MetaMask is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet and browser extension designed to manage digital assets and interact with decentralized applications (dApps) on the Ethereum blockchain and other EVM-compatible networks. It is widely used by individual crypto users, developers, and DeFi participants, especially those active in Ethereum-based ecosystems.

Originally released in 2016 by ConsenSys, MetaMask supports Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Avalanche, and more via custom RPC. Its key features include in-browser wallet management, token swapping, dApp connectivity, and network switching.

Benefits that differentiate MetaMask from other crypto wallets include:

• Seamless interaction with Ethereum and Layer 2 dApps

• Full user control of private keys and seed phrases

• Broad ecosystem support and deep DeFi integration

What are the main features of MetaMask?

Non-custodial crypto wallet for multiple networks

MetaMask gives users complete ownership and control over their crypto assets without relying on centralized exchanges or custodians. It supports a range of Ethereum-compatible networks and custom tokens.

• Manage ETH, ERC-20, and ERC-721 tokens (NFTs)

• Add and switch between custom networks (e.g., Arbitrum, Optimism)

• Compatible with testnets and mainnets

• Import multiple wallets using private keys or seed phrases

In-browser and mobile wallet access

MetaMask is available as a browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge) and as a mobile app (iOS, Android), offering synchronized access across devices.

• One-click login to dApps from supported browsers

• QR code connection between mobile and desktop wallets

• Auto-lock timer and biometric access on mobile

Integrated token swap functionality

Without leaving the interface, users can swap tokens directly from their wallet, using MetaMask’s built-in decentralized exchange aggregator.

• Aggregates liquidity from multiple DEXs like Uniswap, 1inch, and others

• Shows slippage, gas estimates, and best available prices

• Optional advanced settings (custom gas fees, max slippage)

Built-in dApp browser and Web3 access

MetaMask acts as a Web3 gateway, allowing direct interaction with decentralized apps and smart contracts through the wallet.

• Native support for Web3.js and EIP-1193 APIs

• WalletConnect compatibility (via mobile app)

• Secure approval flow for transaction signing

Account and network customization

Users can personalize their experience by managing multiple wallets and customizing RPC endpoints for advanced usage.

• Create or import multiple wallet accounts

• Add custom tokens manually or via token detection

• Configure gas settings and custom RPC for different chains

Why choose MetaMask?

• Widely adopted in the Ethereum ecosystem: MetaMask is one of the most trusted and used wallets in DeFi, NFTs, and blockchain gaming.

• Self-custody and control: Unlike centralized wallets, users retain full ownership of their keys and funds.

• Robust dApp compatibility: Works seamlessly with thousands of dApps across chains.

• Flexible cross-chain support: Easily switch between networks or add new ones with custom RPC.

• Regular updates from an established developer (ConsenSys): Ongoing improvements based on Ethereum community feedback.