Ledger Nano S Plus

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The Ledger Nano S is a compact and secure hardware wallet designed for storing and managing cryptocurrencies. It provides a physical layer of protection against online threats such as hacking and phishing attacks. The device resembles a small USB stick and features a built-in display and buttons for navigation. Its primary purpose is to securely store private keys, which are crucial for accessing and managing cryptocurrency holdings.

The Ledger Nano S employs a combination of hardware and software encryption to keep private keys isolated and inaccessible to potential attackers. Users can set up a PIN code to access the device, and the private keys never leave the device itself. When transactions are initiated, they are verified and approved directly on the device’s display, ensuring that even if a computer or mobile device is compromised, the transaction details remain secure.

The Ledger Nano S Plus is a big upgrade from the old Ledger Nano S. The notable main differences to the Ledger Nano X are Bluetooth connectivity and iOS support. Other than that the Nano S Plus is on par with the Nano X.

Our impressions

Pros

  • Great form factor, paired with robust casing protection made out of medal for high portability
  • Future-proof USB-C port
  • Uses the BIP-39 standard, which allows wallet recovery even without hardware
  • Can be used as a secure key, providing additional value outside crypto use-cases

Cons

  • Requires constant USB connection to operate
  • Firmware is closed source
  • App concept (apps need to be installed on the device to support certain coins and features) can be overwhelming, especially for new users, but easy enough to start using the device in no time

Our verdict

One of the most secure hardware wallets at a very attractive price point. The secure element chip prevents seed phrase extraction attacks, but comes at the price of closed source firmware. Users have to get familiar with the concept of individual apps that have to be manually installed by the user to make the device support the features (i.e. coins, security key functionality, etc.) they need. Installation is not much different than installing smartphone apps from the app store though, so not that difficult after all. As no company is perfect, please make sure to keep updated on Ledger controversies, before making a buying decision. Read more about Ledger controversies

All in all – a very good deal to keep your crypto assets safe with a very high level of security.


Disclaimer: Our impressions are based on a compilation of factors tailored to the average user’s perspective. It is also important to note that whether a feature is a “pro” or “con” can depend on your situation and preferences. What may be an advantage in one scenario could be a challenge in another, and vice versa. Therefore, while reviewing these points, it’s essential to consider your unique requirements and circumstances when making decisions. This list aims to provide an idea of what to anticipate, but it is not the ultimate guide to determining whether something will work for you or not.

Key features

Supported coins

Supports multiple coins, Bitcoin-only mode available

  • BTC, ETH, ADA, XRP, LTC, XLM, DOGE, DASH, XMR
  • in total 5,000+ coins available

Open source

  • Companion software

Apps that are installed on Ledger Nano S Plus are open source

Seedphrase support

  • BIP-39 (Mnemonic phrase)
  • Passphrase

Security protections

  • Secure element
  • On device PIN entry
  • Factory reset with wrong PIN
  • On device passphrase entry
  • On device recovery

Platform support

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • Android

Authentication token

  • FIDO U2F
  • FIDO2 Webauthn

Photo gallery

Technical specification

Release year

Ledger Nano S Plus was released in 2022

Dimensions

62.39 mm x 17.40 mm x 8.24 mm
2.46 in x 0.69 in x 0.32 in

Weight

21 g
0.74 oz

Display

  • Monochrome
  • OLED

128 x 64 pixels

Connectivity

  • USB-C

Battery

  • built-in battery

Lithium-ion 100mAh battery (0.37Wh = 1 cell)

Processor

ST33K1M5

Safety & Certifications

Certified CC EAL5+

Housing

Brushed stainless steel and plastic (available in black, but also different, exciting color schemes)

Manufacturer information

Brand deep-dive

About Ledger Crypto Hardware Wallets

Product overview

Ledger Nano S Pluas is a multicurrency hardware wallet, based on robust safety features to store cryptographic assets and to secure digital payments. When you own cryptocurrencies, you need to protect your private keys against unauthorized usage. Ledger Nano S keeps your critical information in full isolation within a state-of-the-art secure element, locked by a PIN code. Transactions are physically verified on the embedded screen and can’t be tampered with.

What’s new?

  • State-of-the-art security
    Your private keys is protected within a secure chip locked by a PIN code, the same chip than the one used for passports and credit cards.
  • Multicurrency
    5,500 coins and tokens cryptocurrencies supported, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple and Altcoins. Manage multiple assets with the same hardware wallet.
  • Simplicity
    The device is controlled by only 2 buttons, and all actions can be verified on its screen. Easily manage your crypto transactions.
  • Back up and Restore
    Your crypto assets stay secure even if you lose your Ledger Nano S: your account(s) can easily be restored on any Ledger device.

Where to buy