How to Choose a Seed Phrase in Trezor: A Beginner's Guide

Just bought a new Trezor wallet? Before you start using it, you need to set up your seed phrase. This is the code to recover your funds if your wallet is lost or damaged. Let's explore which seed type is best for you.

Many people often get confused when choosing a seed phrase, so I've created this guide to help you make an easier decision.

What are the Trezor Seed Types?

Trezor offers 3 backup methods to choose from:

1. Single-share (20 words)

• A 20-word phrase used to recover your wallet. Read more here.
• Easy to remember, easy to type.
• Has a verification system to check if you've written it down correctly.
• Can be changed to the second type later.
• Who is it suitable for?: General users who are new to Trezor.

 

2. Multi-share (multiple sets)

• Divides the seed into multiple sets (20 words per set).
• Can be stored in multiple locations, which is more secure.
• Can be configured to require multiple sets for recovery.
• Who is it suitable for?: People with high-value assets who require maximum security.

 

3. Legacy (12 or 24 words)

• The traditional type used by all wallet brands.
• Can also be used with other brands of wallets.
• Easy to transfer to other wallets.
• Who is it suitable for?: People who may switch to another wallet brand in the future.

Visual Comparison: Old vs. New

Let's see how the old type (Legacy) and new type (Single-share/Multi-share) differ:

How to choose the old type (Legacy) - Can't see it? Follow these steps!

Many people can't find the old type option because it's hidden. Follow these steps:

1. Open the "Create new wallet" page in Trezor Suite.
2. Click on thedown arrow
   
   
   
3. Scroll down to the bottom until you find "Legacy wallet backup types" (with a down arrow)
   
4. Click on this, and the menu will expand.
   
   
5. Now you will see theexplanatory text.

• • "12-word Backup" selection button
  • "24-word Backup" selection button

Choose the desired type:

• 12 words: Easier, but less secure.
• 24 words: More secure, recommended if choosing the old type.

 

6. Click the "Create wallet" button to create the wallet.

Pros and Cons of the Old Type (Legacy)

Pros

• Compatible with all wallet brands.
• If Trezor breaks, you can use another wallet to recover your funds.
• Most people are familiar with this system.

Cons

• Cannot be upgraded to a high-security type (Multi-share).
• Must keep everything in one place; if lost, all is lost.

 

Recommendation: Which type is right for you?

Choose this type if you...

✅ Old Type 24 words (Legacy 24-word):

• Have used other wallets before.
• May need to switch to another wallet brand in the future.
• Want to use with multiple wallets.

 

✅ Basic Type 20 words (Single-share):

• Use Trezor as your primary wallet.
• Want an easy-to-use system.
• May upgrade to a high-security system in the future.

 

✅ High-security Type (Multi-share):

• Have high-value assets.
• Want to diversify risk.
• Want the most secure system.
• Advice: Newcomers are advised to choose the Legacy type first for easier understanding.

 

What to do regardless of the chosen type

1. Write down the word set on paper. Absolutely do not take photos or save them on a computer.
2. Keep it in a secure place where no one else can access it.
3. Make backup copies and store them in multiple separate locations.
4. Test the recovery process after setup, before storing real funds.

 

Choosing the seed phrase that suits your needs will help protect your digital funds securely!