> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://polymarketguide.gitbook.io/polymarketguide/basics/signing-up/email-account-vs-crypto-wallet.md).

# Email Account vs Crypto Wallet

Below are the main differences between signing up with **Google or Email** and using a **Crypto Wallet**.

| Feature                   | Google / Email                                                | Crypto Wallet                                                                                               |
| ------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Best for**              | Beginners who want an easy sign-up and login                  | Experienced users who already use crypto wallets                                                            |
| **Login method**          | Enter a 6-digit code sent to your email                       | Sign a message in your crypto wallet to log in                                                              |
| **Extra security (2FA)**  | Supported                                                     | Not needed (your wallet already secures your login)                                                         |
| **Account type**          | Simple account managed by Polymarket                          | Wallet fully owned and controlled by you (built on Gnosis Safe)                                             |
| **Trading**               | No extra steps when placing trades                            | Must approve each trade in your wallet                                                                      |
| **Private key access**    | [Export via Magic Link](https://reveal.magic.link/polymarket) | Managed inside your wallet app                                                                              |
| **Account recovery**      | Only possible if you still have access to your email          | Only possible if you still have access to your wallet                                                       |
| **Recover lost funds**    | Not available                                                 | [Recover via Polymarket Recovery](https://docs.polymarket.com/polymarket-learn/FAQ/recover-missing-deposit) |
| **Email notifications**   | Yes                                                           | Yes                                                                                                         |
| **Convert between types** | ❌ Not possible                                                | ❌ Not possible                                                                                              |