Let’s cut to the chase—multi-signature wallets, often called multisig wallets, are the security upgrade your crypto stash didn’t know it needed. Instead of relying on a single private key to authorize a transaction, multisig wallets require two or more signatures. It’s like needing multiple keys to unlock a safe, and it’s one of the smartest ways to manage digital assets in 2025.
Here’s a basic example: a 2-of-3 multisig wallet setup means three separate users (or devices) hold keys, but at least two must approve any transaction. This setup ensures that no single compromised device or person can drain the wallet.
Multisig wallets are widely used for:
- Business funds to prevent rogue actions by one employee.
- DAO treasuries to maintain decentralization and accountability.
- Family vaults where multiple people manage inheritance or shared assets.
Most major blockchains now support multisig natively or through smart contracts. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana all offer unique implementations, making multisig wallets accessible for users at all levels.
It’s not just about being fancy—it’s about being safe, smart, and in control.
Why Use Multi-Signature Wallets?
Let’s be real: crypto is exciting, but it’s also risky. From phishing scams to accidental transfers, a single moment of carelessness can wipe out years of savings. That’s where multi-signature wallets come in—they build redundancy into your security setup.
Here are the top reasons why you should consider using a multi-sig wallet:
- Prevents Single Point of Failure
One lost or compromised key doesn’t mean total loss. - Ideal for Shared Ownership
Teams, families, or partnerships can manage funds collaboratively. - Added Layer of Theft Protection
Hackers need to compromise multiple keys or devices to succeed. - Supports Complex Authorization Logic
Set up 2-of-3, 3-of-5, or even 5-of-7 signing rules. - Essential for DAO and Treasury Use
Transparency and consensus are core principles of decentralized organizations—and multisig delivers that.
So whether you’re a power user, a cautious investor, or managing a group wallet, multi-signature wallets give you the tools to add fail-safes and accountability to your crypto life.
Key Terms to Understand (Signers, Thresholds, Recovery)
Before we dive into wallet recommendations, let’s clear up the jargon. Multisig comes with a learning curve—but once you understand the terms, it all clicks.
1. Signers
These are the addresses or wallets that have the authority to approve transactions. In a 2-of-3 setup, there are 3 signers.
2. Threshold
The number of signatures required to approve a transaction. In 2-of-3, the threshold is 2. In 3-of-5, you need three approvals to move funds.
3. Recovery
What happens if one signer loses access? Some multi-sig wallets offer social recovery, where remaining signers can approve a new key to replace the lost one.
4. Custodial vs. Non-Custodial Multi-Sig
Custodial (like BitGo or Coinbase Custody) means a third party helps manage signatures. Non-custodial (like Gnosis Safe or Electrum) means you manage all signer keys yourself.
5. Hardware Integration
Many multi-signature wallets support hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor for added offline security.
Get familiar with these concepts—they’ll help you evaluate which wallet fits your needs.
How Multi-Signature Wallets Work
How Transactions Are Signed by Multiple Parties
Imagine trying to send crypto from your multisig wallet. You start the transaction, but it doesn’t move right away. That’s because other signers must approve it before it’s finalized.
Here’s the typical flow:
- A transaction is proposed by one signer.
- Other signers get notified (email, wallet app, push).
- Once the threshold number of signers approves the transaction, it becomes valid.
- The transaction is executed on-chain.
This process varies slightly by wallet (Gnosis vs Electrum), but the core logic remains the same—no transaction gets executed without reaching the signature threshold.
It may sound tedious, but it’s lightning fast once you’re used to it—and the extra security is worth it.
2-of-3 vs 3-of-5 vs Custom Signature Schemes
Different multisig configurations serve different purposes. Let’s compare the most common setups:
| Setup | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 2-of-3 | 2 approvals out of 3 signers | Small teams, family wallets |
| 3-of-5 | 3 approvals required from 5 keys | DAOs, medium businesses |
| 4-of-7 | 4 out of 7 signatures needed | Enterprise, high-security setups |
| 1-of-3 | Single signature required (not truly multisig) | Redundant backup wallets |
You can also get creative—require signatures from multiple chains, or set up rotating signer permissions. Some wallets allow custom smart contract logic to define rules based on time delays or role-based access.
The flexibility is what makes multisig powerful—you tailor it to your exact trust model.
Security Benefits vs Convenience Trade-Offs
Multi-signature wallets offer high-level security, but they’re not without friction. Let’s break down the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Much harder for hackers to steal funds
- Reduces risk of losing funds due to one lost key
- Ideal for team and organizational use
- Enables accountability and transparency in fund movement
Cons:
- Slightly slower for executing urgent transactions
- Requires coordination among multiple parties
- Some wallets/platforms have limited multisig support
- Can be complex to set up for non-technical users
That said, the trade-off is usually worth it. If you’re storing large amounts of crypto, or managing assets as a group, the small inconvenience is a small price for big peace of mind.
Table: Comparison of Multi-Sig Configurations (2-of-3, 3-of-5, etc.)
| Config Type | Number of Keys | Required Signatures | Use Case | Security Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-of-3 | 3 | 1 | Basic redundancy, not true multisig | Low |
| 2-of-3 | 3 | 2 | Small groups, dual-approval setups | Moderate |
| 3-of-5 | 5 | 3 | DAO treasury, team vault | High |
| 4-of-7 | 7 | 4 | Enterprise-grade, multi-party control | Very High |
This table makes it easier to pick a configuration based on your team size, risk tolerance, and usage scenario.
Top Free Crypto Wallets That Support Multi-Signature
Gnosis Safe – Best Free Ethereum Multi-Sig Wallet
If you’re in the Ethereum or EVM ecosystem and you’re not using Gnosis Safe for your multi-sig needs—you’re missing out. It’s hands-down the most secure and customizable free multi-signature wallet available for ETH and compatible chains like Polygon, Arbitrum, and BNB Chain.
Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- 100% non-custodial—you control all signer keys.
- Works on Ethereum mainnet and L2s (like Optimism and Base).
- Supports hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) for ultra-security.
- Web and mobile app with slick UI.
- Permissionless creation of multi-sig wallets, no KYC needed.
Setting it up is easy: you create a Safe, add signers (each with their own wallet address), and set the threshold (e.g., 2 of 3). From there, any transaction will require confirmation by the number of designated signers.
Best Use Cases:
- DAO treasury
- Project fund management
- Cross-team crypto control
Gnosis Safe is open-source, battle-tested, and supports integrations with DeFi apps, making it the go-to for secure multisig in the Ethereum world.
Sparrow Wallet – Bitcoin Multi-Sig for Power Users
When it comes to Bitcoin, Sparrow Wallet is a favorite among privacy-focused and technically savvy users. It’s not flashy—but it’s powerful, precise, and supports deep multisig setups with hardware wallet integration.
Key features:
- Supports native Bitcoin multisig (not smart contract-based)
- Compatible with Ledger, Coldcard, Trezor, Keystone, etc.
- Fully non-custodial with encrypted storage
- Advanced scripting support
- Watch-only wallet capabilities
Sparrow lets you design complex multisig setups like 2-of-3, 3-of-5, or even 7-of-9 using descriptors and air-gapped signing.
You can even generate QR codes for air-gapped hardware signing, ideal for high-security scenarios.
Who it’s for: Advanced users, developers, and anyone wanting deep control over Bitcoin multisig.
Electrum – Open-Source Bitcoin Multi-Sig
Electrum is one of the oldest and most reliable Bitcoin wallets out there. It supports multi-signature wallets out of the box and allows you to customize how many signers and how many required approvals you want.
Why it still rocks:
- Open-source and widely audited
- 2-of-3 and custom multisig configurations supported
- Easy setup wizard with advanced settings
- Can combine hardware wallets and software keys
- Available on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android
You can create a wallet where keys are distributed across devices or people, making it perfect for shared vaults or institutional cold storage setups.
While the interface feels dated, it’s still a top choice for Bitcoin multi-sig—especially if you want full control without trusting a third party.
Rabby Wallet – Free EVM Wallet with Multi-Sig Integration
Rabby Wallet is the new kid on the block—built by DeBank—and it’s already gaining traction among EVM users who want a better MetaMask alternative.
Rabby doesn’t offer native multisig (yet), but it integrates beautifully with Gnosis Safe and other EVM smart-contract multisig solutions. That means you can manage Safe transactions with a modern, user-friendly UI.
Features:
- Browser extension with chain auto-switching
- Supports all EVM chains (ETH, BNB, Polygon, etc.)
- Seamless integration with Gnosis Safe and DeFi apps
- Shows pending transactions and risks before signing
It’s 100% free, open-source, and fast becoming a preferred wallet for Ethereum power users looking to manage multisig setups from their browser.
Table: Free Multi-Sig Wallets Feature Comparison
| Wallet Name | Blockchain(s) | Multisig Support | Hardware Integration | UI Friendliness | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gnosis Safe | Ethereum + L2s | Yes (smart contract) | Yes | Excellent | DAO, teams, DeFi users |
| Sparrow Wallet | Bitcoin | Yes (native) | Yes | Moderate | Tech-savvy Bitcoin holders |
| Electrum | Bitcoin | Yes (native) | Yes | Basic | Cold storage, old-school users |
| Rabby Wallet | Ethereum + EVMs | Via Gnosis | Yes | Great | Web3 users with DeFi needs |
All of these options are 100% free to use, and none require centralized sign-up or custodial permissions. They’re designed to give you full control—and flexibility—over your crypto.
Best Paid or Enterprise-Grade Multi-Signature Wallets
Casa – Bitcoin Multi-Sig with Premium Security
If you’re serious about protecting your Bitcoin and don’t mind spending a bit for peace of mind, Casa is a top-tier choice. It’s a premium, user-friendly multi-signature wallet service tailored specifically for long-term Bitcoin storage.
Unlike DIY multisig tools like Electrum or Sparrow, Casa offers:
- 2-of-3 or 3-of-5 multisig setups with personalized onboarding.
- White-glove service including key recovery and phone support.
- Multi-device signing with mobile apps and hardware wallet support.
- Encrypted backup and remote signer deactivation.
Casa Plans:
- Free: Single key (non-multisig)
- Gold: $120/year for 2-of-3 multisig
- Platinum: $1,800/year with priority support and 3-of-5 multisig
- Diamond: Enterprise-level features and inheritance planning
It’s ideal for high-net-worth individuals, businesses, or families looking for a hands-off approach to Bitcoin multisig—without sacrificing security.
BitGo – Institutional-Grade Multi-Sig Wallet
BitGo is the gold standard in institutional crypto custody, offering multi-signature wallets with custodial and non-custodial options. It supports both Bitcoin and Ethereum along with 100+ other digital assets.
Why enterprises trust BitGo:
- 2-of-3 or 3-of-5 multi-signature configurations
- Regulated custodian with $250M in insurance coverage
- SOC 2 Type 2 compliance
- APIs for custom wallet and treasury management
- Multi-user permissions and transaction policies
BitGo isn’t for the casual user—it’s designed for crypto funds, exchanges, DAOs, and large treasuries. They also offer cold storage solutions for maximum security.
You’ll need to contact sales for pricing, but this is one of the most robust options for companies looking to combine multi-signature logic with regulatory compliance.
Fireblocks – Enterprise-Level Multi-Signature Custody
If BitGo is the vault, Fireblocks is the vault with turbochargers. It’s trusted by big names like Revolut, eToro, and crypto-native institutions, providing multi-layered security for managing and transferring digital assets.
Fireblocks uses a proprietary Multi-Party Computation (MPC) method instead of traditional multisig, which offers similar protections without depending on on-chain smart contracts.
Key features:
- Supports 1,500+ tokens across 50+ blockchains
- Multi-user transaction policies
- Secure APIs for developers
- Built-in support for DeFi and NFT transfers
- Real-time monitoring and compliance tools
Unlike Gnosis or Electrum, Fireblocks is strictly enterprise, with pricing running into thousands of dollars per year, depending on usage and integrations.
Table: Paid Wallets vs Free Wallets for Multi-Signature Use
| Feature | Casa (Paid) | BitGo (Paid) | Fireblocks (Paid) | Gnosis Safe (Free) | Electrum (Free) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blockchain Support | Bitcoin | BTC, ETH, 100+ | BTC, ETH, Solana | ETH & EVM chains | Bitcoin only |
| Multisig Type | Native multisig | Smart + native | MPC (non-traditional) | Smart contract | Native multisig |
| Custodial Option | No | Optional | Optional | No | No |
| Hardware Wallet Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | No | Limited | Yes | Yes (Android) |
| Best For | Individuals, families | Funds, DAOs, Exchanges | Large Enterprises | DAOs, DeFi, projects | Advanced users |
| Pricing | From $120/year | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing | Free | Free |
When choosing between paid and free wallets, it boils down to your needs, budget, and level of technical skill. Paid options like Casa are perfect for Bitcoiners who value white-glove service, while Fireblocks caters to big-money, big-risk use cases.
Multi-Signature on Trust Wallet and Alternatives
Does Trust Wallet Support Multi-Sig?
Short answer: No—Trust Wallet does not natively support multi-signature wallets.
Trust Wallet is a single-key, non-custodial wallet designed for ease of use and mobile-first access. While it supports a broad range of chains (Ethereum, BNB, Solana, etc.), its architecture doesn’t allow for multi-sig functionality out of the box.
If you try to create a multi-signature setup on Trust Wallet, you’ll hit a wall—no ability to assign multiple signers, no coordination interface, and no transaction thresholds.
That said, there are creative workarounds and integrations that offer some multi-sig-like protections.
Workarounds for Multi-Sig via WalletConnect
Though Trust Wallet doesn’t support multisig directly, you can use WalletConnect to interact with multi-sig smart contracts like Gnosis Safe. Here’s how:
- Go to the Gnosis Safe web app: https://gnosis-safe.io
- Choose to connect via WalletConnect.
- Open Trust Wallet → Settings → WalletConnect → Scan QR code.
- Approve the connection to Gnosis Safe.
- You can now act as one signer for the multi-sig wallet.
This method allows Trust Wallet users to participate in multisig transactions, but not to create or manage the wallet itself.
Downside? Trust Wallet remains a secondary player—you’ll need at least one desktop wallet (like Rabby or MetaMask) to complete most operations.
Alternative Wallets with Better Multi-Sig Support (Rabby, Safe)
If you’re committed to multi-signature setups, consider switching from Trust Wallet to one of these alternatives:
- Rabby Wallet: A browser wallet that integrates natively with Gnosis Safe and supports EVM chains.
- MetaMask + Gnosis Safe: A more manual, but powerful combo that works for advanced users.
- Keystone Wallet (Hardware): Fully air-gapped and integrates with Safe multisig setups for added security.
These alternatives let you be fully in control of multisig wallets and sign transactions without needing to compromise on security.
How to Create a Multi-Signature Wallet
Step-by-Step for Gnosis Safe (Ethereum & L2s)
Gnosis Safe makes creating a multisig wallet on Ethereum or any EVM-compatible chain incredibly user-friendly. Whether you’re on Ethereum mainnet, Polygon, Arbitrum, or Base, the steps are the same.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Go to https://gnosis-safe.io and click “Open App.”
- Connect a wallet (MetaMask, WalletConnect, etc.).
- Select “Create New Safe.”
- Name your Safe for easier identification (e.g., DAO Treasury, Team Wallet).
- Add owner addresses – this could be your other wallets or other team members.
- Choose the threshold – for example, 2-of-3 means two approvals are needed to sign.
- Select the network (Ethereum, Polygon, etc.).
- Confirm creation and pay the network gas fee.
Boom—you’ve got a secure, smart contract-powered multisig wallet ready to go.
Why it’s powerful:
- You can add/remove owners later (with approval).
- You can connect apps (like Aave, Uniswap) directly to your Safe.
- You can set up modules for automation, voting, or time locks.
It’s one of the most flexible setups for decentralized teams and asset managers.
Creating a Bitcoin Multi-Sig in Electrum
Electrum might not be the prettiest wallet on the block, but when it comes to Bitcoin multisig setups, it’s a beast.
Here’s how to do it in Electrum:
- Download and install Electrum from https://electrum.org.
- Launch the app and select “File” → “New/Restore.”
- Enter a name and choose “Multi-signature wallet.”
- Choose the number of signers (e.g., 2-of-3, 3-of-5).
- Electrum will generate your key and ask you to add the others.
- Input the xpub (extended public key) of the other signers.
- Complete the wallet creation.
Now you’ve got a multisig Bitcoin wallet that requires multiple keys to sign any transaction. You can use this in watch-only mode or integrate with hardware wallets to enhance security.
Pro Tip: Electrum supports cold storage, so one of your signers can be a fully air-gapped computer or device.
Table: Multi-Sig Wallet Creation Steps by Platform
| Platform | Blockchain | Signer Setup | Custom Threshold | UI Difficulty | Hardware Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gnosis Safe | Ethereum/EVM | Add via wallet address | Yes | Easy | Yes |
| Electrum | Bitcoin | Import xpub keys | Yes | Moderate | Yes |
| Casa | Bitcoin | Guided onboarding | Yes (Gold+, Diamond) | Easy | Yes |
| BitGo | BTC, ETH | API or dashboard | Yes | Moderate | Yes |
| Sparrow Wallet | Bitcoin | Manual xpub entry | Yes | Advanced | Yes |
Each wallet has its strengths. Gnosis is best for smart contract chains; Electrum and Sparrow rule Bitcoin multisig. Casa and BitGo provide a premium, supported experience.
How to Sign Transactions from Multiple Wallets
Coordinating Approvals in Gnosis Safe
Once you’ve got your Gnosis Safe set up, managing transactions becomes a team sport. Here’s how it works:
- Create a transaction (send tokens, interact with DeFi dApps, etc.).
- One signer initiates and signs the transaction.
- Other signers get notified via email or wallet alerts.
- They log in to the Safe and approve the transaction.
- Once the threshold is met (e.g., 2 of 3), any signer can execute the transaction on-chain.
This process ensures no one person can move funds solo—perfect for teams, DAOs, or shared family wallets.
You can even connect your Gnosis Safe to tools like:
- Snapshot (for voting)
- Zodiac (automation modules)
- Safe Apps (native DeFi tools built into the interface)
Multi-Device Signing in Bitcoin Wallets (Electrum, Sparrow)
Signing multisig transactions in Bitcoin wallets requires a bit more coordination, but it’s rock solid once you learn the flow.
- One user creates a PSBT (Partially Signed Bitcoin Transaction).
- The PSBT file is shared with the next signer, either by file, USB, or QR code.
- Each signer adds their signature and passes it along.
- Once all required signatures are added, the transaction is broadcast to the Bitcoin network.
You can use hardware wallets at each stage for added security—think of it like passing around a digital document that needs signatures.
Electrum and Sparrow both support PSBT flow, and you can even do this offline using air-gapped computers.
Automation Tools for Threshold Management
Tired of coordinating manually? Good news—some multisig platforms offer automation and policy enforcement tools, including:
- Gnosis Zodiac Modules: Create time-locked transactions, role-based approvals, or automated payout schedules.
- BitGo’s Policy Engine: Define rules like “All transactions over $10k require 3 signatures.”
- Fireblocks Transaction Policies: Automate approvals based on user role, wallet type, or destination address.
These tools help organizations manage large teams or complex workflows without compromising security.
Multisig Wallet Apps for Mobile and Desktop
Best Mobile Apps with Multi-Sig Support
Managing your multi-signature wallet on mobile might sound complicated—but it’s becoming surprisingly accessible. A few wallets now offer mobile support for viewing, approving, and even signing multisig transactions.
Top Mobile Wallets Supporting Multisig:
- Gnosis Safe Mobile App (iOS & Android):
- Full control of your multisig Safe.
- Create, sign, and execute transactions.
- Push notifications for transaction approvals.
- Supports biometric security and wallet connections.
- Casa App:
- iOS and Android app for Gold, Platinum, and Diamond users.
- Streamlined UX for setting up and maintaining multi-signature keys.
- Key replacement and health checks built-in.
- BlueWallet (for Bitcoin):
- Simple 2-of-3 multisig support.
- Can pair with hardware wallets or use in watch-only mode.
- Great for Bitcoiners who want mobile convenience.
- Keystone Companion App:
- Used in tandem with air-gapped Keystone hardware wallet.
- Scan QR codes to sign multisig transactions securely.
Limitations to Note:
- Not all wallets allow multisig wallet creation on mobile—you might need to start on desktop.
- Signing large or complex transactions may be easier on larger screens.
If you’re managing funds on the go, having push notifications and biometric security in your mobile app is a huge advantage.
Desktop Wallets for Multi-Sig with Hardware Integration
When it comes to handling large amounts of crypto or managing organizational funds, nothing beats the control and security of a desktop wallet with hardware support.
Top Picks:
- Electrum (Windows, Mac, Linux):
- Full-featured Bitcoin multisig wallet.
- Seamless integration with Ledger, Trezor, and Coldcard.
- Supports air-gapped PSBT workflows.
- Sparrow Wallet:
- Designed for advanced users and developers.
- Graphical interface for setting up, reviewing, and signing Bitcoin multisig transactions.
- Great for mixing cold storage with multisig.
- Gnosis Safe Web App:
- Best EVM multisig interface.
- Supports hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor.
- Safe Apps ecosystem for managing DeFi, NFTs, and DAOs.
Why Desktop?
- You can review longer transaction histories with ease.
- You can use browser extensions, plugins, and hardware integrations.
- It’s more secure for long-term asset storage, especially when combined with cold wallets.
Pro Tip: Use a dedicated computer or virtual machine just for managing multisig wallets—it’s one of the best security upgrades you can make.
Table: Multi-Sig Wallet App Compatibility Matrix
| Wallet/App | Platform | Mobile Support | Desktop Support | Hardware Wallet Compatible | Multisig Creation | Transaction Signing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gnosis Safe | EVM | Yes (iOS/Android) | Yes (Web) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Casa | Bitcoin | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electrum | Bitcoin | Yes (Android) | Yes (Win/Mac/Linux) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sparrow Wallet | Bitcoin | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BlueWallet | Bitcoin | Yes | No | Yes | Yes (basic) | Yes |
| Rabby Wallet | EVM | No | Yes (Browser) | Yes | No | Yes (via Safe) |
This matrix helps you pick the right tool for your workflow—whether you’re managing multisig assets on mobile, in the office, or from a cold wallet vault.
Use Cases for Multi-Signature Wallets
DAO Treasury Management
If you’re running a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), you already know the importance of transparency and decentralized control. That’s where multisig wallets come in.
DAOs commonly use multisig wallets like Gnosis Safe to:
- Control their treasuries collectively.
- Require multiple community leaders or elected representatives to approve spending.
- Track and verify transaction history on-chain.
Many DAOs add even more functionality:
- Integrating Snapshot voting to authorize multisig actions.
- Automating payments via Safe modules.
- Using Zodiac roles to assign signing rights based on proposals.
Multisig keeps DAOs accountable and prevents fund mismanagement, which is crucial in decentralized environments.
Family or Team Shared Crypto Vault
Let’s say you and your siblings inherited crypto from a relative—or maybe you and your startup cofounders are managing early-stage treasury funds. Either way, a multi-signature wallet ensures that no one can run off with the assets.
Use cases for families or teams:
- Inheritance planning (set up 2-of-3 multisig so one person can’t act alone).
- Joint investments (group buys into Bitcoin or Ethereum).
- Business crypto accounts (approval from at least 2 partners for major payments).
This type of setup gives everyone a say and removes the single point of failure that traditional wallets suffer from.
Emergency Backup and Loss Protection
What happens if you lose your wallet or forget your seed phrase? With a traditional single-signature wallet, you’re out of luck. But with multisig, you can design resilience into your system.
Here’s how:
- Use a 2-of-3 setup where one signer is a hardware wallet, another is a mobile wallet, and the third is stored in a secure offline location (like a bank vault).
- If one is lost or compromised, you can still recover your funds with the remaining two.
Some advanced setups also allow you to:
- Add signers via a community vote.
- Enable recovery workflows (like in Casa or Gnosis modules).
Multisig isn’t just about security—it’s about building a plan for when things go wrong.