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Choosing the right seed: 12, 20, or 24 words?

Seed Phrase Debate | Users Split on 12, 20, or 24 Words

By

Lina Weber

Jul 9, 2025, 11:33 PM

Edited By

Olivia Jones

Updated

Jul 10, 2025, 04:36 AM

2 minutes estimated to read

A visual representation of different seed word lengths for a Trezor wallet, featuring 12, 20, and 24 word examples with a secure background
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A growing community of users is questioning the best seed phrase length for Trezor Safe 5 devices. As concerns around security mount, the discussion intensifies, highlighting worries about SLIP39 Shamir Backup and its future viability.

Understanding Seed Phrase Options

Choosing between a 12, 20, or 24-word seed phrase is crucial. While many see 24 words as the safest option, some users express doubts about its practicality. Comments reveal that beyond security, usability in emergencies is a significant factor for some users who prefer standards that facilitate easy recovery across various devices.

"I wish SLIP39 would become more standard," one user noted, reflecting a desire for improved safety measures.

Community Voices on Security Risks

  1. Long-Term Security: Users are uncertain whether 12 words are strong enough. Many believe 24-word phrases enhance security through increased entropy. However, some argue that a 20-word multishare offers a balance: "You could lose 1 out of 3 seeds and still be fine," said a member, showcasing their preference for safety in storage.

  2. Backup Concerns: The cost of proper backups is another hot topic. "Metal plates can get pricey," one user remarked, suggesting creativity in solutions to cut down expenses.

  3. Standards Debate: The acceptance and future of SLIP39 are particularly concerning. Users want a universally accepted standard; one commenter emphasized that 12 or 24 words are the safest options currently available. "Imagine losing everything, but you’ve safely backed up your seed phrase 12 words is basically the same as 24," they explained.

Practical Recommendations from Users

Opinions among the community appear polarized:

  • "I recommend 12 or 24. They’re universal and incredibly secure," stated a user, reflecting a preference for widely-compatible options.

  • Others promote convenience, emphasizing the appeal of discounts on 24-word backups.

Sentiment and Observations

The overall sentiment is mixed, with users airing cautious optimism about SLIP39 while debating whether traditional 12 or 24-word phrases offer ample security for the long haul. Amidst these discussions, one question arises: can the future of seed phrases balance security with practicality?

πŸ”‘ Key Insights

  • ⭐ Users advocate for either 20 or 24 words for optimal protection.

  • ⚑ "12 words are secure enough," yet 24 offers additional peace of mind.

  • ⚠️ Concerns persist regarding the adoption rate of SLIP39, pushing many toward traditional methods.

As the crypto landscape evolves, these insights are vital for both new and seasoned Trezor users navigating security challenges.

Trends on the Horizon

Experts predict a significant shift towards 24-word seed phrases among crypto users in the coming years, anticipating an adoption surge of 60%. Increased apprehension about shorter phrases might steer users to established, reliable methods. The broader acceptance of SLIP39 remains uncertain; hence, conventional seed options could remain prevalent in the short term.

Historical Context

Historically, users have faced similar challenges with password security in the early 2000s. As with seed phrase debates today, the need for greater complexity versus simplicity in security measures remains relevant. This ongoing struggle emphasizes the inherent desire for trust and safety in digital transactions.