Introduction
Have you been wondering which Ledger wallet is the right fit for your crypto in 2025? Crypto ownership continues to grow, and with it the need for secure cold storage solutions has never been more important. Hardware wallets remain one of the most reliable ways to protect digital assets from hacks and online threats. Among the most popular devices are the Ledger Nano S and the Ledger Nano S Plus. Both provide offline security, but they differ in features, ease of use, and long-term practicality. As 2025 unfolds, many users want to know which cold wallet best matches their needs. This guide takes a closer look at each device, explains their strengths, and helps you decide which one is right for your crypto journey.
Source: Ledger
Ledger Nano S vs. Ledger Nano S Plus in 2025
The Ledger Nano S Plus is a hardware wallet launched in April 2022, designed to keep crypto, NFTs, and tokens safe through secure cold storage by storing private keys completely offline and protecting users from hacks, phishing, and malware. Built with a CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip, it supports over 15,000+ crypto assets including including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, BNB, and popular stablecoins, along with ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens. The device improves on the original Nano S with expanded memory for installing more apps, a larger screen for clearer transaction verification, and a modern USB-C connection for compatibility with today's devices. It integrates seamlessly with the Ledger Live app, enabling users to manage portfolios, send and receive funds, stake assets, and interact with DeFi and NFT platforms, while advanced backup options and a passphrase feature add an extra layer of security through hidden wallets. With its durable, tamper-resistant design, intuitive two-button controls, and portable size, the Nano S Plus remains one of the most practical and beginner-friendly cold storage solutions available for safeguarding digital assets in 2025. In 2025, choosing the right hardware wallet starts by comparing the Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano S Plus. Both devices safeguard your crypto in offline environments, but the Nano S Plus brings several advancements that make it more suited for modern use. Understanding the differences in storage, ease of use, asset support, and long-term viability can help you make an informed decision.
The Nano S Plus Offers Increased Storage and App Support
Source: Ledger
The original Ledger Nano S came with roughly 138 KB of app storage, enough for about five to six crypto apps at a time. That meant users managing more coins had to frequently uninstall and reinstall apps, which quickly became inconvenient. The Nano S Plus increases this capacity to approximately 1.5 MB, enabling installation of up to 100 apps simultaneously and saving users a great deal of hassle. Physically, the Nano S Plus remains compact at approximately 62.4 mm × 17.4 mm × 8.2 mm and weighing about 21 grams. This makes it only slightly larger and heavier than the original Nano S, which weighs 16 grams. The slight increase in size brings major functional improvements.
Both Wallets Share Strong Security Foundations
Source: Ledger
Both the Nano S and Nano S Plus incorporate Ledger's Secure Element chip and Ledger's proprietary operating system, offering the same core security. They both use a 4 to 8 digit PIN code and a 24 word recovery phrase to ensure your private keys remain protected offline. Since both devices follow the same secure architecture, choosing between them does not involve compromising on security. The differences come down to convenience and capacity.
Ledger Nano S Plus Brings User-Friendly Experience
What Comes with the Ledger Nano S Plus. Source: Blockchain Center
The Nano S Plus features a larger 128×64 pixel OLED screen compared to the Nano S's smaller 128×32 display. This improved visibility allows users to more comfortably review transaction details and addresses, reducing mistakes. Connectivity has also been modernized. The Nano S Plus uses a USB-C connector which ensures better compatibility with today's devices and faster data transfers.
With the Nano S Plus, users can manage over 5,500 different coins, tokens, and NFTs. NFTs can also be viewed and signed directly within Ledger Live, which is not possible with the Nano S. As decentralized finance and non-fungible tokens continue to expand, the Nano S Plus provides far greater versatility for anyone participating in modern crypto ecosystems.
The Original Nano S Still Has a Role for Simple Needs
Source: Amazon
Even in 2025, the Nano S remains a functional choice for those managing only a few coins who want to keep things simple. If you find one from a trusted seller at a fair price, it can still serve as a dependable entry-level wallet. Its lack of subscription-based services like Ledger Recover may also appeal to those who prefer complete control of their recovery phrase. The caveat is that storage limitations may frustrate users with even modestly diverse holdings.
How to Get Started with the Ledger Wallet App: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Set Up Your Ledger Nano S Plus as a New Device
Connect your Ledger Nano S Plus to your computer using the USB cable and power it on. Follow the on-screen instructions and choose "Set up as new device" to begin the setup process. You can also download Ledger Live on desktop at https://www.ledger.com/start
Choose a PIN code between 4 and 8 digits using the device buttons. This PIN will be required each time you use the Ledger, so choose a secure combination.
Step 2: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase
Your Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery phrase, which serves as your wallet backup. Carefully write down each word in order on the provided Recovery Sheet. You'll be asked to confirm some of the words to make sure you wrote them correctly. Never take a photo of your recovery phrase or store it digitally.
Step 3: Connect Your Ledger Wallet to Ledger Live
Download and open the Ledger Live app from the official website on your computer or mobile device. Ledger Live is available for desktop on Windows, Mac, and Linux, and for mobile on both iOS and Android devices. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your Ledger and proceed with the device verification. Ledger Live will perform a genuine check to confirm your Ledger is authentic. Once verified, you can begin managing your wallet through the app.
Step 4: Install Crypto Apps on Your Ledger Nano S Plus
Open the "My Ledger"section in Ledger Live and select the crypto apps you want to use. Click "Install"next to each app and wait for the downloads to complete on your device. You can install up to 100 apps depending on your Ledger model. Start with a few essential apps like Bitcoin or Ethereum to get familiar with the process.
Step 5: Fund Your Ledger via BingX Spot Market
Funding your Ledger Nano S Plus wallet is simple with BingX. Buy crypto on the BingX spot market, choose your trading pair (for example, BTC/USDT), then transfer it to your Ledger wallet using the Ledger Live app. Once your purchase is complete, open Ledger Live, select the crypto account you want to fund, and copy your receiving address. Paste this address into BingX's withdrawal page, confirm the transaction, and your funds will appear on your Ledger after network confirmation.
BingX offers low trading fees, high liquidity, and real-time pricing, supported by BingX AI tools for smarter trading decisions. BingX's user-friendly interface and secure platform make it easy for new and experienced users to transfer assets into self-custody wallets like Ledger.
Step 6: Use Ledger Nano S Plus
Source: Collectiveshift
With your Ledger Nano S Plus funded, you can now explore features like staking, swapping, and portfolio tracking in Ledger Live. You can also connect Ledger to apps like MetaMask or Phantom to interact with NFTs, DeFi platforms, and Web3 dApps while keeping your assets secure.
The Nano S Plus Is the Smarter Long-Term Investment
For active users who handle diverse portfolios, frequently explore NFTs or DeFi, or simply want a smoother experience, the Nano S Plus makes the most sense. Its expanded app capacity, USB-C connectivity, clearer display, and continued support via updates position it as a forward-thinking choice that is built to last. Feedback from 2025 remains positive. Users report that the Nano S Plus has aged well, especially for the price. The additional memory makes managing a mix of coins much easier, and Ledger's firmware updates keep the device current and secure. For many, the extra convenience and long-term reliability make it one of the most practical wallets available.
Conclusion
The Ledger Nano S is still a viable wallet for those who want something basic and affordable provided it can be found at a fair price. However, for nearly everyone else, especially those building diversified holdings, exploring DeFi, or using NFTs, the Ledger Nano S Plus is the better choice in 2025. It offers modern usability, future-ready features, and a smoother experience with minimal compromises.
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FAQs About the Ledger Nano S Plus
1. How do I set up the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Download the Ledger Live app on your computer or mobile device, connect the Nano S Plus via USB, choose to create a new wallet, write down your 24-word recovery phrase, and set a secure PIN code.
2. Is the Ledger Nano S Plus safe?
Yes, it uses a CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip and Ledger's BOLOS operating system to store private keys completely offline, protecting them from hacks, phishing attempts, and malware.
3. How do I reset the Ledger Nano S Plus?
On the device, go to Settings > Security > Reset All. After a reset, you'll need your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet.
4. How do I send crypto from the Ledger Nano S Plus?
In Ledger Live, select the cryptocurrency you want to send, click "Send," enter the recipient's address and amount, then confirm the transaction on your Ledger device.
5. How do I update the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Open Ledger Live, go to "My Ledger," connect your device via USB, and follow the prompts to install the latest firmware. Always back up your recovery phrase before updating.
6. How do I turn off the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Hold both buttons for a few seconds until the "Power Off" option appears, then select it.
7. How do I connect the Ledger Nano S Plus to a computer?
Use the included USB-C to USB-A cable to connect the device to your computer, then open Ledger Live and follow the setup instructions.
8. How do I reset my recovery phrase on the Ledger Nano S Plus?
To generate a new recovery phrase, reset your device and create a new wallet during setup. Store the new phrase in a safe, offline location.
9. How do I sell crypto from the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Ledger devices don't directly sell crypto. You can use Ledger Live to connect with partner services like Coinify or transfer funds to an exchange to sell.
10. How do I transfer crypto to the Ledger Nano S Plus?
In Ledger Live, choose "Receive"to generate a wallet address, then send your crypto from an exchange or another wallet to that address.
11. How do I turn on the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Press and hold the right button until the Ledger logo appears on the screen.
12. How do I recover my funds if I lose the wallet?
If you lose your Ledger Nano S Plus, you can restore your funds on a new Ledger device or any compatible wallet using your 24-word recovery phrase. You can also opt for Ledger Recover, a subscription-based backup service, for additional peace of mind.
13. Can I stake crypto with the Ledger Nano S Plus?
Yes, the Ledger Live app supports staking for popular assets like Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and Tezos, allowing you to earn rewards while keeping your assets secure.
14. Does the Ledger Nano S Plus support NFTs?
Yes, the Nano S Plus fully supports NFTs, letting you view and manage them directly in Ledger Live and sign NFT transactions securely.
15. Can the Ledger Nano S Plus work with mobile devices?
Yes, the Nano S Plus can connect to Android devices via USB-C. For iOS, you need a Lightning-to-USB-C adapter. Ledger Live mobile makes managing assets on the go possible.
16. What is included in the Ledger Nano S Plus box?
Inside the box, you'll find the Nano S Plus device, a USB-C to USB-A cable, keychain strap with lanyard, three recovery sheets for your 24-word phrase, and a quick start guide.
17. What happens if the device gets damaged?
Even if the device breaks, your funds remain safe as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase securely stored. You can restore your wallet on another Ledger device or any compatible hardware/software wallet.
18. How long does the Ledger Nano S Plus last?
The device is built with a durable, tamper-resistant design and does not rely on batteries. With proper care, it can last for many years and continue to receive Ledger's firmware updates.
19. Does the Ledger Nano S Plus require internet to work?
No, the device itself remains offline at all times. It only signs transactions internally. The Ledger Live app handles online communication, ensuring your private keys never leave the device.
20. Is the Ledger Nano S still a good choice in 2025?
Yes. While it's an older device, the Ledger Nano S is still a secure hardware wallet. It remains a popular option for beginners because of its affordability and compact design.
21. Why do people still buy the Nano S instead of newer models?
Its lower price makes it attractive for users who want reliable crypto security without spending much. However, it can only store a limited number of apps at once, so managing multiple cryptocurrencies can be inconvenient.
22. Who is the Nano S best for in 2025?
It's ideal for users who only need to hold a few assets securely and don't require advanced features. For newcomers looking for an entry-level hardware wallet, the Nano S remains a solid option.