Aqua vs Muun

Updated: January 2026

Quick take

Muun is best if you want a simple, hybrid wallet that automatically chooses on‑chain or Lightning and uses an email‑based recovery kit. Aqua fits if you prefer open‑source, self‑custody with Liquid support and a standard 12‑word seed. Compare custody, Lightning via swaps, backup model, fees implications, and mobile experience below.

Aqua vs Muun — full comparison (Spend Bitcoin)
Platform	Mobile Wallet (Layer 2) Hybrid Bitcoin Wallet
Supported Networks	Bitcoin, Lightning, and Liquid with USDt swaps via partners Bitcoin + Lightning
Features	Bitcoin, Lightning, and Liquid in one balance Confidential Liquid transactions for added privacy Direct peg-in turns on-chain BTC into L-BTC without extra steps Lightning depends on Boltz swaps Swaps can cost more than native Lightning wallets Auto chooses Lightning or on-chain Simple user interface Emergency kit for recovery Not lightning native: higher fees No Lightning address support Email required for backup
Custody & Control	Non-custodial (keys stored on your device) Non-custodial (2-of-2 multisig)
KYC Required	No No
Recovery Method	12-word seed created in-app (optional passphrase) Emergency kit with email and recovery code
Open Source	Core wallet is open source; marketplace modules are closed Yes
User Experience	N/A N/A
Interface	Mobile only Mobile only
App Ratings	iOS: 4.2 Android: 4.5 iOS: 4.3 Android: 4
Profile Founder(s)	Samson Mow Dario Sneidermanis
Company description	Aqua is JAN3's mobile wallet that keeps Bitcoin, Liquid, and Lightning funds in one place. The app is self-custodial, so you write down a 12-word seed and control every transaction. Aqua is JAN3's mobile wallet that keeps Bitcoin, Liquid, and Lightning funds in one place. The app is self-custodial, so you write down a 12-word seed and control every transaction. Aqua is JAN3's mobile wallet that keeps Bitcoin, Liquid, and Lightning funds in one place. The app is self-custodial, so you write down a 12-word seed and control every transaction. Aqua leans on Liquid for privacy and low fees, while Boltz swaps unlock Lightning spending without running your own channels. You can peg-in on-chain BTC, hold USDt on Liquid, and bridge to other networks when required. Optional extras such as the Dolphin Card and future marketplace services build on the same wallet, so newcomers can start with simple payments and grow into more advanced features as they get comfortable. Muun is a non-custodial Bitcoin and Lightning wallet focused on giving users full control with minimal complexity. It separates itself from other wallets through its unique security and backup model: ... Muun is a non-custodial Bitcoin and Lightning wallet focused on giving users full control with minimal complexity. It separates itself from other wallets through its unique security and backup model: users recover access using an email, password, and encrypted recovery code—removing the need to manage a traditional 12-word seed phrase. This makes onboarding easier for beginners without compromising self-custody. Muun is a non-custodial Bitcoin and Lightning wallet focused on giving users full control with minimal complexity. It separates itself from other wallets through its unique security and backup model: users recover access using an email, password, and encrypted recovery code—removing the need to manage a traditional 12-word seed phrase. This makes onboarding easier for beginners without compromising self-custody. Muun's key differentiator is how it handles both Lightning and on-chain Bitcoin in one seamless balance. Users don't have to manage channels or worry about liquidity—Muun automates that behind the scenes. You can send or receive Bitcoin however you want, and the wallet figures out whether to use Lightning or regular Bitcoin based on speed, cost, and availability. This hybrid approach appeals to users who want convenience but still own their funds. Users praise Muun for its simple design, clear recovery process, and solid privacy. It's especially recommended for first-time users who want a secure but low-friction experience. However, some note that Muun doesn't support Lightning addresses and that Lightning transactions may route via on-chain swaps. This means unpredictable fees, especially when onchain activity rises. Muun's mission is to provide a simple, secure way to use Bitcoin daily without needing technical knowledge. It prioritizes non-custodial access, user control, and cross-platform consistency, helping new users enter Bitcoin while retaining ownership from day one.
Founded in	2024 2019
Website	aquawallet.io muun.com
Availability	Available globally Available globally

FAQs

Does Muun open Lightning channels?

No. Muun keeps funds on-chain and pays Lightning invoices via swaps under a single balance. You do not manage channels. Recovery uses an Emergency Kit with keys, descriptors, and a recovery code to regain access independently if the app becomes unavailable.

Is Aqua non-custodial and open source?

Yes. Aqua is non-custodial and open-source. It supports Bitcoin, Lightning via non-custodial Boltz swaps, and the Liquid Network, offering privacy-oriented Liquid features. Users retain control of funds while leveraging Liquid assets alongside on-chain Bitcoin and swap-based Lightning.

Why do fees vary between the two?

Both can involve on-chain steps at times, particularly when swaps occur, so network congestion can influence costs. Aqua emphasizes Liquid features and assets, while Muun keeps a single on-chain balance that routes Lightning via swaps, affecting predictability versus native Lightning channels.