Trezor Model T
3,75 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trezor Model T
- Trezor hardware is developed by SatoshiLabs, an independent Czech firm founded in 2013 and headquartered in Prague. Trezor is widely seen as one of the world’s foremost crypto hardware providers alongside Ledger.
- The Model T debuted in February 2018 as Trezor’s touchscreen flagship, building on the success of the original Model One. Arguably, its status as a flagship model has been supplanted by the Trezor Safe 5.
- Trezor continues SatoshiLabs’ open-source ethos and was the first hardware wallet to implement Shamir Backup (SLIP-39).
- Security Features: 4.5 ⭐ 90%
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 4.0 ⭐ 80%
- User Experience (UX): 4.5 ⭐ 90%
- Integration & Compatibility: 4.0 ⭐ 80%
- Backup & Recovery Options: 4.5 ⭐ 90%
- Hardware.
- 100% Non-Custodial.
- Desktop OS: Windows, macOS, Linux via the full Trezor Suite application.
- Mobile: Portfolio-tracking (and limited device connection) through Trezor Suite Lite on Android & iOS.
- Browser: Chrome and Firefox using Trezor Bridge or WebUSB.
- Software Suite: Trezor Suite (desktop & web) + Trezor Suite Lite (mobile companion).
Trezor Model T
Cold wallets are considered the safest method of securing your digital assets. Unlike software-based hot wallets (MetaMask, Trust Wallet, etc.), cold wallets are immune to traditional online threats as they store your private keys (the gateway to your crypto holdings) offline. Hot wallets are usually free, whereas a cold wallet is purchased from providers like Trezor or SafePal. Price ranges can vary from inexpensive cold wallets to premium hardware wallets.
Trezor Model T is a good example of a mid-range cold wallet, offering a little more in terms of features than, say, the Trezor Model One, but still being considerably cheaper than the Trezor Safe 5. But does the Model T offer a good balance between affordability and security? Learn all you need to know about the Model T in our comprehensive crypto hardware wallet review below.
Key Features & Functionalities
Security Features
On-device confirmation, Shamir Backup, open-source firmware, microSD storage, tamper-evident packaging. No secure-element chip.
Supported Assets
Supports 1,000+ coins/tokens (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, ERC-20s). Broad but less than some competitors.
User Experience (UX)
Intuitive touch UI, USB-C connectivity, responsive Trezor Suite. Cable-only operation.
Integration and Compatibility
Seamless Trezor Suite integration, supports MetaMask, DeFi, staking. Relies on third-party apps for some features.
Backup & Recovery Options
12/24-word seed, Shamir Backup, microSD encryption. Complex setup for Shamir.
Pros and Cons of Trezor Model T
Pros:
Color Touchscreen. Enter your PIN, passphrase and addresses directly on the device, keeping keyboard loggers out of the loop.
Shamir Backup (SLIP-39). Split your recovery phrase into distinct parts for additional security.
microSD slot for “secret-storage” encryption. Optionally bind the wallet to an inserted card, adding an extra hurdle for physical attackers.
100 % open-source firmware. The global security community can audit every line of code and component.
Cons:
No secure-element chip. Trezor opts for transparency over tamper-resistant silicon with the Model T
Cable-only operation (no Bluetooth/battery). Mobile users must plug in via USB-C/OTG; Ledger Nano X and SafePal S1 offer wireless convenience.
Pricier than entry-level options. Trezor Model One or Ledger Nano S Plus costs roughly half the price of the Model T.
Shamir Backup adds complexity. Shamir Backup can be a powerful security feature, but setup/restore is more involved than a single 12/24-word seed.
Security Features
On-Device Confirmation
Every action, including PIN entry, passphrase input, and transaction signing, happens on the wallet’s screen, keeping private data off your computer.
Shamir Backup (SLIP-39)
First hardware wallet to ship with multi-share Shamir Backup, while still supporting 12/24-word BIP-39 phrases.
microSD “Secret Storage”
Optional microSD slot lets you encrypt the PIN/passphrase on a removable card—an extra hurdle for physical attackers.
Open-Source Firmware
Full codebase and board design are public, enabling community audits and rapid patching.
Tamper-Evident Packaging
Factory seals show interference, and the device wipes after multiple wrong PIN attempts.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
1,000 + Coins & Tokens
Managed natively or via third-party apps—including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), XRP, stablecoins (USDT, USDC), and all ERC-20s.
User Experience (UX)
Intuitive Touch UI
Swipe-based navigation and on-device keyboard make PIN/passphrase entry painless compared with two-button wallets.
USB-C Connectivity
Plug-and-play with modern laptops/phones (Android OTG).
Responsive Desktop App
Trezor Suite offers portfolio view, coin control, privacy settings (Tor toggle), and in-app swaps.
Integration & Compatibility
Trezor Suite
Full send/receive, swap, and staking for ETH, ADA & SOL directly inside the official app.
Third-Party Wallets & dApps
One-click pairing with MetaMask for DeFi, NFTs, and EVM chains. The Model T also works with Electrum, Exodus, Sparrow, NuFi, etc.
Backup & Recovery Options
Multiple Backup Paths
2/24-word seed (BIP-39). Shamir multi-share. Encrypted microSD “secret” for PIN/passphrase verification off-device.
Security & Risks Assessment
Trezor is considered one of the most trusted brands in crypto cold storage security, pioneering several methods of offline storage. It has, however, experienced security incidents in the past, including an “RDP Downgrade attack” in 2019/2020 that impacted Model T devices specifically. In 2022, hackers stole Trezor’s newsletter recipient data, creating an elaborate phishing campaign designed to trick users into handing over seed phrase information. Trezor has been proactive in combating crypto scammers and upgrading its security architecture.
On the Model T specifically, there are additional security measures like Shamir Backup and the microSD “pin-encrypted secret.” That said, as one of the most recognized hardware brands, you should always be aware that phishing campaigns will target users of Trezor devices, including the Model T.
User Reviews & Community Feedback
Trustpilot Ratings & Reviews
Trezor currently holds a score of 4.5 out of 5 on Trustpilot. Customer service is constantly praised, as is the ease of use of the Model T and other Trezor devices. Negative feedback tends to center on technical issues, such as connecting third-party apps.
Reddit & Crypto Community Discussions
On r/TREZOR, experienced crypto holders are broadly positive about the Model T, with many citing that they have used the device confidently for several years. Often, the debate on Reddit revolves around the open-source firmware (a plus point for the Model T and Trezor devices generally) and security features the Model T lacks, such as a Secure Element chip.
Expert Reviews & Endorsements
Cointelegraph calls Model T a “best-in-class user experience” thanks to the touchscreen and broad coin support.
Coin Bureau praises its open-source ethos and Shamir Backup but flags the higher price versus entry-level wallets.
Pricing & Cost Analysis
The Trezor Model T is firmly in the upper mid-tier category of crypto cold wallets, retailing at approximately $129. There are no hidden subscription fees or other payments required after this. Trezor does offer lots of hardware accessories, including metal backups and silicone casings for the device. The company often gives discounts on crypto cold wallet accessories with device purchases.
| Feature | Ledger Nano X | Ledger Nano S Plus | Trezor One |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Features |
PIN up to 50 digits, Recovery Phrase | PIN & passphrase, Shamir-Backup, open-source | PIN, Recovery Phrase, Secure Element Chip EAL5+ |
| Supported Cryptos | 1000+ lacks support for some major altcoins like SOL and ADA. | 1000+ includes support for SOL and ADA. | 5,000+ supports tokens from over 200 blockchains. |
| Companion App | Trezor Suite desktop / web + Lite mobile) | Trezor Suite desktop / web | Ledger Live full desktop and iOS & Android |
| Staking Support | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Price | $129 | $49 | $149 |
Final Verdict & Recommendations
The Trezor Model T was released in 2018 with the tagline, “The Most Advanced Hardware Wallet.” That claim is debatable, yet it was largely based on the fact that the Model T was the world’s first crypto wallet to employ Shamir Backup (SLIP39), an advanced security measure that breaks your recovery phrase into pieces.
The Model T has other benefits, including a color touchscreen, on-screen transaction confirmation, and support for more tokens than the Model One. However, there are some drawbacks to the Model T. It does not have a Secure Element chip, and it requires a USB cable connection for operation, which some users might see as clunky and less secure compared to using Bluetooth.
The Trezor Model T remains a solid option for crypto cold storage, compatible with beginners and advanced users alike. However, it should be noted that Trezor no longer promotes the Model T as its flagship device, preferring instead to market the Safe 5 (a little more expensive, but with more benefits like a Secure Element chip) as its top cold wallet. That said, if you want to save a bit of money, the Model T will give you peace of mind for securing your digital assets offline. We give it 3.75 out of 5.
Our Rating
3.75 ⭐
⭐ 3.75 | Trezor Model T
FAQs
Is Trezor Model T the safest cold wallet?
The safest crypto cold wallets are a matter of opinion, yet the Trezor Model T is viewed as one of the safest mainstream hardware wallets on the market. The device comes with anti-tampering packaging, several advanced security measures, including passphrase & PIN entry and Shamir Backup. Some users may cite the lack of a Secure Element chip as a drawback in the Model T’s security architecture. Trezor offers this with its Safe 5 model.
Can I store multiple cryptocurrencies in this wallet?
Yes. The Model T offers support for numerous cryptocurrencies, including some, such as XRP and Solana, that are not supported by the less expensive Trezor Model One. The vast majority of major tokens are supported (BTC, ETH, etc.), as well as 1000s of altcoins. Trezor is constantly widening its support, so users are advised to double-check that the device hosts their chosen digital assets (a link to Trezor’s coin database is provided in our resources section below).
How does Trezor Model T compare to Trezor Model One?
The Model One is Trezor’s budget cold wallet, one of the cheapest crypto hardware wallets on the market. It’s reliable and functional, often seen as a good beginner crypto cold wallet, yet it lacks some of the functionality and design features of the Model T. As mentioned above, you can store a wider range of assets on the Model T than you can with the Model One.
Does Trezor Model T support staking and DeFi?
Not natively on the device. The Trezor Model T can be used for staking by connecting with the Trezor Suite App (tokens like Solana and Ethereum). You can also connect to some DeFi and staking services through third-party hot wallets and applications like NuFi and MetaMask.
How can I recover my wallet if I lose access?
If you cannot gain access to your Trezor Model T due to loss or damage, you will be able to restore access to your digital assets with a recovery phrase, which is provided on setup. The recovery phrase (sometimes called a seed phrase) is a 12 or 24-word passphrase unique to you. When you purchase a new Trezor device (it does not need to be the same model), the recovery phrase will be input to restore access.
Additional Resources & References
Access Trezor’s Support Center and Trezor security advice here.
Find a Trezor Model T setup guide and tutorial here.
Access a comprehensive list of all crypto tokens compatible with Trezor hardware here.
Learn how to recover your crypto on a Trezor device with your unique recovery phrase here.
Best Security Practices for Crypto Cold Wallets
Cold wallets are the safest way to store your crypto. Devices like the Model T hold your private keys (the gateway to accessing your crypto holdings on the blockchain) offline on a hardware device, keeping it immune from traditional online threats that may affect hot wallets (online software wallets). Nonetheless, there are always additional precautions that you can take to make sure your digital assets are 100% secure. Consider some of these steps when using your crypto cold wallet.
- Only purchase your crypto hardware from official sources, e.g., Trezor’s official website or accredited 3rd-party sellers. Avoid second-hand and reselling websites.
- Once received, ensure your device has not been tampered with. Most top cold wallet providers have anti-tampering packaging. If you suspect tampering, don’t use the device. Contact Trezor (or other relevant cold wallet provider) for advice.
- Ensure you follow the correct setup procedures for your device, including using a trusted PC where necessary.
- Keep sensitive information – passphrases, PINs, seed phrases – offline, stored securely in a safe place. Don’t share your recovery information with anyone.
- Update your wallet’s firmware when available. Follow the official accounts of your hardware provider on social media, e.g., @Trezor on X, to ensure you are up to date with any crypto security threats and trends impacting your device or the industry in general.