As cryptocurrency adoption grows, so does the need for reliable, privacy-focused wallets. With limited options that truly prioritize user control and security—especially since the recent shutdown of Samourai Wallet—finding the right wallet for managing digital assets has become even more crucial. Enter Cake Wallet: a non-custodial mobile wallet that’s rapidly becoming a top choice for crypto enthusiasts, offering support for Monero, Bitcoin, Litecoin, and more. Cake Wallet’s commitment to privacy and ease of use makes it a standout for those who value secure and private transactions.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Cake Wallet, from setting up your first wallet to navigating its user-friendly interface and conducting transactions. You’ll also learn about its unique features like Tor integration for extra privacy, Bitcoin Silent Payments, UTXO Management and multiple Output transactions. By the end, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of Cake Wallet’s tools to keep your digital assets safe and accessible.
Why Choose Cake Wallet for Crypto Storage
Cake Wallet is one of the most advanced mobile wallets available, designed for users who value privacy, control, and convenience. It includes sophisticated tools that enhance both functionality and security, making it an ideal choice for managing a range of cryptocurrencies like Monero, Bitcoin, and Litecoin. Here’s a closer look at what sets Cake Wallet apart:
Tor Integration for Enhanced Privacy
Cake Wallet prioritizes privacy by routing its Fiat API and swapping services through the Tor network, ensuring that sensitive transaction information is shielded from third-party observation.
Additionally, users can route the entire Cake Wallet app through the Tor network by using Orbot, a system-wide proxy that lets you route entire apps over Tor. This setup provides an extra layer of anonymity and is particularly useful for those in restricted or surveillance-heavy regions but it is also quite slow.
Advanced UTXO Management - Coin Control
Cake Wallet offers an exceptional level of control over your Bitcoin transactions through its advanced UTXO management system, known as Coin Control. This feature allows users to select specific unspent transaction outputs (UTXOs) for each transaction, empowering them to manage exactly which "coins" are spent and which remain unspent.
This selective spending is particularly valuable for those focused on privacy, as it enables users to manage their transaction history in a more strategic way, reducing traceability and consolidating funds according to their preferences.
While not unique to Cake Wallet, Coin Control is a powerful feature that is rarely available in mobile wallets, making Cake Wallet one of the few options for advanced transaction customization on the go. For users who prioritize financial privacy or want granular control over their Bitcoin holdings, this feature makes Cake Wallet one of the best privacy wallets for Bitcoin.
Seamless Crypto Swapping Within the App
Cake Wallet’s in-app exchange feature lets users swap between supported cryptocurrencies without needing an account or worrying about exchange limits. This service is powered by Trocador, an aggregator that finds the best exchange rates across various providers.
Trocador is known for supporting private, non-custodial transactions, meaning users’ funds typically aren't held by third parties during swaps. However, some partnered exchanges may be custodial, temporarily holding assets, so users should be aware of this distinction.
All swaps are routed through the Tor network, adding an extra layer of privacy and security, making it ideal for those who value privacy for their transactions.
Multiple Output Transactions: Efficient Payments
Cake Wallet supports multiple output transactions, allowing you to send different amounts to multiple addresses in a single transaction. This feature is especially useful for users making bulk payments, as it streamlines the process by consolidating multiple transfers into one.
Benefits of Multiple Output Transactions:
- Cost-effective: Only one transaction fee is paid.
- Time-saving: Send funds to several recipients at once.
- Efficient: Simplifies the payment process for multiple addresses.
Multiple output transactions enhance the efficiency of managing several payments in one go, reducing time and fees.
Bitcoin Silent Payments
Cake Wallet is one of the few wallets that support Bitcoin Silent Payments, a transformative feature for those who prioritize transaction privacy. With Silent Payments, users can receive funds without having to generate and share a new address for every transaction.
Instead, they can use a static payment address, allowing multiple deposits to reach the same recipient without revealing connections between the sender and recipient on the blockchain. This feature eliminates the hassle of constantly creating and sending new addresses, streamlining the payment process while preserving privacy.
Silent Payments are particularly advantageous for scenarios where privacy is critical, such as political donations or support for activist causes, where donors and recipients may want to minimize their public blockchain footprint to avoid potential scrutiny or targeting. Unlike standard Bitcoin transactions, which create an easily traceable transaction history, Silent Payments make it significantly harder for outside observers to analyze or link payments to any one user.
Custom Node Options
With Cake Wallet, users have the flexibility to connect to their own custom nodes, further enhancing privacy and reducing reliance on third-party services. You can manually add and manage specific nodes for each cryptocurrency, ensuring that you have complete control over your network connections. This feature also supports Cake Wallet’s commitment to decentralization and user autonomy.
Setting Up Your First Wallet
Setting up your first wallet with Cake Wallet is a straightforward process that prioritizes security and privacy. This section will guide you through the steps to create your wallet and highlight important security measures to keep your digital assets safe.
Step-by-Step Guide
To begin, download Cake Wallet from your device's app store or Cake Wallet’s site. Once installed, open the app and agree to the terms and conditions. You'll then have the option to create a new wallet. Tap on 'Create New Wallet' and set up a four-digit PIN for added security. Next, choose your preferred wallet currency, such as Monero or Bitcoin.
Give your wallet a name and proceed to the next step. Here, you'll be presented with a series of 24 words, known as your secret phrase or seed. This is crucial for wallet recovery, so write it down carefully and store it offline in multiple secure locations. Never store your seed digitally without encryption.
After confirming you've saved your seed, you'll be taken to your new wallet's main interface. Here, you can start managing your cryptocurrencies, including sending and receiving funds.
Important Security Measures
To enhance your wallet's security, consider enabling biometric authentication in the settings if your device supports it. Cake Wallet also offers an optional two-factor authentication (2FA) feature, which adds an extra layer of protection.
When enabled, 2FA requires you to input an 8-digit TOTP code after your PIN or biometric authentication for certain actions. While this provides defense against basic attacks, it's important to note that it may not protect against sophisticated attackers.
For optimal security, consider running your own nodes for the cryptocurrencies you use. This enhances privacy and reduces reliance on third-party servers. Lastly, keep your Cake Wallet app updated to benefit from the latest security features and patches.
Navigating the Cake Wallet Interface
Once you've set up your Cake Wallet, you'll be greeted with a user-friendly interface designed to make managing your cryptocurrencies a breeze. Let's explore the key features and tools that make Cake Wallet a popular choice for crypto enthusiasts.
Dashboard Overview
The main screen of Cake Wallet presents a clear and concise overview of your digital assets. You'll see your current balance displayed prominently, along with the option to switch between different cryptocurrencies if you've set up multiple wallets. The dashboard also shows recent transactions, giving you a quick glimpse of your account activity.
At the top of the screen, you'll notice icons for key functions such as sending and receiving funds. The menu icon in the corner gives you access to additional features and settings.
Key Functions and Tools
Cake Wallet offers a range of tools to help you manage your cryptocurrencies effectively:
• Send and Receive: Easily transfer funds by tapping the corresponding buttons. When receiving, you can generate QR codes or create donation links.
• Exchange: Swap between different cryptocurrencies without leaving the app, with no account required and no limits.
• Address Book: Store and manage frequently used addresses for quick and easy transactions.
• Backup and Restore: Create backups of your wallets and store them locally or in the cloud. You can also restore existing wallets using private keys, seed phrases, or block height and date.
• Privacy Settings: Connect to the Monero blockchain, save custom nodes, and use Tor-only connections for enhanced privacy.
• Security Features: Enable biometric authentication and optional two-factor authentication for added protection.
Remember, Cake Wallet is non-custodial, meaning you have full control over your private keys and digital assets. This aligns with the principle of "your keys, your coins", ensuring you maintain ownership of your cryptocurrencies.
Conducting Transactions with Cake Wallet
Cake Wallet makes it easy to send, receive, and exchange cryptocurrencies. Let's explore how to perform these essential functions within the app.
Sending and Receiving Crypto
To send crypto, tap the 'Send' button on the balance screen. Enter the recipient's address by pasting it, scanning a QR code, or selecting from your address book. Input the amount you wish to send, either in cryptocurrency or fiat currency. You can send your entire balance using the 'ALL' button. Adjust the fee priority if needed, and add an optional note for your records. Review the transaction details carefully before confirming.
For receiving crypto, simply share your wallet address with the sender. You can find this in the 'Receive' section, where you can also generate a QR code or create donation links.
Using the Exchange Feature
Cake Wallet's built-in exchange feature allows you to swap between different cryptocurrencies without leaving the app. To start, tap 'Exchange' and select the currencies you want to convert from and to. Enter the amount you wish to exchange and provide a refund address for safety.
The app will show you an estimated exchange rate. Once you're happy with the details, confirm the exchange. You'll receive a trade ID, which you should save for tracking purposes. The exchange process is handled by third-party providers, and you can monitor the status of your trade within the app.
Remember, Cake Wallet supports various cryptocurrency pairs, subject to availability. Always ensure your wallet is fully synchronized before initiating any transactions for a smooth experience.
Cake Pay: Buy Gift Cards with Crypto
Cake Wallet's Cake Pay feature is an excellent alternative to popular platforms like Bitrefill for purchasing gift cards with cryptocurrency. Cake Pay allows users to buy digital gift cards from various retailers using Monero, Bitcoin, and other supported cryptocurrencies within the wallet. By doing so, users can spend their crypto holdings directly on everyday purchases without needing to create an account nor cash out crypto into fiat currency.
Here’s how you can buy gift cards using Cake Pay:
- Open Cake Wallet: Launch the Cake Wallet app and navigate to the Cake Pay section.
- Choose a Retailer: Browse the available selection of retailers offering gift cards. Cake Pay partners with well-known stores, including options for online shopping, dining, entertainment, and more.
- Select a Gift Card: Once you’ve chosen your preferred retailer, select the gift card amount.
- Pay with Crypto: Proceed to checkout and select your preferred cryptocurrency (Monero, Bitcoin, etc.) for payment. You’ll be prompted to complete the transaction directly from your wallet balance.
- Receive and Use the Gift Card: After the payment is confirmed, you’ll receive the digital gift card, which can be used either in-store or online, depending on the retailer’s terms.
Cake Pay is a seamless way to use your crypto in real-world transactions without going through additional marketplaces or intermediaries. It’s convenient, fast, and adds extra utility to your cryptocurrency holdings.
Conclusion
Cake Wallet is one of the best mobile wallets for privacy and more granular control of transactions. Its user-friendly interface, strong privacy features, and support for multiple cryptocurrencies make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced users. The wallet's emphasis on security, combined with its built-in exchange feature and Tor integration, gives users the tools they need to manage their digital assets effectively.
FAQ's
Does Cake Wallet Support NFTs?
As of now, Cake Wallet does not support NFTs. The wallet is focused on providing secure storage and management of cryptocurrencies like Monero, Bitcoin, Litecoin, and others. If you're looking for NFT storage and trading capabilities, you may need to explore wallets that specifically cater to Ethereum-based tokens or other blockchain platforms where NFTs are popular.
Does Cake Wallet support Monero?
Yes, Cake doubles as a Monero wallet and a Bitcoin wallet, allowing you to exchange and spend Monero, alongside other cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash.
Can Cake Wallet store Bitcoin?
Cake Wallet is designed for ease of use, allowing users to securely store their own keys for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero, Litecoin, Nano, and Bitcoin Cash.
How can I exchange cryptocurrencies using Cake Wallet?
To exchange cryptocurrencies in Cake Wallet, simply access the exchange feature within the wallet interface, select the cryptocurrencies you wish to trade, and follow the prompts to complete the transaction. This feature makes it easy to trade between supported cryptocurrencies directly within the wallet.
Is Cake Wallet Safe for Storing Bitcoin?
Yes, Cake Wallet is a secure option for storing Bitcoin. As a non-custodial wallet, it gives users complete control over their private keys, ensuring that only you can access your Bitcoin and other assets. Cake Wallet also includes security features like PIN codes, biometric authentication, and Tor integration for enhanced privacy. Additionally, it supports Ledger hardware wallet imports, with plans to support more devices soon, making it a reliable choice for both security and long-term storage.