Argent

Key Takeaways

Argent stands out with its unique blend of security, ease of use, and integration with the DeFi ecosystem. Here's the nitty-gritty:

• Starknet Integration: Targets Starknet users, offering fast transactions and low fees.
• Security: Boasts biometric authentication, non-custodial control, and innovative social recovery options.
• User Experience: Sleek, user-friendly interface, though it might initially challenge newcomers.
• DeFi Ready: Direct DeFi protocol integration for yield farming and lending.
• Fees: Transparent, minimal transaction fees with additional costs for using the Argent Vault.
• Setup Ease: Quick setup on mobile and web, with mobile requiring more personal info.
• Support: Responsive support via email, social media, and a comprehensive help center.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Argent? 

Argent’s Pros

• Enhanced Security: Incorporates biometrics, two-factor authentication, non-custodial control, and unique social recovery options, ensuring top-notch security for users.
• User-Friendly Interface: Offers a sleek, intuitive design that simplifies the crypto experience, despite a potential initial learning curve for newcomers.
• Earning Opportunities: Offers earning opportunities through token staking and liquidity providing

Argent’s Cons

• Limited to Mobile and Browser: Mainly supports mobile applications, with potential accessibility issues for users preferring desktop interfaces.
• Fees: While minimal, transactions and vault usage incur fees, subject to fluctuations based on network congestion.

1. What’s the Story Behind Argent?

Born in 2017 from the minds of seasoned blockchain developers, Argent wasn't always the Starknet-powered DeFi dynamo it is today. It started as a layer 1 Ethereum wallet, but as gas fees soared, the team pivoted, releasing the blazing-fast Argent Wallet Layer 2 in 2020. Now, it's a one-stop shop for crypto enthusiasts, seamlessly integrating with Starknet for rapid transactions and lower costs.

Argent Wallet stands out as a non-custodial hot wallet, designed to live on your mobile device with apps for both Android and iOS users. But here's the twist – it's not just a mobile affair. The Argent wallet extension brings its magic to your browser, supporting Chrome, Brave, Firefox, and Edge. It's like having your crypto cake and eating it too, with the added sprinkle of interfacing with hardware wallets.

As for currencies, Argent embraces the vast world of Ethereum ERC-20, ERC-721, and ERC-1155 tokens. Its true focus, however, lies squarely on Starknet (though whispers of zkSync linger in the background), making it a champion for this Layer 2 blockchain's vibrant ecosystem.

2. What Are the Key Features of Argent?

Argent X wallet prioritizes security, ease of use, and powerful functionality, making it a compelling choice for crypto enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

Security Measures

• Two-Factor and Biometric Authentication: Enhancing security, Argent allows users to leverage biometrics (face or fingerprint) and two-factor authentication, ensuring that only authorized users can access their wallet.
• Non-Custodial Control: Users maintain full control over their private keys, a cornerstone of digital asset security.
• Argent Guardians: A standout feature, allowing the nomination of trusted contacts or devices to approve transactions or assist in recovery, amplifying security.
• Sophisticated Private Key Architecture: Argent's approach eliminates the need for a seed phrase, handing users complete control over their assets.
• Social Recovery and Remote Locking: These features provide a safety net, enabling wallet recovery through social mechanisms and the ability to lock the wallet remotely in case of suspected unauthorized access.
• Multi-Signature Transactions: Requiring approval from multiple parties for transactions to proceed, adding an extra layer of security.

User Interface and Experience

• Ease of Use: Argent is celebrated for its sleek, user-friendly interface, simplifying transactions like purchasing, sending, receiving, and exchanging cryptocurrencies, though it might initially overwhelm newcomers.
• Optimized Performance and User Experience: The mobile app offers seamless navigation and efficient operation without needing substantial computing power, earning accolades for its reliability and performance. However, Argent solely supports mobile apps for iOS and Android, potentially limiting users who prefer desktop access.    

Functionality and Tools

• Speed and Efficiency: The adoption of a zero-knowledge solution enhances transaction speed, slashing gas fees significantly.
• DeFi Integration: Direct integration with DeFi protocols enables activities like yield farming, lending, and borrowing, allowing users to earn interest on their assets.
• ETH Staking: Users can stake Ethereum directly through the mobile app, offering a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) of 3.34%, enabling them to grow their assets over time.
• Liquidity Provision: By partnering with Ekubo, a third-party application, Argent users have the opportunity to provide liquidity and earn yields, further diversifying their investment strategies and income streams.
• Reduced Fees via zkSync: Leveraging zkSync for reduced fees, Argent ensures quick and cost-effective Ethereum transactions.
• Instant Swaps and Argent Vault: Features like integration with AVNU for best swap prices and the Argent Vault for improved security and reduced gas costs highlight the wallet's functionality.

Costs and Fees

• Transparent Fees: Argent X users enjoy minimal fees for adding funds and conducting transactions, including near-instant Ethereum transactions at a fraction of the cost.
• Argent Vault Fees: Utilizing the Argent Vault incurs a 0.5% exchange fee, variable partner transaction fees, and the Ethereum network's gas fees, which are subject to fluctuation based on network congestion.

3. How Do You Get Started with Argent?

Ready to dive into the world of DeFi with Argent? Here's a breakdown of the setup process, both on mobile and web browsers, to get you started in under 5 minutes.

On Argent mobile

1. Download Argent on iOS or Android.
2. Open the app, create a new wallet, and reserve a username (5-30 characters).
3. Read and accept Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
4. Enter and verify your email address.
5. Enter and verify your phone number for security.
6. Enter the code received in SMS message.
7. Choose a passcode to protect your wallet.
8. Optionally enable biometric security, like face recognition on iOS.  

On Argent X

1. Download Argent X on Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Brave using official download links.
2. Add Argent X to your web browser and click "Add extension."
3. Click "Create a new wallet" and accept disclaimers, then click "Continue."
4. Create a strong password and click "Create Wallet."
5. Pin the Argent X extension and click "Finish" for security.
6. Open the wallet, click the extension, and "Show recovery phrase."
7. Write down the 12-word recovery phrase in order and store it securely.
8. Setup complete! Proceed to the tutorial for adding funds.
9. It's recommended to activate Argent Shield (2FA). Watch StarkWare's video for guidance.

Both methods are relatively simple, but the mobile app requires more personal information (email, phone) for verification, which might deter privacy-conscious users like myself. While the web browser option offers more anonymity, remember to never store your recovery phrase online.

4. How Does Argent Support Its Users?

In this segment of our Argent crypto wallet review, let's peel back the layers on how Argent stands by its users, ensuring a smooth and secure journey through the crypto cosmos.

Got a question? Dive into their comprehensive Help Center, brimming with FAQs, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides. Chances are, you'll find the answer you seek right there.

Need to reach a human? The Argent support team is ready to assist with various issues, from account access to transaction hiccups and technical glitches. While they don't offer 24/7 live chat, you can reach them via email ([email protected]), contact form, or social media (X, Discord).

Argent's support team shines with their responsiveness. Expect same-day answers on their Discord channel, and a generally helpful and accommodating demeanor across all channels.

If you're familiar with popular wallets like MetaMask, transitioning to Argent will be a breeze. The interface is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to find your way around.

Argent fosters a vibrant community. As a leading Starknet wallet alongside Braavos, they're deeply involved in the Ethereum community. This means you have access to a wealth of knowledge and support from fellow users and developers.