Ledger Nano X Review

Ledger Nano X is the leading cryptocurrency hardware wallet in the market. It offers ultimate security, supports more than 5,500 cryptocurrencies, can be managed from your mobile device and offers a more comfortable design compared to the company’s previous version. Even though Ledger Nano X is relatively expensive, its new features are completely worth it.

Ledger, a French company that has been a major player since the early days. Their flagship mobile-friendly device, the Ledger Nano X, promises robust security combined with the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and a polished app experience via Ledger Live.

But does the Ledger Nano X live up to its premium reputation? How does its Bluetooth functionality impact security? And is it the right choice for managing your diverse crypto portfolio on the go? In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything the Ledger Nano X offers, from unboxing to its deep integration with the Ledger Live ecosystem.

What is the Ledger Nano X? Security Meets Mobility

The Ledger Nano X is a Bluetooth-enabled hardware wallet designed to safeguard your private keys offline while allowing you to manage your crypto assets conveniently through the Ledger Live application on your computer or smartphone. Ledger, founded in 2014, is one of the most established and well-funded companies in the crypto security sector, known for its focus on secure element technology.

Ledger Nano X can provide you with ultimate security. It’s a hardware wallet, which means that all of your Bitcoins, Litecoins and other altcoins will be securely stored offline. That being said, as you already know, a hacker simply cannot access it online. 

You might notice that Ledger Nano X has Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity that allows you to use it without the need for a cable. While wireless connection sounds really convenient, it can also raise some security concerns. However, before jumping to conclusions, let me assure you that there are no security issues when it comes to Ledger Nano X. 

Physically, the Nano X resembles a sleek, modern USB drive. It features a distinctive brushed stainless steel rotating cover that protects the plastic body and the small OLED screen when not in use. This metal shroud gives it a more premium feel compared to some all-plastic competitors. Interaction with the device happens via two physical buttons located near the screen, used for navigation and confirmation. It includes a built-in battery (100mAh), allowing for true wireless operation when using Bluetooth, and connects/charges via a standard USB-C port.

Ledger Nano X vs. Ledger Nano S Plus: Choosing Your Ledger

Ledger offers multiple devices, and it’s crucial to understand the Nano X’s position relative to its popular sibling, the Nano S Plus:

Feature	Ledger Nano X	Ledger Nano S Plus
Connectivity	USB-C & Bluetooth	USB-C Only
Mobile Use	Wireless (Bluetooth)	Wired (USB OTG cable)
Battery	Yes (Internal)	No
App Storage	Larger (~2MB)	Smaller (~1.5MB)
App Capacity	Up to 100 (size dep.)	Fewer (~20-40, size dep.)
Screen Size	Slightly Larger (128×64)	Slightly Smaller (128×64)
Price	Premium	More Affordable

Essentially, the Nano X is the premium choice for users who demand Bluetooth mobile convenience, a built-in battery, and the ability to install many different coin applications simultaneously. The Nano S Plus offers the same core Ledger security via USB at a lower price point but requires more frequent app juggling if you hold many different types of assets.

Unboxing and Setting Up Your Ledger Fortress

Ledger packages the Nano X in a clean, professional box, typically sealed with tamper-evident plastic wrap. As always, inspect the packaging carefully upon receipt. Ensure it hasn’t been opened or tampered with.

Inside the box, you’ll usually find:

• The Ledger Nano X device
• A USB-C to USB-A cable
• Three recovery sheets (for writing down your seed phrase)
• A keychain strap
• Instructional leaflets

Setting up the Nano X is a guided process managed primarily through the Ledger Live application (available for Desktop – Windows, macOS, Linux – and Mobile – iOS, Android).

1. Download Ledger Live: Crucially, only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or your official mobile app store. Fake apps exist designed to steal your crypto or seed phrase.
2. Connect & Power On: Connect the Nano X to your computer using the USB cable (recommended for initial setup even if planning Bluetooth use). Power it on by holding the left button.
3. Navigate Prompts: Use the two physical buttons to navigate the initial welcome messages and prompts on the Nano X screen (right button to advance, left button to go back, press both simultaneously to select/confirm).
4. Set PIN Code: Choose a 4 to 8-digit PIN code directly on the device using the buttons to select numbers. Confirm your PIN. This protects against unauthorized physical access.
5. Generate Recovery Phrase: This is the most vital step. The Nano X will generate your unique 24-word recovery phrase (also called seed phrase or mnemonic). Each word is displayed sequentially only on the Nano X screen.
6. Write Down Your Phrase: Carefully write down each of the 24 words, in the correct order, onto the provided recovery sheets. Ensure accuracy. Ledger emphasizes NOT taking a photo or creating any digital copy.
7. Verify Your Phrase: The Nano X will then prompt you to confirm your recorded phrase by selecting the correct word for each position (e.g., “Confirm word #5”) using the navigation buttons. This ensures you’ve written it down correctly.
8. Connect to Ledger Live: Follow the prompts in the Ledger Live application to pair your device (it will perform a genuineness check).
9. Install Apps: Use the “Manager” section in Ledger Live to install the specific cryptocurrency applications (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano) you need onto your Nano X. This is required before you can manage those assets.
10. (Optional) Bluetooth Pairing: If desired, you can now pair your Nano X with the Ledger Live mobile app via Bluetooth for wireless management.

The Immutable Law of Crypto: Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup for your cryptocurrency. If your Nano X is lost, stolen, or destroyed, these words are the only way to restore your accounts and access your funds on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. Protect these written words as if they were treasure maps to your entire fortune – because they are. Store them securely offline, perhaps in multiple locations. Never share them, never digitize them.

Deep Dive: Ledger Nano X Key Features Explored

The Nano X integrates several key technologies to provide its blend of security and convenience.

1. Secure Bluetooth Connectivity: This allows the Nano X to communicate wirelessly with the Ledger Live mobile app on iOS and Android.

• Convenience: Makes managing crypto, checking balances, initiating transactions, and interacting with DApps on your phone incredibly seamless.
• Security Implementation: Ledger emphasizes that sensitive data (like private keys) never leaves the Secure Element chip. The Bluetooth connection is encrypted (using AES encryption paired via ECDH), and every outgoing transaction or sensitive action still requires explicit confirmation on the Nano X device itself using the physical buttons. The Bluetooth connection primarily transmits non-sensitive data or signed transaction information. While technically offering a wireless interface (unlike air-gapped devices), the security architecture is designed to prevent key exposure.

2. Robust Security Foundation: Ledger’s security model relies on several pillars:

• Certified Secure Element (SE): The Nano X uses a specific chip (ST33) designed to withstand sophisticated attacks. It’s CC EAL5+ certified, offering a high level of assurance against penetration. Private keys are generated and stored within this isolated, tamper-resistant chip.
• Custom Operating System (BOLOS): Ledger develops its own OS (Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System) specifically for its hardware wallets, designed to isolate applications from each other and protect the core cryptographic functions.
• PIN Code: Protects the device from unauthorized physical access.
• 24-Word Recovery Phrase (BIP39): Industry standard for wallet backup and recovery.
• Mandatory Physical Confirmation: No funds can leave your wallet without you physically verifying the transaction details (recipient address, amount) on the Nano X screen and confirming by pressing both buttons. This protects against malware on your computer or phone.

3. Ledger Live: Your All-in-One Crypto Hub: The Ledger Live application is arguably as important as the hardware itself. It’s a polished, feature-rich interface for:

• Portfolio Management: View balances across all your accounts and assets in real-time.
• Send & Receive: Easily generate receiving addresses (with QR codes) and securely send crypto, verifying on the Nano X.
• Buy/Sell/Swap: Ledger Live integrates with third-party services (like MoonPay, Coinify, Wyre, Changelly – partners may vary) allowing you to buy crypto with fiat, sell crypto, or swap one crypto for another directly within the app. Important: These are partner services, not Ledger itself acting as an exchange. Be mindful of potential fees, exchange rates, and KYC requirements imposed by these partners.
• Staking: Earn passive income by staking supported Proof-of-Stake coins (like Tezos, Tron, Cosmos, Solana, Polkadot, and ETH via Lido integration) directly through Ledger Live, while your keys remain secure on your Nano X.
• NFT Management: View your Ethereum and Polygon NFTs directly in your Ledger Live accounts.
• DApp Exploration: Connect to decentralized applications (DeFi, NFT marketplaces) using WalletConnect from within the Ledger Live mobile app, signing transactions securely on your Nano X.
• Device Management: Install and uninstall crypto applications onto your Nano X via the “Manager” tab.

4. Significantly Increased App Capacity: Compared to the Nano S and S Plus, the Nano X has considerably more internal storage (~2MB vs ~1.5MB on S Plus). This translates to being able to install up to 100 cryptocurrency applications simultaneously (note: app sizes vary, so the exact number depends on which apps you install). This is a massive quality-of-life improvement for users holding a diverse range of coins, eliminating the need to constantly uninstall one app to make space for another.

5. Extensive Coin & Token Support: Through Ledger Live and installable apps, the Nano X supports a huge range of assets – Ledger claims over 5,500 coins and tokens across numerous blockchains. This includes all the major players and a vast number of smaller altcoins and tokens.

6. Simple Two-Button Navigation: All interaction with the device itself relies on the two physical buttons. While simple and secure (reducing potential hardware failure points), it can feel slightly cumbersome for entering the PIN or confirming the 24-word seed phrase compared to touchscreen or keypad inputs. However, for routine transaction confirmations, it’s quick and effective.

7. Built-In Battery: The internal battery allows the Nano X to function wirelessly with your phone via Bluetooth for several hours without needing to be plugged in, offering true portability.

The Ledger Nano X User Experience: Premium & Polished?

Using the Ledger Nano X generally feels like interacting with a mature, well-thought-out product:

• Mobile Freedom: The Bluetooth connection with the Ledger Live mobile app is the star feature. It works reliably and makes managing crypto on the go feel effortless and secure.
• Ledger Live Interface: The app (both desktop and mobile) is widely considered one of the most user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing hardware wallet companion apps available. It successfully integrates numerous features without feeling overly cluttered.
• Setup: While confirming the 24 words with buttons takes time, the overall setup process guided by Ledger Live is smooth.
• Premium Feel: The stainless steel cover and solid build contribute to a feeling of quality and durability.
• App Management: Installing and removing apps is easily handled within Ledger Live, and the large capacity is a significant benefit for multi-coin holders.
• Security Confidence: The combination of the secure element, PIN, recovery phrase, and mandatory physical confirmation instills confidence.

Who is the Ledger Nano X Designed For?

• Mobile-First Crypto Users: Anyone who predominantly uses their smartphone to manage crypto assets and interact with DApps.
• Holders of Diverse Assets: Users with investments across many different cryptocurrencies who need ample app storage space.
• Users Seeking Convenience: Those who prioritize a seamless, wireless experience without compromising core hardware wallet security principles.
• Individuals Valuing an Established Ecosystem: Users who appreciate the polished Ledger Live app and its integrated features (staking, swap, etc.).
• Those Willing to Pay for Premium Features: Users for whom the benefits of Bluetooth, battery, and large app capacity justify the higher price tag compared to the Nano S Plus.

Ledger Nano X: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent Mobile Experience: Seamless Bluetooth connectivity with the polished Ledger Live app (iOS/Android).
• Large App Capacity: Install apps for many different cryptos simultaneously (up to 100).
• Robust Security: Certified Secure Element (EAL5+), custom OS, PIN, 24-word seed.
• Feature-Rich Ledger Live Ecosystem: Integrated buy/sell/swap, staking, NFT viewing, DApp connection.
• Wide Coin Support: Access to thousands of coins and tokens.
• Premium Build Quality: Stainless steel cover provides durability and a quality feel.
• Built-In Battery: Enables true wireless mobile use.
• Established Brand: Ledger is a long-standing leader in the hardware wallet market.

Cons:

• Premium Price Point: One of the more expensive hardware wallets available.
• Two-Button Navigation: Can be tedious for initial seed phrase confirmation or complex PINs.
• Bluetooth vs. Air-Gapped: Presents a theoretical wireless attack surface (though mitigated by strong security measures) compared to air-gapped devices.
• Reliance on Ledger Live for Full Functionality: While keys are secure, the user experience is heavily tied to the Ledger Live app.
• Past Company Controversies: Events like the database leak or Recover service announcement have impacted trust for some users (though device key security wasn’t breached).

Final Security Guidance

1. Protect Your 24 Words Above All: Offline, secure, redundant storage. Never digitize.
2. Use a Strong PIN: Utilize the full 8 digits if possible.
3. Verify Transactions on Device: Always carefully check the address and amount on the Nano X screen before pressing both buttons to confirm.
4. Use Official Ledger Live Only: Download/update only from Ledger.com or official app stores.
5. Beware Phishing: Ledger support will never ask for your 24 words. Be skeptical of unsolicited communications.
6. Buy Direct or Authorized: Ensure your device is genuine and untampered.

What is Ledger Live?

Now, if you plan on getting a Ledger hardware wallet, you should also know what Ledger Live is. Put simply, Ledger Live is the software that’s needed to set up your device and manage cryptocurrencies. You can download the desktop app for Windows, Mac and Linux on Ledger’s official site, and get a mobile app from App Store or Google Play.

Though, Ledger Live allows you to do so much more than just set your device and manage you cryptocurrencies. It also allows you to buy, sell, cash out, exchange and lend your crypto assets directly in the app through the platfroms Ledger has partered with (including Simplex, Coinify, 1inch, and others).

In addition to that, Ledger Live also allows you to grow your holdings through staking. If you don’t know what staking is, in essence, it’s locking up your coins in order to become a validator on a Proof-of-Stake blockchain. In return for transaction validation, you get more coins as a reward. Ledger Live allows you to stake on such blockchain as Ethereum, Solana, Cosmos, Tron, and others.

The Verdict: Is the Ledger Nano X the Ultimate Mobile Crypto Wallet?

The Ledger Nano X remains a dominant force in the hardware wallet market for good reason. It delivers a compelling combination of robust, certified security with unparalleled mobile convenience thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity and the highly-regarded Ledger Live application. For users juggling a diverse portfolio of cryptocurrencies, the large application storage capacity is a significant advantage, eliminating the frustrating need to constantly reinstall apps.

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