Thorchain Wallet

What Is a Thorchain Wallet?

A **Thorchain wallet** (often called ThorWallet or simply RUNE wallet) is a non‑custodial wallet that lets users securely store, send, receive, and swap **RUNE** (the native token of THORChain) and other assets supported via THORChain’s cross‑chain infrastructure.

Unlike custodial wallets or exchange wallets, Thorchain wallets give you full control of your private keys. This means you remain the sole owner of your funds. These wallets often support cross‑chain swaps (native asset conversions) via THORChain’s protocol, enabling seamless trades across different blockchains directly inside the wallet.

Key Features & Capabilities

• Non‑custodial control: You hold the private key; no third party has access.
• Native cross‑chain swaps: Swap RUNE or other chains' assets using THORChain’s liquidity without wrapped tokens. ([thorchain.org](https://thorchain.org))
• Multi‑chain compatibility: Many Thorchain wallets support multiple blockchains and tokens beyond just RUNE. For example, THORWallet supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. ([thorwallet.org](https://www.thorwallet.org))
• Swap integration in wallets: Integration with wallets like Trust Wallet and Zengo allows in‑wallet cross‑chain swaps powered by THORChain. ([blog.thorchain.org](https://blog.thorchain.org/trust-wallet-integrates-thorchain-as-cross-chain-swap-provider))
• Hardware wallet support: Thorchain wallets can interface with hardware wallets like Ledger to improve security. ([ledger.com](https://www.ledger.com/coin/wallet/thorchain))
• Multi‑signature & wallet sharing: Some wallets (e.g. ThorWallet) may offer multisig capabilities for added security and shared access. ([thorwallet.org](https://www.thorwallet.org))
• Portfolio & DeFi dashboard: View your holdings, swap histories, and track cross‑chain assets in one unified interface.

Security & Trust

Security is critical in crypto, and Thorchain wallets adopt multiple measures to protect users:

• Key ownership: Private keys are stored locally on your device and encrypted; only you can access them.
• Hardware wallet integration: You can sign transactions on devices like Ledger, keeping keys offline. ([ledger.com](https://www.ledger.com/coin/wallet/thorchain))
• Multisig protection: Some advanced wallets allow multiple confirmations for actions, reducing single point failures. ([thorwallet.org](https://www.thorwallet.org))
• Backup & recovery: Wallets use mnemonic seed phrases or recovery keys; secure these back up phrases offline.
• Audit and open source: Many Thorchain wallet frontends are open source and subject to community auditing.

“Trust Wallet is now using THORChain as a cross‑chain swap provider … no signups, reduced custodial risk.” ([blog.thorchain.org](https://blog.thorchain.org/trust-wallet-integrates-thorchain-as-cross-chain-swap-provider))

How Thorchain Wallets Work with THORChain Protocol

When you use a Thorchain wallet, here’s what happens behind the scenes:

1. You connect or unlock your wallet (desktop, mobile, or hardware).
2. The wallet shows your RUNE balance and any other supported assets across chains.
3. If you initiate a swap, the wallet sends your asset to the THORChain protocol’s liquidity pool, which routes and executes the swap. Because THORChain deals in native assets, no wrapping or synthetic is needed. ([thorchain.org](https://thorchain.org))
4. The resulting asset is sent back to your wallet on the target chain. The wallet displays the updated balances automatically.
5. For certain operations like staking or node interaction, the wallet signs the transaction using your key (locally or via hardware device).

Wallets that support swaps internally may call THORChain’s APIs or integrate with its liquidity pools, enabling smooth user experience.

Use Cases & Benefits

Some common and powerful use cases for Thorchain wallets include:

• Asset swaps: Convert between native assets across chains (e.g. BTC → ETH) without using centralized exchanges.
• Liquidity provision: Deposit into RUNE‑asset pools to earn trading fees and yield.
• Staking / Node participation: For advanced users, stake or bond RUNE to participate in node consensus or governance.
• Portfolio tracking: Manage and monitor a multi-chain portfolio from one interface.
• Secure transfers: Send or receive RUNE and other assets with minimal trust overhead.

How to Get Started with a Thorchain Wallet

Follow these steps to begin:

1. Choose a wallet: Pick a wallet that supports THORChain / RUNE. Examples: ThorWallet, XDEFI, Trust Wallet (with THORChain integration), Zengo, etc.
2. Install & set up: Download the mobile app or browser extension; create a new wallet or import existing via seed phrase.
3. Backup seed phrase: Securely record the 12/24‑word recovery phrase offline (paper, metal backup) and do not share it.
4. Fund your wallet: Send RUNE or other supported assets to your wallet address.
5. Perform swap or operations: Use the built‑in swap feature or connect to ThorChain for cross-chain swaps, liquidity, etc.
6. Use a hardware wallet (optional): For enhanced security, connect your wallet to a Ledger (or other device) and sign transactions there. ([ledger.com](https://www.ledger.com/coin/wallet/thorchain))

Always test with a small amount first, especially when using cross‑chain swap features. And confirm you’re interacting with the correct wallet frontend (avoid phishing sites).