Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus: Which Is the Best?

If you’re torn between the Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Flex, you’re not alone. One is a proven favorite for budget users, while the other redefines convenience with a touchscreen and wireless support. Let’s break down the real differences to see which wallet truly deserves your money.

Quick Comparison of Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus

Both wallets keep your crypto safe, but they go about it in very different ways. When you compare the Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus, that $190 price gap quickly starts to show where the money goes—from the Flex’s slick display and wireless design to the Nano S Plus’s simpler, plug-and-play setup.

What Is the Ledger Flex?

The Ledger Flex, launched in 2024, is Ledger’s newest release and arguably its most ambitious. It’s the first Ledger wallet with a sleek E Ink touchscreen, built-in Bluetooth, and full iPhone support, bringing a premium feel to crypto security. It’s the kind of wallet that makes cold storage feel a little less “cold” — ideal for users who want both top security and a smoother everyday experience.

If you’d like to dive deeper into each device individually, check out our full Ledger Flex review

What Is the Ledger Nano S Plus?

The Ledger Nano S Plus, released in 2022, is the upgraded successor to the original Nano S—the model that made Ledger a household name in crypto storage. Meanwhile, the Ledger Nano S Plus remains a fan favorite for a reason. It’s affordable, reliable, and still delivers the same bank-grade security that’s made Ledger the go-to name in this space. With its classic USB design and wide coin support, it’s perfect for anyone who wants straightforward protection without the bells and whistles.

Check out our full Ledger Nano S Plus review

Ledger’s full lineup also includes the Nano X and the Ledger Stax, but for most users, the choice really comes down to the Flex vs Nano S Plus — the latest innovation or the tried-and-true essential.

Let’s break down how these two stack up, starting with the one thing most buyers look at first: price and value.

Price & Value Breakdown

When you compare Ledger Nano S Plus vs Flex wallet pricing, there’s about a 76% difference, but it’s not about one being “more secure” than the other. Instead, you’re really paying for convenience and polish. The Ledger Flex ($249) is built for users with larger portfolios who want a smoother, more flexible experience—especially on mobile. Meanwhile, the Nano S Plus ($59) gives you the same rock-solid security, just without the fancy extras or wireless perks.

Buy Ledger Flex →	Buy Ledger Nano S Plus →

Design & Build Quality

The Ledger Flex feels more like a sleek modern gadget, thanks to its touchscreen and premium materials, while the Nano S Plus keeps things ultra-light and portable—less than half the weight, in fact. When you look at the Flex vs Nano S Plus, the difference in build quality really shapes how (and where) you’ll want to carry your wallet around.

Ledger gives the Flex a little extra flair with its optional Magnetic Folio Protection—a sleek add-on that boosts both durability and style (though you’ll have to buy it separately). The Nano S Plus, on the other hand, keeps it simple and practical by including a handy keychain strap right in the box, perfect for clipping to your keys or bag.

Ledger Flex vs Nano S Plus: Available Colors

Both the Ledger Flex and Ledger Nano S Plus come in a range of sleek, modern finishes to match your style. Check out the table below to see all the available color options for each model.

Ledger Flex Color Options

Graphite	Bitcoin Orange	Solana Edition	Oxidate Green	Neptune Blue
Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →

Ledger Nano S Plus Color Options

Matte Black	Emerald Green	Oxidate Green	Neptune Blue	Pastel Pink	BTC Orange	Sapphire Blue
Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →	Buy →

Display & User Interface

One of the biggest things you’ll notice in the Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Flex comparison is the screen. The Flex packs a roomy 2.84-inch E Ink touchscreen, giving you a smartphone-like feel when navigating your wallet. The Nano S Plus, by contrast, sticks to its classic two-button setup and a much smaller display—simple, but it gets the job done.

Unique Display Features:

• Flex Only: Display NFTs and photos on lock screen even when powered off (E Ink persistence)
• Flex Only: Touch-based transaction approval eliminates button-press fatigue
• Both Devices: Trusted Display ensures what you see is secure and tamper-proof

Thanks to its E Ink display, the Ledger Flex stays perfectly readable whether you’re indoors or out in bright sunlight—and it barely sips battery power. Navigation feels natural too: you just swipe and tap like you would on your smartphone, which makes it way easier to use than the button-based setup on older wallets.

Security Architecture

When it comes to safety, the Flex vs Nano S Plus wallets are equals. Both run on the same rock-solid cryptographic foundation, so you’re not getting “more security” just because you spend more. Your private keys are protected the same way on each device—the only real differences show up in the user experience, like features that help prevent transaction mistakes.

Clear Signing: A Flex-Exclusive Safety Upgrade

Here’s where the Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus security story starts to split. The Flex introduces Clear Signing, a game-changing feature that translates complex smart contract data into plain English right on the touchscreen. You’ll see exactly what permissions you’re approving or which tokens you’re sending—no guesswork, no nasty surprises.

The Nano S Plus, meanwhile, shows that same data in raw hexadecimal code (basically, unreadable to most humans). It works fine, but it does mean you’re trusting that everything checks out—or spending extra time double-checking those cryptic strings, especially during DeFi or NFT transactions.

Ledger Recovery Key (Flex Exclusive)

The Flex also comes with a physical  Ledger Recovery Key—a smart card protected by its own PIN that serves as a secure offline backup. If your device ever gets lost or damaged, you can restore your wallet with a simple tap. It’s an elegant, redundant safeguard stored separately from your main wallet. In contrast, the Nano S Plus sticks to old-school paper recovery sheets.

Security Verdict

At the core, your crypto is equally safe on both devices—they share the same underlying cryptography. The Nano S Plus vs Flex Wallet difference really comes down to usability. The Flex’s Clear Signing feature helps prevent costly mistakes when approving complex transactions, while the Nano S Plus puts more responsibility on the user to double-check what they’re signing.

Connectivity & Device Compatibility

When it comes to everyday convenience, connection options make one of the biggest differences between the two wallets. The Ledger Flex features Bluetooth connectivity, letting you pair it wirelessly with your phone or laptop in seconds. The Nano S Plus, on the other hand, sticks to the basics—it needs a cable every time you want to connect.

Operating System Support:

For iPhone users, the Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Flex compatibility difference is a dealbreaker. Only the Flex works with iOS, thanks to its built-in Bluetooth connection. Android users get more flexibility since both devices are supported—but the Flex still wins on convenience, letting you skip the cables entirely.

Supported Assets & Capacity

Both wallets connect to Ledger Live, giving you full control over your portfolio and access to thousands of supported cryptocurrencies. The real Flex vs Nano S Plus difference isn’t about which coins you can store—it’s about how many apps you can run at once. The Flex can handle more simultaneous installs, while the Nano S Plus may require occasional app swapping if you manage a wide range of assets.

Ledger Live Integration:

Both the Ledger Flex and Ledger Nano S Plus pair effortlessly with the Ledger Live app for managing your crypto portfolio. The main difference comes down to how you connect: the Flex uses Bluetooth for quick, wireless sessions on mobile, while the Nano S Plus sticks to a wired USB-C connection on Android. On desktop, though, it’s the same smooth experience for both.

Notable Asset Features:

• Staking: Both support staking ETH, SOL, ATOM, TON, and stablecoins through Ledger Live
• DeFi: Both enable DeFi protocol interactions, but Flex’s Clear Signing makes complex approvals safer
• Third-Party Wallets: Both support thousands of additional assets through MetaMask, Phantom, and other wallet integrations

Ledger Flex Exclusive Features

The Ledger Flex earns its higher price by packing in premium touches that make everyday use smoother—from added convenience and clearer security transparency to deeper integration within the Ledger ecosystem. The Nano S Plus, meanwhile, keeps things stripped down and focused purely on core security, without the extra bells and whistles.

Nano S Plus Core Strengths:

• Battery-Free Operation: Never needs charging; instant use when plugged in
• Ultra-Portability: 21g weight makes it disappear on a keychain
• Budget Entry: $59 provides full CC EAL6+ security without premium cost
• Proven Reliability: Established design with years of user testing

The Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus comparison really highlights two different approaches to security. The Flex feels like a full-featured crypto security ecosystem, blending protection with convenience and modern usability. The Nano S Plus, on the other hand, sticks to the essentials—simple, distraction-free, and built purely for safeguarding your assets.

Buy Ledger Flex →	Buy Ledger Nano S Plus →

What’s In The Box

Even the box contents tell a story in the Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus comparison. The Flex comes with a more premium setup—including backup accessories and the Ledger Recovery Key, which alone would cost over $30 if sold separately. The Nano S Plus, meanwhile, keeps it practical and lightweight with just the portability essentials you need to get started.

Pros & Cons of Ledger Nano S Plus vs Ledger Flex

Here’s what we like — and what we don’t — about each wallet in this Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus comparison.

Ledger Flex

Ledger Nano S Plus

Which Should You Buy: Ledger Flex or Nano S Plus

Choosing between the Ledger Flex and Ledger Nano S Plus mostly comes down to your phone setup, how actively you manage your crypto, and how much you’re willing to spend. Since both offer the same cryptographic security, the decision really boils down to convenience and how you plan to use your wallet day to day.

Choose Ledger Flex If You:

• Own an iPhone or iPad and need iOS compatibility
• Actively trade or interact with DeFi protocols requiring frequent transaction approvals
• Manage a portfolio exceeding $10,000 where Clear Signing prevents costly mistakes
• Value intuitive touchscreen navigation over button-based controls
• Want to display your NFT collection on your hardware wallet
• Need Bluetooth convenience for mobile-first crypto management
• Prefer all-in-one security with included Recovery Key backup card

Choose Ledger Nano S Plus If You:

• Primarily use desktop (Windows/Mac/Linux) for crypto management
• Own an Android smartphone or don’t need mobile connectivity
• Hold long-term positions (HODLing) with infrequent transaction activity
• Want maximum portability with keychain-level compactness
• Budget under $100 but refuse to compromise on security certification
• Prefer battery-free devices that never need charging
• New to hardware wallets and want proven, simple technology

Buy Ledger Flex →	Buy Ledger Nano S Plus →

Ledger Flex vs Ledger Nano S Plus: The 2025 Verdict

For 2025, the Ledger Flex takes the win for users who can justify its $249 price tag through frequent use and a need for premium features. Its E Ink touchscreen, Clear Signing security, iOS compatibility, and included Recovery Key combine to deliver a genuinely modern, seamless experience. If you’re an iPhone user, the choice is clear—the Flex is currently Ledger’s only iOS-compatible hardware wallet.

Best Overall ⇒ Ledger Flex
Best Budget Pick ⇒ Ledger Nano S Plus

That said, the Ledger Nano S Plus is still an unbeatable value at $59. It’s perfect for desktop-focused or Android users who want the same CC EAL6+ security protecting their crypto, without paying for the extras. You’ll give up some convenience and polish, but not an ounce of protection.

In the end, both wallets deliver industry-leading security, so it’s just a matter of whether you want simplicity or the full premium experience.

Compare Other Wallets↓

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Ledger Flex vs Trezor Safe 3: Which Wallet Should You Trust With Your Crypto?

FAQs

Is the Ledger Flex more secure than the Ledger Nano S Plus?

No, both devices use the identical ST33K1M5 Secure Element chip with CC EAL6+ certification and Ledger OS. Your private keys receive the same protection level on either device. The Flex’s Clear Signing feature enhances user security by preventing transaction approval errors, but the fundamental cryptographic security is identical.

Can I use Ledger Nano S Plus with my iPhone?

No, the Nano S Plus does not support iOS devices. It only works with Android 10+ smartphones and desktop computers via USB-C. iPhone and iPad users must purchase the Ledger Flex, which connects via Bluetooth 5.2 to iOS 14+ devices.

How long does the Ledger Flex battery last?

The Flex contains a 200mAh battery that powers the E Ink display and Bluetooth connectivity. Battery life varies based on usage, but E Ink technology consumes minimal power. You can recharge via the included USB-C cable when needed—the device functions while charging.

Do both wallets support the same cryptocurrencies?

Both support thousands of cryptocurrencies through Ledger Live and third-party wallets. The Nano S Plus lists 15,000+ supported assets, while the Flex specifies 5,500+ coins and tokens with up to 100 installable apps. In practice, both support all major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and USDT.

What is the Ledger Recovery Key included with the Flex?

The Ledger Recovery Key is a physical smart card with its own Secure Element chip and PIN protection. It serves as an additional offline backup method beyond your 24-word recovery phrase. You can tap the card to restore wallet access if your recovery phrase is lost or inaccessible, providing extra redundancy.

Can I stake crypto on both devices?

Yes, both the Flex and Nano S Plus support staking through Ledger Live. You can stake ETH, SOL, ATOM, TON, stablecoins, and other supported assets directly from either device. The staking process is identical—only the connection method differs (Bluetooth for Flex, USB-C for Nano S Plus).

Which device is better for managing NFTs?

The Ledger Flex offers superior NFT management because you can display your NFT collection on the 2.84″ lock screen, even when the device is powered off. Both devices let you send, receive, and sign NFT transactions securely through Ledger Live, but the Flex provides visual showcase functionality the Nano S Plus lacks.

What happens if I lose my device?

Your crypto remains safe because your private keys are backed up by your 24-word recovery phrase (and Ledger Recovery Key for Flex users). You can purchase a replacement Ledger device and restore your wallets using your recovery phrase. Always store your recovery phrase securely offline in a separate location from your hardware wallet.

Can I use both devices with MetaMask or other software wallets?

Yes, both the Flex and Nano S Plus connect to MetaMask, Phantom, and other third-party wallets for expanded asset support. This integration gives you access to thousands of additional tokens and DeFi platforms while keeping your private keys secured offline in the hardware device.

Which device is easier for beginners?

The Ledger Flex offers a more intuitive experience with its touchscreen and Clear Signing, making it easier to understand what you’re approving. However, the Nano S Plus at $59 provides a lower-risk entry point for learning hardware wallet fundamentals. Beginners should choose based on budget—both are learner-friendly with Ledger Live’s guided setup.