Tangem Ring Review: The First Wearable Crypto Wallet
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So, you want a piece of crypto security without the clunky hardware that makes you look like a tech-obsessed prepper? Enter the Tangem Ring. It’s not some glorified USB drive you keep tucked in a drawer “for security reasons.” No, the Tangem Ring is designed to be worn, to be used—cryptocurrency security you carry on your finger like a talisman. In this Tangem Ring review, we’re diving into what the Tangem Ring is and why this hardware wallet might just be the boldest leap yet in crypto self-custody.
Now, this isn’t your standard wallet. With secure chip technology wrapped in zirconia ceramic, a built-in access code to ward off prying hands from accessing the app, and a roadmap that promises Visa payment integration by 2025, the Tangem Ring is pushing the limits of what we think a hardware crypto wallet can be. Ready to see what the future of secure element technology looks like? Let’s get into it.
Tangem Ring Review: Summary
The Tangem Ring is a wearable, secure element technology-based wallet that takes your cryptocurrency out of the vault and puts it on your hand, ready for action. With NFC functionality that lets you tap and transact, this ring handles your crypto with military-grade encryption and the durability of hypoallergenic zirconia. And, come 2025, it’ll even play in the big leagues with Visa payment integration, allowing contactless payments.
With this Tangem Ring review, we’ll break down what makes this sleek, certified chip-equipped device different from the herd of plastic USB sticks, digging into its features, security, ease of use, and whether it really has the chops to live up to the hype.
Key Highlights
Who Are Tangem?
Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, Tangem has been in the game since 2017, aiming to make crypto storage secure, user-friendly, and dead simple. Co-founded by Andrey Kurennykh, Tangem’s mission has been straightforward: eliminate the nonsense of overly complicated hardware wallets and replace it with something even a crypto rookie could pick up. But don’t mistake simplicity for softness. One of the most confidence-inspiring aspects of Tangem is the rigorous testing the company puts its product through, engaging security firms Kudelski Security and conducting robust security audits. The results of these audits earned Tangem a reputation for durability, security, and an impressive track record with zero hacks.
After launching the Tangem Wallet cards, which let users ditch the traditional recovery phrase in favor of easy NFC access with a mobile device, Tangem has kept pushing the envelope. Today, with their hardware wallet ring, they’re setting an even higher bar for what crypto security could look like in the wearable age.
The Original Tangem Wallet
Before the ring, there was the card. Tangem first hit the scene with the Tangem Wallet cards, small and unassuming, but revolutionary in function. Picture it: a hardware crypto wallet that didn’t need complex setups or endless PIN entries. Instead, it offered something rare—NFC tap-to-access functionality that eliminated the need for a traditional seed phrase. Users simply tap their Tangem Wallet card to their phone, allowing for effortless access through the Tangem app. Simple, clean, and game-changing for anyone tired of managing stacks of “secure” recovery phrases.
These cards didn’t just look different; they acted differently, setting a new standard in secure chip technology by removing the single point of failure inherent in most other wallets. If you want a deeper dive into the original Tangem Wallet’s specs, security, and why it made waves, check out our full Tangem Wallet review.
We were so impressed with the original Tangem Wallet for its ease of use (it can literally be set up in 3 minutes), seamless functionality, and design, that it made our list of the Top Crypto Wallets, and we felt its low price point also makes it a great crypto gift.
For those looking to save every Satoshi, the original Tangem with its low cost is one of the best in terms of “bang for your buck,” but for users looking to up the “cool factor” and capitalize on the most convenient crypto storage method on the market, read on as we dive into the Ring.
What is the Tangem Ring?
The Tangem Ring is a hardware wallet you can wear, designed for people who see cryptocurrency as more than just an investment. The Tangem Ring lets you take your crypto with you wherever you go. Using NFC technology to interact with your mobile device, it allows you to check balances, transact, and manage your assets with a simple tap. As long as you have your ring and your phone, you can manage your crypto.
But here’s the twist: while most cold wallets are built to be buried in a drawer, hidden, or kept in a safe, the Tangem Ring was built for the hand. This is a certified chip wallet wrapped in a hypoallergenic zirconia ceramic shell, resistant to dust, water, and extreme temperatures. It’s crypto storage built to handle real life, every day. And as Tangem’s CTO, Andrey Lazutkin, put it, the goal is to make crypto accessible without compromising on the highest level of protection. This ring is about taking crypto out of the abstract and bringing it into your daily routine.
What Makes Tangem Different from Other Cold Wallets?
If you’re used to the standard-issue cold wallets—devices that look like flash drives or clunky USB sticks—you’ll immediately recognize that the Tangem Ring is playing a different game. It’s a different form factor with a different philosophy. Here’s how it separates itself from the rest:
- Wearable Design: The Tangem Ring is designed to be worn, something you carry without even thinking about it. This different form factor makes it inherently more accessible and ready for daily use.
- NFC Convenience: Tangem’s NFC technology offers a tap-and-go experience, eliminating the need for clunky cables or endless passwords. With the Tangem app, you get a streamlined user experience, bringing all your crypto management to your mobile device with one tap.
- Top-Tier Security: Equipped with an EAL6+ certified chip, the Tangem Ring uses secure chip technology that’s resistant to unauthorized access and tested under the harshest conditions—think dust, water, and extreme temperatures. This is the highest level of protection you’ll find in a cold wallet, built into a device that’s ready for anything.
- Seed Phrase Option: While Tangem has ditched the traditional seed phrase by default, they haven’t left users hanging. For those who still want the security of a seed phrase option, it’s now available, giving you the flexibility to add this extra layer if needed.
Tangem has created a hardware crypto wallet that takes self-custody beyond the desk and into the real world, making it a prime option for crypto holders who are done with the bulk and want something discreet yet powerful.
Tangem Ring: Features and Functions
The Tangem Ring is an all-in-one powerhouse that merges crypto security with everyday usability. Below are the standout features that make this ring more than just a cold wallet.
NFC Technology: The Tech Behind the Ring
The Tangem Ring operates through NFC (Near-Field Communication), the same technology used in contactless payment cards. When you want to access your assets, check balances, or initiate a transaction, you simply tap the ring against your phone. This method does away with cumbersome cable connections or the need to physically plug the ring into any device. Just a tap and your private keys stay locked within the ring’s secure element, only allowing access through the Tangem app on your mobile device.
The genius of NFC is that it keeps the Tangem Ring completely offline when not in use, significantly reducing the vulnerabilities associated with devices that require a USB or Bluetooth connection. NFC ensures a secure, seamless interaction between the ring and the app, bringing a level of simplicity and reliability that few other wallets can claim.
Secure Element Technology: The Vault Within
The Tangem Ring uses secure element technology, a certified chip rated EAL6+ — the same level of protection you’d find in high-security environments like banking and government ID systems. This secure chip technology isn’t just resistant to hacking; it’s built to withstand extreme temperatures, dust, water, and even physical tampering. This chip creates a safe haven for your private keys, ensuring they never leave the ring, even during transactions.
Every interaction with the Tangem Ring is powered by true randomness in key generation, meaning your keys are generated by the ring’s chip during setup and stored locally. This eliminates the risk of online key leaks or unauthorized access.
Blockchain Integration
The Tangem app connects directly to the blockchain, letting users transact with ease. When you want to check your holdings or initiate a swap, the app communicates with the blockchain directly, without routing your data through Tangem’s servers. This setup means Tangem has no visibility into your transactions, keeping your activities completely private. The app code is also open-source and available on GitHub, so developers can review it for added transparency.
This direct blockchain access combined with NFC-based authentication means every action—from balance checks to transactions—occurs securely and efficiently, with the Tangem Ring serving as your gateway.
Track Your Crypto
Forget needing a separate device just to check your portfolio. With the Tangem Ring, your cryptocurrency is just a tap away. Through the Tangem app on iOS or Android, you get real-time access to your holdings. And since you’re connected directly, you don’t need to rely on an exchange or third-party service just to see what’s happening with your assets.
Swap Crypto
For those who need flexibility, the Tangem Ring lets you swap crypto within the app. Built-in DEX and CEX integration lets you swap coins like Bitcoin and Cardano without leaving the Tangem ecosystem. It’s convenient, and you never have to expose your private keys in the process.
Buy and Sell Crypto
Tangem didn’t stop with just tracking and swapping. Through trusted third-party providers within the app, users can buy and sell cryptocurrency using their mobile device. No more moving assets to an exchange just to cash out or make a purchase. And with an access code as an added layer of protection, your assets are safe throughout.
Staking
The Tangem Ring is a way to grow your assets too. Through staking options in the app, you can put your crypto to work without transferring it elsewhere. It’s passive income on your terms, with no compromise on security.
Payments (Coming Soon)
Tangem has big plans for 2025: Visa payment integration. Soon, this ring will allow you to tap-to-pay anywhere Visa is accepted, bringing real-world spending capabilities to a self-custodial wallet. Imagine paying for your coffee with a ring on your finger, all while keeping your private keys secured on your own terms. That’s the future Tangem is promising.
Design and Comfort: A Closer Look at the Tangem Ring
The Tangem Ring packs some serious security and durability and does it with style. Here’s what makes the ring stand out, both as a wearable and as a device that can handle real-life conditions without a hitch.
Material and Build: Designed for Everyday Use
The Tangem Ring is crafted from hypoallergenic zirconia ceramic, a material known for its hardness and durability, making it highly resistant to scratches, dust, and water. This ceramic shell ensures the ring can survive extreme temperatures and stand up to daily wear. It’s tough enough to handle the unexpected—whether you’re out in the elements or just wearing it day in and day out.
“Tangem Rings comply with EMF standards, ensuring a safe level of electromagnetic emissions. They are also RED certified, guaranteeing reliable operation on radio frequencies. With RoHS certification, our rings are free from harmful substances, and LVD testing confirms their safety at low voltage.” – Tangem Blog
The materials used offer the best of both worlds: a sleek, polished look that’s also practical. You’re getting a wallet built to withstand life’s wear and tear, keeping your crypto safe no matter what.
Size Options and Wearability
The Tangem Ring comes in multiple sizes, making it adaptable to different users. The design team engineered it for real-world comfort, making it easy to wear without any bulk. Unlike traditional hardware wallets, this is a device made to be worn—subtle yet sophisticated. You get the elegant design without sacrificing security, a unique balance that makes the Tangem Ring both functional and fashionable.
Setting Up Your Tangem Ring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Setting up the Tangem Ring is surprisingly simple, and the process is designed to get you from unboxing to full functionality in minutes. Let’s walk through the setup process so you can start using your new Tangem wallet with confidence.
Initial Setup and Configuration
When you first receive your Tangem Ring, you’ll want to download the Tangem app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android). Tangem recommends that users download the app directly from the Tangem website to avoid the risk of downloading any counterfeit or malicious apps.
Prepare the Primary Card
After installing the Tangem app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play (for Android), launch it, and click “Scan Tangem”. As shown in the image, ensure you have the correct card ready by matching the last few digits provided by the app.
Generate Keys Privately
Once the primary card is detected, the app will prompt you to generate your private keys. Tangem’s secure chip technology creates these keys within the card itself, meaning they never leave the device. Tap “Create wallet” to generate your private keys securely.
Create an Access Code
The app will then guide you to set up an access code. This additional layer of security protects all your wallets in case your mobile device is compromised. The app gives you options to personalize or restore the access code as needed. Tap “Continue” to proceed.
Add Backup Cards
For added security, Tangem allows you to add up to two backup cards. This step ensures you have alternate access points if you misplace the primary card. Select “Add a backup card,” and repeat the tap-to-scan process for each additional card. Once you’ve added all backup cards, finalize the setup by tapping “Finalize the backup.”
Ready to Scan and Complete Setup
The app will indicate when it’s ready to complete the scan, as shown in the below Screenshot. Hold the primary card to your phone until the app confirms the setup is complete.
Success!
Once the setup is finalized, you’ll see a confirmation screen with a success message, letting you know that your Tangem Ring is configured and ready for use. Tap “Continue to my wallet” to access your wallet and start managing your assets.
Tangem Security Features: Keeping Your Crypto Safe
When it comes to crypto, security is everything. The Tangem Ring was engineered with some of the most advanced security features in the hardware wallet industry, giving you peace of mind without sacrificing accessibility. Here’s a look at the key security measures that make Tangem a standout in self-custodial storage.
Advanced Encryption for Maximum Security
At the core of the Tangem Ring’s security is its EAL6+ certified chip—the highest level of security certification for secure element chips. This chip is designed to withstand unauthorized access attempts, whether they’re physical or digital. It’s the same level of encryption used in high-stakes environments like government IDs and bank cards, so it’s no exaggeration to say your private keys are as secure as they can be.
The secure element technology ensures that your keys are generated and stored within the ring itself, never exposed to external servers or the internet. This closed-loop setup reduces potential vulnerabilities and ensures that your assets remain fully in your control.
Lost Ring? Here’s What to Do
Losing the Tangem Ring is similar to misplacing one of your backup cards; you can still access your wallet using the other backup cards you’ve set up. From a security perspective, even if someone finds your lost ring, they won’t be able to access your wallet without the correct access code. Tangem has also added protection against brute-force attacks: after six incorrect code entries, a delay timer is activated, increasing by 1 second with each failed attempt, up to a maximum of 45 seconds. This delay resets only when the correct access code is entered, ensuring your assets stay secure even if the ring falls into the wrong hands.
What to Do if Tangem Wallet is Stolen
If your Tangem Ring is stolen, rest assured that the access code set up during initialization will prevent anyone from accessing your wallet. The combination of an encrypted chip and the access code creates a secure barrier against unauthorized use. In addition, the Tangem Ring does not display any crypto-related branding, making it inconspicuous and less likely to be targeted as a crypto storage device.
In the unlikely scenario where someone tries to access your crypto through the stolen ring, they’d face a locked device with maximum security encryption. With backup cards and the access code in place, you retain control even in the worst-case scenario.
What to Do if You Lose or Break Your Phone
No problem here either. Users can get a new phone, download the tangem app and restore their wallet by tapping two of the backup cards, or one ring and one card to the app. Alternatively, for users who prefer the traditional recovery phrase, their previous recovery phrase can be entered as well.
Seed Phrase Support
There’s been some buzz around Tangem and seed phrases—specifically, whether the Tangem Ring supports traditional recovery phrases. Here’s the reality: Tangem has listened to user feedback and now offers a seed phrase option within the app. You can choose to generate a traditional recovery phrase, allowing you to back up your wallet just like you would with other hardware wallets. This option is especially useful for those who may want additional recovery options beyond the backup cards.
This flexibility makes the Tangem Ring one of the few wallets that offer both a seed phrase option and secure chip technology. You’re in control of how you back up your crypto, with options that suit both newcomers and seasoned crypto holders alike.
Firmware and Open-Source Transparency
Tangem’s commitment to security extends to its firmware and app code, which are publicly available on GitHub. This open-source approach allows anyone to review the Tangem app code for transparency, reinforcing trust in the security protocols that govern your assets. Tangem has undergone security audits, and the company’s track record of zero hacks speaks to their dedication in maintaining the highest level of protection.
Tangem Ring Review: Conclusion
Tangem has taken the concept of self-custody and pushed it into the realm of wearable tech, creating a device that’s as stylish as it is secure. Imagine a future where you don’t just store your crypto—you carry it with you, seamlessly and securely, right on your finger. That’s what the Tangem Ring promises: an elegant solution to the complexities of managing digital assets.
From secure chip technology and NFC-based access to a design that can withstand everything from water to extreme temperatures, the Tangem Ring has been engineered for real life. It’s a wearable fortress, combining the best of accessibility and protection without sacrificing style. And with future updates like Visa payment integration on the horizon, this ring is more than ready for the mainstream.
So, is the Tangem Ring the future of crypto wallets? All signs point to yes. With its blend of cutting-edge security, elegant design, and everyday functionality, it’s setting a new standard in the industry. In a space where hardware wallets often feel clunky or detached from daily life, the Tangem Ring stands out as a true innovator. Wear it, tap it, trust it—that’s the Tangem way.
Get The Tangem Ring!Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Tangem Ring compare to traditional crypto wallets?
Can the Tangem Ring function without a smartphone?
Do My Cards Depend on Tangem’s Servers?
Will I Lose My Crypto if I Lose or Break My Phone?
How Safe is Tangem Wallet?
How Long Does it Take to Set Up a Tangem Wallet?
References
- “Tangem Ring.” Tangem, https://tangem.com/en/ring/
- “Hardware Wallets Explained.” Tangem, https://tangem.com/en/blog/post/hardware-wallets-explained/
- “How to Stake Cryptocurrency.” Tangem, https://tangem.com/en/blog/post/how-to-stake-cryptocurrency/
- “Setup with Seed Phrase.” Tangem, https://tangem.com/en/blog/post/setup-with-seed-phrase/
Tangem Ring
$144
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