5 Non-Custodial Crypto Wallets Making Headlines in 2024

Top Non-Custodial Wallets of 2024: Security, Flexibility, Growth

2024 was a historic year for cryptocurrency, highlighted by key events that solidified the industry's long-term growth potential. While too many to list, key highlights include the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January, the Bitcoin halving event in April, cryptocurrency gaining prominence throughout the U.S. presidential election, and Bitcoin finally trading above the coveted $100,000 level.

While these events dominated media headlines, other segments of the crypto industry continued to evolve to meet growing investor demand. Non-custodial wallets were one segment that matured in 2024. Data indicates that all of the top 10 most downloaded mobile crypto wallets in the first half of the year were non-custodial.

Additional data suggests that non-custodial wallets are transitioning from an emerging category to the mainstream. According to Verified Market Research, the market size of non-custodial wallets was valued at $1.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8% in 2024. This level of growth is projected to sustain through 2031.

More and more investors turned to these wallets in 2024 due to their autonomy, security, and transparency. These are all qualities that centralized wallets and platforms lack.

As such, non-custodial wallets are no longer just an option for early adopters who understood the need for security, they have become the preferred choice for investors of all shapes and sizes. 

The benefits of non-custodial wallets extend beyond securing assets against theft and fraud. Given a very competitive market, the top non-custodial wallet providers understand the need to empower users with additional features. This includes access to staking rewards, opportunities within the decentralized finance universe, and integration with DApps.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the top non-custodial wallets making headlines in 2024.

1. NOW Wallet: Redefining Accessibility and Flexibility

NOW Wallet has benefited from market share gains in 2024, as the hype around its product has gone mainstream. Dubbed by expert reviewers as the wallet that "makes crypto and DeFi accessible for newcomers” and “can potentially pump stablecoin growth to new heights”, this wallet showcases ChangeNOW’s deep-rooted expertise in cryptocurrency and DeFi innovation.

Key Features

NOW Wallet offers compatibility with over 1,500 tokens and 70+ blockchains, making it one of the most versatile options on the market. This means users can manage mega-cap coins like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), privacy coins like Monero (XMR), stablecoins like Tether (USDT), or dive into meme coins like Dogecoin (DOGE) or Popcat (POPCAT) and really diversify their portfolios.

This wallet supports staking for Tron (TRX), Binance Coin (BNB) and NOW Token (NOW), among several others, with flexible lockup periods of 1 to 36 months and competitive APYs. It also offers convenient fiat-to-crypto onboarding, letting users buy crypto with 60+ fiat currencies via bank wires, Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. It’s important to note that KYC verification is required for fiat transactions and this process is managed by NOW Wallet’s partners, not the wallet itself.

With NOW Wallet, users can manage their assets on mobile (iOS and Android), desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), and even synchronize between devices using mnemonic phrases. Through WalletConnect integration, users also gain access to any dApps on Ethereum, BCH, Polygon and more, ensuring they have all the tools necessary to optimize their portfolios how they see fit.

Why It’s Making Headlines

Security and accessibility are where NOW Wallet truly shines. Features like PIN protection, biometric authentication, and full user control over private keys ensure assets remain safe. Its intuitive interface, combined with helpful in-app guides, simplifies the onboarding process, while 24/7 customer support assists users with any issues they encounter, providing a pleasant and smooth experience for everyone using the wallet. 

Media coverage has emphasized NOW Wallet’s foundation in ChangeNOW’s “years-long crypto and DeFi practices and know-how,” cementing its position as one of the top wallets of 2024 for both newcomers and seasoned crypto users. 

Through its integration with ChangeNOW, NOW Wallet offers limitless cross-chain swaps and quick transaction processing, with Pro plans, both free and paid, also enabled by ChangeNOW, further enhancing its value. These benefits include getting cashback on transactions, advanced AML address checks, unlimited crypto loans and personalized payment pages. This further enhances NOW Wallet's appeal as a user-friendly platform which excels at providing advanced features.

2. Trust Wallet: A Trusted Choice

Trust Wallet continues to make waves in 2024 as one of the most widely used non-custodial wallets. Frequently highlighted in media coverage as “a wallet that puts crypto control back in the hands of its users,” Trust Wallet remains a popular choice for managing a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

Key Features

Trust Wallet supports staking for a variety of assets, including Binance Coin, Cosmos, and TRON. Its straightforward interface makes it a good option for beginner or small investors, while larger and more experienced investors can take advantage of the wallet's compatibility with multiple blockchain networks. The wallet also provides access to decentralized exchanges and NFT marketplaces, making it more than just a place to hold crypto.

Why It’s Making Headlines

The wallet’s emphasis on user control and simplicity has all but guaranteed Trust Wallet a spot as a top-five wallet. However, several public reviews note its staking options lack the flexibility seen in competitors. Notably, Trust Wallet falls short in allowing users select staking durations that are consistent with their timelines. For example, some demand shorter staking periods of less than one year and there are better options in the market for these investors.

Exodus Wallet: Usability Meets Design Excellence

Exodus has been praised as “the wallet that merges crypto management with elegance.” Its modern and clean design is combined with a user-friendly interface, making it one of the go-to choices for crypto investors.

Key Features

Exodus offers many of the bells and whistles that one would expect for a market leading product. Investors can stake major cryptocurrencies like Solana, Cardano, and Cosmos and conveniently track their staking rewards and analyze detailed annual percentage yield breakdowns within the app.

Another advantage is its built-in portfolio management tools. This provides a comprehensive overview of a user’s crypto holdings. This integration of staking and tracking features is one of Exodus's key strengths as it lets users manage their assets in one place.

Why It’s Making Headlines

Exodus has been praised by beginners for its layout which removes much of the intimidation associated with crypto management. At the same time, experts reviewing the platform highlight tools that offer detailed insights into their investments. This balance has helped solidify Exodus’s reputation as one of the most desirable wallets available today.

That said, Exodus isn’t without its limitations as the wallet doesn’t cater to every need. Some experts highlighted Exodus' lack of integrated access to decentralized finance applications. This is a standard feature offered by some competitors like NOW Wallet. This omission may be fine for some, but investors looking for a more comprehensive crypto management solution should consider alternative options.

4. Ledger Live: The Gold Standard for Security

Ledger Live and the entire family of Ledger hardware wallets are frequently mentioned in headlines as “the ultimate choice for crypto security in 2024.” Its robust combination of hardware and software ensures unparalleled protection for digital assets.

Key Features

Ledger's products are for sale at leading retailers, notably Best Buy. The hardware wallet is known for providing users with a private key stored offline on a Ledger hardware device. As such, users can rest assured their assets are safe from online threats. 

The wallet is known for more than its leading security features. It also supports seamless integration with multiple DeFi platforms, allowing users to interact with DApps while keeping their funds secure.

Why It’s Making Headlines

Ledger is known for combining offline storage with cutting-edge software. This ensures that an investor's assets remain protected in a world where digital threats are a real concern. For many, the high cost of the wallet is worth the investment.

However, the high cost can also be seen as a high barrier to entry. Unlike software-only wallets, Ledger Live requires the purchase of a physical hardware wallet, which represents an upfront cost.

Additionally, its interface can be intimidating to those new to crypto. Competitors like NOW Wallet, known for their simplicity, offer a more beginner-friendly experience, making Ledger Live’s feature set feel at times too much to handle by comparison.

5. Guarda Wallet: Versatility for the Multi-Device User

Guarda Wallet is making headlines in 2024 for its cross-platform availability, often described as “the wallet that works wherever you are.” With versions for mobile, desktop, and web, Guarda offers flexibility for users managing crypto on multiple devices.

Key Features

Guarda Wallet is designed for users who value security, flexibility, and ease of use. The wallet supports over 10,000 cryptocurrencies and allows users to manage their portfolio across multiple devices, including iOS, Android, desktop, and web platforms. This cross-platform compatibility ensures a consistent experience, allowing users to access their wallets anytime and anywhere.

The wallet is known for its customizable dashboard that lets users alter their interface according to their specific needs. Examples include tracking favorite assets or monitoring key market trends.

Why It’s Making Headlines

Guarda’s versatility is its greatest strength, but media coverage often notes that its extensive feature set can overwhelm users who prefer a more streamlined staking experience. By contrast, NOW Wallet’s intuitive design makes it easier for beginners to navigate while still offering advanced tools for seasoned users.

Conclusion: The Future of Non-Custodial Wallets

As 2024 comes to an end, non-custodial wallets are proving their worth as essential tools for managing digital assets securely and efficiently. Each wallet listed above offers something unique to the table. But NOW Wallet sets itself apart with an unmatched combination of features, ease of use, and media acclaim.

Whether you’re staking to generate long-term gains, managing a diversified portfolio, or taking advantage of exciting DeFi opportunities, NOW Wallet and its competitors are shaping the future of crypto wallet technology.