# Nostr: Do I need a Lightning wallet to use Nostr?

No.

2026-08-09
::
Switchboard Tech Services


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## Short answer

No. The basic protocol for identities, posts, follows, and relays does not require Bitcoin or a wallet. A Lightning wallet is only needed when you want to send or receive Lightning payments such as zaps. Choose a wallet and connection method deliberately, review spending permissions, and do not treat a Nostr app as a wallet unless it actually provides wallet functions.

## Sources

[NIP-01: Basic protocol](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/01.md), [NIP-57: Lightning zaps](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/57.md), [NIP-47: Nostr Wallet Connect](https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/47.md).

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Canonical URL: https://switchboardtechservices.com/guides/nostr-do-i-need-a-lightning-wallet-to-use-nostr/

Language: en-us

Content type: guide

Author: Switchboard Tech Services

Published: 2026-08-09T14:01:36+00:00

Description: A practical answer to Do I need a Lightning wallet to use Nostr?