Wallet directory
Electrum
Best for: Veterans who value a long track record
The veteran open-source desktop wallet — since 2011. Multisig, hardware-wallet support, deterministic wallets; battle-tested above all.
Electrum is the veteran open-source desktop wallet, around since 2011, with multisig, hardware-wallet support and deterministic wallets. Its longevity is the point — it has been battle-tested through every kind of market and attack.
It is favoured by users who value a long track record and fine-grained control over polish, and it can connect to your own server for privacy. The interface is utilitarian rather than beginner-friendly, so it rewards people who already know what they want from a wallet.
Other self-custody wallets
Aqua
Cheap everyday balances via Liquid + Lightning
BitBox02
Bitcoin-only hardware, simple setup
Bitkey
Beginners who want self-custody with recovery built in
Blockstream App (Green)
One wallet from mobile starter to Jade-paired cold storage
Blockstream Jade
Open-source hardware on a budget
BlueWallet
Simple on-chain mobile + watch-only
Quick answers
- Is Electrum custodial or self-custody?
- Electrum is self-custodial — you hold the keys, and no company can freeze or move your bitcoin.
- Does Electrum require KYC?
- No — Electrum requires no identity verification to use.
- Does Electrum support Lightning?
- Electrum reaches Lightning via swaps rather than running channels natively.
- Is Electrum open source?
- Yes — Electrum's client source code is published for review.
- What platforms does Electrum run on?
- Electrum runs on Desktop, Android.
Facts describe the core product and can change — always verify on the official site before moving significant sats. Got it set up? Find places that take Bitcoin near you or check your country's Bitcoin tax rules.