SatoshiLabs
Trezor Model T
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The Trezor Model T is SatoshiLabs' flagship hardware wallet, designed to offer premium security through its open-source architecture and innovative features like Shamir Backup. Distinguished by its color touchscreen, it allows for on-device entry of PINs and passphrases, isolating sensitive data from potentially compromised computers. While it commands a higher price point, its robust feature set and support for a vast array of assets make it a top choice for advanced users and serious investors.
Security Spotlight
- Shamir Backup (SLIP39) support
- On-device Touchscreen PIN entry
- Passphrase protection
- Open-source firmware
- FIDO2/U2F Authentication
Pros
- •Color touchscreen enables on-device PIN and passphrase entry, mitigating keylogger risks
- •First hardware wallet to support Shamir Backup (SLIP39) for distributed security
- •Fully open-source firmware and hardware design ensures transparency
- •Native support for a wider range of assets compared to the Model One (e.g., Cardano, Monero)
- •USB-C connectivity aligns with modern device standards
Cons
- •Significantly higher price point compared to entry-level hardware wallets
- •Touchscreen is relatively small, which can be difficult for some users
- •Plastic build quality might feel less durable than metal competitors
- •Lacks native iOS support due to Apple's USB restrictions
Full Review
Trezor Model T Review
Introduction
The Trezor Model T is the premium offering from SatoshiLabs, the inventors of the cryptocurrency hardware wallet. Designed as the successor to the Model One, the Model T targets advanced users who demand the highest level of security combined with modern usability standards. It distinguishes itself with a color touchscreen, USB-C connectivity, and exclusive security protocols.
Design and Interface
The most visible upgrade in the Model T is the removal of physical buttons in favor of a 240x240 pixel RGB LCD touchscreen. This screen is not just an aesthetic upgrade; it is a critical security component. By moving the interface to the device, users enter their PIN and Passphrase directly on the Model T, ensuring that sensitive keystrokes are never transmitted to the connected computer. This effectively neutralizes keyloggers and clipboard hijackers.
Security Capabilities
The Trezor Model T is built on a foundation of open-source code, allowing the community and security researchers to audit the firmware and hardware design constantly.
Key Security Highlights:
- Shamir Backup (SLIP39): The Model T supports this advanced backup standard, allowing users to split their recovery seed into multiple unique shares. For example, a user can generate five shares and require any three to recover the wallet, eliminating the single point of failure associated with a standard 12 or 24-word seed.
- FIDO2 & U2F: Beyond crypto, the device functions as a hardware security key for Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), securing accounts like Google, GitHub, and Dropbox.
- MicroSD Slot: While not used for storing the seed, the SD slot allows for advanced features such as encrypting PINs or physically signing files offline.
Asset Support
The device boasts support for over 8,000 coins and tokens. Because the Model T runs on a more powerful processor than its predecessor, it supports newer cryptographic curves. This enables native support for assets like Cardano (ADA), Ripple (XRP), and Monero (XMR), which are not directly available on the entry-level Model One.
User Experience
Trezor Suite, the desktop and web companion app, provides a clean and intuitive interface for managing assets. It integrates features like 'Coinjoin' for privacy and allows for easy firmware updates. However, mobile users should note that while it connects easily to Android via USB-C, iOS support is limited due to Apple's restrictions on USB peripherals.
Conclusion
The Trezor Model T is a powerhouse device for those serious about cold storage. While the plastic construction may feel lightweight for the price, the internal security architecture is industry-leading. For users seeking the benefits of Shamir Backup and the security of on-device input, the Model T is an excellent investment.