The crimsonwings (Cryptospiza) are a genus of small passerine birds belonging to the estrildid finch family (Estrildidae).

They are secretive birds which mainly inhabit mountain forests with dense undergrowth.

They usually forage on or near the ground, feeding mainly on seeds such as those of grasses and balsam.

The bill is thick and conical and either black or red.

They all have a reddish back and rump and olive or grey underparts.