Choosing the right hardware wallet is a critical step in securing your cryptocurrency investments. While both the Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano S Plus offer robust protection for digital assets, they cater to slightly different user needs. This comparison will help you decide which model aligns best with your crypto management style, focusing on key aspects like price, functionality, and compatibility.
Whether you're new to crypto or an experienced investor, understanding these differences ensures you select a wallet that balances security, convenience, and value. We’ll break down the specs, features, and ideal use cases for each device.
Key Differences at a Glance
Although the Nano S and S Plus share the same foundational security architecture, several practical distinctions set them apart. The Nano S Plus essentially serves as an upgraded version of the Nano S, offering enhancements that justify its position as the newer model.
The most significant upgrades in the S Plus include a larger screen for easier transaction verification and substantially more internal memory. This allows you to install many more cryptocurrency applications simultaneously without needing to constantly remove and reinstall them.
Who Is the Ledger Nano S For?
The Ledger Nano S remains a solid choice for a specific subset of users. It is ideally suited for those who have straightforward crypto needs and prioritize budget-friendliness.
- The Occasional User: You primarily hold one to three cryptocurrencies and do not frequently engage with complex DeFi protocols or swap between numerous assets.
- The Desktop-First User: You plan to use your wallet mainly connected to a desktop or laptop computer and have no requirement for iOS mobile connectivity.
- The Budget-Conscious Investor: The lower initial cost is a significant factor, and you do not foresee needing the expanded capabilities of the newer model.
For these users, the Nano S provides impeccable security without paying for features they are unlikely to use.
Who Is the Ledger Nano S Plus For?
The Ledger Nano S Plus is designed for the active crypto enthusiast. It is the recommended choice for the majority of users due to its enhanced versatility and future-proof design.
- The Multi-Asset Holder: You manage a diverse portfolio and want the flexibility to interact with many different cryptocurrency apps without storage constraints.
- The DeFi Participant: You regularly use decentralized exchanges, lending platforms, and other Web3 services that require app installations and frequent transaction signing.
- The Modern Connector: You appreciate the convenience of a USB-C port for connecting to newer computers and Android devices.
The modest price increase over the Nano S buys significant long-term convenience. 👉 Explore advanced hardware wallet options
Detailed Feature Breakdown
Price and Value Comparison
The Ledger Nano S is typically priced at around $59, making it one of the most affordable hardware wallets on the market. The Ledger Nano S Plus retails for approximately $79, a $20 premium.
While both devices offer identical top-tier security, the value proposition differs. The Nano S is excellent for basic use, but its 320 KB memory is very limiting. The S Plus’s larger memory capacity (an 8x increase) eliminates the hassle of managing a small number of app slots, making the extra investment worthwhile for active users.
Core Security Features
Security is where both devices shine and are virtually identical. They utilize a certified Secure Element (SE) chip, the same type found in passports and credit cards, to store private keys. This chip is rated CC EAL5+, providing robust protection against various physical and software-based attacks.
Both wallets require a user-defined 4-8 digit PIN to unlock and generate a 24-word recovery seed phrase during setup. This phrase is your ultimate backup, allowing you to recover your assets if the device is lost or damaged. Always store this phrase securely offline.
Design and Display
The Nano S Plus leverages its slightly larger size to feature a bigger screen. Both displays are 128 pixels wide, but the S Plus screen is 64 pixels high compared to the Nano S's 32 pixels. This makes reviewing transaction addresses and details much easier and reduces the chance of error.
The Nano S Plus also modernizes its connectivity, adopting a USB-C port instead of the older Micro-USB found on the Nano S.
Compatibility and Connectivity
A crucial point for mobile users: Neither the Nano S nor the Nano S Plus supports iOS devices. They can only connect to Android phones via a USB-OTG (On-The-Go) cable, which is often not included in the box.
Both devices work seamlessly with Windows, macOS, and Linux computers. For true wireless iOS compatibility, you would need to consider the Ledger Nano X model.
Supported Cryptocurrencies and Apps
There is no difference in the range of cryptocurrencies supported between the two models. Both are compatible with over 5,000 coins and tokens. The limitation lies not in support, but in simultaneous management.
The Ledger Live application serves as the primary interface for both wallets. However, to interact with a specific cryptocurrency, its corresponding app must be installed on the device. The Nano S's limited memory may only hold 3-5 apps at once, forcing you to uninstall and reinstall apps frequently. The S Plus's expansive memory can hold over 100 apps, eliminating this tedious process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my Ledger Nano S or S Plus with an iPhone?
A: No, neither the Nano S nor the S Plus offers support for iOS. They can only connect to Android mobile devices via a USB cable. iOS users should consider the Bluetooth-enabled Ledger Nano X.
Q: Is the security level different between the two models?
A: No, both devices use the exact same secure element chip (CC EAL5+ certified) and operating system (BOLOS). They provide an identical level of fundamental security for your private keys.
Q: Why would I need more memory on a hardware wallet?
A: Memory determines how many cryptocurrency apps you can install at one time. If you hold only Bitcoin and Ethereum, low memory is fine. If you engage with dozens of different tokens or DeFi apps, high memory is essential to avoid constantly swapping apps via Ledger Live.
Q: Can I recover my Nano S wallet onto a Nano S Plus?
A: Yes, absolutely. You can restore your existing 24-word recovery phrase onto any new Ledger device (or other compatible wallet). Your crypto is stored on the blockchain, not the device; the device just holds the keys.
Q: Do I need to use the Ledger Live software?
A: While Ledger Live is the official and most user-friendly option, both devices are also compatible with a wide range of third-party software wallets like MetaMask (for Ethereum) and Electrum (for Bitcoin). This is useful for managing coins not directly supported in Ledger Live.
Q: What cable do I need to connect to my Android phone?
A: You will need a USB On-The-Go (OTG) adapter cable. The specific cable depends on your phone's port (USB-C or Micro-USB) and the wallet you have (Nano S uses Micro-USB, Nano S Plus uses USB-C). 👉 Get help choosing the right connectivity tools
Final Verdict
For most cryptocurrency users entering the market today, the Ledger Nano S Plus is the clear winner and recommended choice. The significant upgrade in memory capacity and the improved screen usability offer substantial day-to-day benefits for a relatively small price increase. It is a more future-proof device that can grow with your portfolio.
The Ledger Nano S remains a competent and highly secure wallet, but it is best suited for those with very simple, static crypto holdings who are certain they will not need advanced functionality. Its value is undeniable for its price point, but its limitations are quickly encountered by active traders and DeFi users.
Your choice ultimately depends on your anticipated usage. For simplicity and budget, choose the Nano S. For versatility, convenience, and growth, the S Plus is undoubtedly the better investment.