Training engineer, I quickly became interested in the field of finance. Convinced that decentralized finance has a bright future ahead of it, I participate in its democratization by developing Crypternon.

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Which one to choose for your cryptos?

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Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Which one to choose in 2025?

Trezor is one of the pioneers of cryptocurrency hardware wallets. With the arrival of Trezor Safe 5 , many wonder about the real differences with the Model T , its predecessor always on sale. Should we really spend more? Does the SAFE 5 offer better security? Response in this clear and factual comparison.

Table of contents

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Comparative technical sheet

CharacteristicTrezor Model TTrezor Safe 5
Screen1.54 ”color tactile (240 × 240)1.54 ”color tactile (240 × 240)
Haptic feedback❌✅
Gorilla Glass glass❌✅ (Gorilla 3 anti-scratch glass)
Secure Element❌✅ (Eal6+)
Cryptos support8000+8000+
MicroSD✅✅
ConnectionUSB-CUSB-C
Weight22 g22 g
CPU180 MHz Embedded Arm Processor (Cortex-M4)160MHz Embedded Arm Processor (Cortex M33)
Backup12/10/24 Words + Slip3912/10/24 Words + Slip39
OS compatibilityWindows, macOS, Linux, Android (reading alone on iOS)Idem
Price129 €169 €

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Processor difference

A technical difference exists at the processor between the Trezor Model T and the Trezor Safe 5 :

  • Model T : Arm Cortex-M4, 180 MHz

  • Safe 5 : Arm Cortex-M33, 160 MHz

⚙️ What it changes concretely:

  • The Cortex-M33 , although slightly slower in frequency, is more recent and more efficient in energy and safety than the M4.

  • It incorporates ARMV8-M security extensions which improve the insulation of internal processes .

  • This allows better management of Secure Element and a cleaner architecture for future software updates.

 👉 In practice, the perceived performance is similar , but SAFE 5 is based on a more modern material basis and more suited to advanced safety functions .

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Cryptocurrencies supported, differences?

To date, no significant difference exists between SAFE 5 and Model T on the list of compatible cryptos .

  • Both take care of Bitcoin, Ethereum , Solana , Cardano , XRP , BNB , Avalanche , Dogecoin , Polygon , Litecoin , etc.

  • They also manage thousands of ERC-20 , BEP-20 and others tokens via Trezor Suite or third-party apps (such as Metamask or Exodus).

⚠️ Only the Trezor One , entry -level model, has limitations (no Cardano , XRP , Solana , etc.).

Browse the full Trezor range now

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Secure Element, Marketing Gadget or Real Security?

The new Trezor Safe 5 is equipped with a Secure Element. But what exactly is it? What is it for? And above all: is it really useful to protect your cryptocurrencies?

What is a Secure Element (SE)?

A Secure Element is a specialized chip, designed to store and manipulate ultra sensitive data (such as your Seed Phrase) in an environment completely isolated from the rest of the system.

It works a bit like a hardware fortress integrated into your wallet .

It is certified according to very strict safety standards, here EAL6+, one of the highest also used in passports, bank cards, SIM cards, etc.

What is the Element Secure for the user for?

It protects your seed sentence (the recovery sentence of your wallet) even if someone physically puts their hands on the device.

It makes it extremely difficult to extract data via so -called "physical" attacks: electron microscopy, laser fault injection, attack by electrical consumption analysis, etc.

He adds a hardware barrier against attacks aimed at the hardware, in addition to software protections.

In summary: Without Secure Element, a highly qualified and well -equipped pirate could theoretically extract your private key if your device is in its possession long. With an element secure, it becomes almost impossible.

And for an attacker, what does it change?

With a Secure Element, the attacker cannot directly access sensitive memory. Reading or intrusion attempts often cause automatic data erasure.

The cost, time and complexity of an attack increases considerably. We go from a realistic risk to an almost zero risk for 99.9 % of users.

In what cases is an element secure really useful?

If you often transport your wallet (trips, travel, coworking, etc.).

If you leave your wallet in a place not completely secure (locker, shared office, etc.).

If you fear a physical flight from your device.

If you evolve in a high -risk environment (activism, crypto company, offensive security, etc.).

On the other hand, if your wallet remains safe in your home, in a trunk for example, the Secure Element is not essential. But it constitutes an additional safety layer.

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: User experience, notable differences

  • Safe 5 :
    identical touch screen but with haptic return , for a better feeling at the pressure.
    Gorilla Glass 3 glass surface , more scratch resistant.
    Thick housing and reworked shape for better grip.

  • Model T :
    No haptic return or reinforced glass.
    Lighter box, less mechanically protected .

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Box contents

Trezor Safe 5:

  • Device

  • 2 backup cards

  • USB-C cable

  • Start guide

  • Trezor stickers

 
Protect your assets with the Safe 5, the best of Trezor

Trezor Model T:

  • Device

  • USB-C to USB-A cable

  • Magnetic card (dock)

  • 2 backup cards

  • Guide and stickers

 
Discover Model T, Historical Crypto Safety of Trezor

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: final verdict

Recommended useRecommended model
Simple and secure crypto storageTrezor Model T (€ 129)
Maximum physical security + ultimate comfortTrezor SAFE 5 (169 €)
Tight or beginner budgetNone of the two → Prefer the Trezor One (but limited support)

Why pay 40 € more for Safe 5?

For better physical protection , haptic return , a high -end , and especially the Secure Element .

Trezor Model T vs Safe 5: Conclusion

The Trezor Model T remains an excellent choice , always as powerful, compatible, and ergonomic. But the Trezor Safe 5 is positioned as the premium version with reinforced safety, better interaction, robust materials.

If you are an advanced user or you are looking for the most secure wallet at Trezor, SAFE 5 is an excellent choice. Otherwise, the Model T remains more than enough.

Investments in cryptocurrencies are risky. Crypternon could not be held responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused following the use of a property or service put forward in this article. Readers must do their own research before undertaking any action and investing only within the limits of their financial capacities. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This article does not constitute an investment .

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AMF recommendations. There is no guaranteed high yield, a product with high performance potential implies a high risk. This risk taking must be in line with your project, your investment horizon and your ability to lose part of this savings. Do not invest if you are not ready to lose all or part of your capital.

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Yohan Uzzan image

Yohan Uzzan

Training engineer, I quickly became interested in the field of finance. Convinced that decentralized finance has a bright future ahead of it, I participate in its democratization by developing Crypternon.