Choosing the right backup method for your BitBox02 hardware wallet is one of the most important decisions you'll make in securing your cryptocurrency. Your backup is the ultimate safety net, allowing you to recover your funds if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
This guide compares the different backup methods for your BitBox02—microSD card, recovery words, and steel wallets—so you can choose the one that best fits your security needs and technical comfort level.
Your choice of backup involves a trade-off between convenience, durability, and compatibility. Beginners may prefer the simple microSD card, while long-term holders might opt for the ultimate security of a steel wallet.
Method 1: microSD Card Backup
This is the default and most straightforward backup method, created automatically by your BitBox02 during setup. The device securely stores your wallet's recovery information onto a microSD card, eliminating the need to manually write down recovery words.
When you use the microSD card backup, your 24 recovery words are not displayed on the screen. The device handles the entire process for you, making setup fast and error-free. You can always display the words later if you decide to create an additional paper or steel backup.
- For step-by-step instructions, see: How to set up your BitBox02 with a microSD card backup.
| Pros | Cons |
| Very Easy Creation: The backup is created automatically during setup. | Low Durability: Vulnerable to water, physical damage, and data corruption. |
| Simple Recovery: Restoring your wallet on a new BitBox02 is fast and easy. | Limited Compatibility: Requires a BitBox02 or a specific recovery tool to access funds on other wallets. |
Best For: Beginners who prioritize a simple, fast, and convenient setup process.
If you lose your BitBox02 and your microSD card backup, your funds cannot be recovered. Always store your device and its primary backup in separate, secure locations. Consider creating a secondary backup (like recovery words) for added security.
Method 2: Recovery Words (Mnemonic Seed Phrase)
This is the universally accepted industry standard for wallet recovery. You manually write down a list of words that can be used to restore your wallet on virtually any hardware or software wallet.
Recovery Words on Paper
The most basic method involves writing your words on a piece of paper and storing it securely.
| Pros | Cons |
| Universal Compatibility: Supported by nearly every crypto wallet available. | Low Durability: Paper is easily destroyed by fire, water, or physical wear. |
| Full Control: Puts you in complete control of your recovery information. | Prone to Human Error: Mistakes can be made when writing or reading the words. |
Best For: This is the best choice for users who need the flexibility to recover their funds on any hardware or software wallet.
Laminated Backup Card
The BitBox Backup Card is a durable, laminated card designed specifically for recording your 24 recovery words. Its structured format helps reduce the chance of errors compared to using plain paper.
| Pros | Cons |
| Medium Durability: Resists aging, moisture, and wear better than paper. | Manual Process: Still requires careful manual transcription of the words. |
| Universal Compatibility: Functions just like a standard paper backup. | Vulnerable to extreme heat or physical force. |
Best For: Users who want a more organized and durable solution than plain paper for their recovery words.
Method 3: Steel Backups (Ultimate Durability)
For maximum physical security, steel backups allow you to permanently record your recovery words on stainless steel, making them resistant to fire, water, corrosion, and physical impact.
Steelwallet
The BitBox Steelwallet provides stainless steel plates where you can engrave or stamp your recovery words using an included automatic center punch.
Steelwallet Pro
For those needing to back up multiple wallets, the Steelwallet Pro is a premium solution made of marine-grade 316L stainless steel. It offers space for two separate 24-word recovery phrases.
Seedor
The Seedor offers a different approach. Instead of punching, you slide laser-engraved stainless steel letter tiles into a frame to assemble your recovery words. This method is often faster and less error-prone than manual engraving.
| Pros | Cons |
| Highest Durability: Resistant to fire, water, corrosion, and physical stress. | Difficult Setup: Engraving or assembling the words requires time and effort. |
| Universal Compatibility: Stores the standard 24 words, compatible with all wallets. | Higher Cost: These solutions are more expensive than paper or microSD cards. |
Best For: Long-term holders and users seeking the highest level of physical security for their "digital gold."
Comparison summary
For a quick overview, here is a direct comparison of the methods:
| Method | Easy of creation | Ease of recovery | Durability | Universal compatibility | Best for |
| microSD Card | Very Easy (Automatic) | Very Easy (with BitBox02) | Low | No (Requires a specific tool) | Beginners wanting maximum convenience. |
| Recovery Words | Medium (Manual) | Medium (Manual) | Low | Yes (Standard across wallets) | Users prioritizing flexibility and wallet compatibility. |
| Backup Card | Medium (Manual) | Medium (Manual) | Medium | Yes (Standard across wallets) | Users wanting a more durable alternative to paper. |
| Steel Backups | Hard (Manual) | Medium (Manual) | Very High | Yes (Standard across wallets) | Users needing the highest physical security for long-term storage. |
Don't rely on a single backup. For robust security, consider using two different methods. For example, use the convenient microSD card for your primary backup and a Steelwallet stored in a separate, secure location as your secondary backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see my recovery words when using the microSD card backup?
No. To make the process fast and secure, the BitBox02 does not display the recovery words during a microSD card backup. The backup file contains the same recovery data, but it is not protected by a separate password. This is a deliberate design choice to avoid adding another password you could forget. You can read the reasoning here: Why are the BitBox02 microSD card backups not password protected?
Can I add a recovery-word backup later?
Yes. You can view your recovery words on the BitBox02's screen at any time after setup, allowing you to create a paper or steel backup whenever you want.
Can one microSD card hold multiple backups?
Yes, a single microSD card can store backups from multiple, different wallets. Each backup is saved in a separate file identified by a unique wallet ID. If you back up the same wallet again, the BitBox02 will safely overwrite the old backup file for that specific wallet, ensuring you always have the most recent version.
What if I lose my microSD card?
If you still have your BitBox02 and know your device password, you can simply create a new backup on a new microSD card. However, if you lose both your device and your only backup card, your funds will be lost. This is why having a secondary backup is critical.