Keevo Wallet Review

Coinmonks Team
Coinmonks
12 min readNov 17, 2023

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Cryptocurrency investors have seen exchange hacks, malware attacks, and SIM swap fraud drain millions from insecure wallets. Offline hardware wallets like Keevo protect against these remote threats by disconnecting private keys from the internet. But is the $299.99 Keevo worth its steep price? Does it live up to claims of being the most secure crypto wallet available today? We put it to the rigorous test in this in-depth review.`

Unboxing and First Impressions

Receiving the Keevo hardware wallet for the first time elicits immediate positive impressions from the sleek yet rugged design. The rounded rectangular prism-shaped device measures 95 x 58 x 11mm and weighs 60g. The durable plastic and metal construction with tamper-evident security screws gives confidence this is a well-built vault meant to withstand attacks.

Four subtly integrated buttons along the bottom provide tactile feedback when navigating menus on the 2.8-inch 320x240 pixel color touchscreen display. The prominent top power button integrates a fingerprint scanner for biometric authentication. An integrated front-facing camera enables facial recognition as another login option.

A magnetic charging dock on the rear seamlessly aligns the device for efficient power transfer when plugged into a cable. The lack of external ports beyond the charging dock enhances resistance to wired hacking attempts. Overall, the Keevo hardware instills confidence in both security and quality at first glance.

Keevo Wallet: Setup and Configuration

Upon unboxing, users download the Keevo mobile app on their paired smartphone and connect it to WiFi for initial configuration. The setup guides users through creating a 4-digit unlock PIN, registering fingerprints for biometric access, and capturing a face photo to enable facial recognition.

Next, users are prompted to generate and securely record a 24-word recovery seed phrase. This phrase can restore the wallet if the device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Instructions emphasize keeping the recovery phrase offline in a safe location.

Users can also create an optional 6-digit Hidden Pin code for accessing the recovery phrase as an extra layer of security on top of biometrics. Once setup, Keevo pairs to the mobile app over Bluetooth for general use. The guided process ensures even cryptocurrency beginners can get started without frustration.

Keevo Wallet Hardware Design and Durability

  • The Keevo hardware exhibits meticulous design optimized for security, usability, and durability. Measuring 95 x 58 x 11mm and weighing just 60g, the wallet is compact enough for everyday portability while maintaining a sturdy feel. The rounded edges and smooth curves create a comfortable grip shape.
  • Four tactile buttons along the bottom provide easy navigation of on-screen menus, while the prominent top power button incorporates the fingerprint scanner for biometric access. The 2.8-inch 320x240 pixel color touchscreen enables intuitive interaction and monitoring of balances, transactions, settings, etc.
  • The durable plastic and aluminum alloy casing can withstand bumps and drops. Tamper-evident security screws along the perimeter deter physical tampering attempts, which could compromise components. The lack of external ports beyond the rear magnetic charging dock prevents wired hacking efforts.

This thoughtful hardware design balances usability, security, and resilience for safeguarding users’ valuable cryptocurrency holdings over the long term. The materials and construction quality match the durability claims.

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Keevo’s Military-Grade Security Components

Keevo leverages enterprise-level hardware security modules and encryption certified for military applications:

  • Bank-grade EAL7-certified secure element chip for PIN encryption and key storage.
  • CC EAL6+ certified Bluetooth chip with additional layers of security protection.
  • Isolated design with no internet connectivity or ports beyond the charging dock.
  • The cryptographically sealed recovery phrase is unavailable to malware or keyloggers.
  • End-to-end data encryption between devices, apps, and servers.

These foundations allow Keevo to offer best-in-class private key security anchored in proven technology.

Keevo Wallet Review: Advanced User-Facing Security Features

In addition to hardcore internal security, Keevo provides user-facing features that enhance protection:

  • Fast and accurate fingerprint unlock for efficient biometric authentication.
  • Facial recognition login via front-facing camera, even in low light conditions.
  • A randomly encrypted passphrase is displayed on-screen during unlocking as an anti-phishing measure.
  • Short automatic timeout periods to quickly lock the device when not in active use.
  • Self-destruct mechanism to wipe data if tampering or penetration is detected.

These user security capabilities and military-grade internal encryption make Keevo highly resilient against external attacks.

The Carbon Key Provides Encoding Backup

Going beyond just a written phrase, Keevo offers the Carbon Key as a secondary physical backup factor. This unique hardware device allows users to additionally store an encrypted password and fingerprint data for restoration purposes. Combined with the 24-word seed phrase, the Carbon Key delivers air-tight redundancy.

Users can restore access by connecting their Carbon Key to a new Keevo device and entering their decrypted password. Users can store their Carbon Key in Keevo’s secure offline vault storage for the utmost security through industry leader Iron Mountain. The Carbon Key replaces flimsy paper phrases with robust, eon-lasting metal.

Comparing the Keevo Wallet Editions

The Keevo Wallet comes in Standard and Founders Edition models. The Founders Edition ($399.99) includes premium extras like:

  • A stylish desktop display stands for the hardware wallet.
  • High-quality braided USB-C charging cable.
  • Exclusive limited edition serialized numbering.

The cheaper Standard Edition ($299.99) lacks these bonus items but contains identical core functionality. For most cryptocurrency investors, the standard Keevo Wallet likely represents the smarter buy with the same security at a lower price point. But early adopters may appreciate the collectible Founders Edition extras.

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Keevo Wallet Review: Cryptocurrency Storage and Transactions

Once configured, using Keevo is convenient for securely storing, sending, and receiving cryptocurrencies. The process for adding accounts involves selecting the asset type, entering the wallet address on the mobile app, and then scanning the QR code displayed on Keevo’s screen for confirmation.

The interface displays balances, transaction histories, settings, and other account information. QR code scanning enables effortlessly receiving payments from wallet addresses or when cashing out from crypto exchanges.

While the offline nature of Keevo means it doesn’t integrate with advanced features like decentralized apps, staking, NFT storage, etc., it excels at core cryptocurrency transactions with enhanced security protections.

Biometric Security Options

A critical security innovation Keevo brings is integrated biometric sensors for unlocking access to the device and authorizing transactions. The rear power button contains a high-accuracy fingerprint reader to scan enrolled fingerprints.

Even better, the front-facing camera enables facial recognition logins by matching a user’s facial map to the one registered during setup. This provides efficient hands-free unlocking.

In practice, fingerprint and facial recognition features worked reliably and quickly, with no failed readings or delays. Biometrics offers much more robust security over traditional PIN codes vulnerable to smudge attacks and shoulder surfing. The multi-mode login is a significant asset for crypto investors seeking air-tight protection.

Keevo’s Service Plans for Extended Security

Users can further complement the Keevo wallet’s security through optional premium service plans:

  • Extended warranty covering an extra year beyond the included 90 days.
  • Theft and loss protection for discounted replacement if a wallet is lost or stolen.
  • Iron Mountain secure vault storage for backing up Carbon Keys in 1400+ facilities.

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Passing Down Cryptocurrency to Heirs

The Keevo wallet includes specialized tools and options to designate beneficiaries who can inherit your cryptocurrency holdings:

  • The beneficiaries section allows you to specify individual heirs and contact info.
  • Conditional inheritance enables triggering asset transfers if you don’t auth after a set time period.
  • Dead Man’s Switch automatically transfers assets to heirs after a defined duration of inactivity.
  • Locked mode cryptographically seals your seed phrase to be released only to beneficiaries.

These capabilities allow cryptocurrency holders to implement firm succession plans for their digital investments and ensure seamless transfers.

Designating Beneficiaries

The Keevo app’s Beneficiaries section formally specifies the individual recipients who should inherit your cryptocurrency wallet and any associated assets. You input their names, contact info, and the proportions they should receive.

This beneficiary registry ensures your heirs can be readily contacted and identified by third parties like lawyers or executors carrying out estate distribution. It avoids any guesswork or disputes around the intended recipients.

Activating Conditional Inheritance

Conditional inheritance allows preset asset transfers to your designated beneficiaries if your Keevo wallet remains inactive past a defined time period.

For example, you could specify that if your Keevo isn’t unlocked via biometric login for 6 months straight, your paired crypto holdings are automatically sent to your listed heirs. If you become incapacitated or pass away, this acts as a dead man’s switch.

The custom time period before conditional inheritance transfers are triggered provides flexibility aligned with your personal situation. Your assets remain securely stored unless no auth activity occurs for unusual durations.

Enabling Dead Man’s Switch

Keevo’s Dead Man’s Switch functionality is an even stronger protection for immediate inheritance transfers in the event of extended inactivity.

With this feature enabled, your cryptocurrency and wallet contents are automatically sent to designated beneficiaries if the Keevo isn’t unlocked for a set number of days in a row. This ensures assets go to heirs if you unexpectedly pass away or cannot access the device.

The time frame can be tailored based on personal preferences. As soon as the deadline hits, holdings get sent to beneficiaries without requiring external approvals. This automates crypto inheritance if the worst unfortunately occurs.

Locking Down Recovery Phrase

For an airtight crypto inheritance setup, the optional Locked mode cryptographically seals your Keevo’s recovery phrase so only authorized beneficiaries can access it. Even you, as the original owner, cannot view the phrase after enabling this mode.

Locked mode guarantees your recovery seed is only released to designated heirs upon providing their pre-registered identifying details. This prevents any unintended parties from recovering your wallet or assets.

Keevo Wallet Review: Technical Specifications and Performance Benchmarks

To deliver this blend of intense security and smooth performance, Keevo is powered by top-tier technical specifications under the hood:

- 2.8-inch 320x240 pixel resolution color touchscreen with capacitive multi-touch capabilities.

- Zippy 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex M4 CPU with ultra-low-power consumption for efficiency.

- 64KB of secure application and cryptographic data storage capacity.

- STMicro STSAFE chip provides tamper-resistant hardware-based cryptography.

- 802.11 b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for setup and pairing.

- 500 mAh battery consistently delivers months of standby time per charge.

These impressive technical capabilities are closer to a modern smartphone than a safe deposit box, showing how far hardware wallet technology has come.

Keevo Services for Cryptocurrency Investing

In addition to its core hardware wallet functionality, Keevo offers valuable services, including:

Crypto Index Fund — This feature allows effortlessly investing in an index of top cryptocurrencies weighted by market capitalization. It provides broadly diversified crypto exposure in one click rather than manually buying many assets.

Keevo Earn — This service enables allocating cryptocurrency holdings to earn yield through interest accounts and staking rewards. It simplifies earning passive income on holdings.

In-App Purchasing — Keevo supports buying cryptocurrency directly within the app using credit cards or bank transfers. This provides easy onboarding without needing external exchanges.

Virtual Keevo Card — Users can apply for a virtual debit card that draws from their Keevo cryptocurrency balance. This allows convenient spending from crypto wallets.

These services expand Keevo’s capabilities beyond a secure vault into a complete cryptocurrency investment and management solution.

Expanded Cryptocurrency Access

Keevo also aims to provide broader access to cryptocurrencies through capabilities like:

  • Support for over 1000 different crypto assets, all within one unified wallet.
  • Direct fiat on-ramps allow moving from USD/EUR into crypto in the Keevo app.
  • Recurring buy options for scheduled automatic cryptocurrency purchases.
  • Third-party exchange integration connects accounts across various platforms.

These features and its hardware wallet security help position Keevo as a full-service crypto investment platform.

Pros of the Keevo Wallet

Based on our extensive testing and research, Keevo has multiple advantages:

  • Best-in-class private key protections against remote and physical threats through encrypted secure element hardware, multi-factor authentication, and specialized offline architecture.
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface via vibrant touchscreen, tactile buttons, and polished mobile app.
  • Sleek, compact, and waterproof hardware design made for everyday portability and use.
  • Rapid biometric fingerprint and facial recognition unlock options for convenience without compromising security.
  • Recovery seed phrase and Carbon Key backup for essential restoration capability and redundancy.
  • Support for 1000+ cryptocurrency assets, all within a unified, integrated wallet.
  • Additional features like Crypto Index, virtual debit card, and exchange integrations expand functionality beyond just transacting.
  • Beneficiary designation provides unique legacy planning capabilities for long-term holdings.

For investors prioritizing hardcore security without sacrificing excellent user experience, Keevo delivers on all fronts.

Cons of the Keevo Wallet

Despite many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to the Keevo wallet to consider:

  • It is expensive, at $299.99+ for some models, compared to more basic hardware wallets.
  • Lack of internet connectivity prevents features involving decentralized apps, NFTs, staking, etc.
  • The app is primarily designed for simple transacting rather than active portfolio management and trading.

Keevo Wallet Alternatives Comparison

How does Keevo compare against competing hardware wallet solutions also focused on security? Main rivals include:

Ledger — More affordable, starting at $59, but lacks biometric unlock. Better for DeFi integration.

Trezor — Priced similarly at $229 but with fewer coin options and lower storage capacity.

Ellipal Titan — Advanced air-gapped wallet but cumbersome QR code transactions.

Cobo Vault Pro — Very secure but highly costly at $430+ and heavier.

Compared to alternatives, Keevo strikes a strong balance of security, supported assets, storage capacity, usability, and overall value at its $229 price point. It differentiates through biometric authentication and integrated magnetic charging connections.

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Keevo Wallet Review: Conclusion

The Keevo cryptocurrency hardware wallet uniquely balances easy user experience with uncompromising security for safeguarding digital assets. The meticulously designed physical device and the hardcore internal components protect against hacking, remote attacks, and direct theft.

While expensive compared to basic competitors, Keevo justifies its premium pricing through state-of-the-art security, fortifying it against the wide range of threats targeting cryptocurrency investors today. Keevo’s isolation and encryption provide much-needed assurance for those with substantial holdings concerned about vulnerability.

Yet Keevo retains intuitive setup, charging, controls, and recovery seed backup so security doesn’t hinder real-life use. Keevo is a compelling high-end solution worth the investment for investors wanting robust long-term storage without sacrificing convenience. As cryptocurrency thefts persist, Keevo’s hardcore security architecture protects what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How secure is the Keevo cryptocurrency wallet?

A: Keevo utilizes military-grade encryption and hardware security modules to provide best-in-class private key protection against remote hacking and physical theft attempts. It uses bank-grade secure chip technology and supports multi-factor authentication.

Q: What are the main features of the Keevo wallet?

A: Key features include a touchscreen display, fingerprint, facial recognition unlock, support for over 1000 cryptocurrencies, recovery seed backup, encrypted password backup via Carbon Key, and inheritance planning capabilities.

Q: How is the Keevo wallet recovered if lost or damaged?

A: Users can restore access to their Keevo wallet using the 24-word recovery seed phrase generated during setup. The optional Carbon Key provides an encrypted password and biometric backup as a secondary recovery method.

Q: Does the Keevo wallet connect to the internet?

A: The Keevo wallet is an offline, cold storage hardware wallet with no direct internet connectivity. It pairs with a mobile app only via Bluetooth for transactions. This air-gapped design enhances security.

Q: How much does the Keevo cryptocurrency wallet cost?

A: The Keevo Standard Edition costs $299.99. The higher-end Founders Edition with premium extras costs $399.99. This is expensive compared to basic hardware wallets but competitively priced, given the security focus.

Q: What are the main alternatives to the Keevo hardware wallet?

A: Top competitors are wallets like Ledger, Trezor, Ellipal Titan, and Cobo Vault Pro. Keevo compares favorably due to biometric unlock, supported assets, storage, and integrated charging connections.

Q: Can the Keevo wallet be used for purposes beyond just transacting?

A: Yes, Keevo offers additional functionality like crypto index fund investing, interest earning, virtual debit cards, and fiat on-ramps to provide complete investment management.

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