SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5: Which hardware wallet is right for you? Both promise protection, but which one delivers? This brutally honest comparison strips away marketing hype, giving you the unfiltered truth to safeguard your investments.
Side-by-Side Comparison: SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5
SafePal S1 |
Trezor Safe 5 |
|
|---|---|---|
Price |
$49.99 (VAT and duty excluded) |
$169 |
Security |
EAL 5+ Secure Element, fully air-gapped, anti-tampering self-destruct mechanism |
EAL 6+ Secure Element, PIN & passphrase protection, multi-share backup |
Connectivity |
No Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC, or USB (air-gapped QR code-based system) |
USB-C connection |
Supported Cryptocurrencies |
Supports thousands of coins and tokens |
Supports thousands of coins and tokens, plus Bitcoin-only firmware option |
Support for NFTs |
Yes |
Yes |
Dimensions |
86 x 54 x 6 mm (credit card-sized) |
65.9 x 40 x 8 mm |
Battery |
Built-in 400mAh, up to 20 days with 10 minutes daily usage |
None (powered via USB connection) |
Weight |
Lightweight at 100g |
23g (anodized aluminum and Gorilla® Glass construction) |
Box Contents |
SafePal S1 hardware wallet, USB cable, cleaning cloth, mnemonic cards (3), stickers, user manual |
Trezor Safe 5 hardware wallet, USB-C cable, 20-word backup cards (2), stickers, startup guide |
SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5: Overview
What is SafePal S1?
The SafePal S1, introduced in 2018, is a hardware wallet designed by SafePal, a company supported by Binance Labs. Based in Singapore, SafePal focuses on secure and affordable crypto storage. The S1 is air-gapped, ensuring offline security, and supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, including NFTs. SafePal also offers other wallets like the S1 Pro and X1 for users seeking different features and price points.
What is Trezor Safe 5?
The Trezor Safe 5, launched in 2024, is the latest premium wallet by Trezor, a Czech company known for pioneering hardware wallets. Trezor’s product line includes the affordable Model One, the advanced Model T, and the Safe 3, emphasizing enhanced usability and security. Originating from the Czech Republic, Trezor blends open-source innovation with robust crypto storage solutions.
Price
When it comes to the SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 price comparison, your wallet will definitely feel the difference. The SafePal S1 is priced at just $49.99 (excluding VAT and duties), making it one of the most affordable hardware wallets on the market. For anyone looking to secure their cryptocurrency without spending much, this is a fantastic option.
On the other hand, the Trezor Safe 5 costs $169. While it’s significantly more expensive, this price reflects the premium materials, advanced features, and enhanced user experience it offers.
But here’s the million-dollar question: does that extra cost translate to significantly better protection? For users who prioritize convenience and don’t mind paying extra for top-notch build quality and usability, the Trezor Safe 5 justifies its cost.
Design
When I first held the SafePal S1, I was impressed by its sleek design. It’s no bigger than a credit card, and its lightweight ABS + PVC build makes it super easy to carry around. The 1.3-inch color screen is sharp and functional, though it lacks the wow factor of some higher-end wallets.
In contrast, the Trezor Safe 5 has a more premium feel. Its anodized aluminum backplate and Gorilla® Glass 3 screen immediately stand out. The 1.54-inch touchscreen is not only vibrant but also incredibly responsive, offering haptic feedback for added confirmation—a feature that makes every interaction feel modern and satisfying. However, the Trezor Safe 5 is bulkier and less pocket-friendly than the SafePal S1, which might matter if portability is a top priority for you.
Between the two, Trezor Safe 5 clearly leads with its premium materials and robust design. That said, if you’re careful with your devices and prefer something ultra-light and compact, the SafePal S1 still holds plenty of appeal.
User Experience
Using the SafePal S1 feels straightforward and focused. It relies on a D-pad for navigation and QR code scanning for transactions. While it doesn’t have a touchscreen, the physical controls are intuitive, and the fully offline setup ensures every step feels secure. Pairing it with the SafePal app makes crypto management seamless, but it does require a bit of extra effort compared to touchscreen wallets.
The Trezor Safe 5, however, takes user experience to another level. Its vibrant 1.54-inch touchscreen, paired with haptic feedback, creates an intuitive and satisfying interaction. Whether you’re confirming a transaction or navigating through settings, it feels modern and polished. The Trezor Suite app complements this with a user-friendly interface, making tasks like trading, staking, or adjusting privacy settings smooth and accessible.
In the SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 discussion, it’s clear Trezor Safe 5 prioritizes ease of use and convenience, while SafePal S1 is tailored for users who prefer simplicity and hands-on control. If you love sleek tech with premium interactions, Trezor Safe 5 is the winner. But if you’re comfortable with minimalism, SafePal S1 holds its own.
Security
When it comes to security, both wallets come out swinging with some serious protection mechanisms.
The SafePal S1 brings military-grade security to the table. Its EAL 5+ secure element is like having a digital bodyguard. The true random number generator means your crypto’s unpredictability is its best defense. Multiple security sensors and an anti-tampering self-destruct mechanism? That’s not just security; that’s paranoia-level protection. If someone tries to mess with your SafePal, it’s programmed to essentially commit digital suicide.
The Trezor Safe 5, on the other hand, offers advanced multi-layered protection while maintaining usability. It’s built with an EAL 6+ Secure Element (even higher than SafePal S1’s) and adds PIN and passphrase protection for enhanced safety. What really sets it apart is its open-source security design, which allows for public scrutiny and ensures transparency. Additionally, its advanced backup options, like multi-share recovery, give you more flexibility in safeguarding your wallet.
So what’s the key difference? SafePal says “nobody gets in,” while Trezor says “we’ll let you in, but we’ll check you 10 times before we do.”
For this criteria, it’s less about who’s better and more about which security philosophy matches your comfort level. Are you a “no entry” person or a “careful entry” person?
Connectivity and Compatibility
The SafePal S1 is entirely air-gapped, which means no direct connections like USB, Bluetooth, or WiFi. This offline-first approach is a deliberate choice to maximize security, but it does mean you’ll rely heavily on scanning QR codes to interact with your crypto. The wallet works seamlessly with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, making it versatile across platforms.
The Trezor Safe 5 offers a more connected experience. It uses a USB-C connection for setup and transactions, allowing for faster interactions. While it isn’t fully air-gapped like the SafePal S1, its connection is still secure and encrypted. It’s compatible with desktops and mobile devices via the Trezor Suite app, giving users more flexibility.
If you ask me, I’d say it’s a tradeoff between security and convenience between the SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5. The S1’s offline nature is ideal for security purists, while Safe 5’s USB-C integration is perfect for users who value speed and ease of use. Your choice will depend on which factor matters more to you.
Battery and Power
The SafePal S1 has a built-in 400mAh battery that keeps you going for up to 20 days with just 10 minutes of daily use. It doesn’t need constant babysitting – charge it once, and you’re good to go wherever your blockchain adventures take you.
The Trezor Safe 5 tells a different story. This wallet is always tethered to your laptop via USB-C. Unlike the SafePal’s wireless freedom, the Trezor demands a constant connection. But here’s the twist: this isn’t necessarily a weakness. That constant connection means uninterrupted power and zero battery degradation. No more worrying about battery life or charging cycles. Every time you use it, it’s drawing fresh, stable power directly from your device.
In this criterion, it’s about choosing between mobility and constant, reliable connectivity.
Platform Support
When it comes to platform compatibility, both wallets are playing to win. The SafePal S1 hardware wallet supports iOS, Android, Windows, and MacOS. With 15 languages under its belt, it speaks to users across the globe.
The Trezor Safe 5 takes a different approach with its Trezor Suite app ecosystem. It’s not just about supporting platforms; it’s about creating a comprehensive crypto management experience. While SafePal gives you basic cross-platform support, Trezor offers a more integrated experience. Third-party service integration means you’re not just storing crypto – you’re managing it with a full suite of tools.
In the platform support arena, it’s a classic case of quantity versus quality. SafePal says “I work everywhere,” while Trezor says “I work everywhere, and I’ll help you do more.”
The choice between SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 comes down to whether you want a simple, universal tool or a comprehensive crypto management system.
Cryptocurrency Support
While Trezor is often seen as the crypto wallet heavyweight, SafePal actually takes the crown in sheer number of supported cryptocurrencies. SafePal S1 supports over 9,000 coins and tokens, compared to Trezor Safe 5’s impressive range of 5,500 cryptocurrencies.
This isn’t just about quantity, though. For serious crypto investors comparing SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5, the breadth of support matters. SafePal provides broader coverage, which means you’re more likely to find your niche or emerging cryptocurrencies supported. Trezor, while supporting fewer coins, offers deeper integration and more robust management for its supported assets.
If you’re a crypto diversifier with a wide-ranging portfolio, the SafePal S1 gives you more flexibility. If you’re focused on mainstream and well-established cryptocurrencies, Trezor’s 5,500 coins provide a solid, secure playground for your digital assets.
Backup and Recovery
When it comes to securing your recovery phrase, the SafePal S1 keeps things simple and effective. It supports the standard 12- or 24-word mnemonic phrase, which you can easily jot down on the included mnemonic cards. This straightforward system works perfectly for most users, though it doesn’t offer advanced recovery features like multi-share backups.
The Trezor Safe 5 takes backup and recovery a step further. In addition to supporting 12-, 20-, and 24-word backups, it introduces an Advanced Multi-share Backup option. This splits your recovery phrase into multiple shares, reducing the risk of losing access if a single share is compromised. It’s an excellent feature for users who want added peace of mind.
In the SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 comparison for recovery, Trezor Safe 5 shines with its innovative options, making it ideal for those who want an extra layer of security. However, if you’re comfortable with the tried-and-true mnemonic system, SafePal S1 keeps things simple and reliable.
What’s in the Box?
When you purchase the SafePal S1, you’ll find everything you need for secure crypto management. Inside the box, you’ll get the
- SafePal S1 hardware wallet,
- a USB cable for charging,
- a cleaning cloth,
- three mnemonic phrase cards for backup,
- stickers,
- and a user manual.
This all-inclusive package ensures you have the essentials for a smooth start with your new wallet.
For the Trezor Safe 5, the box contains the
- hardware wallet itself,
- a USB-C to USB-C cable for easy connection,
- two 20-word backup cards,
- Trezor stickers,
- and a startup guide to help you set up your wallet.
It’s everything you need to begin securely managing your cryptocurrencies right out of the box.
Pros and Cons
As you have seen so far in this SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 comparison, both wallets have clear strengths and limitations. Here’s a detailed look at their pros and cons to help you decide.
SafePal S1
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
Affordable price ($49.99) |
Lacks touchscreen for interaction |
Fully air-gapped for maximum security |
Plastic build feels less premium |
Compact and lightweight (credit card size) |
No direct USB connection for quick setup |
Supports thousands of cryptocurrencies |
Requires QR code scanning for transactions |
Long battery life (up to 20 days) |
Trezor Safe 5
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
Premium build with aluminum and Gorilla® Glass 3 |
Expensive price ($169) |
Vibrant touchscreen with haptic feedback |
Requires USB-C connection for transactions |
EAL 6+ Secure Element for advanced security |
|
Advanced multi-share backup for recovery |
|
Seamless integration with Trezor Suite ecosystem |
SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5: Which should you buy?
In my opinion, the SafePal S1 is perfect for the budget-conscious crypto enthusiast who prioritizes absolute offline security. If you’re someone who wants robust protection without breaking the bank, who doesn’t mind manual QR code interactions, and values a lightweight, no-frills approach – this is your wallet.
The Trezor Safe 5 is designed for the more advanced crypto user. If you’re willing to invest in a premium experience, value intricate security features, want seamless app integration, and appreciate a more intuitive touchscreen interface, this wallet calls your name. It’s for those who see their hardware wallet not just as a storage device, but as a comprehensive crypto management tool.
As you can see, this comparison of SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 is less about which wallet is objectively better, and more about which one aligns with your personal crypto journey, technical comfort level, and financial priorities.
Where to Purchase Each Wallet
To ensure you receive an authentic and secure device, it’s always best to buy the SafePal S1 directly from the official SafePal website or trusted retailers. Purchasing from authorized sources guarantees you won’t receive a compromised or tampered-with device. SafePal also offers free shipping and responsive customer support, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
Similarly, buying the Trezor Safe 5 from the official Trezor website ensures you’re getting a genuine product with no risk of tampering. Trezor provides warranties, free shipping, and excellent customer support, making it easy to reach out if you need assistance. Buying from the official site helps you avoid counterfeit products while enjoying top-tier service.
Conclusion
The SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5 comparison isn’t about crowning a universal champion, but about finding your perfect crypto companion. Your ideal wallet is a personal decision that reflects your unique crypto journey – your risk tolerance, technical comfort, and financial goals.
Whether you’re a budget-conscious beginner or a security-obsessed veteran, remember this: the best hardware wallet is the one that gives you peace of mind. It’s not just about protecting digital assets; it’s about feeling confident in your crypto strategy.
Trust your instincts, do your research, and choose a wallet that doesn’t just secure your cryptocurrencies, but empowers your financial future.
Read also ↓
SafePal S1 vs. Trezor Model One
Frequently Asked Questions: SafePal S1 vs Trezor Safe 5
1. Which wallet is better for beginners?
SafePal S1 is more beginner-friendly due to its lower price point ($49.99) and simpler interface. It’s straightforward, lightweight, and requires minimal technical knowledge. Trezor Safe 5, while more advanced, might overwhelm new crypto users with its extensive features.
2. Which wallet offers better security?
Trezor Safe 5 offers more comprehensive security with its EAL 6+ Secure Element, multi-layer protection, two-factor authentication, and advanced backup systems. While SafePal S1 provides solid security, Trezor goes several steps further in protecting your digital assets.
3. Can I use these wallets for all my cryptocurrencies?
SafePal S1 supports over 9,000 coins and tokens, while Trezor Safe 5 supports 5,500. SafePal offers broader coverage, making it more versatile for users with diverse cryptocurrency portfolios.
4. Is the higher price of Trezor Safe 5 justified?
Yes, for serious crypto investors. The premium price reflects advanced features like a color touchscreen, haptic feedback, comprehensive app ecosystem, and more sophisticated security mechanisms. It’s an investment in a more refined crypto management experience.
5. Which wallet is more portable?
SafePal S1 wins in portability. It’s credit card-sized, lightweight, and has a built-in battery lasting up to 20 days. Trezor Safe 5 requires constant USB-C connection, making it less convenient for on-the-go crypto management.