Software wallet guide

MetaMask wallet

MetaMask is a self-custody mobile app and browser extension that now supports Ethereum, Bitcoin, Tron, and other networks.

Wallet facts

At a glance

Wallet type
Self-custody software wallet
Control
You hold the recovery information
Available on
Android, iOS, Browser extension
Beginner use
More setup choices to understand

Currency and network combinations covered here

  • BTC on Bitcoin
  • ETH on Ethereum
  • USDT on Ethereum (ERC-20)
  • USDT on Tron (TRC-20)
  • TRX on Tron

MetaMask now supports Bitcoin and Tron alongside Ethereum. Network availability can depend on the current Mobile or Extension version.

Open the official MetaMask website

What MetaMask is

MetaMask is a self-custody wallet available as a mobile app and browser extension. Although it was historically associated mainly with Ethereum, current MetaMask versions also support Bitcoin and Tron directly.

It offers many network, token, connection, swap, and decentralised-application features. That flexibility can be useful, but it creates more choices than a payment-focused wallet.

Payment routes covered here

Current official documentation supports these routes covered by this website:

  • BTC on Bitcoin;
  • ETH on Ethereum;
  • USDT on Ethereum (ERC-20);
  • USDT on Tron (TRC-20);
  • TRX on Tron.

MetaMask does not provide the Litecoin or XRP Ledger routes covered here as ordinary built-in accounts. Third-party Snaps or connected services should not be treated as built-in support.

Network selection matters

One MetaMask account can show different addresses and assets across several networks. Open the address list and select the intended network before copying a receiving address.

For USDT, read the network explicitly. USDT on Ethereum needs ETH for later sending fees. USDT on Tron can need TRX or Tron resources. Do not infer the network from the USDT name alone.

Installation and recovery

Begin at the official MetaMask website and follow its mobile-store or browser-store link. Fake MetaMask extensions and recovery pages are a persistent phishing risk.

Record the Secret Recovery Phrase offline. MetaMask support, a connected website, and a token issuer do not need it. A site asking you to “synchronise” or “validate” the wallet with that phrase is attempting to obtain control.

Connections and approvals

Simply receiving a payment does not require connecting MetaMask to a website. A dapp connection can reveal an address, and a token approval can grant a contract permission to move tokens.

Read every connection, signature, network-switch, and approval request. Reject anything unrelated to the task you started.

When it may fit

MetaMask may fit when you want several current networks in one mobile app or extension and are comfortable checking network, account, and connection details.

A focused wallet may be easier when you only need one payment currency and do not use dapps.

Official sources