native integration | Supported through third-party wallets |
1. Security and Hardware: Secure Element or Open Source?
Historically, the main criticism aimed at Trezor was the absence of a Secure Element chip resistant to direct physical attacks such as component extraction. With the launch of the Trezor Safe 3, Trezor has for the first time implemented an OPTIGA™ Trust M (EAL6+) chip, matching the physical protection that Ledger has always provided through its ST33 (EAL6+) chip.
The fundamental difference lies in the source code:
- Trezor Safe 3 (Open-Source Philosophy): All of the firmware and hardware design can be audited by the global community. If you value maximum technical transparency and Bitcoin's original cypherpunk philosophy, Trezor holds the advantage.
- Ledger Nano S Plus (Proprietary Chip): It uses a proprietary operating system (BOLOS). While its apps are public, the base system code is not fully open source. In return, it holds security certifications issued by ANSSI (France's National Cybersecurity Agency).
Get the Ledger Nano S Plus at the best price
EAL6+ certified Secure Element, support for 5,500+ crypto assets and the Ledger Live app, from €79. Buy directly from the official store.
Check the official Ledger Nano S Plus price2. Software Ecosystem: Ledger Live vs Trezor Suite
Your day-to-day experience depends directly on the desktop and mobile application you use to manage your funds.
Ledger Live
It is one of the most complete self-custody software suites on the market. It lets you interact directly with DeFi applications, buy, sell, stake Ethereum or Solana, and manage NFTs without needing to connect your wallet to third-party extensions.
Trezor Suite
It stands out for a clean, fast, privacy-focused interface. It includes one-click native integration with the Tor network and supports privacy coins or advanced privacy features such as CoinJoin on Bitcoin.
3. Token and NFT Compatibility
If your portfolio consists mainly of assets on EVM chains (Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum), Solana, or SPL tokens, the Ledger Nano S Plus offers storage capacity for up to 100 simultaneous apps on the device and superior compatibility for signing visual Web3 transactions.
The Trezor Safe 3 handles Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of ERC-20 tokens perfectly, but some specific layer-1 networks require external linking.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Ledger Nano S Plus if…
- You want to actively engage with Web3 ecosystems, DeFi, NFTs, and a wide range of altcoins.
- You prefer to manage your entire portfolio from a single integrated app (Ledger Live).
- You want a compact wallet with a stainless steel, impact-resistant pendrive-style body.
Choose the Trezor Safe 3 if…
- Your absolute priority is open-source, auditable software.
- You are a Bitcoin- or Ethereum-focused user looking for advanced privacy tools like Tor or CoinJoin.
- You want the new edition with a Secure Element while keeping Trezor's transparent philosophy.
Keep comparing
⚠ RISK WARNING Cryptocurrency is a volatile, high-risk asset. You may lose your entire investment. Nothing here is financial advice.