It’s finally here! Shapeshift’s New Platform launches today! I have been using their beta platform for several months now reporting bugs and helping add some user friendly features by reporting feedback and ways to improve this brand new non custodial platform. I wrote a pretty in-depth review of the beta a few weeks back, so I won’t rehash the entire user experience here, so I will link that review so you can get the nitty-gritty details HERE.
This is an exciting time for cryptocurrency in general. Facebook is launching a controversial new coin called “Libra”. The government has sent a request to have the development of it stopped so they can review it and “approve” it before it’s released. The audacity of this, as if they have any say in what private organizations can and cannot work on is baffling, but I digress.
I will briefly detail below some of the key features and benefits of using this platform and non custodial exchange for all your crypto asset management.
Trade Assets Offline
The cornerstone feature here (in my opinion) is the fact that we can perform trading assets while having our private keys kept completely offline via the KeepKey (Or Trezor). They are also planning to add Ledger support soon as well, but the easiest hardware wallet to use is by far the KeepKey, as it was the primary wallet used during beta.
As you can see above, the dashboard is very streamlined and easy to view and manage the assets you can trade, view the balance and the price, view market cap, and so much more. The ability to have all the information I need in one place is very convenient. additionally, I can view my portfolio without having my hardware wallet present. In fact, I only need it to sign a transaction. Once you sign, you can disconnected it and it will be transferred to your wallet balance immediately and be reflected next time you connect.
Shapeshift has really thought of the user experience and making it easy for anyone of any skill level and knowledge of crypto to safely manage their private keys and learn how to trade using this platform. Now that the platform is out of beta, they will be focusing on adding more assets being added to the platform for trade and asset management. As this is also a trade engine, as well as a portfolio manager, incorporating more detailed analytics will only improve upon this foundation.
Manage Your Portfolio In One Location
Here are some of the touted features of this platform, and why you should sign up for free HERE:
1.) Shapeshift Trading – You can seamlessly buy, sell, or trade dozens or crypto assets directly in the platform. Trading is non-custodial, so there is no need to trust a third party. This is a MASSIVE plus and a differentiator from any other exchange out there.
2.) Hardware Security – Utilize the best practice of offline security. Retain control of your private keys while enjoying an intuitive web interface. This is the best of both worlds and I will add that this is not currently possible on any other hardware wallet platform currently.
3.) Real Time Market Data – Get real-time market prices and historical data without ever having to leave the interface. This means no extra tabs or historical charts from any other 3rd-party site that you have to toggle between to get the data you need. This allows you to enjoy a beautiful ad-free experience.
4.) Portfolio Performance – Visualize your portfolio performance through graphs, sparklines, and real-time value movement. View your dashboard balances at anytime, anywhere. Your hardware wallet only needs to be connected for signing transactions.
The video below gives you a quick demo of how this works. It truly is a unique hardware wallet experience.
Shapeshift’s New Platform: Conclusion
After personally testing this platform and providing feedback and improvements for several months, I am very proud of what the Shapeshift team has accomplished. I am also excited to see how it expands with other hardware and new features and coins that will be added. There is NO other exchange that offers non-custodial trading, and to me that is a HUGE deal.
Part of “Becoming Your Own Bank” means maintaining full control over your funds at all times and not having to put trust in anyone but yourself. Self sovereign finance is the way of the future, and that is very exciting to see how this will continue to play out as adoption continues to snowball.
***CLICK HERE TO BUY KEEPKEY FOR 50% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY***
Just click the above link and use code “GENESISFOX” at checkout
What do you guys think? Are you excited for the revolutionary change in asset management? Let me know in the comments below!
Cheers,
The Crypto Renegade
NOTE: This post may contain affiliate links. This adds no cost to you but it helps me focus on giving as much value as possible in every single post by being compensated for recommending products that help people succeed.
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D’CENT vs Ledger Nano X (2020) | Which Bluetooth Hardware Wallet Is Safer?
D’CENT vs Ledger Nano X! In this comparison, we are going to do a head-to-head of two of the most competitive and popular new cryptocurrency hardware wallets in this edition of the hardware wallet roundups.
I am going to dive into which of these bluetooth hardware wallets is better and more secure. How big is your portfolio? Do you need mobile AND desktop support? Do you use any 3rd party wallets for integration? Do you need web-based access instead of a required download?
These are all questions you will need to consider when deciding which of these wallets will be best for you. At the end of the day, the coin support is one of the most important factors (besides security) when deciding which hardware wallet is best for you.
Ultimately, if it doesn’t support the coins you want to store offline, it won’t work for your particular situation. So keep that in mind as we dive into what I consider to be the most important factors when making such an important decision, such as choosing a cryptocurrency hardware wallet.
Ledger Nano X: Overview
The Nano X comes beautifully packaged with the device itself, a USB-C cable, a set of instructions and recovery seed cards. The previous bulky buttons that were on top of the device are now seamlessly integrated on it in a way that’s even a bit hard to notice. All in all a beautiful design. The primary features of this device are the bluetooth connection which allows you to manage this device using your smartphone via the iOS and Android app.
Additionally, you can now hodl, store, or manage up to 100 cryptos simultaneously, all without access to your desktop or laptop computer. This is easily it’s best new features, but aside from the upgraded storage capacity and the wireless connectivity, the device itself is now larger, has an integrated 2-function button, and an overall larger screen for verifying transactions. With a trusted device and a more universal charging cable, this makes it much more compelling to spend the extra money to store more coins and one that you can easily take with you as you travel.
Ledger Nano X: Security
Ledger is at the forefront of developing the industry’s device security. How? And in what ways?
CC EAL5+ SECURE ELEMENT
Only Ledger’s devices can claim the French cybersecurity agency ANSSI’s full certification.
The Nano X and Nano S both feature what is called a ‘secure element’. The chip seen below is the next generation chip that comes in the Nano X:
The secure chip meets the CC EAL5+ certification and run’s Ledger’s proprietary BOLOS operating system.
A Secure Element is a secure chip that…embeds intrinsic countermeasures against many known attacks. This kind of chip is tamper-resistant and protects your device to a range of different attacks.”
Ledger Nano X: Coin Support
The Ledger Nano X utilizes the “Ledger Live” dashboard which is a desktop application that allows you to manage all of your coins, portfolio, and potential trades in an easy to use application. You can use this on both an iOS or Android app as well as a desktop.
This app allows you to manage up to 1,100 coins that are supported by the device. However, only about 200 of them are “native” apps. This means that you can manage them directly within the Ledger Live app, without having to connect to a 3rd party wallet, such as MyEtherWallet or MyCrypto. I will leave a link HERE with a list of fully supported coins.
Ledger Nano X: User Experience
Honestly, the user experience is a massive upgrade from the Ledger Nano S. With that said, It has a few usability issues that I find to be quite difficult to overcome. Although this device is physically larger than its predecessor, it still has a fairly difficult to use early experience.
For example, the screen is still fairly small and still cannot accommodate a QR code for scanning. This may not seem like a big deal, but after using several hardware wallets, it really does make a big difference. Using a QR code is not only safer (because it removes the chance of error from manually typing in a wallet address), but it is incredibly faster and makes the entire of transacting offline, a much easier experience.
Although this device has stepped up the quality considerably from it’s latest iteration, I still feel that utilizing an all new form factor could have been beneficial and a little more innovative than replicating their 1st generation device with a few small tweaks.
D’CENT Wallet: Overview
The D’CENT is a mobile and bluetooth connected wireless hardware wallet device. With additional biometric security and the ease of use, this is a contender for the easiest to use mobile and wireless wallet. So how is it different than Ledger Nano X or other bluetooth devices? The Biometric security is a large differentiator here. It’s super convenient and makes it easy to sign and authenticate transactions on the go.
This means if you want to move your crypto from cold storage to a hot wallet, it can be done quickly and easily. A common scenario here would be if you are trying to pay a friend or you’re shopping and want to pay for a product in store very seamlessly. Let’s take a look at the security, features, and price below to go into a little more detail.
D’CENT: Security
The flagship feature of D’CENT is hands down the biometric security feature of the fingerprint sensor. There are some other hardware wallets that communicate with mobile, and can utilize Face ID or Touch ID for extra authentication with their mobile app, but this gives your authentication on the physical device as well. This is a unique and very secure feature that is not used by any other hardware wallet currently on the market.
The hardware wallet features a built-in fingerprint scanner that manages access to the hardware wallet. This security process improves the convenience for the users and enhances the security during access control. It also provides the wallet with fast transaction signing.
- Multi-IC architecture design
- Bank grade EAL 5+ Secure Element (This is the same security chip used in the Ledger Nano X)
- Secure OS embedded on microprocessor
D’CENT: Coin Support
The coin support is varied. The D’CENT can store and support Bitcoin, Ethereum, ERC20 tokens, RSK, RRC20 (RSK tokens), Ripple (XRP), and MONACOIN. To many, this may not seem like it is very much, however, a majority of the major tokens are ERC-20 tokens and all can be supported natively on this device, which is good. I have not come across a hardware wallet yet that supports RSK and RRC20 tokens yet natively, so that definitely makes this an exclusive hardware wallet first for the D’CENT wallet!
D’CENT: User Experience
One of the main features I like here is the option to generate a valid QR code on the large OLED screen of this device as a way to send funds directly from your smartphone to your D’CENT wallet. This is super convenient and truly makes this a wireless and independent device that can be used on the go via the D’CENT app, which also includes a market price section and of course all of your wallets and current fiat amount stored within each one.
What’s also nice is you no longer need to backup and restore this device for firmware upgrades like you do with other devices (although you can, since this device can also support bluetooth and USB connectivity if you choose). This makes this a very convenient choice when considering the ease of use and security when choosing how to secure your private keys.
D’CENT vs Ledger Nano X: Conclusion
Truth be told, these hardware wallets each have their own unique selling points (as you’ve seen above). It really depends on your situation. For example, if I only wanted to “HODL” the main market cap coins and wasn’t looking to build an expansive portfolio, I would choose the D’CENT wallet.
Why? Because the user experience in form factor is better (in my opinion) for ease of use, and overall security and the fingerprint authenticator gives me peace of mind. The Ledger Nano X is a solid device with a great track record and a trusted development team behind them. However, the screen size is not much bigger than their 1st generation device, and the form factor and user experience is much the same.
Overall, if I had to choose between these devices, it would really depend on which coins and the number of coins I needed to hold securely offline. They are both very high quality and fun devices in their own unique way. Having a bluetooth and wireless hardware wallet is really convenient and provides users a way to start using their hardware wallets in real-world scenarios. However, having that extra biometric security is really a game changer.
What do you think? Would you choose the KeepKey over the Ledger Nano X? Let us know down below in the comments!
Cheers,
The Crypto Renegade
NOTE: This post may contain affiliate links. This adds no cost to you but it helps me focus on giving as much value as possible in every single post by being compensated for recommending products that help people succeed.
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FOLD App Review | How To Earn Free Sats Back In 2020
In this Fold App Review, I am going to discuss why this free app is a good way to start accumulating free bitcoin and start “stacking sats” as they say. I’m always looking for new ways to start accumulating more bitcoin and finding real world use cases where I can do so, outside fo buying it directly from an exchange.
This is primarily targeted for mobile use (using their iOS and Android app) for using this. If you want to learn about ways to earn free bitcoin while shopping on a desktop computer, then I would check out my full review of Lolli App, HERE.
I am going to touch on some of the basics of how much you can earn with it, how it works, who it’s really designed for, and my overall feelings of if it’s actually worth using. If that is what you’re looking for, then look no further!
Who Is The Fold App Intended For?
If you frequently make purchases with Amazon, Uber, Starbucks, Target, and Sephora (to name a few), then this app is for you. This app allows you purchase discounted gift cards, as well as earn free bitcoin (satoshis) for each purchase that you make. Once the order goes through, it’s credited to your bitcoin wallet within the app almost immediately.
This is designed not only to save you money on what you are already spending, but allows you to earn free bitcoin rewards for doing so. If you’re already spending at these places, why not get free bitcoin for doing it, right?
In the app, you can always see which vendors have offers and they are adding more all the time. Additionally, the discount your receive varies for each vendor. For example, Airbnb will give you 3% cash (bitcoin) back, but L.L. Bean will give you 10% back. The app is constantly updating to offer you the best deals.
How Does The Fold App Work?
This works for both online and physical locations. Since it’s gift card based, once you make a purchase in the app, it will generate a gift card and a bar code on your screen, for the cashier to scan and use directly.
This will also provide a “gift card code” for you to enter at on-line checkout and you can mix and match between buying online and in store as much as you want with no penalties or fees.
I will break it down step by step below on how to set this up and how it works in a few simple steps.
NOTE: You will receive the bitcoin rewards for the amount of gift card purchased, not the actual products you buy with them.
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Load a gift card you buy with Bitcoin on the Fold app, to your account
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Use that gift card at select retailers and restaurants by using the barcode or the number beneath it.
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You can make online purchases with your Fold gift card or you can purchase at physical locations
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At physical locations, all you need is to scan the bar code from the app on your phone at the cash register
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Every purchase you make with the gift cards that you have on your Fold app will credit you with Bitcoin cashback
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The amount of Bitcoin cashback you get on any purchase depends on the individual retailer or restaurant
Is The Fold App Worth Using?
If you are looking to start dipping your toe into cryptocurrency and you’re not quite ready to buy it directly yet, then this is for you! This is a seamless way for you to spend your normal fiat currency and start earning bitcoin back on direct gift card purchases.
This is also good for sending gifts directly, so whether it’s the holidays and you want to send a gift via email (or Twitter) you can earn bitcoin to your wallet for doing so. This can be used for any occasion as well, not just for gifting.
For the avid crypto users, they are also implementing lightning payments this year as well, so you’ll receive even more discounts if you decide to grow the crypto-economy by paying with crypto, instead of using a debit/credit card as well. More on that as it develops…
So, is the Fold App worth using? I would definitely say yes. Especially if you spend frequently at these places anyways and purchases exceed at least 15$ in most cases, then there is no downside here, only upside.
What do you think? Would you use the Fold App for free bitcoin? Let us know down below in the comments!
Cheers,
The Crypto Renegade
NOTE: This post may contain affiliate links. This adds no cost to you but it helps me focus on giving as much value as possible in every single post by being compensated for recommending products that help people accumulate and secure their crypto.
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Ellipal Mnemonic Metal Review (2020) | BEST Crypto Backup? [$49]
How well is the Ellipal Mnemonic Metal compared to the Cobo Tablet, or Cryptosteel? Or Bill Fodl? Why do I need it? Is there a better solution for backing up your mnemonic phrase? We are going to address all of these questions and more to determine why you might need this indestructible piece of glorious metal.
We are starting to see a bunch of metal recovery seed backup devices these days ranging in price anywhere from $39-$229 per device with different features, different types of metal, and different application methods. I am always a strong believer in the free market, which naturally produces better quality products at more affordable prices.
Additionally, healthy competition and we as the consumer see the benefits by seeing multiple options and multiple companies trying to earn our business. Perhaps our government would learn something from this if they didn’t have so much power, where it didn’t require this, but I digress.
I recently wrote an article comparing this device to the closest competitor in the metal recovery seed backup market, and this is the Cobo Tablet. You can check out that review HERE.
But, without further ado, let’s get into the details of the Ellipal Mnemonic Metal device and my experience with using it. Let’s go!
Ellipal Mnemonic – What’s In The Box?
This is one of those products where everything you need for assembly is included into the box. You need any batteries, tools, or any additional items. Like it’s competitors, this has a high quality set of lettering needed for this device and you don’t have to sort through a box of loose tiles that may not all be the same size. The presentation is actually very nice. Here’s what comes in the box:
- Ellipal Mnemonic Metal Device
- Mini Screwdriver
- User Instruction Card
- Letter Tiles Boards
I will say, in comparison to the other recovery seed backup devices I’ve reviewed, I will say the tiles are fairly thin in this device and seems like it’s using a cheaper kind of material that is more of an aluminum coating. Additionally, it appears that the actually lettering is printed on, and I have yet to test this for water and fire testing (which it is rated to fully withstand). I look forward to conducting that test in the next few days!
Design & Setup
As I touched on above, the design is fairly different then you see in the Bill Fodl, Cobo Tablet, or even CryptoTag. With this design, it actually is folded in half in a sandwich type design with a hole built in for using a padlock to keep it securely closed, or even a zip-tie if you are transporting it or just don’t want the average person to flip it open. It also appears to be magnetic, so when you open and close the device it has some traction.
Additionally, you don’t have to slide in tiles into a slot and tipping downwards so gravity will push it all the way down, which is nice. It basically just has a plate that you unscrew and then place the tiles in the exact slot with the first 4 letters of your recovery word (that’s all you need with a BIP39 compatible wallet), and then once they are in place, you simply screw the face plate on once you’re done, so it’s a fairly painless process.
I got this device when I got the Ellipal Titan (New in-depth review coming soon) and when I tested this device with that wallet, it defaults to a 12-word recovery phrase. As a result, the installation and setup process was fairly quick and easy. The longest process here is actually punching out the tiles from the multiple sheets with the letters. In fact, I recommend before you even unscrew your plates that you locate your seed, punch out the tiles you need for the first 4 letters of each word, and THEN put them in place.
Who Is This Product For?
This product is for literally anyone that has a hot or cold wallet that holds more than $49 worth of any cryptocurrency. Ultimately, everyone who holds crypto or plans to hold crypto, whether it’s short or long term needs a metal recovery seed backup. Why? Well, your recovery seed is the backup to your backup. Without it, you can’t get your coins back if you lose your hardware device or lose access for any reason on your software wallet.
If you own a hardware wallet, such as Ledger, Trezor, KeepKey, or even a mobile wallet that you get for free, this device can support ANY BIP39 compatible wallet that has either 12, 18, or 24 seed words and really is a necessity for any cryptocurrency “HODLer”
Because this usually comes on a piece of paper, you need a more solid backup to your crypto fortune. Ask yourself, what happens if there is a flood? What about a fire? What if it gets shredded, torn, or becomes otherwise indiscernable? It seems fairly obvious for the reason this type of product exists, however, most people fall into the all but too common trap of “Ohh, this won’t happen to me.” Think again. Are you willing to risk it? Is $49 too high of a price for an insurance policy on your entire crypto bankroll? I wouldn’t.
Ellipal Mnemonic Metal – Conclusion
Overall, this is a very solid metal recovery seed backup solution. It’s in the lower end of the market pricing of it’s competitors, it’s simple to setup and use within 15 minutes or less, and it’s got a different form factor than that of the Bill Fodl or even the Cobo Tablet. Although this is not the cheapest metal recovery seed backup option, it comes very close. In fact, right now, you can get one for only $29 when you buy it with the Ellipal Titan Cold Wallet for $169, bringing the total to only $198 when you buy both.
Still, this is very different than the higher end devices, like the CryptoTag, which you can check out the full review of HERE for comparison. The CryptoTag is a VERY nice device, but it is a high-end very premium device that you literally hammer your seed phrase into a titanium tablet and has gone through much more rigorous testing. Having said that, it shows in the price that you cannot get better quality than that device (at least as of this writing).
However, this device is easy to use, quick to setup, and is just as durable as any of the competitors in it’s price range at only $49, or $29 when you get with the Ellipal Titan for a limited time.
Every single crypto holder needs this kind of device, and if you want to be safe and responsible with your crypto, but still want it to be affordable, then this is a very solid choice and has decent quality as well.
What do you think? Do you currently have a metal recovery seed backup for your software/hardware wallets? Let me know in the comments below!
Cheers,
The Crypto Renegade
NOTE: This post may contain affiliate links. This adds no cost to you but it helps me focus on giving as much value as possible in every single post by being compensated for recommending products that help people succeed.
