Renowned on-chain analyst ZachXBT has delivered a harsh verdict on the hardware wallet market. In his recent analysis, he stated that devices like Ledger are not only ineffective for signing critical transactions but are also categorically unsuitable for storing significant amounts of crypto assets. Instead, he recommends using a dedicated iPhone, managing cryptocurrency exclusively through it — which, in his opinion, provides a much higher level of security and stability.
ZachXBT was particularly harsh on Ledger, calling it the worst choice among major manufacturers. The main complaint is the constant updates to the Ledger Live software, which, according to the analyst, systematically disrupt the device's basic functionality. Users complain about crashes, connection loss, and unstable operation, which at a critical moment could lead to loss of control over assets.
As an analyst, I cannot fully agree with such a radical approach. Hardware wallets remain the gold standard for cold storage, but only if the user understands their limitations. Ledger indeed suffers from excessive complexity and frequent updates, which reduces trust in the brand. However, recommending an iPhone as a full-fledged replacement is a controversial move. A smartphone, even an isolated one, remains vulnerable to malware and OS-level attacks. The choice between Ledger and an iPhone is more of a compromise between convenience and absolute security, and each investor must decide for themselves what is more important.