Hardware Wallet Review Flags Ledger Stax Issues and Coldcard Flaw Linked to $114 Million Theft

Hardware Wallet Review Flags Ledger Stax Issues and Coldcard Flaw Linked to $114 Million Theft

A 2026 hands-on review of cryptocurrency hardware wallets found notable problems with Ledger’s premium Stax model and separately connected a firmware flaw in Coinkite’s Coldcard devices to the theft of roughly 1,789 Bitcoin, valued at about $114.7 million.

The assessment looked at devices from Ledger, Trezor, BitBox, SafePal, Ngrave, Tangem, and Coinkite. Testers evaluated real-world use on phones and computers, focusing on how each device handles transaction verification, backups, and everyday operation.

Ledger Stax Input Lag and Other Options

Ledger’s Stax, the company’s most expensive model, uses a curved wraparound E Ink touchscreen. During testing, the device showed clear input lag that made PIN entry slow and error-prone. Ledger confirmed the lag comes from the wraparound screen design. Reviewers recommended skipping the Stax in favor of Ledger’s cheaper flat touchscreen models, which performed more smoothly.

Other devices in the review offered different trade-offs. Some use Bluetooth or USB, others rely on QR codes for air-gapped signing, and a few are simple NFC cards with no screen of their own.  The review noted that price alone does not guarantee better security. Features such as open-source software, secure element chips, or backup options matter more than hardware cost.

The Coldcard Firmware Problem

Separately, Coinkite warned in July 2026 that certain Coldcard firmware versions could generate wallet keys that were easier for attackers to guess. The flaw affected multiple models and software versions. In late August, researchers linked the issue to the theft of about 1,789 Bitcoin from 8,865 addresses, worth approximately $114.7 million at the time.

Coinkite advised affected users to install corrected firmware, create entirely new wallets, and move their funds. Updating the firmware does not fix keys that were already generated under the flawed behavior. Users must migrate to new wallets to protect remaining assets.

What the Review Emphasizes for Users

The review stresses that hardware wallets are only one part of staying safe. Users still need to protect recovery phrases, carefully check every transaction detail on the device screen, and respond quickly when firmware updates or security notices appear. Choosing a wallet should start with the coins a person actually holds and the devices they use day to day, rather than focusing mainly on price or brand name.

Lost Access or Affected by a Wallet Security Issue?

Hardware wallet flaws and related thefts can leave people locked out of funds or stressed on how to recover what remains. Worry not, If you have been affected by a firmware issue, perhaps you’ve lost access to a hardware wallet accidentally, or maybe you just need help assessing next steps after a security problem, leave your details on the contact form.

One of our professionals will look at the situation and assist with the way forward.