Ledger Stax vs. Ledger Flex: Which Wallet is Right for You?

Ledger has long been recognized as the leading provider of hardware wallets in the Web3 space, known for its robust security and user-friendly products. Recently, Ledger expanded its lineup with two new offerings — the Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex. These wallets are designed for users who seek not just security but also a more cosmetically appealing device.

As digital asset portfolios become increasingly diverse, encompassing everything from cryptocurrencies to NFTs, the convenience of a dedicated screen for checking and managing these assets has become more desirable. In this Ledger Stax vs. Ledger Flex piece, we’ll compare two of Ledger’s latest screen-enabled hardware wallets, to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

What is Ledger Stax?

The Ledger Stax, priced at €332.50, is a cutting-edge hardware wallet that combines advanced security with a sleek, modern design. It stands out in Ledger’s product lineup by offering features that cater to both experienced crypto users and those who value aesthetics and usability.

Key Features

• E-Ink Display
  • The Ledger Stax features a unique e-ink screen that spans the entire front of the device and elegantly curves onto the back.
  • This display technology is known for its low power consumption, ensuring that the device’s battery life is maximized while also providing clear and sharp readability in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight.
• Compact and Stackable Design
  • Constructed from durable black aluminum, the Ledger Stax is designed to be roughly the size of a credit card, with dimensions that make it slim enough to slip comfortably into a wallet or pocket.
  • One of its standout features is the embedded magnets within the device, which allow multiple Stax wallets to be stacked securely together.
• Modern Connectivity: The Ledger Stax supports USB-C and wireless charging, giving users flexible options to charge their devices. 

Secure Element Chip (ST33K1M5)

At the core of the Ledger Stax’s security is the ST33K1M5 Secure Element Chip, a tamper-resistant component that performs critical cryptographic operations and ensures that your private keys remain protected against physical and digital threats. This chip is designed to resist various attacks, making it a cornerstone of the wallet's security architecture.

BOLOS Operating System

The Ledger Stax operates on the Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System (BOLOS), a custom-built OS by Ledger that is engineered to run securely on the Secure Element Chip. BOLOS isolates different applications from each other, ensuring that even if one application is compromised, the rest of the system remains secure.

Protection Mode

Ledger Stax introduces "Protection Mode," a proactive security feature that automatically locks the device whenever it detects a potential security threat, such as an attempted physical breach or hacking attack. This feature acts as an immediate safeguard, ensuring that your assets are protected even during unexpected events.

Standard Security Measures

In addition to its advanced security components, the Ledger Stax includes traditional security features such as:

• PIN protection
• A 24-word recovery phrase
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) 
• Multi-signature functionality

Ledger Stax Pros and Cons

 Here are the pros and cons of the device, focusing on its design, functionality and security features.

Pros

• Modern and Stylish Design: The Ledger Stax offers a sleek, credit card-sized form factor with a curved e-ink screen that provides excellent readability and low power consumption.
• NFT Display: Users can showcase their Ethereum and Polygon NFTs directly on the device, adding a personal touch to their hardware wallet.
• High-Level Security: The device features a Secure Element Chip (ST33K1M5) and a custom BOLOS operating system, ensuring top-notch security.
• Automatic Locking Mechanism: The Ledger Stax automatically locks during potential attack events, enhancing its security features.
• Extensive Functionality via Ledger Live App: The Ledger Live App allows users to buy, swap, and stake crypto directly from the device.

Cons

• High Price Point: The $€332.50 price tag may be steep for users who are primarily seeking security features.
• Limited Security Enhancements: The Ledger Stax does not offer significantly more security features compared to other Ledger models.
• Enhanced Design and Display May Be Unnecessary: For users focused solely on functionality and security, the enhanced design and display may be seen as superfluous.

Who Should Consider the Ledger Stax?

The Ledger Stax is ideal for users who want more than just a secure storage solution for their cryptocurrencies. It’s particularly suited for:

• NFT Collectors: The Ledger Stax’s ability to display and manage NFTs directly on its e-ink screen makes it a standout choice for NFT enthusiasts.
• Design Enthusiasts: Users who appreciate cutting-edge technology combined with a sleek, modern aesthetic will find the Ledger Stax’s design a perfect match for their preferences.
• Tech-Savvy Users: The Ledger Stax’s advanced features, such as wireless charging, secure element chip, and Protection Mode, cater to tech-savvy individuals who want the latest innovations in their hardware wallet. 

In conclusion, while the Ledger Stax offers robust security, its premium price is primarily justified by its advanced design and user experience enhancements. For those who prioritize security without the need for a high-end design, other Ledger models like the Nano X or Nano S Plus may be more suitable.

Learn more in our full Ledger Stax Review.

What is Ledger Flex?

The Ledger Flex is a mid-range hardware wallet introduced in 2024. It is designed to offer a balance of security, usability, and affordability. Priced at €207.50, it sits between the premium Ledger Stax and the more budget-friendly Ledger Nano series. The Ledger Flex is particularly notable for its 2.84-inch E-Ink touchscreen, which provides a clear, energy-efficient display that enhances the user experience without compromising security.

Key Features and Benefits

• Secure E-Ink Touchscreen: The Ledger Flex features a 2.84-inch E-Ink touchscreen that is responsive and integrates directly with the device’s Secure Element chip.
• Advanced Security: The device includes a CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip, the same high-security standard found in the Ledger Stax. This chip safeguards your private keys by isolating them from potentially vulnerable devices like laptops or smartphones.
• Connectivity and Compatibility: The Ledger Flex supports USB-C, Bluetooth, and NFC, making it compatible with various mobile and desktop devices.
• Customizable Display: Similar to the Ledger Stax, users can personalize the E-Ink screen with their favorite images or NFTs, adding a layer of personalization to their device.
• Ledger Security Key Integration: The device can be used as a passkey for two-factor authentication (2FA), enhancing security for online accounts and reducing the risk of phishing attacks.

Ledger Flex Pros and Cons

Here are a few pros and cons to help you assess whether the Flex aligns with your needs in terms of security, usability and overall functionality.

Pros

• Robust Security: The Ledger Flex features a secure element chip and passphrase options, providing strong protection for digital assets.
• User-Friendly Interface: Its high-resolution touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity make managing cryptocurrencies straightforward and convenient.
• Wide Cryptocurrency Support: The Ledger Flex supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and NFTs, catering to users with diverse portfolios.
• Compatibility with DApps and DeFi Platforms: The device is compatible with various DApps and DeFi platforms, enhancing its versatility.
• Flexible Usage: The Ledger Flex works with both desktop and mobile devices, offering flexibility and convenience.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: At €207.50, the Ledger Flex is more expensive than some other hardware wallet options and cheaper than the Stax.
• Lacks Wireless Charging: Unlike some other models, the Ledger Flex does not support wireless charging.
• Vulnerability to Physical Damage: The device can be lost, stolen, or damaged, necessitating careful handling.
• Steep Learning Curve for New Users: Initial setup and use might be challenging for those new to hardware wallets.

Who Should Consider the Ledger Flex?

The Ledger Flex is ideal for users who seek a balance between premium features and affordability. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the enhanced user experience provided by a touchscreen but don’t necessarily need the top-tier features of the Ledger Stax. 

Additionally, users who prioritize security without wanting to invest in the most expensive option will find the Ledger Flex a compelling choice. Its compact design and versatile connectivity also make it a great option for those who manage their crypto assets on the go.

Learn more about this wallet in our full Ledger Flex Review.

Ledger Stax vs. Ledger Flex: Key Comparisons

The Ledger Stax and Flex represent Ledger's lineup of touchscreen wallets, so they are functionally similar. Here is a table that compares all the technical details between the two wallets:

Key Differences Between Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex

The Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex are both part of Ledger's latest generation of hardware wallets, sharing many core features while catering to slightly different user needs. Both devices feature an E-ink touchscreen display, USB-C connectivity, and support for over 5,000 cryptocurrencies and NFTs. However, they also have key differences that may influence your choice depending on your priorities.

Display and Design

While both wallets feature an E-ink touchscreen, the Ledger Stax offers a larger 3.7-inch display compared to the 2.84-inch screen on the Flex. The Stax's screen also wraps around the edges, giving it a futuristic, curved design that is not found in the Flex. Additionally, the Stax is slimmer, with a credit card-sized profile (85 x 54 x 6mm), making it slightly more portable than the Flex, which has dimensions of 78.4 x 56.5 x 7.7mm.

Charging Options

One of the standout features of the Ledger Stax is its support for wireless charging, which offers more versatility in how you power the device. In contrast, the Ledger Flex does not support wireless charging and relies solely on USB-C for power. This difference might be important for users who prefer the convenience of wireless charging.

Stacking Feature

The Ledger Stax includes an innovative design feature that allows multiple Stax devices to be magnetically stacked together. This feature is unique to the Stax and contributes to its name, emphasizing its stackable nature. The Ledger Flex, while also featuring a magnetic component (Magnet Dolio), does not offer this stacking capability, making the Stax more distinctive in terms of cosmetic and functional design.

Security and Compatibility

In terms of security, both the Ledger Stax and Flex are on equal footing, featuring the same CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip and supporting a 24-word recovery phrase along with optional Ledger Recover services. Both wallets are fully compatible with Ledger Live and support third-party wallets, providing identical support for cryptocurrencies and NFTs.

Price

The differences in design and features are reflected in the price, with the Ledger Stax retailing at €332.50, while the Ledger Flex is priced at €207.50. The Stax’s additional features, such as the larger, curved display and wireless charging, justify its higher price point for users who prioritize a more premium, versatile device.

Ledger Stax vs Flex: What to Buy?

If you're in the market for a hardware wallet and are torn between the Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex, it's likely that you've already considered Ledger's base lineup and are looking for something with more visual appeal and advanced design. Both Stax and Flex offer robust security and identical core features, so your decision primarily hinges on the aesthetic and functional differences between the two.

Core Similarities

Both the Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex feature an E-ink touchscreen, provide identical security guarantees with the CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip, support the same broad range of tokens and wallets, and offer similar battery life. Both devices are also fully compatible with Ledger Live and third-party wallets, making them equally capable for managing your digital assets.

Key Differences

Where the Stax distinguishes itself is in its premium design features. The Stax has a larger 3.7-inch display that elegantly curves around the edges, giving it a more futuristic and sophisticated look. It is also slimmer than the Flex and supports wireless charging—a convenient option that the Flex lacks. Additionally, the Stax offers a unique stackable feature, allowing multiple devices to magnetically connect, which adds to its visual and practical appeal.

Price Consideration

The Ledger Stax is priced 60% higher than the Ledger Flex, primarily due to these niche design features. If you value the curved display, wireless charging, and the ability to stack multiple devices, the extra cost might be justified. However, if these features aren't particularly important to you, the Ledger Flex offers nearly the same functionality at a more affordable price point.

Other Alternatives

Before making your decision, you may also want to consider other hardware wallets like the NGRAVE ZERO and Ellipal Titan. These options offer similar features with a focus on security and might come at a lower price than the Ledger Stax.

Ledger Stax vs. Ledger Flex: Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Ledger Stax and Ledger Flex depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both wallets offer robust security, with identical core features such as the CC EAL6+ certified Secure Element chip and broad compatibility with cryptocurrencies and NFTs. However, the Ledger Stax stands out with its larger, curved e-ink display, wireless charging capability, and unique stackable design, making it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a premium, futuristic aesthetic and added convenience.

On the other hand, the Ledger Flex offers a similar level of security and functionality at a more affordable price, with a slightly smaller screen and without the wireless charging and stacking features. If you are looking for a balance between cost and advanced features, the Ledger Flex is an excellent option.

Ultimately, if the enhanced design elements and additional features of the Ledger Stax align with your priorities and justify the higher price, it would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option that still delivers on security and usability, the Ledger Flex would be a more practical choice.