For starters, they’re incredibly convenient. Desktop wallets are downloaded and installed directly to your computer, which makes accessing your crypto extremely easy—you can be up and running within minutes. Plus, because you control everything locally, it’s much safer than trusting an exchange to hold your funds for you. Just make sure that if you’re going with desktop wallet over web or mobile option, you take extra precautions to secure your computer from malware and hackers who prey on unsuspecting crypto holders.
If you choose poorly or don’t set up your wallet properly, there could be big consequences for losing access to your coins forever. You need to know exactly what you’re doing when it comes to setting up and using one of these wallets. That said, as long as you know what you’re doing (and stay vigilant), desktop wallets are far more secure than any web-based cryptocurrency service.
Also remember: using a multi-signature wallet with at least two keys means even if someone gains unauthorized access to one device, they still won't have another key required in order to move funds out of your account. Keep in mind that most experienced Bitcoin users use multiple keys in their wallet setup. This adds another layer of security by requiring multiple parties/devices to agree before bitcoins can be spent — making them even more difficult for malicious actors or hackers looking for vulnerable network points.