Coldcard MK4 vs Bitkey
Key differences
- Coldcard MK4 is built for advanced users with secure elements, offline microSD signing, and keypad entry; Bitkey focuses on simplicity with fingerprint login and no screen.
- Bitkey is easier to set up and use for mobile-first users with its 2-of-3 multisig and NFC tap-to-confirm, while Coldcard requires more technical understanding and manual steps.
- Coldcard provides more granular control for air-gapped Bitcoin-only custody; Bitkey trades control for convenience, relying partly on cloud-based recovery.
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Launch
2022
2023
Screen Size
128x64 pixel OLED display
No display
Box Includes
- COLDCARD™ Mk4
Bitkey hardware device, USB-C to USB-A charging cable, Getting started guide
Security Features
Passphrase Support
Passphrase Entry
Device
-
PIN Protection
Shamir Secret Sharing
Tor Support
Usage
Platforms
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- Android
- iOS
- Android
- iOS
Supported Coins
Bitcoin Only
Bitcoin Only
Interfaces
- Numeric Keypad
- NFC-V
- USB-C
- AirGap SneakerNET
- Virtual Disk
- MicroSD Card
NFC, USB-C
Technical Details
Secure Elements
Dual Secure Elements - ATECC608 & DS28C36B
Fingerprint scanner, 2-of-3 multisig setup
Open Source
Firmware & Software
Software
FIDO Authentication
Size
86x50x7.5 mm (3.39x1.97x0.3 in)
56 mm x 62 mm x 13 mm (2.20 x 2.44 x 0.51 in)
Weight
30g (1.1oz)
65g (2.3oz)
Bitcoin-Only Version
Integration & Multisig
Integrations
- Nunchuk
- Sparrow
- Bitcoin Core
- Electrum
- BlueWallet
- Casa
- Fully Noded
- Specter Desktop
- Unchained
- Wasabi Wallet
- Coldcore
- Theya
- Azteco
- Blockchain.com
- Cash App
- Coinbase
- Moonpay
- Robinhood
Multisig Support ?Multi-signature wallets require multiple keys to authorize transactions (e.g., 2-of-3). Adds security by eliminating single points of failure.
- Bitkey 2-of-3 Multisig Setup
Display Technology
Display Type
Monochrome OLED (128x64)
No display
Touchscreen
No (button controls)
No (button controls)
Build Quality
Body Material
Plastic with sliding protective cover
Corian Solid Surface and stainless steel
Water Resistance ?IP67 rating means fully dustproof and can survive submersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Protects against accidental spills and drops.
Not rated
Not rated
Haptic Feedback ?Vibration feedback when pressing buttons or confirming actions. Provides tactile confirmation that your input was registered.
No
No
Connectivity & Power
Bluetooth ?Wireless connectivity for pairing with mobile devices. Enables cable-free transactions but some users prefer USB-only for security.
No
No
NFC ?Near Field Communication for tap-to-connect with compatible devices. Convenient for quick mobile transactions.
Yes
Yes
Wireless Charging
No
No
Cable Type
USB-C
USB-C to USB-A
Battery
No battery (USB powered)
~1 year
Advanced Security
Quantum Ready ?Designed to receive firmware updates with quantum-resistant cryptography. Protects against future threats from quantum computers that could break current encryption.
Yes
No
Dual Secure Element ?Uses two separate secure chips instead of one. Provides redundancy and additional tamper protection for storing your private keys.
Yes (2 chips)
Single chip
iOS Compatibility ?"Full" means you can send, receive, and manage crypto on iPhone. "Limited" typically means view-only or requires desktop for transactions.
Full support
Full support
Company Details
Parent Company
Coinkite
Block Inc.
Parent Company Founded
2011
2009
Security Incidents
No known security incidents
No known security incidents
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