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Fit follows the custody model, not the brand.
You hold most keys, the provider holds one, and no single party can move funds alone.
One company holds the keys; you hold a claim on the company.
N/A
Unchained (dedicated custody) and Fidelity Crypto (exchange and brokerage) serve different corners of the Bitcoin ecosystem, but the question that matters most is the same: who controls the keys? Unchained scores 85/100 (A-) versus 74/100 (B) for Fidelity Crypto. The 11-point spread is meaningful — it usually comes down to custody architecture and fee structure.
Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 10 points toward Unchained (90 vs. 80). Unchained eliminates single points of failure in its custody architecture, while Fidelity Crypto relies on a model where one compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. Unchained's strongest advantage is in features (86 vs. 40), where Unchained's product breadth and tooling makes a measurable difference.
Here's the key difference: Unchained has no single point of failure (Collaborative Multisig), while Fidelity Crypto does (Single Custodian). 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 edges out Fidelity Crypto by 11 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 2-of-3 multisig where client holds 2 keys. strong inheritance and ira products. lending available. over trusted brand. integrated with existing fidelity accounts.. Keep in mind these platforms target different audiences — Unchained is built for self-sovereign, while Fidelity Crypto serves traditional. One thing to watch with Fidelity Crypto: limited to three cryptocurrencies. single custodian..
Based on our six-category scoring methodology, Unchained scores higher at 85/100 compared to 74/100. 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. Fidelity Crypto uses a Single Custodian 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. Fidelity Crypto charges 1% spread. Unchained scored 75/100 on fees versus 75/100 for Fidelity Crypto in our methodology.
Unchained offers dedicated inheritance or beneficiary features. Fidelity Crypto 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. Fidelity Crypto'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. Fidelity Crypto manages keys for you; you hold none. This is the core structural difference to weigh.