What are the Best Wallets for Staking Crypto?

Staking cryptocurrency means locking up digital assets in a blockchain. This way, stakers help the network maintain security while earning rewards for their contribution. The staking process is used in Proof-of-Stake (PoS) networks. In this sense, the PoS algorithm selects validators based on the number of tokens they are willing to stake as collateral.

In return, participants receive staking rewards in the form of additional cryptocurrency, making it an appealing option for long-term holders seeking passive income.

But crypto staking can be complex, especially for new users. The process involves choosing the correct method and platform, managing security risks, weighing the pros and cons, dealing with technical jargon, and more.

Luckily, several cryptocurrency wallets can help you start your staking journey in a much simpler and user-friendly way, and this article can take you through it. Let’s get into it, but first, let’s go over the basics.

What is Staking?

Staking is a fundamental process in cryptocurrencies that uses the Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

When you decide to stake some cryptocurrencies, you’re essentially locking them up in a wallet to support the blockchain network’s operations. In exchange for this commitment, you earn rewards —often through additional cryptocurrency tokens.

Whenever you stake, you contribute your grain of sand to the network’s security, help the chain validate transactions, and create new blocks on the blockchain.

At the heart of staking, the idea is to maintain blockchain security, promote efficiency, and incentivize participation. In that sense, users must lock up funds in the blockchain, and for doing so they are rewarded for their honest behavior while simultaneously discouraging malicious activity by slashing the tokens of negligent validators.

How to Stake Crypto?

Multiple staking options are available, from direct staking in wallets to using exchange services, and there is flexibility to suit various preferences and risk profiles. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Wallet Staking:  Software wallets like Trust Wallet, Exodus, and Ledger Live allow staking directly from a personal wallet.
2. Staking Pools: Alternatively, you could join a staking pool, which is a platform that pools crypto from multiple participants to increase their chances of earning rewards. This is particularly attractive for those wanting to stake a small amount of crypto or not meeting the minimum staking requirements for certain protocols/coins.
3. Exchange Staking: You can use exchanges that offer staking services, such as Binance or Coinbase. These platforms manage the staking process on your behalf, making it easier but requiring trust in the exchange’s security measures.
4. Delegated Staking: Users delegate their tokens to a validator through native blockchain wallets.
5. Running a Node: This may be more complex as it requires technical expertise and a large staking deposit, so it’s mostly suitable for experienced users.

Not all cryptocurrencies support staking. Some popular PoS-based options include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), Cosmos (ATOM), Cardano (ADA), and Tezos (XTZ).

What are the Best Wallets for Staking Crypto? Our Top Five Picks

Below are some of the best crypto staking wallets to begin your staking journey, ranked by functionality, staking mechanisms, security, and other important features.

Also read: Best XRP Wallets: Top Picks for 2025

Ledger

Ledger is a leading provider of high-security hardware wallets, designed to keep private keys offline and protected from online threats. Its wallets incorporate Secure Element Chips, which offer tamper-proof protection and official certification, ensuring that users’ crypto assets remain safe.

Among Ledger’s lineup, the Ledger Nano S Plus stands out as the most popular model, striking a balance between affordability and advanced functionality. It supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

To stake cryptocurrencies using a Ledger hardware wallet, the first step is to install Ledger Live, the official management application for Ledger devices. This app allows users to interact with their wallets, manage assets, and access staking services.

Here’s how to do it:

• After setting up Ledger Live, connect your Ledger device to a computer or mobile device and ensure it is unlocked.
• Navigate to the Manager section within Ledger Live and install the application for the cryptocurrency you wish to stake. Ledger supports staking for multiple blockchains, including Tezos, Tron, Cosmos, Algorand, and Polkadot.
• Proceed to the Earn section or locate the staking option within the account page of the cryptocurrency you plan to stake. The process involves selecting a validator to stake with—users can opt for Ledger’s validator if available for added security. It is advisable to leave some tokens un-staked to cover future transaction fees.
• Before finalizing, carefully review the staking details, then confirm the transaction directly on your Ledger device. After staking, you can track your staking rewards in the Rewards section of Ledger Live. Some cryptocurrencies automatically distribute rewards, while others may require manual claiming.

Binance Web3 Wallet

The Binance Web3 Wallet is a self-custody cryptocurrency wallet developed by Binance. It offers users a secure and convenient way to interact with DeFi applications, manage digital assets, and trade cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Unlike custodial wallets, it ensures that users retain full control over their private keys while benefiting from Binance’s ecosystem and integrations.

Staking through the Binance Web3 Wallet is a simple and accessible process for users looking to earn passive income on their crypto holdings. Whether using the mobile app or desktop version, staking can be done directly through the Earn section of the wallet interface.

Users can stake stablecoins and crypto tokens, with all staking operations carried out via third-party DeFi protocols. The wallet provides a clear overview of staking opportunities, including available tokens and their corresponding APRs.

And how can you stake with Binance Web3 Wallet? Simple, just follow the steps below:

1. Open the Binance Web3 Wallet and navigate to the Earn tab.
2. Browse the list of supported staking assets, including their respective APYs and distribution rates.
3. Check details such as supply APY, distribution APY, and potential rewards.
4. Click on Supply, enter the amount you wish to stake, and confirm the transaction.

Phantom

Phantom has established itself as the premier self-custody wallet on the Solana blockchain, with millions of active users leveraging its features for secure asset management and staking. While primarily designed for Solana, Phantom has expanded its functionality to support Ethereum, Polygon, and Bitcoin.

Staking Solana (SOL) through the Phantom Wallet is a straightforward process that allows users to earn rewards while contributing to the network’s security without leaving the wallet’s interface.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Purchase SOL tokens from an exchange such as Binance, KuCoin, or Coinbase, then transfer them to your Phantom wallet address.
2. Open Phantom, navigate to Solana (SOL) in your asset list, and click “Start earning SOL.”
3. Choose from a list of available validators. Phantom recommends checking Validators.app or StakeView.app to find a ranked list of reliable validators.
4. Decide how much SOL to stake and select a validator that aligns with your staking goals.

Exodus Wallet

Exodus is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet that supports over 50 blockchain networks, providing users with a secure and convenient way to manage their digital assets. Designed for cross-platform accessibility, it is available as a desktop application, mobile app for iOS and Android, and a Web3 browser extension, allowing seamless asset management across different devices.

One of Exodus’ key features is its built-in staking functionality, enabling users to stake cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and Cosmos (ATOM) without leaving the wallet. This integration simplifies the staking process, making it accessible to both new and experienced users.

Staking on Exodus is designed to be intuitive, with three main ways to participate depending on the platform:

1. On Mobile: Select the asset you want to stake, tap the Stake button, and choose the desired amount.
2. On Desktop: The process is similar, but users must locate the staking banner in the top left corner of the interface.
3. On the Web3 Wallet: Simply navigate to the staking section, select a cryptocurrency, and confirm the staking transaction.

Exodus supports a variety of staking-eligible tokens, each offering different reward structures. The wallet’s staking rewards can range from 5% to 20% APR, depending on the selected cryptocurrency. For more details on specific staking rates and conditions, users can consult Exodus’ official staking resources

Crypto.com Wallet

The Crypto.com Wallet is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet developed by Crypto.com, designed to offer users full control over their digital assets while enabling seamless interaction with decentralized applications and Web3 projects.

Beyond basic storage and asset management, the Crypto.com Wallet serves as a powerful tool for staking and engaging with DeFi services. Its integration with various blockchain protocols allows users to earn rewards while participating in different ecosystems.

Staking through the Crypto.com Wallet is a straightforward process, accessible exclusively through the mobile app (not available on desktop).

Users can start staking by navigating to the Earn section, selecting their preferred cryptocurrency, and specifying the staking amount. The wallet offers flexibility, as there is no fixed staking period, allowing users to unstake funds at any time, subject to the terms of the specific blockchain protocol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Unstake Crypto?

Users can unstake crypto, but it’s important to check whether their chosen platform enforces an unbonding period, ranging from a few days to several weeks. Using an exchange or a liquid staking solution can help bypass this restriction, but it often comes with trade-offs such as lower rewards or additional fees.

What Factors Should I Consider Before Staking Crypto

Before staking crypto, there are a few factors to consider:

• Lock-up periods: Some blockchains require tokens to be locked for a set duration.
• Choose the right validator: Consider validators with high uptime, low commission fees, and a strong reputation.
• Slashing risks: In light of the above, if your chosen validator engages in malicious or negligent behavior. A percentage of your staked assets may be slashed. That’s why it’s important to choose reputable validators.
• Network fees: Be aware of transaction fees when staking or unstaking tokens.

What are the Benefits of Staking?

For cryptocurrency holders, staking offers several advantages. It provides a source of passive income, as stakers earn rewards simply by holding and delegating their assets. Additionally, it enables active participation in the network, allowing users to contribute to the blockchain’s security and governance.

While some staking protocols require a lock-up period, others offer flexible options, allowing users to unstake their tokens when needed.