ETH wallet

What is an ETH wallet?

Sending and receiving ETH requires a wallet. An Ethereum wallet will provide you with the ability to access your funds and sign transactions with a combination of both your private and public keys. Choosing the right wallet will depend on a number of factors, including your cryptocurrency experience and expected investment amount.

Man using a phone

How do I get an ETH Wallet?

Each ETH wallet type has its own pros and cons. You need to choose the one that suits you best. If you are a first-time user and looking to buy or store a relatively small amount of Ethereum, then a mobile or web wallet will give you a good mix between safety and user-friendliness. A more experienced user may choose a hardware wallet.

The Uphold Ethereum wallet is not only a convenient and safe way to store your ETH but also allows you to seamlessly trade between cryptocurrencies, local currencies, and metals. The Uphold wallet is available on iOS, Android, and web.

Types of Ethereum wallets

Let’s look at other Ethereum wallet types, including mobile, desktop, hardware and paper.

Paper Ethereum Wallet icon

Paper Ethereum Wallet

Paper wallets, while simple, can be a little complicated to set up. They offer extremely good security, as your ETH funds will be held in what is known as cold storage. However, they require both public and private keys to be printed on a sheet of paper, similar to paper money or cash, that you would need to keep safe at all times.

Hardware Ethereum Wallet icon

Hardware Ethereum Wallet

These cold-storage wallets are dedicated USB devices designed to send and store cryptocurrencies offline, which makes malicious attacks almost impossible. It is important to remember that hardware wallets can be expensive for casual investors. However, they provide the best combination of security and usability, and are usually regarded as the top choice among long-term investors.

Web Ethereum Wallet icon

Web Ethereum Wallet

Most beginners may find web wallets a perfect choice, as they don’t require any software installation. While only an internet browser is needed, they require private keys to be stored on an online server, controlled by a third party. Potential exposure to hackers and third parties is the definition of a hot wallet.

Mobile Ethereum Wallet icon

Mobile Ethereum Wallet

Another good option for casual users are mobile applications, widely available in all operating systems. Managing a mobile wallet is certainly user friendly and while it may not be the most safest, they are a good choice for users looking to buy and store small amounts of Ethereum.

Desktop Ethereum Wallet icon

Desktop Ethereum Wallet

Similar to mobile wallets, desktop wallets are programs that run on your desktop or laptop computer operating system. They provide decent security, suitable to store small to medium amounts of crypto. However, they are still hot wallets, as your computer is constantly connected to the internet, creating a permanent attack vector.

Uphold Ethereum Wallet image

Uphold Ethereum Wallet

Using the Uphold ETH wallet will provide you with a safe, convenient, alternative way to store your funds. Uphold takes security extremely seriously, incorporating the robust industry standards to protect your funds at all times. You have 24/7 customer support to help you. We hold your keys so you don’t have to worry about custody. Around 90% of our crypto is held in cold storage.

Your Uphold Ethereum wallet can also be used to make payments to vendors, send money to friends, and instantly convert your ETH for local currencies and other cryptocurrencies.

It’s a safe and secure way to use and transfer funds.