Gemini Wallet Review: Pros & Cons, Supported Chains & Cryptocurrencies

This Gemini wallet review explores the pros and cons, supported chains and cryptocurrencies, features and tools. Learn whether Gemini wallet is the right choice.

Gemini is a US-based crypto exchange known for its strong regulation and institutional-grade security. It’s also the parent company of a custodial online and mobile wallet.

This Gemini wallet review will explore the pros and cons of this service in more detail. We’ll cover topics such as custodianship, security features, supported cryptocurrencies, fees, and more.

Key Takeaways

Our Verdict on Gemini Wallet

Overall, Gemini is an established and trusted exchange offering custodial wallet services, and we have previously explored the trading side of the company in a deep-dive Gemini exchange review. Advanced security features include US and international licensing, two-factor authentication, whitelisted wallet addresses, and 24/7 risk management teams. Most client-owned cryptocurrencies are held in cold storage wallets, protected by insurance and multi-sig controls.

However, as a custodial provider, Gemini presents many counterparty risks. Users can’t control their private keys, meaning they don’t truly own their cryptocurrencies. Moreover, Gemini only supports 70+ cryptocurrencies with no options to add custom tokens. I also found that transaction fees, particularly when testing out crypto trading options, are also extremely high.

What is Gemini Wallet?

Gemini is an online crypto exchange that launched in 2015. It’s owned by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, better known as the “Winklevoss Brothers”. Gemini is considered a safe crypto exchange, considering its strong regulation in the US, the UK, and other regions. Like most cryptocurrency exchanges, Gemini also offers a custodial wallet.

This can be accessed directly on the Gemini exchange simply by logging in. Alternatively, Gemini’s web wallet is also available as a standalone mobile app for iOS and Android. It’s important to stress that Gemini controls the wallet’s private keys. Users must seek approval when transacting, including withdrawing funds from the Gemini exchange.

This is unlike non-custodial wallets, with users having full autonomy over their cryptocurrencies. Another drawback is that Gemini doesn’t connect with decentralized applications (dApps), such as Uniswap, OpenSea, and PancakeSwap. Instead, the wallet is primarily used for Gemini’s exchange services, such as crypto trading.

That said, Gemini’s custodian framework might appeal to complete beginners, especially those who aren’t comfortable with private keys and secret passphrases. The user experience is smooth and simple, ensuring even newbies can transact. I also found that strong security features are offered.

For instance, most client-owned cryptocurrencies are stored offline in cold wallets. This is in addition to two-factor authentication, biometrics, and address whitelisting. Do note that users can only store tradable cryptocurrencies on the Gemini exchange. This is limited to just 70+ markets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and Litecoin.

Another drawback, as per Gemini’s regulatory framework, is that all users must complete KYC (know-your-customer) requirements. This includes providing personal information and uploading a government-issued ID. Therefore, the Gemini wallet won’t suit those wishing to store and trade cryptocurrencies anonymously.

What Type of Wallet is Gemini Wallet?

Gemini is a “custodial” wallet provider. This is an important concept to understand, considering the “Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins” mantra.

Now, this will be problematic for most crypto investors. After all, client-owned funds are at risk if Gemini faces financial or technical issues. Consider that FTX was the world’s second-biggest exchange when it filed for bankruptcy in 2022. Billions of dollars of client-owned cryptocurrencies were misplaced, including those stored in the FTX wallet.

While Gemini has a solid balance sheet, strong regulatory framework, and highly robust security, there’s no guarantee that user funds are safe. In addition, you never truly own the purchase cryptocurrencies while they’re stored on Gemini. Instead, you effectively have an “IOU” agreement, where Gemini promises to honor balances and withdrawals.

Supported Device Types

Supported Chains & Cryptocurrencies

Unlike non-custodial wallets, Gemini doesn’t support entire networks. While the Ethereum network is supported, this doesn’t mean users can store any ERC-20 token. Instead, users can only store cryptocurrencies that can be traded on the Gemini crypto exchange. Depositing a non-supported token will result in a loss of funds.

Gemini supports over 70 cryptocurrencies, including popular markets like:

There’s also increasing support for the best Solana meme coins, like dogwifhat, Book of Meme, Bonk, cat in a dogs world, and Moo Deng.  A wide selection of stablecoins are supported, too, including DAI, USD Coin, Tether, and Gemini Dollar. The latter is the exchange’s native token, which I discuss later in this review.

Ultimately, Gemini vastly falls short in this department. Alternative wallet providers often support millions