Key takeaways
- The Cypherock X1 uses shard-based recovery for ultimate key security.
- EAL6+ certification ensures advanced tamper resistance.
- Joystick navigation and sleek design enhance usability.
- Supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies with regular updates for future compatibility.
From their early use as part of a dual-axis control system for remotely piloting aircraft in the 1920s to their debut in video games with the release of the Magnavox Odyssey in 1972, joysticks have long been an intuitive element in device control systems.
However, the Cypherock hardware crypto wallet offers far more than just a joystick for navigation. It boasts best-in-class security, a critical feature in a time when cryptocurrency thefts rose by 21% in 2024.
Additionally, this review will explore the Cypherock X1’s standout features, including its setup process, usability, asset support and design.
Could this be the best crypto hardware wallet of 2025? Let’s find out.
Overview of the Cypherock X1
The Cypherock X1, launched in 2023, is an innovative hardware wallet set on redefining crypto security with its unique keyless recovery system.
Instead of relying on traditional seed phrases, it uses shard-based recovery technology to split private keys into multiple encrypted parts, significantly reducing the risk of loss while enhancing protection against hacks, theft and damage.
Certified with an EAL5+ secure element, the Cypherock X1 delivers robust hardware-level security. It supports over 1,000 cryptocurrencies and boasts a sleek, user-friendly design, making it a standout choice for everyone in the market for cold crypto asset storage.
Did you know? The word “joystick” is believed to have originated from aviation pioneer Robert Loraine, a British pilot and actor, who used the term in his flight logs as early as 1909. Initially, it referred to the control stick used in aircraft, and over time, the name was adopted for the gaming controllers we recognize today.
Security Analysis
We could speak all day about the Cypherock X1 hardware wallet’s security features, but here are the basics:
- Private key storage: The Cypherock X1 revolutionizes traditional private key storage by implementing Shamir’s Secret Sharing (SSS) algorithm. This method divides the private key into five encrypted shards, distributed across the X1 Vault and four X1 Cards. To reconstruct the original private key, any two of these five shards are required, significantly reducing the risk of a single point of failure. This decentralized storage ensures that even if one component is compromised, unauthorized access to the complete private key remains unattainable.
- Firmware security: The Cypherock X1 operates on open-source firmware, promoting transparency and continuous community scrutiny. Regular audits by security experts and the developer community help identify and address potential vulnerabilities promptly. Notably, the wallet has undergone a comprehensive security audit by Keylabs, which commended its innovative use of hardware and software security best practices.
- Tamper resistance: Constructed with an EAL6+ certified secure element, the X1 Cards offer advanced protection against physical tampering and unauthorized access. The device’s design includes ultrasonic welding, making it challenging for attackers to open the device without leaving visible signs of interference. Additionally, the X1 Vault and X1 Cards authenticate each other before any operation, ensuring that only genuine components can interact within the system.
- Recovery options: Cypherock’s innovative recovery mechanism eliminates the need for traditional written seed phrases. By utilizing the SSS algorithm, the private key is split into five shards, and any two can be used to recover the assets. This design allows users to securely distribute the shards across different locations or trusted individuals, ensuring asset recovery in case of device loss or damage without compromising security or privacy.
As hinted, Cypherock’s security features don’t stop here. For example, it features an alphanumeric PIN system paired with a proof-of-work mechanism called CyLock, which progressively increases lockout time after incorrect PIN attempts, effectively preventing brute-force attacks.
Moreover, to counter supply chain threats, the device undergoes a secure provisioning process during manufacturing, guaranteeing the authenticity of both the X1 Vault and X1 Cards.
Additionally, the components authenticate each other before operations, establishing encrypted sessions to prevent unauthorized interactions. The wallet also defends against side-channel attacks by performing sensitive operations, such as PIN verification, within the secure environment of the X1 Cards, reducing the risk of information leaks through electromagnetic emissions or power consumption patterns.
Did you know? Joysticks are not limited to gaming; they are also used for controlling machines such as cranes, trucks, underwater unmanned vehicles, wheelchairs, surveillance cameras and zero-turning-radius lawnmowers.
Setup and usability
The Cypherock X1 hardware wallet goes beyond top-tier security — usability is a big part of its appeal.
Unboxing experience
Upon receiving the Cypherock X1, users can expect the following items included in the package:
- X1 Vault: The main hardware device.
- Four X1 Cards: NFC-enabled cards used for key shard storage.
- Protective card sleeves: To safeguard the X1 Cards.
- USB-C cable with OTG adapter: For device connectivity.
- Lanyard: For convenient carrying of the X1 Vault.
- User manual and warranty documentation: Providing essential information and support details.
- A hardware carry case: Optional.
Initial setup
Setting up the Cypherock X1 involves the following steps:
- Download cySync software: Visit the official Cypherock website to download the cySync application compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS or Linux).
- Connect the X1 Vault: Use the provided USB-C cable to connect the X1 Vault to your computer.
- Launch cySync and initialize the device: Open the cySync application. Follow the on-screen instructions to initialize the X1 Vault, which includes setting a secure password for the cySync app.
- Authenticate X1 Cards: The application will prompt you to authenticate each of the four X1 Cards by tapping them on the X1 Vault. This process ensures that the cards are correctly paired with the device.
- Create a new wallet: On the X1 Vault, select the option to create a new wallet. Assign a unique name to the wallet for easy identification. Set a secure PIN to protect access to the wallet.
- Distribute key shards: The device will split the private key into five encrypted shards using Shamir’s Secret Sharing algorithm. These shards are distributed across the X1 Vault and the four X1 Cards.
- Finalize setup: Once the shards are distributed, the wallet setup is complete. You can now manage your cryptocurrency assets through the cySync application.
This setup process is pretty straightforward, typically taking approximately two minutes to complete.
Documentation and support
Cypherock provides extensive support resources, including detailed user manuals and guides for setup, wallet creation and device management. Additionally, video tutorials offer step-by-step instructions to enhance user understanding, while responsive customer support is available to assist with any inquiries or issues during setup and usage.
Did you know? Analog joysticks provide a smooth range of motion, allowing for precise control, while digital joysticks operate on predefined directions, offering less nuanced input. This distinction is crucial in applications like flight simulation, where analog input enables more accurate maneuvering.
Asset support and compatibility
The Cypherock X1 wallet supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), BNB (BNB), Polygon (MATIC), Litecoin (LTC) and Bitcoin Cash (BCH), as well as ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens, such as Tether’s USDt (USDT), USD Coin (USDC) and Dai (DAI).
Users can add custom tokens via the cySync app by entering the token contract address. While the wallet excels in supporting Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible chains, it currently lacks compatibility with non-EVM chains like Solana and Cardano, as well as non-fungible token (NFT) storage for ERC-721 and ERC-1155 tokens.
The wallet integrates seamlessly with Web3 ecosystems, allowing secure connections to decentralized applications (DApps) like Uniswap, Aave and Compound through the cySync app or via MetaMask, ensuring private keys remain secure.
Future updates aim to include support for additional chains, NFT management and a dedicated mobile app for Android and iOS. With regular firmware updates, the Cypherock X1 is positioned to evolve alongside the rapidly growing blockchain ecosystem, making it a solid choice for managing mainstream cryptocurrencies and tokens.
Design and build quality
The X1 Vault, the main device, features a robust plastic shell with a matte finish, providing a professional and minimalist esthetic while being resistant to smudges and fingerprints.
The device is lightweight yet durable, designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. It includes a 0.96-inch OLED display that offers sharp and clear visuals, complemented by a five-way tactile joystick for intuitive navigation.
The accompanying X1 Cards, made from high-quality plastic, are slim, credit card-sized and include protective sleeves for added durability.
The overall build exudes reliability and sturdiness, with the X1 Vault engineered to resist minor drops and scratches.
The brand also offers NFT customization when the device is ordered from the Cypherock official website.
Did you know? The Cypherock X1 hardware wallet’s joystick follows a design reminiscent of the directional controls found on PlayStation controllers, providing users with an intuitive and familiar interface for managing their cryptocurrency assets.
Pricing
The Cypherock X1 hardware wallet is available for purchase as a bundle with a hard case from the official website for $159.00.
It comes with a one-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring users have support for any hardware-related issues during this period.
FAQs
1. Can the Cypherock X1 be hacked?
The Cypherock X1 is designed with advanced security features to minimize the risk of hacking. It employs Shamir’s Secret Sharing (SSS) algorithm to split private keys into five encrypted shards distributed across the X1 Vault and four X1 Cards.
This decentralized storage ensures that unauthorized access to the complete private key is highly unlikely, even if one component is compromised.
Additionally, the device utilizes an EAL6+ certified secure element and open-source firmware, promoting transparency and continuous community scrutiny to identify and address potential vulnerabilities promptly.
2. Is the Cypherock X1 compatible with specific cryptocurrencies?
The Cypherock X1 supports over 9,000 cryptocurrencies and tokens, including major assets such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), BNB (BNB), Polygon (MATIC), Litecoin (LTC) and Bitcoin Cash (BCH), as well as ERC-20 and BEP-20 tokens such as Tether’s USDt (USDT), USD Coin (USDC) and Dai (DAI).
Users can add custom tokens via the cySync app by entering the token contract address. For a comprehensive list of supported assets, please refer to the official Cypherock coin support page.
3. How do I recover my funds if I lose the wallet?
In the event of losing the X1 Vault, you can recover your funds using any two of the four X1 Cards. The Cypherock X1’s recovery mechanism eliminates the need for traditional written seed phrases by utilizing the SSS algorithm, which splits the private key into five shards.
By securely storing the X1 Cards in different locations or with trusted individuals, you can ensure asset recovery without compromising security or privacy.
4. Does it support staking or other advanced features?
As of now, the Cypherock X1 primarily focuses on providing secure storage and management of cryptocurrency assets.
While it integrates seamlessly with Web3 ecosystems, allowing secure connections to decentralized applications (DApps) like Uniswap, Aave and Compound through the cySync app or via MetaMask, specific support for staking or other advanced features may vary depending on the cryptocurrency and associated platforms.
It’s advisable to check the latest updates from Cypherock or consult the cySync app for current capabilities.
5. Where can I purchase the Cypherock X1?
You can purchase the Cypherock X1 directly from the official Cypherock website. Buying from the official source ensures that you receive a genuine product and have access to customer support and warranty services.
Written by Bradley Peak
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