Scores last updated
Fit follows the custody model, not the brand.
You hold most keys, the provider holds one, and no single party can move funds alone.
A regulated institution holds keys in segregated accounts under a legal framework built for it.
N/A
Unchained (dedicated custody) and Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) (yield and lending) serve different corners of the Bitcoin ecosystem, but the question that matters most is the same: who controls the keys? In our scoring model, Unchained holds a commanding lead at 85/100 (A-) compared to Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) at 59/100 (C). That 26-point gap reflects real, measurable differences in how each platform handles custody, fees, and transparency.
Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 25 points toward Unchained (90 vs. 65). Unchained eliminates single points of failure in its custody architecture, while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) relies on a model where one compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. On fees, Unchained wins by 20 points. Unchained charges $250/yr + trading compared to 7-12% APR at Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans). Over a multi-year holding period, fee differences compound — a point worth considering for long-term accumulators. Unchained's strongest advantage is in transparency (85 vs. 45), where Unchained's approach to proof-of-reserves and public documentation makes a measurable difference.
Here's the key difference: Unchained has no single point of failure (Collaborative Multisig), while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) does (Qualified Custodian Collateral). This matters because a single-point-of-failure model means one compromised entity — whether through a hack, insolvency, or government action — could result in total loss of funds. History has proven this risk is not theoretical. FTX, Celsius, and BlockFi all represented single points of failure for their users.
Unchained is the clear choice here, outscoring Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) by 26 points across our six-category methodology. Keep in mind these platforms target different audiences — Unchained is built for self-sovereign, while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) serves hnw borrowers. One thing to watch with Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans): single custodian for collateral. liquidation risk. premium rates.. The data speaks for itself — but always verify our methodology and do your own due diligence before moving bitcoin to any platform.
Based on our six-category scoring methodology, Unchained scores higher at 85/100 compared to 59/100. 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.
Unchained scored 90/100 on custody and security in our methodology. It has no single point of failure, distributing custody across multiple entities. Its custody model is classified as Collaborative Multisig. Always verify these details and do your own research.
Yes. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) uses a Qualified Custodian Collateral model, which means a single compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. This is a structural concern for long-term holders.
Unchained charges $250/yr + trading. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) charges 7-12% APR. Unchained scored 75/100 on fees versus 55/100 for Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) in our methodology.
Unchained offers dedicated inheritance or beneficiary features. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) does not advertise a dedicated inheritance feature. Match the mechanism, whether beneficiary designation, trust titling, or key inheritance, to your estate plan.
Unchained's custody insurance is not publicly disclosed. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans)'s custody insurance is not publicly disclosed. Custody insurance covers specific named events up to shared limits, not price loss or every failure mode. Verify current terms before relying on coverage.
Unchained involves the holder in key control. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) manages keys for you; you hold none. This is the core structural difference to weigh.