Custodial vs non-custodial crypto wallets
With a non-custodial wallet you hold the private keys yourself: full control, but if you lose your seed phrase your funds are gone. With a custodial wallet a provider holds the keys for you: easier recovery and support, but you rely on that provider. Many people use both.
Non-custodial (self-custody) wallets
You generate and store the keys, usually as a 12 or 24-word seed phrase.
Nobody can freeze or recover your funds, including you if the seed phrase is lost.
Custodial wallets
The provider secures the keys and keeps a record of your balance.
You sign in like any online account, can recover access, and can contact support.
How to choose
Choose self-custody if you want full control and are confident storing a seed phrase safely.
Choose a custodial account if you want easy sign-in, account recovery, swaps and support in one place.
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