Updated
Choosing between paper and metal is a decision about how to record your recovery information. It does not replace the separate decision about which wallet to use. Both can hold a physical copy of your words; the differences are in preparation, durability and storage.
A wallet and its backup do different jobs
A hardware wallet is a device used to manage keys and authorize transactions. A sheet of paper or an engraved steel card holds recovery information. Moving that information from paper to metal does not turn a software wallet into a hardware wallet or change how it signs transactions.
If the terms are new to you, start with our guide to seed phrases.
Paper and metal at a glance
| Consideration | Paper | Engraved metal |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Write the words clearly, in order. | Allow time to engrave and check each word. |
| Tools and cost | Needs little equipment. | Requires a suitable metal backup and marking tool. |
| Heat and moisture | Paper can burn; water can damage the sheet or writing. | Performance depends on the metal, design and exposure. Engraving avoids reliance on ink. |
| Corrections | A fresh sheet is easy to prepare. | A mistake may require a replacement card or a clear correction following the maker’s instructions. |
| Privacy | Readable to anyone who finds it. | Also readable to anyone who finds it. |
| Ongoing care | Check condition and legibility. | Check legibility, location and signs of disturbance. |
Paper can be a useful starting point
You do not need to wait for a metal kit to record a newly generated backup. Follow your wallet’s setup instructions and check the written copy. Trezor, for example, supplies paper backup cards and emphasizes correct spelling, word order and protection from theft or damage. Read Trezor’s backup guidance.
Decide where the copy will live before putting it away. A loose sheet mixed with receipts has a different risk of accidental disposal from a clearly managed backup in secure storage.
What Crypto Seed Bank® adds
Crypto Seed Bank® uses 304 grade stainless steel. Each kit includes two cards, integrated letter stencils and a tungsten tipped engraving pen. One card guides the engraving on the other, so you do not have to form every letter freehand.
The second card lets you create another complete backup. Keeping two copies together makes them easier to manage, but exposes both to the same local incident. Separate secure locations reduce that shared risk while creating another location you must protect.
What the blowtorch demonstration shows
In our demonstration, the card was heated with a blowtorch until red hot, and the engraved words remained readable. The before-and-after comparison documents that result. It does not establish a measured card temperature, a certified fire rating or survival in every house fire.
Assess a backup by its material, how the words are recorded, and the evidence for its performance. “Metal” alone does not describe every product’s behaviour.
Choose a process you can maintain
A careful copy on a suitable medium is more useful than an unchecked copy on a stronger one. Start with your wallet’s backup format, check every word, and decide how you will maintain private access over time.
For the next step, use our storage checklist. If you are using Crypto Seed Bank®, follow the engraving guide and explore the kit and original test comparison.