Comparison of Ledger Nano X and Trezor Model T

Security

Main security differentiators

Ledger Nano X:

Disadvantages:

• Critical components like the Ledger Nano operating system and the Secure Element are closed-source. This raises concerns, especially after the controversial introduction of the Ledger Recover backup service, which challenged the assumption that the Secure Element could never transmit the recovery seed phrase outside the hardware wallet.

Advantages:

• Includes a Secure Element, giving Ledger devices a strong reputation for withstanding physical attacks — important for users who prefer not to complicate their security with BIP39 passphrases.

Trezor Model T:

Disadvantages:

• Lacks a Secure Element, making it resistant to physical attacks if only the BIP39 passphrase is used — a significant drawback.

Advantages:

• Fully open-source software and hardware, minimizing third-party risks.
• Allows for longer PIN codes, which might appeal to particularly-cautious users.

Ease of Use

Main UX differentiators

Ledger Nano X:

Disadvantages:

• Has a minimum viable display, far from convenient.
• Requires two-handed operation, making it difficult to use it with a phone simultaneously — contrary to some misleading ads.
• The buttons are stiff, making long operations cumbersome.

Advantages:

• Offers Bluetooth connectivity.
• Wide support for third-party wallets and dapps, allowing the Ledger Nano X to sign transactions directly in MetaMask, Uniswap, and other platforms without relying on Ledger Live software.

Trezor Model T:

Disadvantages:

• No wireless connectivity.
• iOS is a view-only app (through cable).

Advantages:

• The display is much more convenient to work with on a regular basis.
• The touchscreen and input are very well-thought-out experiences on Trezor Model T.

Backup, recovery methods, and inheritance

Crypto Inheritance Features

Currently, most hardware wallets, including the Ledger Nano X and Trezor Model T, lack any features for arranging and managing crypto inheritance. This gap presents a dangerous challenge for careful users who want to ensure that their digital assets are appropriately managed in case of their demise.

Vault12 as a Solution for Crypto Inheritance

Vault12 offers a viable solution to the crypto inheritance issue by providing a decentralized platform that secures and facilitates the transfer of digital assets to designated heirs. Utilizing advanced encryption and decentralized storage, Vault12 ensures that crypto assets are not only safe but also transferable under predefined conditions, filling a critical need unmet by most traditional hardware wallets.

Summary

The Ledger Nano X and Trezor Model T both provide various security measures, supporting a broad spectrum of cryptocurrencies which makes them suitable for diverse crypto portfolios.

The Ledger Nano X is more mobile-friendly and offers a balance of security and convenience features with a small display and hard input, with the advantages of a Secure Element and wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth.

On the other hand, the Trezor Model T, at the same price, boasts a fully open-source framework, larger display with colors, and touchscreen interface for enhanced user interaction, but with reduced security and convenience from not having a Secure Element and working only with USB connections.

The decision between the two may hinge on individual preferences for the target platform (mobile or desktop) and frequency of use. However, remember to add a crypto inheritance feature to your choice of wallet to ensure the long-term safety of your assets.