Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Blockstream VS Electrum

Compare Blockstream VS Electrum and see what are their differences

Blockstream logo Blockstream

Blockstream is an all-in-one bitcoin and digital asset infrastructure that has been the leader in providing the top-notch developing experience to deliver blockchain applications.

Electrum logo Electrum

Electrum is an easy to use Bitcoin client.
  • Blockstream Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-06
  • Electrum Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-21

Blockstream features and specs

  • Enhanced Security
    Blockstream Green offers advanced security features such as multi-signature protection and two-factor authentication, which reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your funds.
  • Privacy Features
    Includes integration with Tor network for increased privacy, as well as features like transaction blinding that help in obscuring transaction details from third parties.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The wallet has an intuitive and clean interface, making it accessible even for users who are new to cryptocurrency.
  • Multi-Platform Support
    Blockstream Green is available on multiple platforms including iOS, Android, and desktop, providing flexibility in how you manage your funds.
  • Customizable Fee Settings
    Allows users to customize transaction fees, giving them the option to prioritize speed or cost-effectiveness depending on their needs.

Possible disadvantages of Blockstream

  • Learning Curve
    Due to its advanced features, some users (especially beginners) may find the initial setup and navigation complex.
  • Custodial Elements
    While it's primarily a non-custodial wallet, the need for connecting with Blockstream servers for secondary authentication introduces a semi-custodial element, which might be a concern for those looking for complete autonomy.
  • Limited Coin Support
    Supports primarily Bitcoin and Liquid Network assets, limiting its usefulness for users who hold a variety of altcoins.
  • No Built-in Exchange
    Lacks an integrated cryptocurrency exchange, requiring users to use external services for swapping their assets.
  • Potential Privacy Trade-offs
    While the wallet incorporates privacy features, users must trust Blockstream's servers to some extent, potentially exposing some metadata.

Electrum features and specs

  • Lightweight
    Electrum does not download the entire blockchain; it relies on remote servers, making it fast and consuming less storage space on your device.
  • Security
    Electrum uses advanced security features like two-factor authentication, multi-signature wallets, and cold storage to protect user funds.
  • Speed
    Since Electrum does not require synchronization of the full blockchain, transactions are processed quickly.
  • Open Source
    Electrum is open-source software, allowing for community review and contributions to enhance its functionality and security.
  • Compatibility
    Electrum is compatible with various types of hardware wallets, enhancing security by enabling offline storage of private keys.
  • Blockchain Integration
    Electrum uses Simple Payment Verification (SPV) to verify transactions, making it efficient and reliable for users.
  • Customizable Fees
    Users have the option to customize transaction fees, giving them control over the cost and speed of their transactions.

Possible disadvantages of Electrum

  • Reliance on Remote Servers
    Since Electrum relies on remote servers for blockchain data, a server malfunction or attack could potentially disrupt service.
  • User Interface
    The user interface of Electrum can be less intuitive and less user-friendly, especially for beginners compared to some other wallets.
  • Limited Altcoin Support
    Electrum primarily supports Bitcoin, with limited support for other cryptocurrencies, which may not meet the needs of those who use multiple altcoins.
  • Privacy Concerns
    Using remote servers involves sharing some information regarding your transactions which might raise privacy concerns.
  • Manual Updates
    Users are required to manually update Electrum to benefit from the latest features and security patches.

Analysis of Blockstream

Overall verdict

  • Blockstream is generally regarded as a reputable company within the blockchain and cryptocurrency community, especially known for its work on Bitcoin and related technologies.

Why this product is good

  • Expertise: Blockstream is known for its team of experts and pioneering work in Bitcoin development, including contributions to the Lightning Network and other scaling solutions.
  • Innovation: The company has introduced and developed numerous innovative projects such as Liquid Network, a sidechain solution that enhances Bitcoin transaction efficiency.
  • Security Focus: Blockstream places a strong emphasis on security, offering products like Blockstream Green, a secure Bitcoin wallet, and deploying robust cryptographic standards.

Recommended for

  • Cryptocurrency Enthusiasts: Individuals who are passionate about Bitcoin and its development will appreciate Blockstream's contributions to the space.
  • Developers: Those looking to work with cutting-edge blockchain technology and contribute to projects that focus on improving Bitcoin scalability and security.
  • Investors: People interested in investing in blockchain companies or technologies, given Blockstream's reputation and industry influence.

Analysis of Electrum

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Electrum is generally considered a good Bitcoin wallet.

Why this product is good

  • Electrum is known for its speed and efficiency, as it connects to decentralized servers rather than downloading the entire blockchain.
  • It offers advanced features such as cold storage, hardware wallet support, and multisig functionality, making it suitable for more experienced users.
  • Electrum is open-source, which means its code is publicly reviewed and audited for security.
  • It provides users with full control over their private keys, enhancing security and privacy.
  • The wallet has been around since 2011, giving it a long-standing reputation within the Bitcoin community.

Recommended for

  • Users who prioritize security and want full control over their private keys.
  • Bitcoin enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, fast, and resource-efficient wallet.
  • Advanced users requiring features like cold storage, multisig capabilities, and hardware wallet compatibility.
  • Individuals who prefer open-source software with a strong community backing.

Blockstream videos

Why Blockstream Destroyed Bitcoin

More videos:

  • Review - Everything you need to know before getting Blockstream's JADE Bitcoin hardware wallet
  • Review - BLOCKSTREAM JADE - Secure Your Bitcoin and Liquid Network Assets

Electrum videos

Electrum Bitcoin Wallet - Versatile and Feature Rich

More videos:

  • Review - Electrum Wallet Review by FXEmpire
  • Review - Electrum Sabercrafts Torrent Smart Saber Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Blockstream and Electrum)
Cryptocurrencies
31 31%
69% 69
Business & Commerce
100 100%
0% 0
Cryptocurrency Wallets
18 18%
82% 82
Development
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Blockstream and Electrum

Blockstream Reviews

We have no reviews of Blockstream yet.
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Electrum Reviews

Top 10 Best Bitcoin Wallets of 2021
Electrum is one of the oldest Bitcoin wallets you can find. The wallet, which used to be a desktop client alone, is now also available on mobile. Electrum is compatible with multiple operating systems such as Windows, Mac, and Linux. The wallet is an open source software wallet. Over the years, several developers have contributed to its source code. Website: www.electrum.org
Source: medium.com
20 BEST Bitcoin Wallets | Top Crypto Wallets in 2021
Electrum is the oldest Bitcoin wallets available in the market. It offers excellent privacy features and keeps your Bitcoins secure. It is the bitcoin wallet that good privacy features and keeps your Bitcoins secure.
Source: www.guru99.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Electrum should be more popular than Blockstream. It has been mentiond 230 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Blockstream mentions (51)

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Electrum mentions (230)

  • Noob question, laugh at will
    I have been looking at exchanges and different wallet options but I am 99% sure its from electrum.org. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Legitimate Bitcoin Apps
    Https://electrum.org - Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. Source: over 2 years ago
  • 1000 btc wallets adresses
    Hello, I have question, When I download wallet from electrum.org, and have 1 btc wallet adress. Can I made like 1000 btc wallet adress now ? Best regards. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Failing to "gpg --verify" on linux
    I am following the Linux instructions from electrum.org, I'm using Ubuntu (fist timer, know zero to nothing about coding) and ChatGPT to help me write the code. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • How to import Bitcoin Address as a watch only
    Electrum (https://electrum.org) can do that. Under "View" enable the tab "Coins" and then right click on the UTXO you're interested in, "Copy" > "Long Output point". Source: almost 3 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Blockstream and Electrum, you can also consider the following products

BlueWallet - An easy to use and secure Bitcoin wallet for iOS

Trezor.io - The Hardware Bitcoin Wallet

Hyperledger - Hyperledger is a multi-project open source collaborative effort hosted by The Linux Foundation, created to advance cross-industry blockchain technologies.

Coinbase - Bitcoin, safe and easy.

IBM MQ - IBM MQ is messaging middleware that simplifies and accelerates the integration of diverse applications and data across multiple platforms.

Tails - Tails is a Debian based live CD/USB with the goal of providing complete Internet anonymity for the...