Coldcard
Coldcard Mk5
Bitcoin-only signing device for paranoid security
Our review
The Coldcard Mk5 is the industry standard for Bitcoin-only cold storage. The whole philosophy is about removing attack surface: no Bluetooth, no altcoins, instead PSBT-based air-gapped signing over microSD or NFC. You build a transaction in Sparrow or Electrum, sign it on the Coldcard while it is power-only (via the COLDPOWER 9V adapter), and broadcast from the computer. For Bitcoin holdings of more than a few BTC, it is the most robust setup that exists.
Best for: Experienced Bitcoin users who want to sign transactions without ever plugging the device into a computer
Pros
- Bitcoin-only minimises the attack surface
- Two Secure Elements instead of one, defense in depth
- Air-gapped signing via PSBT on microSD (and QR on the Q model)
- Fully open source firmware
- Duress PIN, brick-mode and BIP39 passphrase ship as standard
Cons
- Steep learning curve, not beginner-friendly
- No altcoin support
- Priced in USD plus possible EU import duty
Specifications
- Display
- 1.54" Gorilla Glass screen with a full keypad
- Connectivity
- USB-C, NFC, microSD (air-gapped via PSBT)
- Coins
- Bitcoin only (by design)
- Ships from
- Canada
- Released
- 2024
- Open source firmware
- Yes
- Display
- 1.54" Gorilla Glass
- Secure Elements
- Two, dual-chip design
- Backup
- BIP39 + optional Seed XOR
- Air-gap
- microSD and NFC
- Firmware
- Fully open source
Ready for Coldcard Mk5?
Buy direct from the manufacturer for tamper-evident packaging and a full warranty. We send you through our affiliate link.
Buy from the manufacturerRelated models
Coldcard
Coldcard Q
Coldcard with a QR scanner, qwerty keyboard and battery power
- Price
- 249.21 USD ≈ 1,730 DKK
- Ships from
- Canada
- Coins
- Bitcoin only
- Secure Element
- Dual Secure Elements
Ledger
Ledger Nano S Plus
The classic pick for hodling at home
- Price
- 79 EUR ≈ 590 DKK
- Ships from
- France
- Coins
- 15,000+
- Secure Element
- CC EAL6+