Top Mobile and Paper Wallets for Safely Storing Stellar Lumens (XLM)

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Stellar is an open-source blockchain network designed for fast, low-cost cross-border payments and asset transfers. Launched in 2014 by the Stellar Development Foundation (SDF), its mission is to connect global financial systems and make money more fluid, enabling value to move as easily as email. The network’s native token, Stellar Lumens (XLM), plays a critical utility role – serving as a bridge currency for forex transactions and covering transaction fees.

Jump to Master Table: Best Stellar (XLM) Wallets 2025

Over the past two years, Stellar’s ecosystem has grown significantly through real-world use cases and technological upgrades. In partnership with MoneyGram, Stellar now offers a global cash-to-crypto on/off-ramp. This collaboration – bolstered by SDF’s investment in MoneyGram – bridges digital assets with physical cash. Franklin Templeton brought a tokenized U.S. Treasury money market fund on-chain via Stellar, demonstrating institutional adoption of Stellar for real-world asset issuance.

Stellar Aid Assist, a UNHCR pilot, uses Stellar to disburse aid via USDC to refugees, who can redeem funds at MoneyGram outlets, greatly streamlining distribution. The network has also leapt forward with Soroban smart contracts for on-chain DeFi and dApps, expanding Stellar’s capabilities beyond payments. Real-world asset tokenization is emerging as a key theme on Stellar. From stablecoins and bonds to tokenized funds, Stellar is increasingly being used to represent traditional assets on-chain. Partnerships like those with Archax (a regulated digital exchange) aim to bring billions in assets (from bonds to equities) onto Stellar’s ledger.

Ready to secure your XLM and participate in this growing ecosystem? Below we compare the best Stellar wallet options available in 2025 – from ultra-secure hardware devices to user-friendly mobile apps – to help you choose the right one. Each wallet is evaluated across security, control of keys, transparency, Stellar feature support, ease of use, asset support, cost, and customer service. Jump to the full comparison in the table below for a quick overview.

Master Table: Best Stellar (XLM) Wallets 2025

Ledger Nano X

Ledger Nano X is a leading hardware wallet known for its robust security and support for thousands of cryptocurrencies. It stores XLM and other assets offline on a secure element chip, with Bluetooth connectivity to manage funds via the Ledger Live app or Stellar-integrated apps. Users safeguard access with a PIN and 24-word recovery phrase, ensuring full self-custody of their keys.

• Security (95%) – Features a certified secure element (CC EAL5+) and mandatory PIN, keeping private keys offline. The Nano X’s security is top-tier, though its firmware is closed-source (requiring trust in Ledger’s reputation).
• Self-Custody (100%) – You control your keys via a recovery phrase. No third party ever has access, meaning you truly own your XLM.
• Open-Source (20%) – Ledger Live software is partially open, but the device firmware is proprietary. Transparency is limited to Ledger’s security audits and community scrutiny.
• Stellar Features (60%) – Basic Stellar support: send and receive XLM in Ledger Live. Does not natively display Stellar tokens or support the DEX; you’ll need to connect to external Stellar platforms (e.g. StellarTerm or Freighter) for advanced operations.
• Usability & UX (80%) – Compact device but navigation uses two small buttons and a tiny screen. Initial setup (writing down 24 words) takes time. Once set up, Bluetooth and Ledger Live make daily use fairly convenient.
• Assets & Ecosystem (100%) – Supports 1000+ coins and tokens beyond XLM. You can manage a diverse crypto portfolio with one device, benefiting from Ledger’s wide ecosystem (app integrations, DeFi support for other chains, etc.).
• Fees & Costs (30%) – Hardware purchase required (~$149). No ongoing wallet fees; using XLM just incurs Stellar’s minimal network fees.
• Availability & Support (90%) – Widely available worldwide. Ledger provides extensive documentation, a knowledge base, and email support. A large user community means plenty of tutorials and troubleshooting help.

Pros:

• Elite security with offline key storage and secure element protection.
• Supports a huge range of cryptocurrencies (ideal if you hold more than just XLM).
• Compatible with Stellar dApps (via WalletConnect or browser platforms) and can be used in tandem with Freighter or StellarX for advanced features.

Cons:

• Not free – requires buying the device, which is relatively expensive.
• Firmware is closed-source, so you must trust Ledger’s security claims.
• Limited native Stellar functionality (e.g., cannot manage Stellar tokens or trade without third-party tools).

Official Ledger Nano X Page

Ledger Flex

Ledger Flex is Ledger’s next-generation hardware wallet featuring a large E-Ink touchscreen. It offers the same security foundations as the Nano X, but with a more user-friendly interface. The Flex secures your XLM offline and connects via USB or Bluetooth to Ledger Live and other apps, making asset management more intuitive with its on-device display.

• Security (95%) – Uses the same secure element and OS as Nano X, providing excellent protection. The addition of a touchscreen doesn’t compromise security – you still confirm transactions on the device itself, reducing risk of misconfirming transactions. Firmware remains closed-source but rigorously tested.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You maintain sole control of the recovery phrase and private keys. Losing the device isn’t catastrophic as long as you have your backup seed safely stored.
• Open-Source (20%) – Like other Ledger devices, core firmware is proprietary. The companion Ledger Live app is open-source, but the critical device code is not publicly auditable.
• Stellar Features (60%) – No change in Stellar functionality compared to Nano X: XLM transfers are supported in Ledger Live, but viewing or trading Stellar tokens requires third-party interfaces. The Flex’s screen does allow clear viewing of recipient addresses and amounts for confirmation.
• Usability & UX (85%) – Markedly improved experience. The E-Ink touchscreen allows easy menu navigation and clear transaction details, minimizing reliance on clunky button sequences. Setup and daily use are more streamlined, though it’s still a dedicated device to carry and operate when transacting.
• Assets & Ecosystem (100%) – Supports the same extensive range of assets as Ledger Nano series. Benefit from Ledger’s integrations: from Bitcoin to ERC-20 tokens, plus NFTs and DeFi apps on other networks – all manageable with the Flex.
• Fees & Costs (20%) – Significantly pricier (~$249) due to the advanced hardware. Beyond the upfront cost, usage of the wallet for Stellar transactions remains essentially free (just tiny network fees).
• Availability & Support (90%) – As a new model, it’s available through Ledger’s official store and select retailers. Ledger’s customer support and community resources apply equally to the Flex. Firmware updates and security fixes are provided by Ledger as needed.

Pros:

• Touchscreen interface greatly enhances ease-of-use and clarity when verifying transactions.
• Top-tier security architecture identical to proven Ledger devices.
• Manages a wide variety of crypto assets; ideal for users seeking one wallet for all their coins.

Cons:

• Very expensive for a wallet device, which may be overkill if you only need to manage a couple of assets like XLM.
• Still closed-source firmware; relies on Ledger’s continued support and trustworthiness.
• Bulkier than a Nano X (though still pocket-sized) and requires carrying the device for transactions.

Official Ledger Flex Page

Tangem Wallet

Tangem Wallet is a unique hardware wallet in a credit-card form factor. Instead of a traditional device with buttons, Tangem uses an NFC-enabled smart card that you simply tap on your smartphone to sign transactions. It provides secure storage for XLM and thousands of other assets without any batteries or cables, making crypto storage as easy as carrying a bank card.

• Security (90%) – Each Tangem card contains an EAL6+ secure element chip where your private key is generated and never leaves. Transactions must be authorized by physically tapping the card. The absence of a screen means you rely on the mobile app to display transaction details, so it’s crucial to use the official app. Overall, Tangem offers high-grade security, comparable to other hardware wallets, but without a display, users must exercise caution.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You are in complete control. There is no seed phrase; instead, Tangem allows multiple cards to serve as backups. As long as you have at least one of your cards, you have access to your funds. No third party ever holds your XLM – the cards and your phone are the only required tools.
• Open-Source (90%) – Tangem’s mobile app and even its firmware are open-source, allowing the community to review the code. This level of transparency is rare among hardware wallets and boosts trust, as anyone can verify there are no backdoors.
• Stellar Features (80%) – Tangem Wallet fully supports Stellar Lumens and recently added support for Stellar-based tokens. You can send, receive, and store any Stellar asset. However, the Tangem app doesn’t have built-in DEX trading or advanced operations like multi-signature. It focuses on fundamental wallet functions. For DeFi or trading, you might connect your Tangem wallet via WalletConnect or use it to sign transactions generated on Stellar web apps.
• Usability & UX (90%) – Extremely simple for everyday use. Setup involves just tapping the card and choosing a passcode in the app. No writing down seed phrases – backup is handled by optional duplicate cards. Using it is intuitive: open the app and tap the card when prompted. For non-technical users, it feels natural and less intimidating than traditional hardware wallets.
• Assets & Ecosystem (100%) – Tangem supports 6000+ coins and tokens across multiple blockchains, including Stellar. It’s truly multi-currency, which means you can manage XLM alongside Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others all from the same app/card. This broad support makes it a one-stop solution for diverse portfolios.
• Fees & Costs (80%) – Tangem is relatively affordable. A 2-card pack or 3-card pack (for backups) is often around $50–$80, making per-card cost much lower than typical hardware wallets. There are no subscription fees; you pay once for the cards. Standard network fees (like Stellar’s 0.00001 XLM per operation) are the only costs per transaction.
• Availability & Support (80%) – Tangem ships internationally and is available via their website and some distributors. The company provides documentation and email support. Because it’s a newer solution, community support is smaller than Ledger’s, but Tangem’s team is active in addressing issues. The open-source nature also means community developers can contribute or inspect changes.

Pros:

• Ultra-portable and convenient – no cables or batteries; works by simply tapping your phone.
• High security without the setup hassle of seed phrases (backup via additional cards instead).
• Open-source codebase, providing transparency and community trust.
• Supports a wide array of cryptocurrencies in one wallet.

Cons:

• Lacks a built-in screen, so you must trust the mobile app’s representation of transactions.
• If all backup cards are lost or damaged, recovery can be difficult since there’s no traditional seed phrase.
• Requires an NFC-capable smartphone to operate; not suitable if you do all crypto management on desktop.

Official Tangem Wallet Site

Ellipal Titan

Ellipal Titan is a completely air-gapped hardware wallet that resembles a small smartphone. It has a large color touchscreen and doesn’t connect via USB or Bluetooth – instead, it communicates by scanning encrypted QR codes. This “QR code only” approach, combined with a rugged metal shell and tamper-resistance, makes the Ellipal Titan a compelling choice for storing XLM offline.

• Security (92%) – By design, the Titan is isolated from networks. It cannot be connected to the internet, a PC, or any wireless network, eliminating remote attack vectors. All transactions are transferred via QR codes that you scan, meaning private keys never leave the device. The wallet will wipe itself if physically breached. Its firmware is closed-source, but the device has a strong security track record.
• Self-Custody (100%) – The Ellipal gives you a standard 12/24-word recovery seed on setup, which you must keep safe offline. You alone hold your keys, and no part of the process involves Ellipal (the company) having any access to your XLM or other assets.
• Open-Source (10%) – The software/firmware is proprietary. Users have to rely on Ellipal’s security claims and third-party reviews, as the code isn’t available for community audit. This opacity is a minor drawback given the critical security role of the firmware.
• Stellar Features (50%) – Ellipal’s companion mobile app supports Stellar Lumens basic functions. You can send and receive XLM securely, but support for Stellar tokens or on-chain DEX trading is limited. The app might allow viewing popular Stellar assets like USDC, but custom trustlines or advanced operations would likely need manual steps (if supported at all). The Titan focuses on being a secure signer rather than providing a full Stellar ecosystem experience.
• Usability & UX (75%) – The touchscreen interface makes navigation and transaction review straightforward on the device itself. However, the QR code signing process is an extra step: to send a transaction, you create it in the Ellipal mobile app, scan a QR with the Titan’s camera to import the unsigned transaction, approve it on the Titan’s screen, then scan the QR it displays with your phone to finally broadcast. It’s a bit slower than a connected device, but for the security trade-off it remains user-friendly. The initial setup (writing the seed, doing test scans) is fairly simple.
• Assets & Ecosystem (85%) – The Titan supports 40+ blockchains and thousands of tokens (BTC, ETH and ERC-20, XRP, XLM, etc.). It covers most major coins, though not as many as Ledger or Tangem. Within Stellar, it focuses on XLM primarily. Outside of Stellar, it’s compatible with many ecosystems, and the mobile app even has DeFi and DApp browser features for some networks (though not Stellar).
• Fees & Costs (40%) – The Ellipal Titan device costs around $139. It’s a one-time cost; the accompanying app is free to use. There are no added fees for transactions besides blockchain network fees. Considering its sturdy build and large display, some may find the price justified, but it’s still a significant expense compared to software wallets.
• Availability & Support (75%) – Available through Ellipal’s website and various online retailers. Ships to many countries. Ellipal provides customer support via email/tickets and maintains user communities (Telegram, etc.). Firmware updates are periodically released (which you install via microSD card since it’s air-gapped). While not as ubiquitous as Ledger, the Titan has an active user base and decent documentation.

Pros:

• Completely offline operation – immune to remote hacking attempts.
• Large touchscreen and intuitive UI for reviewing transactions and entering PIN.
• Durable, tamper-proof design adds physical security.
• Multi-currency support covers XLM and a broad range of other coins.

Cons:

• Requires QR code scanning for every transaction, which can be less convenient and slower than wired or Bluetooth wallets.
• Closed-source firmware – limited community auditing of security.
• Higher upfront cost, and not as widely adopted (meaning fewer third-party integrations compared to Ledger).

Official Ellipal Titan Page

Exodus Wallet (Desktop)

Exodus is a free, visually stunning software wallet available on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It’s renowned for an intuitive user interface that displays your crypto portfolio with real-time charts. For Stellar users, Exodus provides a straightforward way to hold and transfer XLM on desktop, while also storing a multitude of other cryptocurrencies in the same app.

• Security (80%) – Exodus is a non-custodial hot wallet. Your XLM private key is stored locally on your computer, encrypted by a password. As long as your machine is free of malware and your password is strong, your funds are safe. There’s no additional hardware or 2FA by default, so the wallet’s security depends on the user’s device security. Exodus can integrate with Trezor hardware wallets for some assets, adding an extra security option (though direct Stellar support via Trezor requires using Exodus as an interface).
• Self-Custody (100%) – You remain in full control of your keys. Upon setup, Exodus gives a 12-word recovery phrase that you must save. This phrase restores all your assets (including XLM) if you ever switch devices or need to recover. Exodus never has access to this phrase.
• Open-Source (5%) – Exodus is mostly closed-source. While some components (like blockchain integration libraries) are open, the main codebase isn’t publicly auditable. Users rely on the company’s reputation and security track record. This is a trade-off made to maintain its polished proprietary UI.
• Stellar Features (50%) – Focuses on basics: you can send and receive Lumens easily, view your XLM balance and past transactions. However, it doesn’t support Stellar tokens or allow decentralized trading on the Stellar network. If you hold assets like USDC issued on Stellar, Exodus won’t display them under your account. The wallet’s built-in exchange does not route through the Stellar DEX, so swapping XLM to other assets uses external services and only for certain pairings.
• Usability & UX (95%) – Exodus excels here. The interface is slick and beginner-friendly, with colorful charts and one-click access to features. Even without prior experience, users can navigate sending XLM or checking balances with ease. It also has quality-of-life features like an auto-adjusting fee (not too relevant for Stellar since fees are negligible) and portfolio tracking. The design and overall user experience are arguably Exodus’s biggest strengths.
• Assets & Ecosystem (90%) – Supports 260+ cryptocurrencies, from Bitcoin and Ethereum to many altcoins, all in one app. This is great if you want to manage XLM alongside other holdings. That said, for each blockchain, functionality is sometimes limited to basic sends. Exodus continuously adds assets and features like staking (for supported PoS coins) and NFT viewing (for Ethereum, etc.). Stellar-wise, it’s limited to XLM, but cross-asset integration is why many choose Exodus.
• Fees & Costs (90%) – The app is free. There are no fees to store or send XLM besides the normal network fee (0.00001 XLM). If you use the built-in exchange to swap XLM with another crypto, the third-party exchange integration will include a spread or fee in the rate. These can be higher than using a direct exchange or Stellar DEX. But normal usage of Exodus as a wallet won’t cost you anything extra.
• Availability & Support (95%) – Exodus provides excellent customer support for a free wallet. They have 24/7 help through email and an extensive online knowledge base. Updates are frequent (the app notifies you to upgrade when new versions with features/fixes come out). The wallet is available in multiple languages and the company has been around since 2015, which builds confidence. Exodus also has a mobile app and the ability to sync your desktop and mobile wallets via QR code, if you want to use both.

Pros:

• Beautiful, easy-to-use interface – ideal for those new to crypto or who appreciate design.
• Multi-asset wallet: manage XLM and numerous other coins in one place.
• Built-in exchange feature for quick swaps between cryptocurrencies (simple for users, albeit at higher rates).
• Responsive customer support and regular updates.

Cons:

• Not specialized for Stellar – can’t explore Stellar tokens, DEX, or set trustlines for assets.
• Closed source core; you have to trust the Exodus team’s security implementations.
• No advanced security features like multi-signature or password-protected sending; security relies on your device and backup of the seed.

Official Exodus Wallet Download

Guarda Wallet (Desktop)

Guarda is a multi-platform, non-custodial wallet that supports Stellar Lumens alongside dozens of other blockchain assets. On desktop, Guarda provides a lightweight application (available for Windows, Mac, Linux) where users can manage XLM, exchange cryptocurrencies, and even buy crypto with a bank card. It’s known for a balance between usability and a wide feature set without custodial risk.

• Security (78%) – Guarda encrypts your private keys locally with a password. As a software wallet, it’s as secure as your computer’s environment; there’s no hardware isolation. It does offer an optional encryption of backup files and the ability to import/export keys at will. No known major security breaches, but being closed-source means security through obscurity to an extent. Always keep your Guarda app updated and use a strong password.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You have full control of your keys. Upon creating a wallet, Guarda will prompt you to backup your recovery phrase (or export a backup file). They don’t keep a copy – losing your backup means losing access. This aligns perfectly with self-custodial principles.
• Open-Source (5%) – Guarda is a proprietary wallet. Its source code isn’t open for public auditing. Users rely on Guarda’s reputation and, possibly, external security audits (if any are published) for assurance.
• Stellar Features (50%) – Guarda supports sending and receiving XLM without issue. It shows your XLM balance and recent transactions. However, it doesn’t expose many Stellar-specific features; for example, adding trustlines to new assets is not part of the standard interface. If you send a Stellar token to Guarda, it may not display it since there’s no interface to manage unknown assets. Similarly, there’s no built-in access to the Stellar DEX or Soroban contracts. Guarda’s strength is being a generalist wallet, not a specialized Stellar tool.
• Usability & UX (85%) – The desktop interface is clean and businesslike. It’s not as flashy as Exodus, but it’s straightforward. Navigation is done via a sidebar listing your wallets and functions like “Send,” “Receive,” “Exchange,” etc. For someone holding multiple assets, it’s convenient to have them all in one application. The learning curve is mild – operations like sending XLM are guided with on-screen prompts. The exchange feature (powered by partners like ChangeNOW or Coinify) is integrated, allowing you to swap, say, XLM for BTC within the app (again, at partner rates).
• Assets & Ecosystem (95%) – Guarda supports 50+ major blockchains and thousands of tokens. You can hold and manage Bitcoin, Ethereum (and ERC-20 tokens), BNB Chain tokens, Monero, TRON, and many others, in addition to Stellar. This broad support is great for users who want a single app for a diversified portfolio. Guarda also offers staking for some coins and has a built-in token generator for certain chains. It truly tries to be an all-in-one crypto custody solution.
• Fees & Costs (90%) – The wallet itself is free to download and use. Sending XLM costs only the Stellar network fee. Guarda makes money through optional services: crypto purchases (credit card purchases incur a fee from partners) or in-app exchanges (the exchange providers embed a fee in the rate). But if you don’t use these, you won’t pay anything to Guarda. There’s also no fee to store coins or to add more wallets.
• Availability & Support (85%) – Guarda is available on desktop, mobile (iOS/Android), and even as a web wallet and browser extension. This flexibility is a plus. They offer customer support via email and a live chat on their website; user reviews often cite reasonably quick response times. The documentation covers common tasks. While not as big a company as some competitors, Guarda has a solid presence and has been around for several years, indicating reliability.

Pros:

• One wallet for many cryptocurrencies – convenient for managing varied holdings (XLM plus others).
• Non-custodial with straightforward backup and restore processes.
• Integrated exchange and purchase options for converting or acquiring crypto without leaving the app.
• Available across all devices (desktop, mobile, web), letting you access your XLM from anywhere in a pinch.

Cons:

• Limited Stellar-specific functionality – not ideal if you intend to explore Stellar’s token ecosystem or DEX trading.
• Closed source – must trust the provider on security implementation.
• No advanced security enhancements like multi-sig directly in the app; it’s a standard hot wallet.

Official Guarda Wallet Website

Solar Wallet (Desktop)

Solar Wallet is an open-source Stellar wallet built specifically for the Stellar blockchain. On desktop, Solar provides a lightweight, secure way to store XLM and interact with the Stellar network’s features like multi-signature accounts and asset management. It’s a community-developed project focused on transparency and simplicity, often recommended by Stellar community members for those who want full control.

• Security (85%) – As a non-custodial application, Solar stores your encrypted secret key on your computer (protected by a user-chosen password). Its open-source nature means anyone can inspect the code for vulnerabilities. It also supports multi-signature: you can set up additional signing requirements on your Stellar account that Solar can help coordinate, adding another layer of security for large balances. Because it’s a hot wallet, you should still follow security best practices (using it on a clean, malware-free machine).
• Self-Custody (100%) – Complete control of your keys. Solar will generate a keypair for you or you can import one; either way, the secret key is yours alone. The wallet encourages backing up your secret key (or recovery phrase if provided) safely offline. No servers or third-parties are involved in key management.
• Open-Source (100%) – Solar is fully open-source. Its codebase is available on GitHub, which has allowed the Stellar developer community to audit, contribute to, and trust the software. This transparency assures users that there are no hidden functions or sneaky data collection – the wallet does what it says it does.
• Stellar Features (95%) – Excellent support for Stellar’s unique features. With Solar, you can:
  • Add and remove trustlines to Stellar assets (enabling you to hold any Stellar token).
  • Send and receive not just XLM but any asset issued on Stellar.
  • Sign transactions for multi-sig setups (for example, co-sign transactions if your account has multiple signers).
  • Potentially trade on the Stellar DEX – Solar has historically offered a basic interface for creating offers. While not as advanced as StellarTerm, it allows you to swap or trade assets through the network’s built-in exchange.

  It may not yet support interacting with Soroban smart contracts (as smart contracts are very new on Stellar), but for Protocol 20 and classic features, it’s comprehensive.

• Usability & UX (80%) – Solar has a clean, no-frills interface. It’s more utilitarian – you won’t get animated charts or coin artwork here. Instead, you get clearly laid-out options for sending payments, managing assets, and adjusting account settings. New users might need to understand a bit about Stellar’s concepts (like trustlines) to fully utilize it, but the wallet labels things clearly. Setting up the wallet and performing basic transactions is straightforward. It’s just not as “glossy” as some commercial wallets.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – Solar is strictly for Stellar. You can’t store Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other non-Stellar assets (except via their wrapped or anchor versions on Stellar, which is an advanced use-case). It shines in the Stellar ecosystem – letting you manage potentially hundreds of tokens issued on Stellar – but it’s not intended as a multi-chain wallet. For Stellar users, though, it covers that ecosystem fully.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – Solar is completely free. Being open-source, there’s no cost to download or use it. There are no added fees on transactions; you only pay the native Stellar network fees (which are negligible). Solar doesn’t have any monetization; it’s offered as a community service tool.
• Availability & Support (70%) – You can download Solar Wallet for desktop from its official site or GitHub releases. Since it’s community-driven, support is informal: documentation online, GitHub issue tracking, and community forums (like Stellar’s subreddit or Discord) are primary help avenues. There’s no dedicated support team, but the Stellar community is often willing to assist. Solar is also available on mobile, and the developers keep it updated to maintain compatibility with network upgrades.

Pros:

• Open-source and transparent – built by the community for the community, with no hidden agendas.
• Full support for Stellar tokens and advanced features like multi-sig, which many generic wallets lack.
• Lightweight and straightforward, without unnecessary bloat or distractions.
• No cost and no sign-up – you just install it and you’re ready to use Stellar.

Cons:

• Stellar-only: not suitable if you want one wallet for many different blockchain ecosystems.
• Interface is basic; less visually intuitive for complete newcomers (some knowledge of Stellar terminology helps).
• Reliant on community support – no official customer service if something goes wrong with your setup.

Official Solar Wallet Repository and Site

StellarTerm (Desktop DEX)

StellarTerm is an open-source client for accessing the Stellar Decentralized Exchange (DEX). It can be used via web or as a desktop app. StellarTerm isn’t a traditional “wallet” with modern UI flair; instead, it’s a powerful tool for those who want to trade or manage Stellar assets directly on the network. You can think of it as a specialized wallet focused on trading.

• Security (82%) – When used as a desktop application (or by downloading the web code and running it locally), StellarTerm is very secure: your secret key is stored in your browser session and not transmitted. If you use the web hosted version at stellarterm.com, ensure you’re on the correct site (bookmark it) to avoid phishing, as you would be typing your secret key or using Freighter/Ledger to sign in. The software itself is open-source, and many in the Stellar community have reviewed it. It also supports hardware wallets like Ledger – you can connect and sign through them, meaning your key never touches the computer.
• Self-Custody (100%) – StellarTerm is non-custodial. It will ask you to either input your secret key (not recommended on the web) or use a more secure login (like Freighter, Albedo, or Ledger). Either way, you are in control of your keys. The tool doesn’t store anything on servers; any private data stays in your browser’s local memory.
• Open-Source (100%) – The project is fully open-source. Users can inspect the code on GitHub (it was originally created by Iris Li, one of the early Stellar developers). This transparency means there’s community trust in using StellarTerm as a reliable Stellar DEX interface.
• Stellar Features (90%) – StellarTerm’s forte is asset trading and management. With it, you can:
  • View all tokens on the Stellar network, including order books for each trading pair.
  • Create buy/sell orders on the Stellar DEX for any asset pair (e.g., trade XLM for USD tokens or any other available market).
  • Add trustlines to new assets so you can hold them or trade them (the interface provides an “Accept Assets” function).
  • Send payments in XLM or other tokens to others by specifying their address.

  It’s very comprehensive for the classic Stellar protocol features. However, it doesn’t support Soroban smart contracts and it might not have a user interface for liquidity pools (AMMs) if those aren’t added. It sticks to the traditional order book model. Also, multi-signature accounts can be used with StellarTerm, but the client itself doesn’t manage coordination – you’d have to manually gather co-signatures if required.

• Usability & UX (70%) – The interface is functional but geared towards experienced users. It looks like a basic exchange dashboard: you’ll see order book tables, price charts (courtesy of third-party APIs), and forms for placing orders. There are no friendly walkthroughs or simplified views. For someone unfamiliar with trading or Stellar’s concepts, it can be daunting. That said, if your main need is to trade Stellar assets or do specific operations (like set flags or manage an account’s options), StellarTerm exposes those clearly. It’s just not designed for prettying it up. Navigating requires some knowledge, but everything is labeled and logically laid out for those who know what they’re looking at.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – StellarTerm deals exclusively with Stellar network assets. It will list literally every token issued on Stellar (many of which are low-quality or spam tokens – it has some features to hide those). You cannot use it for assets on other chains unless they’ve been bridged onto Stellar via an anchor. It’s not a multi-chain wallet; it’s a specialist for Stellar’s universe of assets.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – StellarTerm is free to use. There are no added fees on trades or transfers; the only fees are the standard Stellar network fees (which are extremely low) and offers you place will trade at whatever market price and spread exists (StellarTerm itself isn’t taking a cut). In the past, the StellarTerm site even benefited from inflation mechanism rewards (when those existed) to remain fee-free. Now inflation is gone, but running the client doesn’t incur costs to the user aside from the need to have 1 XLM minimum balance for each trustline and so forth as per Stellar protocol.
• Availability & Support (60%) – The official StellarTerm site and downloadable client are readily accessible. Being a community-driven project, updates have slowed down (as of 2025, it’s functional but not frequently updated except for critical fixes). There’s no dedicated support team. If you encounter an issue, you’d typically seek help on Stellar community forums or GitHub issues. Documentation is minimal beyond some FAQ on the website. Essentially, it’s assumed the user has a certain level of know-how or will seek community assistance if needed.

Pros:

• Gives you direct access to Stellar’s built-in exchange and complete control over asset trading and management.
• Transparent and open-source – you can run it offline for maximum security, and hardware wallet support adds further safety.
• No fees or frills – it’s all about utilizing the Stellar network’s capabilities to the fullest.

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly in appearance or approach; aimed at users who understand Stellar’s mechanics.
• No mobile app and the interface isn’t optimized for small screens.
• Focused purely on Stellar network assets – cannot manage other blockchain coins.

Official StellarTerm Site

LOBSTR Wallet

LOBSTR is one of the most popular wallets for Stellar Lumens. Available on iOS, Android, and as a web app, LOBSTR offers a simple and elegant interface tailored for Stellar’s features. It targets everyday users who want to send, receive, and utilize XLM and Stellar tokens without fuss. LOBSTR has been around since 2015 and is often recommended by the Stellar Foundation as a user-friendly solution.

• Security (80%) – LOBSTR is non-custodial; it encrypts your secret key on your device (protected by a PIN or biometric lock). It also offers optional two-factor security via LOBSTR Vault, a separate app that can co-sign transactions (essentially multi-sig 2FA for your wallet – a big security plus for those who opt in). LOBSTR’s code is not open-source, but it has operated for years without incident. Always make sure to enable security features like PIN lock and Vault for enhanced protection, since a phone wallet can be vulnerable if someone gains access to your device.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You hold your keys. When creating a LOBSTR wallet, you are given a secret key (56-character Stellar secret, or you can use a 24-word mnemonic if using certain backup methods). LOBSTR itself cannot move your funds without your consent. With Vault enabled, even if someone got your password, they couldn’t send transactions without also confirming on your second device.
• Open-Source (5%) – LOBSTR is a closed-source product. The company behind it (UltraStellar) does not publish the source code. The lack of open code is a consideration for the more security-conscious, though the additional Vault feature can mitigate some trust concerns by distributing signing between two apps.
• Stellar Features (95%) – LOBSTR shines in supporting Stellar’s ecosystem:
  • It lets you add trustlines to many Stellar tokens with a single tap (there’s a curated list of verified assets, like USDC, anchored BTC, etc.).
  • You can send and receive any Stellar asset, not just XLM, using federated addresses or plain addresses.
  • Built-in swap functionality: LOBSTR’s interface allows you to swap between assets (this uses Stellar’s DEX/path payments under the hood to give you a seamless conversion).
  • Stellar Fiat anchors and on/off ramps: LOBSTR integrates with services like MoneyGram Access, allowing you to deposit or withdraw cash via USDC in supported regions directly through the app. It also partners with providers for buying crypto with a card or withdrawing to bank (depending on region).
  • Soroban support: LOBSTR recently introduced WalletConnect support and even a browser extension (LOBSTR Extension) for connecting to Soroban dApps, showing a commitment to staying current with Stellar’s evolution.
  • Multi-sig: With Lobstr Vault, you effectively get multi-sig capabilities. You can require the Vault app co-sign high-value transactions, leveraging Stellar’s multi-signature feature under the hood.

  In short, LOBSTR covers nearly all things Stellar except direct order-book trading (for which you can use StellarX or similar – though you could still receive DEX trades executed against you just fine). For most users, all needed Stellar functionality is there in an accessible form.

• Usability & UX (90%) – The wallet is intuitive and sleek. On mobile, the design is clean, with easy-to-read balances and clear action buttons. Sending XLM or tokens is as simple as entering an address or scanning a QR. The app handles federation addresses (user*lobstr.co style addresses) seamlessly. The web version syncs with mobile, so you can use whichever is convenient. LOBSTR also provides helpful extras like price charts for assets, push notifications for incoming transactions, and even an email invoice feature to request payments. Users seldom find it confusing – it’s designed for mass adoption in mind.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – LOBSTR is exclusively for Stellar network assets. You cannot directly hold Bitcoin, ETH, etc., except as tokens on Stellar’s network (e.g., an issued BTC token by an anchor). It’s not a multi-chain wallet. For Stellar though, it supports as many assets as you trust – you can hold dozens of different Stellar tokens in the app if you want, and each will show up with its logo (if verified) and balance. LOBSTR maintains a directory of known assets to help users identify reputable anchors.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – The app is free. There are no subscription fees. When you transact, you just pay the normal Stellar network fees which are negligible. Conversions or swaps done in-app use the DEX; LOBSTR doesn’t charge an extra commission on top (though if using third-party services like buying with credit card or MoneyGram, those providers have their fees). Creating a new account in LOBSTR does require the minimum 1 XLM reserve to exist on the network, but that’s your balance, not a fee.
• Availability & Support (90%) – LOBSTR is widely available via the Apple App Store, Google Play, and any modern web browser. The team behind LOBSTR provides support through an email ticket system and responds to user inquiries. Given its popularity, there are also plenty of community discussions and guides on using LOBSTR. It’s actively maintained; updates roll out for new features or improvements (such as recent Soroban capabilities). The only minor drawback is that because it’s closed-source, advanced users can’t self-audit issues – but the company has a good track record of quickly fixing bugs and securing the platform.

Pros:

• User-friendly and polished interface (both mobile and web).
• Built specifically for Stellar – supports tokens, on/off ramps (like MoneyGram), and even multi-sig via Vault.
• Extras: integrates MoneyGram cash out, WalletConnect for dApps, and optional multi-sig via LOBSTR Vault app.
• Active development and integration of the latest Stellar features (Soroban, etc.), showing strong ecosystem support.

Cons:

• Not open-source – users must trust the provider’s security implementation.
• Stellar-focused: you’ll need a different wallet for non-Stellar assets (LOBSTR only holds Stellar-based tokens and Lumens).
• Relies on central services for some features (asset verification, price feeds), which is convenient but purists may prefer more decentralized approaches.

Official LOBSTR Wallet Website

Trust Wallet

Trust Wallet is a popular mobile wallet originally developed for Ethereum and later acquired by Binance. It supports a wide array of cryptocurrencies – including Stellar Lumens. Trust Wallet is known for being open-source and offering users control of their private keys, all within an easy-to-use smartphone app.

• Security (82%) – Trust Wallet gives users a secure, non-custodial environment. Private keys are stored locally on your phone, encrypted by a PIN or biometric lock. Because the app is open-source, its code has been reviewed by the community which adds confidence. However, like any mobile wallet, the security is ultimately dependent on the device’s security (use a strong password, keep your phone OS updated, and beware of malware). There have been no major security incidents reported with the wallet itself. Always back up your 12-word seed and you can recover funds even if the phone is lost.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You own your keys via a standard 12-word recovery phrase that Trust generates at wallet creation. The app does not send your keys anywhere – you are fully in control. As long as you have your phrase, you can restore your XLM and other assets on any device with Trust or a compatible wallet.
• Open-Source (100%) – Trust Wallet’s code is openly available on GitHub. This transparency is important because developers worldwide can inspect how keys are handled and how transactions are signed. The open nature is a big plus for the security community. (Note: some newer components like the DApp browser were at times not fully open due to App Store policies, but the core wallet is open-source.)
• Stellar Features (50%) – Trust Wallet’s Stellar functionality is basic. You can hold XLM, see your balance, and send/receive lumens. It does not show other Stellar tokens or provide a built-in way to add trustlines for them. If someone sends you a Stellar asset (like a custom token) to your Trust Wallet address, the wallet will not display it, because it’s not designed to manage Stellar tokens. There’s also no integration with the Stellar DEX or Soroban smart contracts in Trust Wallet. Essentially, it treats Stellar like it treats Bitcoin or any other coin – straightforward transfers only. For those just wanting to HODL or transfer XLM occasionally, this is fine; but it’s not sufficient if you want to delve into the Stellar ecosystem’s broader features.
• Usability & UX (90%) – Trust Wallet has a clean and simple interface on mobile. It’s very easy to switch between different wallets (like Ethereum wallet, Stellar wallet, etc.) within the app. Sending XLM is as easy as selecting Stellar, entering the recipient address or scanning a QR, and amount, then confirm. The app supports an internal DApp browser (on Android; on iOS this is limited due to Apple’s policies) for interacting with DeFi or NFT apps on supported blockchains – but again, that doesn’t apply to Stellar apps (the DApp browser is mainly for Ethereum/BSC dApps). Overall, new users find Trust Wallet straightforward for managing multiple coins. No advanced knowledge needed to send or receive XLM.
• Assets & Ecosystem (95%) – Trust Wallet is multi-chain: it supports 70+ blockchains and countless tokens (ERC-20, BEP-20, etc.). This means alongside XLM, you can store BTC, ETH, BNB, ADA, Solana, and many others all in one app. It’s quite comprehensive. It also allows staking certain coins (like Tezos, Tron, etc.) and has NFT support for Ethereum/BNB Smart Chain NFTs. The only downside in the assets category is that it doesn’t integrate Stellar tokens – but aside from that, it’s one of the most versatile wallets out there.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – Trust Wallet is free. There are no subscription fees or charges to use the wallet. When transacting, you pay the network fees (so sending XLM will cost 0.00001 XLM – effectively nothing). Trust Wallet itself doesn’t add fees on top. If you use their built-in swap or buy features, third-party fees apply but wallet itself is free.
• Availability & Support (80%) – Trust Wallet is available for Android and iOS. No official desktop version (though one can pair it with a browser extension version that’s more focused on Ethereum and BSC networks at the moment). For support, there’s a help center and community forums. The team behind Trust is supported by Binance, so the product is maintained actively with frequent updates and bug fixes. However, direct customer support (like personal assistance) relies on community mods and a ticket system; users should be cautious on forums/Telegram as scammers sometimes impersonate support. The app itself has guide pop-ups and links to FAQs to help new users get started.

Pros:

• Open-source and backed by a large community, providing a high level of transparency and trust.
• Multi-coin convenience – manage XLM and a vast range of other cryptocurrencies all in one wallet.
• Simple, clean interface suitable for beginners; easy sending, receiving, and even buying crypto.
• Constant development and improvements, ensuring compatibility with latest network updates and new coins.

Cons:

• Limited specifically in Stellar functionality – not ideal if you want to use Stellar tokens, DEX, or any advanced network features.
• Mobile-only (the separate Trust browser extension doesn’t currently support Stellar), so no dedicated desktop app for XLM management.
• Support relies on community channels; users must beware of imposters when seeking help.

Official Trust Wallet Site

Guarda Wallet (Mobile)

Guarda Mobile brings the multi-asset capabilities of Guarda to smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android). If you prefer managing XLM on the go while also keeping other cryptos in one place, Guarda’s mobile app provides that convenience in a non-custodial way.

• Security (78%) – The mobile app stores private keys locally, encrypted by a user-defined password. It also supports biometric locking (fingerprint/Face ID) for quicker access and an extra layer. As with Guarda Desktop, the mobile app is closed-source, so one must trust the provider’s security measures. It hasn’t had known security incidents, but always exercise standard caution: keep your app updated and avoid installing untrusted apps on the same device. The wallet can be backed up via an encrypted backup file or recovery phrase, which you should store safely off-device.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You retain full control. The app will either prompt you to back up a 12-word mnemonic or an encrypted key file. Guarda never has your private key; losing your device means nothing as long as you have your backup to restore on a new device. Transactions require your password to sign, keeping you in the driver’s seat of your XLM.
• Open-Source (5%) – Like its desktop counterpart, Guarda Mobile is not open-source. The code isn’t publicly available, so users rely on the company’s credibility and any independent security audits they might undergo. The closed nature is a drawback for those who prefer community-vetted software.
• Stellar Features (50%) – On mobile, Guarda’s Stellar functionality remains simple. You can send and receive XLM easily. The app likely displays only XLM under your Stellar account. It doesn’t have UI for adding new Stellar assets or interacting with the Stellar DEX. Essentially, it’s a straightforward XLM wallet on mobile without advanced features. If you attempted to interact with the Stellar ecosystem beyond basic transfers, you’d hit the same limitations as on desktop. For example, there’s no built-in support for claiming Stellar asset airdrops or participating in Stellar’s DeFi – Guarda keeps it general across all coins.
• Usability & UX (80%) – The mobile app is well-designed for multi-currency use. The home screen shows your portfolio of different coins, and navigation is via a simple menu. Sending XLM is user-friendly: select Stellar from your assets, enter the destination (the app can scan QR codes too), and amount, then confirm. The app does a decent job of catering to newcomers (with tooltips and straightforward language). However, juggling many assets on a small screen can get slightly cluttered. Compared to a dedicated Stellar-only mobile wallet, Guarda may feel a tiny bit less specialized, but it’s still perfectly serviceable for everyday transactions.
• Assets & Ecosystem (95%) – Guarda Mobile supports the same breadth of assets as the desktop version. This means you can have Bitcoin, Ethereum, Stellar, and many more all within one app on your phone. If you have a diverse crypto portfolio and like to monitor or manage it from your mobile device, this is very handy. The app also integrates exchange services so you can swap one coin for another from your phone (subject to network and partner availability). Having such multi-chain support in your pocket can be very convenient, though keep in mind managing lots of different chains on a phone might be less comfortable than on a PC for some operations.
• Fees & Costs (90%) – The app is free to install and use. Standard network fees apply for transactions (so sending XLM costs a fraction of a cent in XLM, basically negligible). Guarda doesn’t charge any extra fees for basic wallet usage. If you use the built-in exchange or buy crypto in-app, those have partner fees included. But if you’re just sending XLM to a friend or moving funds, you won’t incur anything beyond the tiny Stellar fee.
• Availability & Support (85%) – Guarda’s mobile app is available worldwide via Google Play and the Apple App Store. It syncs with your Guarda Desktop or Web if you use the same backup (meaning you can access the same wallet across devices). Support is via the same channels as desktop – an in-app chat or email support. There’s also a decent Help Center on Guarda’s website with FAQs. The team is generally responsive, and being a known multi-asset wallet, there’s a user community you can look to for tips as well. As always, be careful only to download the official app from official app stores to avoid fake apps.

Pros:

• Manage XLM alongside many other coins on your phone – a convenient all-in-one mobile wallet.
• Easy to use, even for those new to crypto, with a clean interface and straightforward sending/receiving.
• Non-custodial on mobile, which is great for security (no trusting an exchange or web wallet with your funds while you’re on the go).
• Can quickly exchange assets or purchase crypto directly within the app if needed, adding flexibility.

Cons:

• Doesn’t leverage Stellar’s unique features – basically just an XLM holder. Advanced Stellar users will find it lacking in that department.
• Closed source – you’re trusting the app’s security without community verification.
• If you hold dozens of different assets, the mobile interface can feel a bit crowded to navigate compared to a desktop environment.

Official Guarda Wallet Website

Solar Wallet (Mobile)

Solar Wallet Mobile brings Stellar-specific functionality to your smartphone. It’s open-source and offers on-the-go management of XLM and Stellar tokens. If you prefer to manage your XLM and Stellar assets on your phone while still benefiting from community-vetted code, Solar Mobile is a great option.

• Security (85%) – Solar Mobile stores your Stellar keys on the device, encrypted by a password you set. The code is open-source, so any developer can review how keys are handled, adding confidence. The app doesn’t have any known vulnerabilities disclosed. Still, on a mobile device, general advice applies: keep your phone secure (screen lock, no rooting/jailbreaking, etc.). Solar can also work with multi-signature accounts; you might manage one signer on your phone and another on a different device for higher security. In practice, for day-to-day mobile use, it’s as secure as mobile wallets get, given the transparency of code.
• Self-Custody (100%) – Absolutely self-custodial. You either generate a new Stellar account (the app will show you the secret key to back up safely) or import your existing secret key. At no point does Solar ever transmit your secret – all signing happens on your device. If you lose the device and have not saved the secret/key elsewhere, there’s no recovery, underscoring that you alone have custody.
• Open-Source (100%) – Solar’s mobile app is as open as its desktop version. The source code is public, which means the community can audit each version that gets released. For users, this means a high level of trust – any hidden issues could (theoretically) be caught by independent contributors. It also means the app is free of proprietary gimmicks or trackers that sometimes plague closed wallets.
• Stellar Features (95%) – On mobile, Solar still delivers rich Stellar support:
  • You can add trustlines to assets using the mobile interface, thereby holding any Stellar token in your wallet.
  • Send and receive any Stellar asset. If you have multiple assets, Solar will list them in the app, and you can transact with each.
  • View details about your account – your public key, available balances of various assets, and so on.
  • It supports signing transactions for things like path payments or offer creation, although the UI for placing trades might not be as elaborate as a trading app. Some versions of Solar allowed basic swapping via the DEX, but it’s not a full trading terminal on mobile (screen size and simplicity trade-offs).
  • No direct Soroban smart contract interface yet – as Soroban is new, specialized mobile support might come later. For now, Solar covers “classic” Stellar operations comprehensively.

  In short, anything a typical Stellar user would need (payments, token management, account settings) is at your fingertips with Solar mobile.

• Usability & UX (80%) – The Solar mobile UI is straightforward, but in a utilitarian way. It’s not as flashy as LOBSTR or as guided as Trust; it assumes the user has some understanding of Stellar (for example, it uses terms like “Trustlines” which very new users might not immediately know). That said, it’s logically organized: you have sections for your assets, for sending payments, for settings like managing signers, etc. Performance is generally snappy. It’s a light app, so it runs well even on older devices. One minor thing – because it’s community-developed, the UI design might not be as “modern” or marketing-polished as some commercial apps, but it’s functional and clean.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – Solar Mobile is exclusive to Stellar’s network. Like its desktop version, it won’t hold your Bitcoin or Ethereum (unless they are tokenized on Stellar, which is a niche scenario). It’s meant for those primarily engaging with Stellar assets. If you only hold XLM and a few Stellar tokens, this is perfect. But as a standalone, it’s not a multi-chain wallet, which means you’d use another app for other crypto holdings.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – The app is free and has no ads or in-app purchases. It’s maintained as a community good. Sending transactions costs only the Stellar network fee. Solar doesn’t add any extra charges. The developers likely received grants or community funding to build it, but the end user isn’t charged for using Solar.
• Availability & Support (70%) – Solar Mobile can be downloaded from Google Play and the Apple App Store. Being open-source, if it ever disappeared from app stores, tech-savvy users could compile it themselves, but that’s a side note. For support, there isn’t a dedicated help desk. If you run into issues, you would typically look at the documentation on their GitHub or ask in community forums (like Stellar’s Discord or Keybase channels). The user base is smaller compared to mainstream wallets, but those who use Solar are often knowledgeable and can help one another. The maintainers do update the app to stay compatible with network changes, but updates may be less frequent than a funded commercial app (still, major Stellar upgrades like Protocol 20 are supported).

Pros:

• Fully open-source and transparent – rare for mobile wallets, giving users peace of mind about what the app is (and isn’t) doing.
• Strong support for Stellar features such as multi-signature and custom assets, which many other mobile wallets lack.
• No-frills, privacy-respecting app with no ads, trackers, or fees.
• Lightweight installation and quick performance, even on modest devices.

Cons:

• Stellar-only – you’ll need different wallets for other blockchain assets.
• User interface is straightforward but assumes some knowledge of Stellar concepts; not hand-holding the absolute beginner.
• Community-based support and development – less polished look and potentially slower update cycle compared to big corporate wallets.

Official Solar Wallet Repository and Site

Freighter (Browser Extension)

Freighter is the Stellar Foundation’s official browser extension wallet, akin to “MetaMask for Stellar.” It plugs into Chrome, Brave, or Firefox and allows you to interact with Stellar-enabled websites securely. Freighter doesn’t have a standalone interface for complex operations; rather, it’s meant to be a safe key vault and transaction signer when you’re using Stellar web apps like StellarX, Lumenswap, or Soroban dApps.

• Security (80%) – Freighter keeps your private keys in an encrypted vault within the browser. It requires a password to unlock each session, and will prompt you to approve every transaction from websites. This prevents malicious sites from accessing your funds without your permission. Since it’s an extension, if your computer is compromised (e.g., malware or keyloggers), that could still be a risk – so standard computer hygiene is important. Freighter supports connecting a Ledger hardware wallet for signing, which greatly boosts security by keeping keys off the computer entirely. Overall, it’s much safer than copying and pasting your secret key on random sites and strikes a good balance of security and usability for interacting with Stellar’s ecosystem.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You fully control the keys. When you set up Freighter, you either generate a new secret key (with a 24-word seed phrase backup) or import your existing one. The secret never leaves the extension; web apps you use only get public info or request signatures. You can lock or unlock the wallet as needed, and no third party can freeze or access your XLM. It’s non-custodial in every sense.
• Open-Source (100%) – Freighter’s code is open-source and available on the Stellar Development Foundation’s GitHub. This transparency is important because browser extensions need to be trustworthy (they have access to web page data). The community can inspect the code for any potential issues. SDF also subjected Freighter to security audits before release. So trust is high for this wallet.
• Stellar Features (90%) – Freighter’s primary feature is to sign transactions. It doesn’t itself provide a UI to do things like add trustlines or trade – but when a web app triggers those actions, Freighter steps in to show you the transaction details and ask for approval. It supports all types of Stellar operations (payments, trades, trustline management, even Soroban invoke operations) by design, because it’s built to handle any transaction XDR a dApp throws at it. For example:
  • If you use StellarX (which knows how to tell Freighter to add a trustline), Freighter will prompt and let you approve it.
  • If you use a Soroban dApp (like a DeFi app on Stellar’s smart contracts), Freighter will show the contract function call details for you to approve.

  Freighter also has a minimal built-in ability to send lumens by itself – you can go into the extension, enter an address and amount and send XLM out without a separate app. But it’s quite basic (and doesn’t handle tokens in that manual send form). For anything beyond sending lumens, you generally rely on an external interface. The extension is consciously limited in UI to reduce complexity and attack surface.

• Usability & UX (85%) – Freighter is easy to use if you’re already a bit familiar with browser wallets. Installing it takes seconds from the Chrome Web Store. Setting up a password and backing up your seed phrase are standard steps and clearly indicated. The interface when you click the Freighter icon is minimal – it shows your Stellar account (public key), your XLM balance, and recent transactions. There’s a “Send” function (for XLM) and a “Copy Address” button. When interacting with a site, the transaction review popup is clean and understandable, breaking down the operations (like “Create Trustline for asset XYZ” or “Swap 100 XLM for 50,000 XYZ token”). Compared to something like MetaMask, Freighter is simpler because Stellar’s fees and network don’t require lots of tinkering – so it feels very lightweight. Newcomers might not stumble upon Freighter unless they’re specifically using a Stellar app that suggests it. But once they have it, there’s little friction in use.
• Assets & Ecosystem (30%) – Freighter is solely for Stellar accounts. It will show your XLM balance by default. It can also display other token balances if you’ve added trustlines (the extension UI will list your trusted assets and their amounts). But it’s not meant for multi-chain – no Bitcoin, no Ethereum, etc. It is exclusively built for the Stellar ecosystem. Within that ecosystem, though, it can interact with virtually all apps: AMM swaps, NFT marketplaces (if any on Stellar), Soroban dApps, and more. But as an asset wallet, consider it limited to Stellar network assets only.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – Freighter is free to use. There’s no charge for installing or using it. Being a product of a non-profit foundation (SDF), it’s provided as a public good. The only fees you pay are network fees for transactions you sign (like the 0.00001 XLM per operation on Stellar, and Soroban fees as applicable). Freighter doesn’t add any overhead to that.
• Availability & Support (75%) – Freighter is available for Chrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge (basically any Chromium-based or Firefox-based browser). This wide availability means most desktop users can use it. Currently, there’s no official mobile version (though on Android, some can try it in Firefox mobile with extensions support, it’s not officially targeted at phones). Support is provided through SDF’s channels – there’s documentation on developers.stellar.org, and if issues arise, one can create GitHub issues or ask on Stellar community forums. As an official wallet, it gets timely updates especially around network upgrades. However, direct end-user support (like one-on-one help) is limited; users are expected to be somewhat self-sufficient or seek community help if they lose a password or have questions, as SDF’s focus is more on development.

Pros:

• Official Stellar wallet with strong security practices and open-source code.
• Seamless integration with the expanding Stellar dApp ecosystem (Soroban smart contracts, DEX platforms, etc.).
• Easy to use and very lightweight – doesn’t bog you down with features you don’t need.
• Option to use in tandem with hardware wallets for maximum security during signing.

Cons:

• Not a full-featured standalone wallet – lacks its own advanced asset management interface, relying on other apps for most actions.
• Desktop browser only; no dedicated support for mobile browsers yet, which leaves out mobile-centric users.
• Relatively unknown to crypto users outside Stellar – so fewer third-party integrations compared to giants like MetaMask (though in Stellar context it’s widely supported).

Official Freighter Wallet Page

StellarX (Web DEX)

StellarX is a full-featured decentralized exchange platform for Stellar assets, accessible via web browser. It doubles as a non-custodial web wallet; when you log in, you can hold and transfer your XLM and other Stellar tokens. What sets StellarX apart is its trading interface – you can swap assets, provide liquidity to AMMs, and explore markets, all through an intuitive UI. StellarX is now operated by the Stellar Development Foundation, ensuring ongoing development and integration of new features.

• Security (75%) – StellarX itself does not hold your keys. When using it, you typically log in through a wallet like Freighter or Ledger or Albedo (StellarX offers multiple login methods). This means the security of your funds is largely dependent on the login method:
  • If you use Freighter or Ledger, StellarX never sees your secret key – it just sends transaction requests to your wallet for signing. This is very secure.
  • If you choose to log in by creating a password on StellarX, it uses an implementation called AnchorUSD wallet under the hood – your key is encrypted in your browser storage with the password. This is still non-custodial (the key isn’t on StellarX’s servers unless you deliberately saved it to their cloud backup which they deprecated). It’s moderately secure as long as your password is strong.

  The site itself uses HTTPS and is maintained by SDF, so there’s trust that it’s not malicious. However, as with any web platform, you should ensure you are on the correct official StellarX website to avoid phishing clones. StellarX had a history of refunding network fees and not taking custody, which remains true. It also supports hardware wallet interaction, which is a plus. Summarily, if you use good login practices (like Freighter/hardware), StellarX provides a secure trading environment without holding your assets.

• Self-Custody (100%) – You keep custody. Even though it feels like using an exchange, you’re actually trading directly on the blockchain from your wallet. StellarX just provides the interface. No deposits or withdrawals needed – when you trade, assets move between your wallet and the counterparty via Stellar’s ledger. This is a big advantage over centralized exchanges: you can’t get stuck in a withdrawal freeze because you always control your funds in your wallet.
• Open-Source (5%) – StellarX’s code is not fully open-source. The front-end and smart order matching logic are proprietary (though the “matching” is really just the Stellar network itself). It being an SDF product lends it credibility, but you cannot audit the entire codebase publicly. They might have some open SDKs or components, but the platform as a whole isn’t open. This is one of the trade-offs for its polished, maintained nature.
• Stellar Features (95%) – StellarX embraces the Stellar network’s capabilities to the fullest:
  • Trading: You can trade any Stellar asset for any other. The UI presents order books and charts, and you can place limit or market orders easily.
  • AMM Liquidity Pools: With Protocol 18, Stellar introduced AMMs. StellarX added a feature for liquidity pools – you can add liquidity to earn yield, and swap via these pools for an instant exchange. The interface for this is user-friendly.
  • Asset Management: You can browse a directory of assets (with verification status) and add trustlines with a click, allowing you to hold those tokens. StellarX helps by filtering out known spam assets so you don’t accidentally interact with malicious tokens.
  • Fiat ramps: Because it’s SDF-run, StellarX has integrations for certain anchors. For example, you might deposit USD via bank through an anchor or withdraw via MoneyGram service. They integrated some on/off-ramp flows within the UI (availability depends on region and specific anchor support).
  • Multi-signature: If your account requires multiple signatures, StellarX will detect that and allow you to download transaction XDRs to collect signatures or submit partially. It’s not heavily advertised, but the underlying support is there because it uses standard Stellar transactions.

  The only things outside StellarX’s scope are things external to Stellar – e.g., you can’t trade non-Stellar assets unless they’re represented on Stellar (so no direct BTC/USD trading unless using a BTC token on Stellar). But for Stellar network, it’s comprehensive.

• Usability & UX (75%) – For a decentralized exchange, StellarX has one of the best interfaces around. However, by nature, it is more complex than a simple wallet. New users might be initially overwhelmed by the exchange-like layout. The UI includes charts, order book depth, and various markets – which is fantastic for traders, but casual users have a learning curve. The platform does provide “Swap” for quick conversions (hiding complexity) and “Pool” for liquidity with some explanation, which is simpler. Navigation is logically separated: Markets, Swap, Wallet, History, etc. Overall, if you’ve used an exchange or DeFi app before, StellarX will feel quite easy. If you haven’t, it’s worth spending a bit of time with their help tooltips. The design is modern and it being web-based means no installation needed, which is a UX plus. They also recently improved responsiveness, but it’s still best experienced on a computer rather than a phone screen.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – StellarX is confined to Stellar’s ecosystem of assets. The plus side is: any asset that’s on Stellar, you have access to – including stablecoins like USDC, tokens like MOBI or AQUA (Stellar ecosystem tokens), and even some synthetic assets. The downside: you can’t use it to manage coins on other chains. You’d need other tools for your BTC or ETH unless they’re the wrapped versions on Stellar (which exist but are not mainstream). So, it’s not an all-crypto-in-one-place solution; it’s all-Stellar-in-one-place.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – Using StellarX is free. There are no trading fees taken by the platform. Historically, it even refunded the tiny Stellar network fees using inflation rewards. Now that inflation is gone, they still don’t charge any fees; you just pay the normal network fee (which is minuscule) and the market spread. Adding trustlines, trading, etc., only incur the normal Stellar costs (e.g., 0.5 XLM reserve for a trustline). This is a huge plus for traders – effectively zero fees means more efficient trading and liquidity providing. Also, no withdrawal fees since you never give up custody to begin with.
• Availability & Support (80%) – Being a web app, StellarX is available on any internet-connected desktop. There isn’t a dedicated mobile app, but you can access it via mobile browser (though trading on a small screen is not ideal; a mobile UI overhaul is something to look forward to perhaps). Since SDF took over, they have set up official support channels – there’s likely an email or Zendesk for StellarX support, and definitely a Keybase channel where SDF employees assist users. The knowledge base covers common questions like “How do I deposit fiat?” or “Why can’t I see my asset?”, which is helpful. The support is not one-on-one immediate live chat, but it’s decent for a DeFi-style platform. SDF’s involvement also gives assurance that the platform won’t suddenly disappear and that it’s compliant with necessary regulations (they added user-friendly compliance features like domain and asset info to help users make informed decisions).

Pros:

• Feature-rich platform for trading and managing Stellar assets without ever relinquishing control of your funds.
• Sleek interface with both advanced and simplified options (making it suitable for power users and casual swappers alike).
• No platform fees – extremely cost-effective for high-frequency traders or liquidity providers in the Stellar ecosystem.
• Backed and maintained by the Stellar Development Foundation, ensuring reliability and integration of new network features promptly.

Cons:

• Primarily for Stellar assets – not useful for holding or trading assets on other chains.
• Can be complex for users unfamiliar with exchange environments; a basic wallet user might find it more than they need.
• Web-based means you need to be online and vigilant about phishing; also no native mobile app yet for those who prefer an app experience.

Official StellarX Platform

Albedo (Web Wallet)

Albedo is an open-source web wallet and authentication tool for Stellar. It allows you to sign into Stellar apps and sign transactions without an extension, by using a web-based vault. Think of it as a web-based single sign-on for Stellar: you can log in to various services or sign transactions by approving requests through Albedo’s interface. It works on both desktop and mobile browsers, making it quite versatile for those who don’t want to install an extension or app.

• Security (78%) – When you create an Albedo account, your Stellar secret key is encrypted with a password and stored locally (in your browser’s storage). Each session you must unlock with your password to use it. Albedo never sends your secret key to its server; transactions are signed within your browser. For added security, Albedo can integrate with hardware wallets (like Ledger) for signing, meaning you could use it as a middleman to connect a hardware wallet to web apps. Because it’s web-based, you should always ensure you’re on the correct Albedo website (albedo.link with a valid certificate) to avoid phishing clones. The code being open mitigates hidden risks. Also, Albedo will show you transaction details to approve (similar to Freighter) whenever a site requests a signature. It doesn’t blindly sign. In summary, it’s quite secure if used properly, though a standalone extension like Freighter removes the reliance on a web domain’s security. Many users trust Albedo for convenience and its solid track record so far.
• Self-Custody (100%) – You control everything. Albedo requires that you either create a new key (and back up the generated 24-word phrase) or import your existing secret. This stays client-side. Even the login tokens it uses for app authentication are derived from your key but don’t reveal it. You’re never giving up control of your Lumens; Albedo is essentially a signing portal operating under your command.
• Open-Source (100%) – Albedo is fully open-source. It’s maintained by known Stellar community developer Orbitlens (who also runs StellarExpert). The transparency means the community can audit how it works and has indeed vetted it for security. It’s comforting to know exactly what code is being executed when you use Albedo to sign a transaction on a third-party site.
• Stellar Features (85%) – Albedo’s primary focus is connecting you to Stellar network apps. On its own, the Albedo interface is minimal; you can:
  • Generate a new Stellar account or import one.
  • View your public key and a list of trusted assets with balances (so you do get to see if you have multiple Stellar tokens).
  • Manually sign a transaction XDR if you need to, or even just use it to quickly send a payment by copy-pasting an XDR or using the “Transfer” function for a basic send.

  But typically, you’ll use Albedo by clicking “Login with Albedo” or “Sign with Albedo” on some Stellar service. That could be a decentralized exchange interface, a gaming app, or a token issuance platform. Albedo will handle any transaction type those services need – payments, trades, trustlines, even Soroban contract invocations – by showing you the details and asking for approval. It also supports the Stellar web authentication standard (SEP-10), meaning it can securely log you into services (like a forum or an exchange) that use Stellar keys as credentials, without revealing your secret. So, while Albedo itself isn’t an all-in-one wallet with an exchange UI or such, it enables all these actions through the apps you connect to. One limitation: It doesn’t have a built-in DEX UI or multi-sig coordinator. It’s more like the glue between your key and other applications.

• Usability & UX (75%) – Using Albedo is fairly straightforward, but maybe slightly less so than a dedicated app because it’s web-based with modals. The typical flow: you go to albedo.link, unlock your wallet (enter password), then visit a Stellar app and click “Login with Albedo.” Albedo will pop up (if allowed by your browser’s pop-up settings) and ask you to approve login. To send a payment or do any action from an app, the same happens – a pop-up shows the transaction for you to confirm. The design of these pop-ups and the Albedo site is clean and functional. There isn’t a mobile app UI or anything fancy – it feels a bit like using a developer tool (albeit a well-designed one). It’s easy enough for those who have some crypto experience, but brand-new users might need to read a quick primer to understand what “Approve this transaction” means, etc. On mobile browsers, it’s surprisingly user-friendly; you can switch between the dApp page and the Albedo pop-up fairly smoothly. No installation helps – you just need internet access. In all, it’s user-friendly if you’re accessing a supporting service, but not something you’d pick for “beautiful interface” as a standalone.
• Assets & Ecosystem (40%) – Albedo is strictly Stellar. It can manage any Stellar assets you have, but you cannot manage non-Stellar coins. It’s a niche tool for a niche purpose, albeit a very useful one. If an app uses Albedo, it’s in the Stellar ecosystem by definition (like a Stellar DEX or NFT marketplace), so cross-chain needs don’t really come into play. It’s not intended for multi-chain asset management.
• Fees & Costs (100%) – Albedo is free to use. There are no fees for logging in or signing. It’s a community utility. You pay only Stellar’s network fees when you perform a transaction (again minimal). It doesn’t push any paid features or monetization on you. Even if you use it to log into a service that charges fees, Albedo itself is just handing them a signed token, so that’s free. This aligns with Albedo being an open-source community project – it’s meant to lower friction in the ecosystem at no cost to users.
• Availability & Support (70%) – Albedo is available on any modern web browser. You just navigate to the site (or a site that calls it). On mobile, it works via the mobile browser – i.e., if a mobile Stellar app asks for Albedo login, it’ll open your browser to complete. Support is community-driven; documentation is provided on the website and GitHub, and Orbitlens (the dev) is known to answer questions on Stellar community forums. There’s no dedicated helpdesk, but because it’s fairly straightforward, you might not need much support. The main support needed is often recovering an account if a user forgets their password – but if they have the seed, they can just re-import. The Albedo site itself doesn’t require sign-up, so no account recovery process beyond your own key backup. Updates to Albedo have kept pace with new network features (Soroban, for example, got support). It’s a stable service in the community.

Pros:

• No installation required – very convenient to use on any device, great for one-time or infrequent use of Stellar dApps (no need to set up a dedicated wallet app).
• Open-source and created by a reputable Stellar developer, meaning good security practices and transparency.
• Enables advanced usage (like SEP-10 logins and multi-operation transaction signing) that might be awkward in other wallets.
• Works across desktop and mobile, making it versatile for various scenarios (from trading on a laptop to approving a payment in a mobile browser).

Cons:

• Web-based reliance: you have to trust you’re on the correct Albedo site each time; a malicious lookalike could trick users who aren’t careful.
• Limited UI on its own – not meant for monitoring portfolio or doing anything outside the context of another Stellar application.
• Less known outside the Stellar community, which means some third-party apps might not offer Albedo integration (though many Stellar apps do). New users might also find the concept of a web wallet pop-up less familiar than a mobile app or extension.

Official Albedo Wallet Site