Can’t decide between the Trezor Safe 3 vs Trezor Model One? You want both rock-solid security and affordability, but can’t have it all—or can you? Picking the wrong wallet is no joke when your crypto’s on the line. I’ve put these wallets to the test, and I’m here to help you choose the right one to guard your crypto in 2025.
Trezor Safe 3 vs Trezor Model One: Quick Comparison
 |
|
|
|---|---|---|
Price |
USD 79 |
USD 49 |
Security |
Secure Element (EAL6+), PIN, Passphrase |
PIN, Passphrase |
Connectivity |
USB-C |
Micro USB |
Supported Cryptocurrencies |
8000+ coins and tokens |
8000+ coins and tokens |
Privacy |
Tor, Coin control |
Tor, Coin control |
Backup & Recovery |
12-, 20-, and 24-word, Multi-share Backup |
12-, 24-word backup |
Weight |
14 g |
12 g |
Box Contents |
Trezor Safe 3, USB-C cable, 2 backup cards, Start-up guide, Stickers |
Trezor Model One, Micro USB cable, 2 backup cards, Start-up guide, Stickers |
Trezor Model One vs Safe 3: Overview
What is Trezor Safe 3?
The Trezor Safe 3 is a hardware wallet designed to provide high-level security for your digital assets, launched by Trezor in 2023. It comes equipped with a Secure Element chip (EAL6+), ensuring advanced protection against hacking attempts. This wallet supports USB-C connectivity, making it compatible with the latest devices. It can store over 1000 cryptocurrencies securely and allows you to manage your assets with Trezor Suite.
The device includes features like PIN and passphrase protection and the option for a Multi-share Backup system for enhanced recovery. Available colors include Cosmic Black, Stellar Silver, Solar Gold, and Galactic Rose, giving users options to match their style.
What is Trezor Model One?
The Trezor Model One is a hardware wallet first released in 2014 by Trezor, making it one of the original pioneers in the crypto security space. This wallet is equipped with essential features like PIN and passphrase protection, but lacks the Secure Element chip present in newer models. It connects via Micro USB and supports over 1000 cryptocurrencies.
The Model One is a budget-friendly choice for those who want reliable, offline storage for their crypto assets. It is available in White and Black colors. For added security, Trezor offers backup options like the Trezor Keep Metal 24-word for recovery.
Trezor’s other products include the Trezor Model T, Trezor Safe 5, and several backup options like the Trezor Keep Metal 12-word, 20-word, and 24-word backup solutions, as well as Cryptotag Zeus, a Titanium Seed Recovery Plate.
Now that we’ve had a little warm up, let’s start breaking down this wallet across the key categories! Price comes first. Let’s take a closer look…
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, the Trezor Safe 3 is priced at USD 79, making it slightly more expensive than the Trezor Model One, which is available for USD 49. The difference comes down to the extra security features and the upgraded design of the Safe 3. For an additional $30, you’re getting a wallet with a Secure Element, USB-C connection, and a sleek modern look.
If you’re just getting started with crypto and want a reliable, affordable option, the Model One offers great value. But if security is your top priority, or if you’re planning to keep your assets safe for the long run, the Safe 3 offers more advanced features that might justify the extra cost.
Design and Build Quality
In terms of design and build, both the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One are solid and reliable, but they have distinct feels.
The Trezor Safe 3 is built with a more modern touch. It has a sleek, premium finish with anodized aluminum backplates and a hidden-tilt effect, giving it a clean, futuristic look.
It’s available in Cosmic Black, Stellar Silver, Solar Gold, and Galactic Rose, making it a bit more stylish. The feel of the device is sturdy yet lightweight, and the Secure Element chip inside is well-protected by tamper-evident casing, which makes it feel like a real fortress for your crypto.
On the other hand, the Trezor Model One is simpler. It has a durable PC/ABS plastic casing, which is tough and built to last, but lacks the premium finish and extra details found in the Safe 3. It’s available in black and white and has a slightly more utilitarian look. While it’s not as sleek as the Safe 3, its build quality is still impressive for its price, and it can easily withstand drops or wear and tear.
Both wallets feel sturdy in hand, but if you’re after something a little more eye-catching and premium, the Safe 3 is the clear winner in terms of design.
User Interface
When it comes to user interface, both the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One offer a similar experience, as they both rely on the Trezor Suite app for managing your coins.
This app is easy to use, with an intuitive layout that allows you to send, receive, trade, and stake your crypto effortlessly. However, the Trezor Safe 3 brings a more smooth, seamless experience thanks to its USB-C connection, which is faster and more modern compared to the micro USB found on the Model One.
The interface on both wallets is controlled through a simple two-button system, which, while basic, is effective for confirming transactions and navigating menus. The main difference comes down to the overall feel of the devices. The Trezor Safe 3 feels a bit more responsive and polished, while the Model One is more straightforward, offering the basics without any frills.
In short, both are user-friendly, but if you’re looking for that little extra in terms of usability and connection speed, the Safe 3 edges out the Model One.
Screen and Display
Both wallets have a 0.96-inch monochrome OLED screen, which does a great job of showing all the necessary details in sharp contrast. Whether you’re checking your balance, confirming a transaction, or entering a PIN, the display is clear and easy to read. However, when it comes to screen brightness and clarity, I’d give a slight edge to the Trezor Safe 3. Its OLED screen is vibrant, with deeper blacks and slightly more refined clarity, making it just a touch more readable in different lighting conditions.
The Model One, while still great, doesn’t quite match the Safe 3’s richness. It’s more than adequate for the job, but if you’re doing a lot of transactions or prefer a more visually appealing experience, the Safe 3 takes the lead. Both screens get the job done, but the Safe 3 offers a bit more of a premium feel in this regard.
Trezor Safe 3 vs Trezor Model One: Security Features
Both the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One are built with top-tier security in mind, but the Safe 3 definitely has the upper hand when it comes to advanced protection.
The Trezor Safe 3 comes with a Secure Element chip (Certified EAL6+), which provides an extra layer of physical protection against sophisticated attacks. This chip is commonly found in high-security devices like passports and credit cards, and it makes your crypto storage virtually tamper-proof. Combined with PIN and passphrase protection, the Safe 3 takes security to the next level, making it one of the most secure wallets on the market. Plus, with on-device confirmation, you’re always in control of your transactions, preventing any unauthorized actions from happening even if your device is compromised.
The Trezor Model One is also highly secure with PIN and passphrase protection, but it lacks the Secure Element found in the Safe 3. While the Model One has been trusted by crypto enthusiasts for years and offers solid protection against both online and offline threats, it’s simply not as bulletproof as the Safe 3. Both devices are open-source, meaning anyone can review their code for potential vulnerabilities, but the Safe 3 just offers that extra peace of mind for those who are extremely security-conscious.
If security is your number one priority, Trezor Safe 3 is the clear winner, but if you’re looking for a secure, proven solution at a lower price, the Model One still does a fantastic job.
Backup and Recovery Options
When it comes to backup and recovery, both wallets are pretty much on par in terms of functionality, but the Trezor Safe 3 has the edge with a more modern backup standard.
The Trezor Model One uses the 12- or 24-word recovery phrase system, which is straightforward and easy to use. If you ever lose your device or it gets damaged, you can restore your wallet using the recovery phrase and regain access to your assets. It’s a reliable backup system that’s been used by millions of users around the world.
The Trezor Safe 3, on the other hand, introduces a new 20-word recovery phrase as a standard. This offers a bit more security and robustness compared to the traditional 12- or 24-word phrases. Additionally, you can upgrade to a Multi-share Backup, which splits your recovery phrase into multiple shares for added safety. This makes it harder for hackers or thieves to compromise your backup.
Both devices offer a straightforward and secure recovery process, but if you’re looking for more advanced options and the latest in backup technology, the Safe 3 takes it a step further with its 20-word backup and Multi-share feature.
Connectivity
When it comes to connectivity, there’s a noticeable difference between the Trezor Safe 3 and the Model One, primarily in the connection type.
The Trezor Safe 3 uses a USB-C connection, which is faster, more reliable, and more compatible with modern devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
USB-C is becoming the standard across most devices, so this connection type future-proofs your wallet and provides a smoother experience, especially for frequent users who want quick and efficient connections.
On the other hand, the Trezor Model One relies on an older micro USB connection. While this is still functional, it’s becoming less common in newer devices. For users who may have more modern gear, this could feel a bit dated, especially if you have to rely on adapters. That said, the Model One still gets the job done and works reliably with most devices, but the USB-C connection of the Safe 3 offers better convenience and future compatibility.
If you prefer future-proofing and quick connectivity, the Trezor Safe 3 has the edge. However, if you’re using older devices or don’t mind the occasional adapter, the Model One will serve you just fine.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Both the Trezor Safe 3 and the Trezor Model One support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, making either wallet an excellent choice for users who want flexibility in their asset management.
The Trezor Safe 3 supports 8000s of coins and tokens, including popular choices like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, as well as many ERC-20 tokens, DeFi assets, and stablecoins. It also integrates well with decentralized applications (dApps) and supports features like staking and trading directly through the Trezor Suite app. This makes the Safe 3 ideal for users who are into DeFi, staking, or want to manage a broader portfolio of digital assets.
The Trezor Model One also supports 8000s of cryptocurrencies and integrates seamlessly with the Trezor Suite app. While it supports the same major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the Safe 3 gives you a bit more flexibility in terms of newer tokens and advanced blockchain features. If you’re primarily managing mainstream coins, the Model One will cover your needs just fine, but if you’re diving into more complex or emerging assets, the Safe 3 offers a broader range of options.
Privacy Features
Both the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One offer robust privacy features, but the Safe 3 adds a couple of extra tools that may appeal to privacy-conscious users.
Both devices support coin control features, which allow you to track and manage your crypto transactions more privately, preventing your coins from being traced back to a single address. They also support Tor integration, which helps mask your IP address when interacting with the blockchain, adding an extra layer of anonymity to your transactions.
However, the Trezor Safe 3 takes privacy a step further by offering advanced privacy options such as FIDO2 authentication, allowing for more secure and private authentication when logging into third-party services. This could be particularly beneficial for users who are dealing with sensitive or high-value transactions and want to ensure the maximum level of privacy and protection.
Both wallets are solid in terms of privacy, but if privacy and anonymity are critical to you, the Safe 3 offers slightly more advanced features that make it the more attractive option.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, both the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One shine in their own right.
The Trezor Safe 3 offers a more modern experience overall, with its USB-C connection and slightly more refined software. The Trezor Suite app works seamlessly, allowing for easy management of your crypto portfolio, transaction confirmations, and even staking. The extra security features, like the Secure Element chip, also make it feel more polished and user-friendly, even if they add a bit of complexity.
The Trezor Model One is simpler, which can be a pro for people who are looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense experience. It’s just as easy to connect and use with the Trezor Suite app, but without the additional features or higher-end design of the Safe 3. This makes it a great option for beginners or those who just want a simple, secure device to store their crypto.
If you’re looking for a more feature-rich and slightly smoother experience, the Safe 3 is the way to go. But if you value simplicity and just want to focus on the essentials, the Model One is easy to use and does its job well.
What’s In the Box?
Both wallets come with everything you need to get started right out of the box, with a few minor differences.
For the Trezor Safe 3, you’ll find:
- The Trezor Safe 3 hardware wallet
- A USB-C → USB-C cable (for a fast, modern connection)
- Two wallet backup cards for easy recovery phrase storage
- A start-up guide to help you set up the device
- Trezor stickers for some fun personalization
- Safety seals to ensure the device hasn’t been tampered with during shipping
For the Trezor Model One, the contents include:
- The Trezor Model One hardware wallet
- A micro USB → USB-A cable for connection
- Two wallet backup cards
- A start-up guide
- Trezor stickers
- Safety seals for device integrity
The biggest difference here is the USB-C cable that comes with the Safe 3, which is more future-proof than the micro USB found in the Model One. Otherwise, both wallets come with everything you need to set up and begin using them securely.
Size and Portability
When it comes to size and portability, both the Trezor Safe 3 and Trezor Model One are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around and store securely.
The Trezor Safe 3 is a bit more refined in terms of its dimensions (59x32x7.4 mm, 14g), making it slightly smaller and thinner than the Model One (60x30x6 mm, 12g). While the difference is minimal, the Safe 3‘s sleek design and modern materials make it feel a little more premium in hand. The Trezor Safe 3 is designed to slide easily into any pocket or bag without feeling bulky, and its tamper-proof casing ensures that it stays safe during transport.
The Trezor Model One, though a bit chunkier, is still ultra-portable and comfortable to carry. It is also light enough to throw in a bag or pocket without issue. However, the Safe 3‘s slightly thinner profile and modern look give it an edge in terms of design and convenience.
In terms of portability, both devices are extremely pocket-friendly, but the Trezor Safe 3 feels a bit more refined for those who prefer a more modern, compact design.
Trezor Safe 3 vs Model One: Pros and Cons
Trezor Safe 3 – Pros:
- Secure Element Chip (Certified EAL6+) for advanced security
- USB-C connection for modern, faster compatibility
- Supports 20-word recovery phrase and Multi-share Backup for extra security
- FIDO2 authentication and enhanced privacy features, like Tor integration
- Sleek, modern design with multiple color options
- Great for advanced users, staking, and managing a broader crypto portfolio
Trezor Safe 3 – Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than the Model One
- Advanced features may be overkill for beginners who only need basic crypto storage
- Smaller OLED screen may not be as convenient for detailed transactions or data
Trezor Model One – Pros:
- Affordable and great value for basic security needs
- Supports 1000s of cryptocurrencies, including all major assets
- Simple and intuitive for beginners
- Compact and durable design
- Easy to set up with Trezor Suite, offering a hassle-free user experience
Trezor Model One – Cons:
- Micro USB connection is outdated compared to USB-C
- Lacks the Secure Element for enhanced security
- Fewer advanced privacy features compared to the Safe 3
- No option for the Multi-share Backup or more robust recovery options
Trezor Safe 3 vs Model One: Which Wallet Should You Buy?
In my view, choosing between the Trezor Safe 3 and Model One depends on what you need in a wallet and how you use your crypto.
- If you’re a crypto enthusiast with a wide portfolio, are concerned about cutting-edge security, or plan to get involved in staking or DeFi, the Trezor Safe 3 is the better choice. Its Secure Element chip, USB-C connection, and advanced backup options make it the ideal wallet for users looking for the best in security and functionality.
- If you’re new to crypto or just need a solid, affordable wallet to store major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the Trezor Model One is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. It offers reliable security and ease of use, making it great for users who don’t need all the extra features the Safe 3 offers.
So if you value advanced features and maximum security, go for the Trezor Safe 3. If you’re looking for a simple, secure wallet at a more affordable price, the Trezor Model One is still a fantastic choice.
Where to Buy Both Trezor Wallets
When it comes to purchasing either the Trezor Safe 3 or Trezor Model One, my personal advice is to buy directly from the official Trezor website. While there are other online retailers, buying directly from Trezor ensures that you’re getting a genuine, unaltered device. Third-party sellers might offer discounted prices, but you risk receiving compromised devices that could put your assets in jeopardy.
The official website provides the most secure and reliable option. Plus, they offer free shipping within the United States, which is a great perk if you’re based there.
For international shipping:
- United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland): Shipping is just USD 7.25, a fair price for delivery across the pond.
- Australia: Shipping costs USD 19, which is reasonable considering the distance.
- Nigeria: Shipping is USD 30, but this is common for destinations in Africa.
Shipping Methods:
- If you’re in a hurry, DHL Express is the way to go. DHL Express typically delivers in 5-7 business days, ensuring quick and secure shipping via air.
- If you’re looking for a more affordable option, UPS Express Saver takes about 8-13 business days, though it’s still air delivery.
The official Trezor store also supports various payment methods, including Express checkout with PayPal and Google Pay for quick transactions. You can even pay with Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies if you prefer to keep things fully on-chain.
If you want peace of mind, secure delivery, and the lowest risk of getting a compromised product, buying directly from the official Trezor site is definitely the best route to go.
Trezor Safe 3 vs Model One: Conclusion
I hope you have seen from this Trezor Safe 3 vs Trezor Model One comparison that both hardware wallets are excellent choices in their own right, each serving different kinds of users. Both wallets are built with Trezor’s signature security and reliability, and either will protect your assets effectively. So whether you go for the Safe 3 or Model One, you’re investing in top-quality security that you can trust.
If you are not satisfied with this Trezor Safe 3 vs Model One comparison, feel free to check our Trezor Safe 3 vs Trezor Model T article too.
FAQs
. Which wallet is more secure: Trezor Safe 3 or Trezor Model One?
Both wallets are highly secure, but the Trezor Safe 3 has an edge with its Secure Element chip (EAL6+) for enhanced physical protection, making it ideal for users seeking advanced security.
2. Can I recover my funds if my Trezor is lost or damaged?
Absolutely. Both wallets use backup recovery phrases:
- Model One supports 12- or 24-word backups.
- Safe 3 adds a new 20-word standard with advanced Multi-Share options for enhanced recovery security.
3. Which wallet is easier to use for beginners?
The Trezor Model One, being simpler and more affordable, is perfect for beginners. The Safe 3, with its advanced features, suits users who prioritize higher security or plan for long-term use.
4. Where can I buy these wallets safely?
Purchase directly from the official Trezor website to avoid counterfeit devices. Shipping is available globally, with free delivery in the U.S. and reasonable rates for other regions. Payment options include PayPal, credit cards, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.