MPC (Multi-Party Computation) wallets offer a great alternative to traditional storage methods. Instead of users having a single private key, the wallet credentials are distributed across multiple shared devices.
In this guide, we compare the best MPC wallets for beginners in 2024. We also explain how MPC wallets work and what features to look for when choosing a provider.
The Top 4 MPC Crypto Wallets Ranked
The best MPC wallets for 2024 are listed below:
- Best Wallet – Leading our list of top MPC wallets is Best Wallet. It has a non-custodial wallet compatible with Ethereum, Polygon, and BSC Mainnet. It also offers a user-friendly DEX, real-time market insights, portfolio management, NFT features, and high security.
- ZenGo – Used by over 800,000 people, ZenGo is offered as a mobile app for Android and iOS. One segment of the user’s private keys is encrypted on the mobile device. While the other is cryptographically generated when transactions are signed. ZenGo also uses three-factor authentication. This helps recover the wallet if the PIN is forgotten or the device is misplaced.
- Spatium – Spatium is a fee-free MPC wallet that comes packed with security controls. This is an MPC app for iOS and Android, and it is protected by fingerprint ID, facial recognition, and tw0-factor authentication. Users can also set up transaction limits and even add whitelisted IP wallet addresses. Thousands of cryptocurrencies are supported, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BNB.
- OKX – OKX upgraded its decentralized wallet in April 2023 to incorporate MPC technology. The OKX wallet is non-custodial and supports dozens of blockchain standards. This option is ideal for active traders that regularly swap tokens and earn yields. The OKX wallet also comes with a bridge aggregator that connects to over 200 decentralized exchanges (DEXs).
Still not sure how to choose the best MPC wallet for cryptocurrency? Read on to find our reviews of the above providers.
What is an MPC Wallet? MPC Wallet Explained
Multi-Party Computation, or MPC, is a technology that was first coined in the 1980s. In the context of cryptocurrency wallets, it removes the need for users (or custodians) to safeguard a single private key.
Instead, MPC wallets use distributed private keys, where each segment is provided by a separate location.
For example:
- Suppose a private key has 10 digits, ranging from 0-9
- The user’s MPC wallet holds digits 0 and 1
- The remaining digits, 2-9, are provided by four different wallet locations
- This means that on their own, each segment of the private key is useless
- In other words, without the full 10 digits of the private key, transactions cannot leave the MPC wallet
This is considered a much safer way to store and send cryptocurrencies. After all, there is no single point of failure. Sure, the user’s segment of the private key could be hacked, without the remaining combination, there can be no movement of funds.
MPC wallets are generally offered as software and accessed via a desktop or mobile device. This makes it seamless to connect with the blockchain economy, including dApps and exchanges.
However, the vast majority of MPC wallets are offered specifically for institutional clients and developers. This is because MPC wallets are suited for large cryptocurrency holdings, considering the security offered. In turn, there are only a few MPC wallets available to the average investor.
Nonetheless, it is important to note MPC wallets are non-custodial. This means that users are still responsible for keeping their wallet funds safe. Moreover, MPC providers cannot help recover stolen cryptocurrencies in the unlikely event the wallet is compromised.
Best MPC Storage Crypto Wallets Reviewed
Looking to get an MPC wallet but not sure which option is best? In this section, we review the three best MPC wallets in the market today.
1. Best Wallet – Overall Best MPC Crypto Wallet With a DEX & NFT Integration And Real-time Market Insights
Best Wallet is currently at the top of our list of the best MPC crypto wallets due to its unique non-custodial solution designed to simplify crypto management.
The wallet has a consolidated dashboard, eliminating the need for multiple platforms. Users can manage Ethereum, BSC Mainnet, and Polygon assets under one umbrella. It also has plans to support Bitcoin and other blockchains.
It also offers real-time market insights, which give users an edge via timely industry news, token sentiment, and event updates.
These insights are Integrated directly into the dashboard and complemented by real-time analytics and charts through the decentralized exchange (Best DEX).
Best DEX allows hassle-free trading and optimizes user trades by matching them with the best liquidity pools. Users can enjoy these advanced features on the DEX, all without registering or KYC.
Central to the Best Wallet ecosystem is the BEST token, which serves as a utility and a governance token. Users can stake BEST tokens to gain exclusive access to advanced market tools, NFT drops, and no-fee swaps. Staking also promises benefits like zero gas fees and early access to new project launches.
Best Wallet has a structured phase-wise release of features outlined in its roadmap. The upcoming features include portfolio management for real-time P/L tracking, multi-wallet support, biometric security, and an ERC4337 bridge between several chains.
The wallet also caters to the growing NFT market. Users can efficiently store, buy, sell, and manage their NFT collections with plans to launch a dedicated NFT gallery.
Moreover, security is a high priority for the platform, with advanced cryptography, planned biometrics, and multi-factor authentication ensuring that users’ assets are well-protected.
Users can join the Best Wallet Telegram channel for the latest updates. Links to other social media channels are available on the platform’s Linktree.
Non-custodial storage If bought via Best DEX – based on a specific liquidity pool.
Type of Wallet
Supported Cryptos
Fees
Mobile App?
Staking/Interest?
Staking Interest Rate /Perks
Mobile app for iOS and Android
Ethereum, Polygon, BSC, and others.
Depends on the third-party service providers.
Yes
Yes
Zero gas fees, special voting rights relating to the Best Ecosystem, airdrops, and other perks.
Pros
Cons
2. ZenGo – Promising New MPC Wallet With 3FA For Added Security
ZenGo wallet comes packed with features, so let’s unravel them one by one. First, it is available as a mobile app for Android and iOS. This makes it convenient to store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies on the move.
When setting the wallet up for the first time, ZenGo cryptographically creates a mathematical ‘secret share’. For all intents and purposes, this is the wallet’s private key. Half of the secret share is encrypted and stored on the user’s smartphone device. The other half is stored on ZenGo’s servers. Crucially, ZenGo – nor any other entities, has access to the user’s segment of the secret share.
This is important, as it means there is no single point of failure. In other words, even if a hacker was able to access the user’s smartphone remotely, they would need the other half of the secret share. In addition to MPC technology, ZenGo wallets are secured by another innovative concept – three-factor authentication (3FA). As the name suggests, this offers three ways for users to recover their accounts if the device is lost or damaged.
This includes an email address, 3D biometric scanning, and a ZenGo recovery file. If that wasn’t enough, ZenGo also has a color-code system for transactions – green, yellow, and red. This categorizes transactions into risk levels before the user authorizes them. In terms of supported assets, ZenGo is compatible with over 70 cryptocurrencies. This includes Bitcoin and some of the best altcoins, Ethereum, Tether, Dogecoin, Polygon, and Tezos.
That said, unlike other non-custodial wallets, ZenGo does not allow users to add custom tokens. Nonetheless, we found that ZenGo is the best crypto MPC wallet for trading. It comes with an in-built gate for buying cryptocurrencies with fiat money. This supports debit/credit cards, e-wallets, and bank wires. Supported payment types and fees are determined by third parties, including MoonPay and Banxa.
ZenGo also supports in-wallet token swaps. This is facilitated by Changelly, and users will pay a 0.5% swap fee. The only feature missing is staking. That said, ZenGo makes it simple to connect to dApps like Uniswap, Aave, and Lido. After visiting the dApp website and clicking on ‘WalletConnect’, users can scan the unique QR code via the ZenGo app.
Non-custodial storage
Type of Wallet
Supported Cryptos
Fees
Mobile App?
Staking/Interest?
Staking/Interest Rate
Mobile app for iOS and Android
70+ cryptocurrencies. This includes some of the best cryptocurrencies to buy, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin.
No fees to download, store, or receive cryptocurrencies. Standard GAS fees apply. 0.5% markup on token swaps. Fiat money payments are determined by third parties.
Yes
No
N/A
Pros
Cons
3. Spatium – Free MPC Wallet App With Unparalleled Security Tools
Although Spatium is aimed at businesses and Web 3.0 developers, it also offers one of the best MPC wallets for personal users. It’s completely free to download and supported for both iOS and Android.
When setting the wallet up, Spatium will ask for the user’s email address. This is to help secure the wallet, as well as help recover it if the device is lost or stolen. After that, Spatium will ask the user to go through a biometrics process. This requires the user to look at the frontend camera on their smartphone and perform certain actions.
For example, moving the head sideways or smiling. Either way, this creates a biometric image of the user. Fingerprint biometrics are also taken. This is used to access the wallet instead of a conventional PIN or password. If that wasn’t enough, Spatium also offers two-factor authentication. This is an unusual move for a non-custodial wallet.
But as Spatium is protected by MPC technology – it’s completely safe. Two-factor authentication can be switched on and off as needed. Another security feature is the ability to create an offline backup code. This is displayed as a QR code, and the user will need to print it. If the user needs to recover the wallet, they can scan the unique QR code from another device.
Half of the secret share is stored on the user’s smartphone. The other half is held by an institutional-level third party. No person or entity other than the user has the authority to sign transactions. This ensures that Spatium is 100% non-custodial.
In addition to unparalleled security, Spatium is also the best Bitcoin MPC wallet for supported cryptocurrencies. It supports thousands of cryptocurrencies across multiple networks, including Bitcoin, Polygon, Stellar, Arbitrum, Avalanche, and Binance Smart Chain. Spatium also supports Ethereum and some of the best ERC20 tokens. Notable exclusions include Cardano and XRP.
Spatium also comes packed with additional features. For example, it allows users to swap tokens within the app. Users can choose the exchange they want to use from deSwap, ChangeNow, 1inch, ParaSwap, and FlatQube. Spatium also offers an in-wallet staking tool. This is facilitated by Compound and supports Ethereum, Tether, Dai, and other leading PoS coins.
The main drawback is that Spatium does not publish whether or not it charges a fee for its additional features. As such, users should proceed with caution before staking or swapping tokens. Perhaps the safest approach is to use the in-built ‘WalletConnect’ tool and connect directly to the chosen dApp via a desktop device. This will avoid any additional fees.
Non-custodial storage
Type of Wallet
Supported Cryptos
Fees
Mobile App?
Staking/Interest?
Staking/Interest Rate
Mobile app for iOS and Android
Thousands of cryptocurrencies across multiple networks. This includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Fantom, Stellar, and more.
No fees to download, store, or receive cryptocurrencies. Standard GAS fees apply. Does not publish fees on staking or swapping tools.
Yes
Yes – in-built staking tool that connects to Compound. Support for Ethereum, Dai, Tether, and other PoS coins.
Determined by Compound
Pros
Cons
4. OKX – Decentralized MPC Wallet Supporting 200+ DEX Bridges
OKX, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, recently launched its MPC feature. This is now an option for users who download the OKX wallet. This wallet is a non-custodial app that operates separately from the OKX exchange. In other words, the OKX wallet is completely decentralized.
After downloading the iOS or Android app, users will need to select ‘I Don’t Have a Wallet’ and choose the ‘Keyless Wallet’ option. This will then take the user through the MPC security processes. Initially, this requires the user to set up facial recognition ID. After that, the user will need to enter and verify their email address.
These security processes allow users to recover their MPC wallet if the phone is lost or stolen. In terms of features, this is where OKX really stands out. First and foremost, OKX comes with an in-built aggregator that bridges to over 200 decentralized exchanges. This allows users to trade tokens instantly at the best market price.
Moreover, there is no requirement to leave the OKX wallet. Users will also have access to thousands of staking and yield farming pools, as well as savings accounts. Simple type in the cryptocurrency and OKX will display all available options – from the highest to lowest yields.
For example, by typing in ‘ETH’, we are told that BendDAO is currently offering the highest APY at 4.8%. By opting for a yield farming pool, OKX wallet users can secure APYs of over 100%. Additionally, the OKX wallet also allows users to buy, sell, and store NFTs. It supports multiple networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Polygon, Arbitrum, and Binance Smart Chain.
We also like that OKX allows users to connect their wallet app to its desktop website. Users simply need to scan the QR code with their smartphone to complete the connection. This will appeal to investors that prefer managing transactions on the move. When it comes to fees, the OKX wallet operates a variable commission model. This means that prices are determined by network conditions.
Users can view what fees they are paying before confirming the order. In most cases, we found fees to be very competitive. Finally, the OKX wallet is completely anonymous. While the wallet collects email addresses and facial ID, this is for recovery purposes only.
Non-custodial storage
Type of Wallet
Supported Cryptos
Fees
Mobile App?
Staking/Interest?
Staking/Interest Rate
Mobile app
Supports cryptocurrencies across 50+ blockchain networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Smart Chain.
No fees to download, store, or receive cryptocurrencies. Standard GAS fees apply. Adds a variable fee when swapping and earning yields. Clearly displayed before confirming the order.
Yes
Yes – connects to over 200+ DEXs.
Will find the highest yields in the market via its bridge aggregator tool.
Pros
Cons
Why Use an MPC Crypto Wallet? Benefits Explained
MPC wallets offer an ultra-secure way to store cryptocurrencies. There is no single point of failure, as the wallet’s secret shares are distributed across multiple locations. This is why MPC wallets are favored by institutional clients.
Now let’s explore why many investors are turning to MPC wallets in 2024.
A Better Alternative to Private Keys
Traditional cryptocurrency wallets rely on private keys as a means to secure access. However, if the private keys get into the wrong hands, the wallet can be accessed from any device.
As such, one of the most common ways that investors get hacked is by having their private keys compromised. This is especially the case with crypto hot wallets, which are always connected to the internet.
In contrast, MPC wallets do not use conventional private keys. Instead, a ‘secret share’ is split between two or more devices. In some cases, half of the secret share will be encrypted on the user’s device. The other half will be held on a separate server.
Even if the third-party server is compromised, the hacker will not be able to access to user’s MPC wallet. This is because they will need the rest of the secret share, which is encrypted on the user’s smartphone or desktop device.
Safe Way to Access the Web 3.0
In many ways, cold wallets offer institutional-grade protection. This is because the private keys are always offline, and a PIN must be entered on the device to authorize transactions.
However, the increased security of cold wallets makes it cumbersome to access Web 3.0 dApps. Even the best cold wallets require users to go through a third-party wallet, like MetaMask. This adds extra steps to the process and exposes the wallet to unnecessary risks.
Can You Stake Cryptocurrencies on MPC Wallets?
Yes, some MPC wallets come with an in-built staking tool. While others support WalletConnect, which enables users to connect the MPC wallet to external staking pools.
In contrast, the best MPC wallets are software-based. For example, Best Wallet and Spatium are mobile apps supporting WalletConnect. This means users can access Web 3.0 dApps simply by scanning the unique QR code from their smartphones.
This can be achieved without compromising security. Once again, this is because MPC wallets use distributed technology to split secret shares across multiple devices and locations.
Frictionless Recovery Process
Non-custodial wallets generally rely on backup passphrases. This is often a combination of words that must be entered in the correct order. But if the backup passphrase is lost or stolen, the user will not be able to recover the wallet.
This isn’t the case with MPC wallets. In fact, some MPC wallets use three-factor authentication for the recovery process. Best Wallet, for example, uses facial biometrics, email, and a recovery file. This makes it simple to regain access to the wallet without reducing security.
How we Ranked the Best MPC Wallets
Now let’s explore how we ranked the best MPC crypto wallets for 2024:
Available to Personal Users
First and foremost, while there are many MPC wallets in the market – the vast majority are aimed at institutional clients, businesses, and/or developers.
This means that many MPC wallets are not available to the general public. As such, one of the first considerations to make is whether the MPC wallet is offered to personal users.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Next, explore what cryptocurrencies and blockchain networks the MPC wallet supports.
Spatium is a great example of a multi-asset MPC wallet, with thousands of cryptocurrencies supported. Compatible networks include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Stellar, and Polygon.
Any tokens on these network standards can be added to the wallet.
Security
After assessing what cryptocurrencies are supported, users should explore the safest MPC wallets for their requirements.
Best Wallet, for example, offers two-factor authentication in addition to its MPC technology. In particular, this allows users to secure their wallets with facial recognition.
WalletConnect
The best MPC wallets support WalletConnect. In doing so, investors can access hundreds of Web 3.0 dApps.
This includes OpenSea for buying NFTs, UniSwap for staking, and PancakeSwap for trading BSC tokens.
As noted earlier, WalletConnect allows MPC wallets to engage with external platforms without compromising security.
Device Type
The best MPC wallets discussed today come as mobile apps for iOS and Android.
That said, it’s also worth checking whether other devices are supported.
For example, OKX allows users to connect their MPC wallet app to its desktop website. This makes it easier to swap tokens and earn yields.
How do MPC Wallets Work?
The primary functions of an MPC wallet work much the same as any other wallet type. For example, MPC wallets provide users with unique addresses for each supported cryptocurrency. This is required to receive tokens from another location.
Moreover, MPC wallets need the receiver’s address when executing outgoing transactions. Most MPC wallets offer fee-free access, meaning there are no charges to store or receive cryptocurrencies. While GAS fees are payable, MPC wallets do not make money from this.
The key difference is in how MPC wallets are secured.
- These MPC wallets split the secret shares between two locations.
- One is on the user’s device, and the other is on a third-party server.
- This means that even if either location is hacked, the wallet cannot be compromised.
- This is because the hacker cannot access the wallet without the other half of the secret share.
Although all wallets come with an element of risk, MPC wallets do not have a single point of failure. This is in contrast to standard wallets that use a single private key.
MPC Wallet vs Cold Wallet
In this section, we examine some of the key differences between MPC and cold wallets.
Private Keys
As established, MPC wallets do not use private keys. Instead, authorization to the wallet requires secure multi-party computation techniques.
In simple terms, transaction signing is distributed across multiple locations, including the user’s device. This makes hacking attempts pointless, as only a segment of the secret share will be compromised. The other segment could be on any device in any location – globally.
In contrast, cold wallets – including the likes of Trezor and Ledger, have private keys encrypted on the device. While this significantly reduces the risk of an external hack, there is still a single point of failure. For example, if some find the backup passphrase to the wallet, they can access the funds from another device.
Connectivity
Cold wallets remain offline at all times. Although this is a major safeguard, sending and receiving funds can be a pain point. This is because transactions cannot be authorized unless the user enters their PIN on the device.
MPC wallets, on the other hand, usually remain online. This is the case with Best Wallet, ZenGo, Spatium, and OKX – which connect to the internet via an iOS and Android app.
But because the wallet is protected by MPC technology, the funds remain secure. Simultaneously, users can send, receive, and trade cryptocurrencies at the click of a button.
Pricing
Cold storage wallets like Ledger and Trezor must be purchased. The premium models offered by these providers retail for over $250. This is considered expensive for casual investors that only have a small amount of cryptocurrencies.
That said, the best MPC wallets discussed today are completely fee-free. This offers a cost-effective way to access the blockchain economy without compromising safety.
What Cryptocurrencies Can You Store in an MPC Wallet?
Supported cryptocurrencies will depend on the chosen MPC wallet. The three providers that we reviewed today support a wide range of tokens, making them ideal for diversified portfolios.
OKX is also great for diversification, as the MPC wallet supports more than 50 blockchains. This includes Bitcoin, Binance Smart Chain, Arbitrum, and Polygon.
It’s also worth checking whether the chosen MPC wallet allows users to add custom tokens. This feature is supported by Spatium, which will appeal to investors holding small-cap tokens that don’t come preloaded. Users simply need to choose the network (e.g. Ethereum) and paste the contract address (e.g. ERC20 address).
How Many Cryptos Can You Store in an MPC Wallet?
Rarely do MPC wallets have limits on the number of cryptocurrencies that can be stored. After all, wallets simply provide a bridge between cryptocurrency investors and the blockchain.
Furthermore, many MPC wallets come as mobile apps, which require very little storage. We also found that some MPC wallets allow users to generate multiple addresses for the same cryptocurrency.
Conclusion
While MPC wallets are yet to witness mass adoption, they offer many benefits over traditional wallet types. At the forefront of this is removing the single point of failure. This is because the best multi-party computation wallets do not rely on a private key.
Instead, the wallet credentials are split between multiple locations, including the user’s device. This ensures that even if one of the locations is compromised, the hacker will not be able to access the MPC wallet.
After all, they would need the rest of the secret password – which is stored in an undisclosed location. However, most MPC wallets in the market are aimed at institutions and developers. As such, casual investors are limited in choice.
To find the perfect balance between security and convenience, check out our guide on the 12 best crypto wallets for 2024.
References
https://help.zengo.com/en/articles/4839808-fees-and-limits-in-zengo
https://eprint.iacr.org/2020/300.pdf
https://www.fireblocks.com/what-is-mpc/
https://www.ibm.com/docs/en/samfess/8.2.0?topic=factors-fingerprint-authentication
https://www.okx.com/learn/secure-your-wallet-with-mpc
https://www.ibm.com/blog/exploring-blockchain-as-the-foundation-for-next-gen-apps-on-web-3-0/
https://aws.amazon.com/what-is/facial-recognition/
https://coinmarketcap.com/view/bnb-chain/