We see this question a lot, so here's a straight-to-the-point comparison based on security model, UX, and real-world DeFi use. Add your experiences below—especially if you've migrated from one to the other.
TL;DR
• Want the most battle-tested secure-element + ecosystem support? → Ledger (Nano S Plus / Nano X / Stax).
• Want an inexpensive, fully air-gapped device with QR signing and a solid mobile app? → SafePal S1.
Both are miles better than keeping keys on a hot wallet. Buy only from official stores.
1) Security Model
Ledger (Nano S Plus / X / Stax)
• Secure element: CC EAL6+ (industry high). Firmware is closed-source; apps largely open-source.
• Connectivity: USB (S Plus), USB + Bluetooth (Nano X/Stax).
• Signing: Verify addresses/tx on device screen; "Genuine check" in Ledger Live.
• Passphrase (25th word): Supported.
• Recover (optional): Paid, opt-in shard backup service—controversial; you can use Ledger without it.
SafePal S1
• Secure element: EAL5+.
• Air-gapped: No USB/Bluetooth/Wi-Fi. Offline signing via QR codes + camera; power by battery.
• App: Mobile app (iOS/Android) includes DApp browser and WalletConnect.
• Passphrase: Supported.
• Note: Air-gapped reduces remote attack surface; still verify tx details on the device screen.
Takeaway: Ledger's secure element is stronger on paper; SafePal wins on isolation (no cables/radio).
2) Supported Coins & DeFi
Ledger
• Native support in Ledger Live for the big chains (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, etc.).
• For long-tail DeFi, connect Ledger to MetaMask, Rabby, Keplr, Phantom, Solflare, etc.
• Best compatibility with desktop workflows, multi-chain power users, and institutions.
SafePal
• Broad chain coverage + built-in DApp browser on mobile; easy WalletConnect to most DeFi.
• Great for on-the-go swapping/yield with QR signing.
Takeaway: Both cover thousands of assets; Ledger's ecosystem is deeper, SafePal's mobile flow is simpler.
3) UX & Daily Use
Ledger
• Nano S Plus (USB only) is cheap and reliable for cold storage.
• Nano X adds Bluetooth + battery for mobile.
• Stax (e-ink, magnets) = best screen/UX at a premium price.
• Desktop Ledger Live is polished.
SafePal
• S1 is small, cheap, and fully mobile; the camera/QR flow is quick once you're used to it.
• App includes swap/bridge/earn—convenient, but don't confuse convenience with low risk.
4) Pricing (approx.)
• SafePal S1: $49–$69
• Ledger Nano S Plus: ~$79
• Ledger Nano X: ~$149
• Ledger Stax: ~$279
5) Backup & Recovery (both)
• BIP39 seed (12/18/24 words). Write it offline, add passphrase if you know what you're doing.
• Never type the seed on a computer/phone. Consider metal backup. Test recovery on a spare device.
6) Who Should Pick What?
Pick Ledger if...
• You want maximum secure-element pedigree and the largest ecosystem integrations.
• You mainly operate from desktop or want Bluetooth with the Nano X.
• You're managing high value, multiple chains, and use pro wallets (MM/Rabby/Keplr/Phantom).
Pick SafePal S1 if...
• You prefer air-gapped QR signing and a low-cost device that lives in your pocket.
• Your workflow is mostly mobile and you like an all-in-one app.
• You want a second, inexpensive hardware wallet for travel.
7) Safety Checklist (applies to both)
• Buy from official store only; initialize yourself; run genuine check.
• Always verify the address/amount on the device before confirming.
• Keep firmware up-to-date; never install random "drivers."
• Seed stays offline; consider passphrase + decoy account if you're comfortable with the model.
Verdict
You can't go wrong with either for personal custody in 2025. If you prioritize ecosystem depth and secure-element pedigree, go Ledger. If you want air-gapped simplicity and low cost, SafePal S1 delivers. Many users keep Ledger for vault storage and a SafePal as a mobile signer—defense in depth.
Drop your setups, pros/cons, and any gotchas (Bluetooth issues, QR misreads, staking flow, token support quirks) so newcomers can choose confidently.
Ledger's newer wallets (Nano S Plus, Flex, Stax) use a tamper‑resistant secure‑element chip (EAL 6+) and the Nano X uses EAL 5+, which isolates your keys and makes them hard to tamper with. SafePal S1 goes the other way – it's fully air‑gapped, so there's no USB or Bluetooth connection, and you sign transactions by scanning QR codes. In practice, Ledger has a broader ecosystem and its desktop/mobile app is polished; SafePal is cheaper, pocket‑sized and great for mobile. Whichever you use, buy straight from the vendor, run the genuine‑device check, set your own PIN and, most importantly, always check the address and amount on the device screen before you hit confirm.
Both fine. Ledger = secure-element + broad ecosystem. SafePal S1 = air-gapped QR signer that's great on mobile. Either way: buy direct, run genuine-device check, verify addresses on-device, and keep firmware current. What's your main use case: long-term vault or daily signer?
Honestly, I don't get the Ledger hype. After their recovery service fiasco, how can anyone still 'trust' them? At least SafePal never pretended to be open-source, so you know what you're buying. To me, Ledger is the real risk in 2025