Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax: Which Should You Buy?

When you think about the recent Bybit hack, you’d agree with me that crypto theft is at an all-time high. You need a hardware wallet that offers unbreakable security—but should you choose Ngrave Zero or Ledger Stax? I’ve tested both, weighing their security, ease of use, and price—so you don’t have to. Let’s compare them side by side to find the right wallet for you in 2025.

Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax: Quick Comparison

To help see the differences before diving deeper into the full comparison, here is an overview of both the Zero and the Stax:

			Winner
Security	CC EAL7	CC EAL6+	Ngrave
Supported Assets	3,500+	5,500+	Ledger
Pricing	€398	$399	Ledger
Backup Method	Durable Steel Cards	Paper Phrases	Ngrave
Wallet Access	Biometrics	PIN Only	Ngrave

Now, let’s fully break down these differences, including security, supported assets, price, and more, in the full Ngrave vs Ledger comparison.

What is Ngrave Zero?

The Ngrave Zero is an ultra-secure, air-gapped hardware wallet designed for serious crypto holders who prioritize maximum security over convenience. Released in 2020 by Ngrave, a Belgium-based company specializing in blockchain security, the Zero is EAL7-certified—the highest level of security certification in the industry. Unlike most hardware wallets, it never connects via USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, or NFC, making it virtually impossible to hack remotely.

With its 4-inch touchscreen, biometric authentication, and a custom-built operating system, the Ngrave Zero ensures complete control over your private keys. Available only in black, this wallet is a fortress for your digital assets. But is its extreme security worth the price? Let’s find out in our full Ngrave ZERO review.

What is Ledger Stax?

The Ledger Stax is a premium hardware wallet created by Ledger, a well-known French company in crypto security, launched in 2023. Unlike traditional hardware wallets, Stax features a curved E-Ink touchscreen, making crypto transactions feel sleek and modern. It supports USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to manage assets seamlessly through the Ledger Live app on your phone or computer.

Available in a stylish black finish, the Stax is part of Ledger’s hardware wallet lineup, which also includes the Ledger Flex, Nano X, and Nano S Plus—each offering different levels of security and affordability. But does Stax justify its premium price? Keep reading as we break down its features in our full Ledger Stax review.

Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax: Which Is Safe?

When it comes to security, Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax take very different approaches. If security is your top priority, Ngrave Zero is unmatched—it’s the only hardware wallet to achieve an EAL7 certification, the highest security standard in the financial and blockchain industries. That’s a big deal. It’s also 100% air-gapped, meaning it has zero wireless connectivity—no USB transactions, no Bluetooth, no WiFi, nothing. Everything happens through QR codes, eliminating potential remote attack vectors. On top of that, it has multi-layer tamper protection, a custom-built OS, and biometric authentication for extra security.

On the other hand, Ledger Stax uses an EAL5+ Secure Element chip, which is very secure but not at the same level as Ngrave Zero. It does allow Bluetooth connectivity, which makes transactions more convenient—but also introduces a potential risk. While Ledger has a solid track record in security, the Ledger Recover controversy (which raised concerns about private key recovery and data exposure) shook trust in the brand.

Bottom line? If you want absolute security and don’t mind scanning QR codes for every transaction, Ngrave Zero is the safest choice. If you prefer a balance of security and convenience, Ledger Stax is still a strong contender—but with some trade-offs.

Buy Ngrave Zero →

Build Quality & Durability

Both wallets feel premium, but Ngrave Zero is built like a tank, while Ledger Stax focuses on sleek aesthetics.

Ngrave Zero is made from a custom alloy of zinc, aluminum, magnesium, and copper, giving it a solid, rugged feel. It’s heavier (214g) and thicker (13mm) than most wallets, but that adds to its durability. It’s also IP55-certified, meaning it’s resistant to dust and water, and features multi-layer tamper protection—so if someone tries to physically open it, it wipes itself clean. This makes it a great choice if you want something that can take a beating and still keep your crypto safe.

Ledger Stax, in contrast, is designed for style and portability. It’s much thinner and lighter, with a curved E-Ink touchscreen that gives it a modern, minimalist look. However, it isn’t as rugged as Ngrave Zero—there’s no water or dust resistance rating, and it doesn’t have the same tamper-proof build. While it’s well-made, it’s more of a luxury gadget than a hardcore security device.

Bottom line? If you need maximum durability and physical security, Ngrave Zero is the clear winner. If you want a sleek, stylish, and lightweight wallet, Ledger Stax feels more modern and elegant.

Zero vs Stax: User Experience & Design

Let’s talk about how these wallets feel to use. Ngrave Zero has a 4-inch color touchscreen, making it easy to navigate—no tiny buttons, no clunky interface. It’s built like a tank, with a solid zinc-aluminum-magnesium-copper body that feels premium and durable.

Because it’s fully air-gapped, you’ll be using your phone’s Ngrave Liquid app to prepare transactions, scanning QR codes between devices to sign them. It’s an extra step, but it’s the price of top-tier security.

Ledger Stax, on the other hand, looks and feels more modern. It features a unique E-Ink touchscreen (like a Kindle), which is always on and gives it a sleek, paper-like display. The Stax was made with Aluminum and plastic. It’s thinner and lighter, and the magnetically stackable design makes it easy to store multiple devices.

Unlike the Ngrave Zero, it has Bluetooth, so you can sign transactions wirelessly—a major plus for ease of use, though it does come with security concerns.

Which is better? If you want a rugged, ultra-secure, no-compromise experience, Ngrave Zero is built for you. If you care about aesthetics, convenience, and a modern feel, Ledger Stax delivers a beautiful and user-friendly design.

Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax: Connectivity

This is where the biggest difference in philosophy between Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax becomes clear.

With Ngrave Zero, you’re getting a 100% offline, air-gapped experience. There’s no USB connectivity for transactions, no Bluetooth, no WiFi, no NFC, no 4G—just QR codes. You initiate transactions using the Ngrave Liquid app, generate a QR code, scan it with the Zero’s camera, sign the transaction, and then scan a final QR code back into the app to broadcast it. This process is slightly slower than a direct connection, but completely eliminates remote attack risks.

Ledger Stax, on the other hand, is all about convenience. It connects via USB-C or Bluetooth, allowing you to sign transactions wirelessly through Ledger Live on your phone or computer. This makes transactions feel instant and seamless, but the wireless connection does introduce potential security risks. While Ledger has built-in security layers to mitigate threats, many security-conscious users still prefer fully air-gapped wallets like the Ngrave Zero.

So, what’s the verdict? If you value maximum security and don’t mind scanning QR codes, Ngrave Zero is the way to go. But if you prefer a smoother, more user-friendly transaction process, Ledger Stax wins on convenience.

Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax: Supported Cryptocurrencies

Both wallets support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, but Ledger Stax has the edge in sheer numbers. It supports 5,000+ coins and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and a huge variety of altcoins and NFTs. Ledger’s long-standing integrations with different blockchains make it one of the most versatile wallets for crypto investors with diverse portfolios.

Ngrave Zero, while not as extensive, still supports over 3,500 coins and tokens, covering major cryptocurrencies and Ethereum/MultiversX-based NFTs. It may not have the same extensive range as Ledger, but it still supports all the major assets most users need.

If you’re deep into altcoins, DeFi, or NFT trading, Ledger Stax offers broader support. But if your focus is on security and holding major assets, Ngrave Zero still covers a massive portion of the market.

Buy Ledger Stax →

What’s in the Box?

The Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax come with everything you need to get started.

With the Ngrave Zero, you’ll find:

• The Ngrave Zero device itself, built with a rugged metal alloy for durability.
• A USB-C charging cable (used only for charging and secure firmware updates).
• A Getting Started guide to walk you through the setup process.

Optional: If you order the GRAPHENE backup system, you’ll also receive the two-piece stainless steel backup plate for storing your private key securely.

For the Ledger Stax, you get:

• The Ledger Stax device, featuring its sleek E-Ink touchscreen.
• A USB-C to USB-C cable for charging and connecting to your computer.
• A Recovery Sheet, where you’ll write down your 24-word seed phrase.
• A Quick Start Guide to help with setup.

Both wallets come in securely sealed packaging, ensuring they haven’t been tampered with.

Buy Ngrave Zero →

Ledger Stax vs Ngrave Zero: Pricing

Price is always an important factor when choosing between the Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax. Both wallets sit at the premium end of the market.

The Ngrave Zero costs €398 (around $430), making it one of the most expensive hardware wallets available. However, it justifies the price with unmatched security, a fully air-gapped design, biometric authentication, a custom OS, and the highest security certification (EAL7). If absolute security is your top priority, it’s worth the investment.

Ledger Stax is priced at $399, putting it in the same high-end price range as the Ngrave Zero. While it offers a sleek design, an E-Ink touchscreen, and wireless connectivity, it does not match Ngrave Zero’s air-gapped security model. However, it is more user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with Ledger’s ecosystem, making it a strong choice for convenience-focused users.

If you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, here are some great options:

• Ledger Nano X ($149) – A Bluetooth-enabled hardware wallet supporting 5,000+ coins, but lacks a touchscreen.
• Ledger Flex ($279) – The world’s first ever secure touchscreen, slightly cheaper than Stax.
• Trezor Safe 5 ($169) – Features a touchscreen and supports 9,000+ cryptocurrencies, but lacks a secure element chip.
• Trezor Safe 3 ($79) – A budget-friendly option with strong security but no Bluetooth or touchscreen.

So if you want maximum security and an air-gapped system, Ngrave Zero is worth the price. If you prioritize usability, convenience, and Ledger’s ecosystem, Ledger Stax is a stylish and functional alternative.

Backup & Recovery Features

When it comes to securing your private keys, both wallets take different approaches, with Ngrave Zero introducing a unique twist.

Ngrave Zero uses what it calls the “Perfect Key”, which is a 64-character hexadecimal private key that can be converted into a traditional 24-word seed phrase. What’s special is that the Perfect Key is generated with your fingerprint and randomness from the device itself, making it truly unique to you. For backing it up, Ngrave offers GRAPHENE, a two-layer stainless steel backup plate that stores your key in an encrypted, tamper-proof way. Even if someone gets their hands on it, they can’t read it without knowing your private encryption.

Ledger Stax, like all Ledger devices, relies on a standard 24-word seed phrase, which is widely compatible with other wallets. You write it down and store it safely—but that’s also its weakness. If someone finds your written recovery phrase, they can access your funds. Ledger does offer Ledger Recover, an optional backup service that encrypts and fragments your seed phrase into three parts stored with third parties—but this feature caused controversy, as some users feared it could introduce security risks.

Which is better? If you want a backup system designed to be physically secure and tamper-resistant, Ngrave Zero’s GRAPHENE solution is superior. If you prefer the traditional 24-word seed phrase system with wider compatibility, Ledger Stax keeps things simple.

Buy Ledger Stax →

Ledger Stax vs Ngrave Zero: Pros & Cons

Although they are top-tier hardware wallets, the Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax have their own strengths and weaknesses.

✅ Ngrave Zero – Pros

✔ Unmatched security – The only hardware wallet with EAL7 certification, the highest level in the industry.
✔ Fully air-gapped – No USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, or NFC means zero remote attack vectors.
✔ Biometric authentication – Uses fingerprint scanning for added security.
✔ Custom OS – Built from scratch to eliminate common vulnerabilities.
✔ GRAPHENE metal backup (optional) – The most durable recovery backup solution.
✔ Large touchscreen – 4” high-resolution display for easy navigation.

❌ Ngrave Zero – Cons

✖ it’s one of the most expensive wallets at €398 (~$430).
✖ Less portable compared to Ledger Stax.

✅ Ledger Stax – Pros

✔ Sleek and portable – Designed by the iPod creator, it’s compact and modern.
✔ E-Ink touchscreen – Easy to read, even in bright light, and very intuitive.
✔ Bluetooth-enabled – Works wirelessly with the Ledger Live app.
✔ Seamless integration – Supports thousands of coins and works well with DeFi & Web3 apps.

❌ Ledger Stax – Cons

✖ Expensive at $399.

✖ Not fully air-gapped
✖ No biometric authentication – Relies solely on PIN and passphrase protection.
✖ Paper backup only – Unlike Ngrave’s GRAPHENE option, Ledger users must store their seed phrase on paper.

Buy Ngrave Zero →

Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax – Which should you buy

If I had to pick one, it would depend entirely on how I plan to use my hardware wallet.

If my main priority were security above all else, I’d go with the Ngrave Zero. Its EAL7-certified security, air-gapped design, and biometric authentication make it one of the safest wallets out there. I love the idea of never having to connect via USB, Bluetooth, or WiFi, reducing hacking risks to almost zero. However, I’d have to accept that it’s bulkier, less convenient for frequent transactions, and more expensive. If I were a long-term investor who rarely moves funds, this would be my choice.

On the other hand, if I wanted a secure but user-friendly wallet for regular use, the Ledger Stax makes a lot of sense. It offers Bluetooth connectivity, a sleek E-Ink touchscreen, and seamless integration with Ledger Live. I’d enjoy the convenience of managing my assets more easily, especially if I were into staking, swapping, or using DeFi apps. The security is still very strong, but it’s not as extreme as Ngrave Zero’s air-gapped approach. If I needed a mix of security and usability, Stax would be my go-to.

Having said that, not everyone needs to spend $400 on a hardware wallet. If I were on a budget, I’d seriously consider Ledger Nano X ($149) for Bluetooth functionality or Trezor Safe 5 ($169) for a touchscreen experience at a lower price. Even the Trezor Safe 3 ($79) is a solid choice for beginners.

Where to Buy Both Wallets

If you decide to buy any of these hardware wallets, I would recomend that you order from the official website to avoid the risk of receiving a tampered or compromised device. This is crucial because a second-hand or altered wallet could be pre-loaded with malware, putting your funds at risk.

For Ngrave Zero, you should purchase directly from the Ngrave official website. For Ledger Stax, the safest option is to buy from the official Ledger store or their authorized Amazon store. Unlike Ngrave, Ledger does not always include taxes upfront, and shipping fees may vary based on location.

There are several benefits of buying directly from the manufacturer, including:
✅ Free shipping on orders over €300.
✅ Taxes included in the price (though customs duties may still apply in some regions).
✅ 30-day return policy if you change your mind.
✅ Flexible payment options – You can pay with crypto, credit card, or PayPal.

If you’re outside the EU, it’s best to check potential customs fees before ordering.

💡 Final Tip: Whether you choose Ngrave Zero or Ledger Stax, avoid third-party resellers and marketplaces like eBay, as they could be selling modified or previously used devices. Security starts from the moment you receive your wallet!

Final Thought

As you have seen in this comparison, the Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax are premium, high-quality wallets, and you can’t go wrong with either. It just comes down to how much security, convenience, and budget matter to you. If you’re like me, you’ll weigh these factors carefully and choose what fits your needs best.

After reading our Zero vs Stax comparison, you may also want to check out the Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Nano S Plus and Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Nano X comparisons too.

FAQs: Ngrave Zero vs Ledger Stax

1. Which wallet is more secure, Ngrave Zero or Ledger Stax?

Ngrave Zero is the more secure option. It has EAL7 certification (the highest in the industry), is fully air-gapped, and features biometric authentication and tamper-proof hardware. Ledger Stax is also highly secure but connects via USB and Bluetooth, which introduces potential attack surfaces.

2. Can I use these wallets for daily transactions?

Ledger Stax is better for frequent transactions because of its Bluetooth connectivity and Ledger Live app support. Ngrave Zero requires scanning QR codes for transactions, which is more secure but less convenient for everyday use.

3. How many cryptocurrencies do these wallets support?

Ledger Stax supports 5,000+ cryptocurrencies and multiple blockchain apps. Ngrave Zero supports 3,500+ coins and tokens, focusing more on security than broad compatibility.

4. Why is Ngrave Zero more expensive than Ledger Stax?

The Ngrave Zero (€398/~$430) is priced higher due to its advanced security features, custom-built OS, and air-gapped design. Ledger Stax ($399) is slightly cheaper and focuses more on design, usability, and wireless convenience rather than extreme security.

5. What happens if I lose my hardware wallet?

For both wallets, you can recover your funds using your seed phrase. However, Ngrave Zero offers the GRAPHENE backup (a metal plate for seed phrase storage), making recovery more durable and secure than Ledger’s paper-based recovery sheet.

6. Can I store NFTs on these wallets?

Yes, both Ngrave Zero and Ledger Stax support Ethereum-based NFTs. However, Ledger Stax offers a better experience, allowing you to display NFTs on its E-Ink screen and manage them more easily through Ledger Live and third-party apps.

7. Are there cheaper alternatives if I don’t need all the premium features?

Yes! If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider:

• Ledger Nano X ($149) – Bluetooth-enabled, portable, and secure.
• Ledger Flex ($279) – A solid middle ground with enhanced features.
• Trezor Safe 5 ($169) – Offers a touchscreen at a lower price.
• Trezor Safe 3 ($79) – A budget-friendly option for basic crypto security.