This guide covers the essential steps to get started with your BitBox02 and the Electrum wallet. For a complete, detailed walkthrough with screenshots, please refer to our full blog post: Use the BitBox02 with Electrum wallet

Before you begin:

• The BitBox02 needs to be set up with the BitBoxApp first. Follow the instruction on How to set-up your BitBox02 to do that.
• Download and install the latest version of Electrum only from its official website (https://electrum.org).
• Make sure the BitBoxApp is completely closed before you open Electrum, as only one application can connect to the BitBox02 at a time.

Connect your BitBox02 to Electrum

1. Open the Electrum application, give your wallet a name, and click Next.

2. Select Standard wallet when prompted.

3. On the Keystore screen, choose Use a hardware device.

4. Important: Ensure the BitBoxApp is closed. Connect your BitBox02. If needed, click Rescan devices until your BitBox02 appears, then click Next.

5. Enter your device password on the BitBox02 to unlock it.
6. If prompted, compare and confirm the secure pairing code on your BitBox02.

7. For the address type, we recommend choosing native segwit (p2wpkh) for the lowest fees.

8. To finish, select Encrypt wallet file using hardware wallet device and click Finish.

How to receive bitcoin 

1. In Electrum, go to the Receive tab.

2. Click Request to create a new receiving address.

3. This will create new receiving requests and addresses derived from your wallet (seed).

4. Click the tool icon on the right and select Show address on BitBox02.

5. Crucially, verify the address on your BitBox02 screen. It must be identical to the one shown in Electrum.

6. If they match, confirm on the BitBox02. You can now share this address to receive funds.

How to send bitcoin

1. Go to the Send tab.

2. Enter the recipient's address and the amount. Click Pay

3. Set your desired transaction fee and click OK.

4. Authorize the transaction when prompted.

5. Review all transaction details (amount and address) on your BitBox02 screen.
6. If everything is correct, physically confirm the transaction on your BitBox02.

FAQ

Why do I need to verify the receiving address on my BitBox02?

This protects you from malware on your computer that could try to change the address you are sending to or receiving from. Verifying on the BitBox02's screen ensures the address is correct and controlled by your device.

Why does the BitBoxApp need to be closed when I use Electrum?

Only one application can communicate with the BitBox02 at a time. If the BitBoxApp is open, it will block Electrum from connecting to your device.

What does "native segwit (p2wpkh)" mean?

This is a modern Bitcoin address format that starts with 'bc1'. It is the recommended standard because it results in smaller transaction sizes, which means you pay lower network fees.

Can I use my BitBox02 only with Electrum?

No, you must always set up your BitBox02 with the official BitBoxApp first. The BitBoxApp helps you create your wallet and your crucial microSD card backup. After that, you can safely use it with third-party wallets like Electrum.