I see. It could be a valid alternative when there will be NWC at least like in Minibits, otherwise at the moment it makes no sense to use Zeus for zaps.
Discussion
Why? Just because of the convenience? It takes ~10 seconds to open the wallet and then you can have it running in the background.
When you onboard users to wallets that are solely custodial you risk them getting rugged down the road.
Yes you are right, but why use Zeus in cashu mode when there is already Minibits with more options and better ux?
Until using ecash they are both custodial and when sats increase you can move to self custodial solutions like Breez.
Zeus is definitely a great wallet and I have it installed on my smartphone myself, but I would never recommend it to a novice.
The main add is that you’ll have a UX that the user can grow with. Minibits is not going to prompt you about upgrading to self-custody. ZEUS will and can support you across your whole Bitcoin journey.
The idea that a UX you can “grow with” is inherently superior overlooks a core principle of Bitcoin: self-custody should not be treated as an eventual milestone, but as an accessible and optional starting point — not a requirement.
Minibits’ approach, where the app doesn’t prompt users to upgrade to self-custody, isn’t a weakness — it’s a deliberate UX choice focused on simplicity, privacy, and real-world usability, especially for users in regions or situations where technical onboarding is a barrier.
ZEUS, by encouraging self-custody and node management early on, can unintentionally raise the entry bar for new users who are not yet ready — or willing — to deal with private key management or run their own infrastructure. While the educational intent is commendable, pushing users into technical complexity too soon can alienate or overwhelm them.
In contrast, Minibits provides a gentler onboarding experience, lowering the friction for Bitcoin adoption while still preserving the possibility of deeper engagement later. A UX that meets the user where they are — rather than demanding they become a power user from day one — may, in fact, be more effective in fostering sustainable Bitcoin use.
So, it's not always about growing into the UX. Sometimes, the best UX is the one that lets you start immediately, safely, and without unnecessary complexity — and gives you room to grow when you choose to.
Where is the possibility for deeper engagement later in this scenario?
That’s a good question — the possibility for deeper engagement comes from the app’s design: users can always choose to withdraw their funds, take self-custody, or move to more advanced tools when they feel ready.
Minibits doesn’t lock you in — it simply doesn’t pressure you. It focuses on making Bitcoin easy to use from day one, while leaving the door open for users to grow on their own terms.
Thanks for the thoughtful exchange — ultimately, having different tools for different needs is a strength for the Bitcoin ecosystem.
How does a user know what self custody is if Minibits is their only frame of reference?
That’s a fair concern — but education doesn’t have to come from the app itself. Many users learn about self-custody through the broader Bitcoin community, real-world needs, or simply over time as trust in the tool grows.
Minibits lowers the barrier to entry, and once users are in, curiosity and context often drive them to explore further — whether that’s self-custody, Lightning, or running a node.
No single app needs to do everything. What matters is that users have the freedom to choose, and the path remains open when they’re ready.
I appreciate the conversation, but if you allow I would end it here because you are not going to convince me and I have no desire to convince you. 🫂🎨
No problem.
I hope you take some time to try out our new wallet because you seem to have some misconceptions about how it all works. Please let us know if you do.
Hope you have a good day.