Best practices for using a hardware wallet 🧵👇

1/ Choose a Bitcoin-only device.

If Bitcoin is your priority, your hardware wallet should reflect that.

Manufacturers that focus solely on Bitcoin are more likely to prioritize security over altcoin support.

2/ Buy directly from the manufacturer.

No Amazon. No eBay.

Tampered devices are real. Avoid the risk and order straight from the official website.

3/ Airgapped > USB.

Pick a device that can be used airgapped, like the Blockstream Jade.

Your seed should never be generated or stored on a device that's directly connected to the internet.

4/ Use open-source wallet software.

Always download from official sources.

And if you want extra peace of mind, pair your device with open-source software like Sparrow or Electrum (instead of the manufacturer's companion app).

5/ Create your own entropy.

Advanced, but worth it.

Use dice rolls or coin flips to generate your seed, not just the device’s internal generator.

"Don't trust, verify."

6/ NEVER input your seed on an online device.

Not in a photo.

Not in Google Docs.

Not in a screenshot.

Your seed belongs offline. Period.

7/ Test your backups.

Don't wait for an emergency.

Generate a seed → derive addresses → delete the wallet → recover the seed offline.

Practice recovery while you're calm, not when you're panicking.

8/ Practice sending & receiving.

Make small test transactions until you’re fully comfortable using your device.

It’s cheap insurance and builds confidence.