Anchorage vs Fireblocks
Anchorage vs Fireblocks: What the Data Shows
Anchorage (dedicated custody) and Fireblocks (stablecoin-custody) serve different corners of the Bitcoin ecosystem, but the question that matters most is the same: who controls the keys? The scores are close — Anchorage at 69/100 (B-) and Fireblocks at 66/100 (C+). When the gap is this narrow, the details matter: custody model, single points of failure, and the fine print on fees.
Where Each Platform Wins
Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 13 points toward Anchorage (75 vs. 62). Both platforms carry single-point-of-failure risk, but Anchorage mitigates it more effectively through its Crypto-Native Bank approach. On fees, Anchorage wins by 7 points. Anchorage charges Custom compared to Custom SaaS pricing at Fireblocks. Over a multi-year holding period, fee differences compound — a point worth considering for long-term accumulators. Fireblocks stands out on ease of use (72 vs. 60), reflecting Fireblocks's user experience and onboarding flow.
The Custody Question
Neither Anchorage nor Fireblocks has fully eliminated single-point-of-failure risk. Anchorage uses Crypto-Native Bank and Fireblocks uses MPC Custody Infrastructure. Both models leave your bitcoin exposed to custodial concentration risk — if that one entity fails, your bitcoin could be locked, seized, or lost. For long-term holders, this is the most important factor to weigh.
Bottom Line
Anchorage edges out Fireblocks by 3 points. It's a close call, and the right choice depends on your specific situation — how much bitcoin you're holding, how often you need access, and whether you prioritize occ-chartered crypto bank. staking, trading, settlement. soc 1 & 2. over mpc-based custody infrastructure used by 1,800+ institutions. powers stablecoin custody for multiple issuers and custodians. broadest defi connectivity of any infrastructure provider.. Keep in mind these platforms target different audiences — Anchorage is built for institutions, while Fireblocks serves institutions & custodians. One thing to watch with Fireblocks: mpc is not multisig — key shards can be reconstituted by fireblocks. single technology provider dependency. not a custodian itself, but infrastructure. proprietary technology, not open-source..
Which is better, Anchorage or Fireblocks?
Based on our six-category scoring methodology, Anchorage scores higher at 69/100 compared to 66/100. The biggest differentiator is custody security, which accounts for 35% of the overall score. However, the right choice depends on your individual needs — review the category breakdown above.
Is Anchorage safe for storing Bitcoin?
Anchorage scored 75/100 on custody and security in our methodology. It does carry single-point-of-failure risk, meaning your bitcoin depends on one entity's security. Its custody model is classified as Crypto-Native Bank. Always verify these details and do your own research.
Does Fireblocks have a single point of failure?
Yes. Fireblocks uses a MPC Custody Infrastructure model, which means a single compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. This is a structural concern for long-term holders.
What are the fees for Anchorage vs Fireblocks?
Anchorage charges Custom. Fireblocks charges Custom SaaS pricing. Anchorage scored 65/100 on fees versus 58/100 for Fireblocks in our methodology.