MetaMask Wallet Review – Pros, Cons, Safety Revealed

MetaMask is a popular software cryptocurrency wallet provider with over 100 million users worldwide. It’s mainly used as a browser extension, but it also has mobile apps for iOS and Android.

Read on to learn more about MetaMask in 2025. This MetaMask wallet review covers security features, supported networks, pricing, user-friendliness, and more.

What is MetaMask Wallet?

MetaMask is an online wallet provider that enables investors to send, receive and store cryptocurrencies. Founded by the developers in 2016 and initially launched as a browser extension for Google Chrome, it is now one of the most popular wallets globally. It boasts more than 100 million users worldwide, many of whom are attracted to its free and user-friendly interface.

Metamask now supports Firefox, Brave, Opera, Edge, and Safari browsers, along with a native mobile app for iOS and Android smartphones. While less popular than the browser extension, the app is ideal for managing cryptocurrencies on the move.

Regarding compatibility, MetaMask initially only supports Ethereum and, by extension, all ERC-20 tokens. However, I found that support extends to other Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) networks, including Base, Arbitrum, Optimism, BNB Chain, and Polygon. The main drawback is a lack of support for non-EVM ecosystems.

This means users can’t store Bitcoin, XRP, Litecoin, Solana, Cardano, Dogecoin, and other popular cryptocurrencies. Nonetheless, MetaMask wallet also comes with additional features provided by third-party entities. For instance, users can stake Ethereum or Polygon to generate passive yields. However, other staking cryptocurrencies aren’t supported.

MetaMask also supports fiat gateways, allowing users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies with their bank account money. Payment methods include debit/credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets like Apple and Google Pay. MetaMask also offers in-wallet token swaps, a convenient way of trading cryptocurrencies without using centralized exchanges.

However, I found that a typical gas fee is high when using third-party features. MetaMask is also a popular option when engaging with decentralized applications (dApps). Users can instantly connect with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like Uniswap and SushiSwap. Not to mention play-to-earn games, lending platforms, and metaverses.

What Type of Wallet is MetaMask Wallet?

Many crypto wallet types exist, including hot, cold, software, hardware, custodial, and non-custodial solutions. MetaMask is a hot software wallet offering non-custodial storage.

Understanding what this means is crucial before proceeding:

Hot Wallet

As a hot wallet, MetaMask is always a click away from being connected to the internet. This is ideal for active investors who frequently send, receive, and trade cryptocurrencies. Users simply need to open the MetaMask extension or app, provide their login credentials, and begin transacting.

However, this also means that MetaMask wallets are prone to remote hacking attempts. In contrast, cold wallets are always offline, so they can’t be compromised remotely.

Software Wallet

MetaMask also sits within the software wallet category. It’s available as a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, and as a mobile app for iOS and Android. This offers a convenient way to engage with the crypto markets.

Non-Custodial Wallet

Another important aspect when choosing a crypto wallet is custodianship. MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet, meaning users own and control their cryptocurrencies outright. This is because the “private key” is encrypted on the desktop or mobile device. Nobody but the user can access the funds, including MetaMask.

This makes MetaMask one of the best decentralized crypto wallets. In contrast, custodial wallets (e.g. online exchanges) control the users’ private keys. The consequence is that the user doesn’t truly own cryptocurrencies, as permission is needed to make withdrawals. Therefore, if you’re looking to build and control crypto wealth away from third parties, MetaMask is a solid choice.

Supported Chains & Cryptocurrencies

I will now discuss supported chains and cryptocurrencies:

Ethereum

MetaMask is primarily an Ethereum wallet. It’s the only network initially supported when creating a new MetaMask account. This does, however, also mean that all ERC-20 tokens are supported. For instance, the provided Ethereum address is suitable for Tether, USD Coin, Shiba Inu, Chainlink, and Uniswap.

MetaMask also supports custom tokens. So, if you buy one of the new cryptocurrencies on the ERC-20 standard, you can add it via the unique contract address. While the process can be intimidating for beginners, it’s relatively straightforward. MetaMask provides a step-by-step guide on adding custom tokens on its website.

The issue is that additional networks must be added to MetaMask manually. This is unlike most multi-chain cryptocurrency wallets, which come preinstalled with each supported network.

To add a network to MetaMask, you first need to obtain its chain credentials. For instance, the network name, chain ID, RPC URL, and currency symbol. Do note that similar to the ERC-20 standard, custom tokens can be added to the above EVM chains. The process is also simple – just copy and paste the project’s contract address.

Where MetaMask Falls Short

MetaMask doesn’t support the world’s most popular crypto – Bitcoin. This is a major downside, considering investors with diversified portfolios will need to manage multiple wallets. For instance, consider an investor holding Bitcoin and Ethereum. While Ethereum can be stored in MetaMask, they’d need another wallet specifically for Bitcoin.

And it’s not just Bitcoin that’s missing from MetaMask. It also doesn’t offer support for XRP, Solana, Cardano, Dogecoin, Stellar, Sui, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, and more. In my view, there are much better alternatives to MetaMask for those storing multiple cryptocurrencies, which I’ll explore later.

MetaMask Wallet Features & Tools

Now that you know which networks and cryptocurrencies are supported, let’s move on to the core features:

Token Swaps

MetaMask enables users to swap cryptocurrencies without leaving the browser extension or app. Since its inception, it claims to have facilitated over $40 billion in trading volume. While impressive, this is a tiny fraction of what the leading exchanges handle. Nonetheless, token swaps are a convenient way to trade cryptocurrencies quickly.

So, how do MetaMask swaps work? In a nutshell, MetaMask integrates with external liquidity providers, including DEXs like Uniswap, Paraswap, and 1inch. First, users must enter which cryptocurrencies they want to swap and the amount.

• For instance, you might want to swap 1 ETH for USDT.
• MetaMask then scans its partnered liquidity providers for real-time quotes.
• It automatically displays providers by the most competitive rates.
• Once confirmed, that 1 ETH is swapped, with the USDT added to the MetaMask crypto wallet balance automatically.

MetaMask’s swapping tool also supports cross-chain trades. For example, you can swap Ethereum-based tokens for those operating on Base or Arbitrum. This typically comes with less favorable exchange rates, so ensure fees are reviewed before confirming.

Fiat Gateway

MetaMask has also partnered with fiat gateways. Users can buy cryptocurrencies without leaving the wallet interface. The most popular payment methods are supported, including debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, and Google/Apple Pay. Depending on the country of residence, local bank transfers are supported, too.

Do note that fiat gateways will conduct KYC (know-your-customer) procedures before processing any transactions. Users will be asked for personal information and a government-issued ID, at minimum. Proof of address, such as a credit card statement or a utility bill, is sometimes requested, too.

Any KYC checks are kept separate from MetaMask, as it’s merely an interface connecting users with the fiat gateway. This means future wallet transactions aren’t connected to the user’s real-world identity. Nevertheless, MetaMask also enables users to sell cryptocurrencies for local money.

• For example, suppose you’re holding 2 BNB.
• You want to cash out for US dollars via PayPal.
• The respective gateway will sell that 2 BNB for USD, and transfer the proceeds to the PayPal account.

However, as I explain later, your usual gas fee is excessive when using fiat facilities. Credit card payments, for instance, can average 3-5% of the transaction size.

Staking

Crypto staking is another feature offered by MetaMask, allowing you to earn rewards. Similar to swaps and fiat facilities, staking is offered via third parties. MetaMask staking is convenient, as users can earn passive yields directly from their wallet balance. However, as confirmed by other MetaMask wallet reviews, the staking feature comes with several drawbacks.

For a start, only two cryptocurrencies can be staked on MetaMask – Ethereum and Polygon. This means you can’t stake other popular coins, such as Cardano, BNB, and Avalanche. In addition, MetaMask supports a limited number of staking providers. Ethereum can be staked via Lido or Rocket Pool. Polygon can be staked on Lido and Stader Labs.

Better options are often available in terms of staking APYs and/or terms. Another drawback is that MetaMask takes a 15% cut from any staking rewards generated. While lower than Coinbase (often 35%), much cheaper options are available elsewhere.

Web 3.0 dApps

MetaMask is one of the most secure and popular wallets for engaging with Web 3.0 dApps. Almost all dApps on supported networks, such as Ethereum, Base, and BNB Chain, automatically support MetaMask connections. This means you don’t need to use the WalletConnect feature, which adds an additional step to the process.

Decentralized exchanges are the most frequently accessed dApps by users. These include Uniswap, SushiSwap, and PancakeSwap, which allow users to trade cryptocurrencies directly from the MetaMask balance. MetaMask also connects with the leading decentralized finance (DeFi) dApps.

This is ideal for staking, lending, yield farming tools, and crypto loans. MetaMask is also a good option for crypto gambling, play-to-earn gaming, and metaverses like Decentraland.

MetaMask Card

MetaMask Card is a relatively new feature available to select nationalities:

This includes:

• Brazil
• Colombia
• Mexico
• Switzerland
• UK
• US
• All countries in the European Union

MetaMask Card enables users to spend their wallet balances in the real world, including online and offline merchants accepting MasterCard. The wallet connects with Apple and Google Pay for added convenience and security.

However, upon closer inspection, I found a major drawback with the MetaMask Card. Not only are just three cryptocurrencies supported (USDC, WETH, and USDT) but they must be stored on the Linea network. This is the layer-2 network backed by the MetaMask developers and the parent organization, ConsenSys.

Moreover, users must obtain these cryptocurrencies manually before using the MetaMask Card. Unlike other providers, swaps aren’t automatically executed at the point of transaction.

For instance, suppose you’re in a coffee shop and want to use the MetaMask Card to settle the bill. However, your wallet currently only stores ETH (on the Ethereum network). You need to manually swap ETH for USDC, WETH, or USDT on the Linea network, meaning a cross-chain transaction. Only then can you use the MetaMask Card to settle up.

Another drawback is the rewards paid on eligible transactions. Users earn just 1% of the transaction size, paid in the respective token. For example, a 100 USDC transaction would earn 1 USDC. So your earn rewards at a lower rate than traditional credit cards, for example, and they likely doesn’t cover transaction fees and/or FX conversions.

Gas Station

MetaMask’s “Gas Station” feature was launched in February 2025. It’s one of the best features available, as users can select which token to use when covering Ethereum network fees. This solves a major issue when swapping tokens, considering ERC-20 fees can only be paid in ETH.

• For example, suppose your wallet balance is 200 USDT.
• You want to swap that 200 USDT for SHIB.
• However, you can’t, because your wallet doesn’t hold any ETH to cover network fees.
• This means that 200 USD is effectively stuck unless you’re able to deposit ETH.

In contrast, the Gas Station feature would allow the network fee to be paid in USDT. This prevents the need to buy or deposit ETH.

Security – Is MetaMask Wallet Safe & Legit?

Now to discuss MetaMask security features. Read on to explore how safe your cryptocurrencies and assets are when stored in MetaMask.

Encrypted Private Keys

I mentioned earlier that MetaMask is a non-custodial wallet. This means users fully control their private keys, which are securely encrypted when downloading the MetaMask browser extension or app. Therefore, your key is stored on the respective desktop or mobile device.

No one else can view the private key, including MetaMask. The stored key enables simple transaction signing from the same device. For example, if you’re using the browser extension, you can only sign transactions on that laptop or PC.

Secret Passphrase

When you create a new MetaMask wallet, a “secret passphrase” or seed phrase will be displayed. Just like your private key, this is encrypted, ensuring nobody but you can view it. The passphrase is 12 randomly generated words. When entered in the correct order, they provide remote access to the wallet balance.

Not only on MetaMask but virtually any other wallet provider. The secret passphrase is used as a backup mechanism. For instance, if you forget the MetaMask PIN or password or the device is lost, you can recover access by entering the passphrase. Now, for the important part, crypto scammers actively seek seed phrases.

You are 100% responsible for keeping it private and secure. The best practice is to write it down on a sheet of paper. In contrast, keeping the secret seed phrase on an internet-ready device is highly risky. For example, users have been known to store it on a Google Doc, which can be hacked remotely.

Similarly, scammers will also try deceptive strategies.

Protected Access

My MetaMask review found that traditional security steps are required before accessing the wallet. The specific measures depend on whether you’re using the MetaMask browser extension or mobile app.

• Browser Extension: The only protection on the browser extension is a password. The best practice is to create a long and complex password that can’t be easily guessed.
• Mobile App: Mobile users can protect their MetaMask app with a PIN or biometrics. The latter supports fingerprint ID and facial recognition.

The above security credentials only work on the device on which MetaMask is installed. For example, the browser extension password won’t work when installing MetaMask on another device. This is because the password is connected with the encrypted keys.

Transaction Signing

Cryptocurrencies can only leave the wallet balance when “signed”. This simply means confirming the transaction manually. MetaMask provides the transaction details in a reader-friendly way.

For instance, it displays the token being transferred, the amount, and the receiving destination to help you verify your transaction. Users are strongly advised to review all transactions extensively before signing them. Once funds leave, they’re irreversible.

Phishing Protection

MetaMask also comes preinstalled with phishing protection. This helps users to verify sites and stay safe when connecting to external platforms, such as Web 3.0 dApps. It has a list of safe sites, including established and trusted dApps like Uniswap, Compound, and Decentraland.

Connecting to a new or unknown site will likely show a warning notification. This gives users an extra chance to review the connection before it’s authorized. However, this feature isn’t 100% infallible. There’s every chance you connect to a suspicious or blocked site without receiving a MetaMask warning.

Hardware Compatibility

To keep MetaMask safe, connect it with a hardware device. MetaMask supports the most popular hardware wallets, including Ledger, Trezor, and NGRAVE ZERO. This offers the best of both worlds: the convenience of a hot wallet while using cold storage security.

Here’s how it works:

• The private keys are stored on the hardware device rather than MetaMask.
• MetaMask acts as an interface between the hardware wallet and online dApps.
• For example, suppose you connect MetaMask with Uniswap to swap cryptocurrencies.
• The transaction is initially set up via the MetaMask browser extension or mobile app.
• However, it’s only executed when confirmed on the hardware device, usually via a physically-entered PIN.

Learn more about the best hardware wallets in our comprehensive guide.

MetaMask Wallet Fees

Now I’ve covered security, it’s time to explore fees. Read on to learn more about MetaMask pricing, including outgoing transfers, swaps, and fiat facilities.

Lack of Transparency

First, I should mention that fee transparency was an issue when compiling this review. MetaMask rarely lists pricing on the respective feature page, meaning users must search manually.

For example, on the “Buy Crypto” page, MetaMask states that users can “expect to pay a processing fee, a MetaMask fee, and a market rate for gas”. However, the specific fees aren’t mentioned.

Basic Wallet Features

Basic MetaMask features are completely free. This includes downloading the wallet and receiving and storing cryptocurrencies. There are no ongoing management fees, ensuring long-term investors benefit from a cost-effective experience.

Like all wallets, users must pay network fees when transferring funds. MetaMask makes no money from outgoing transfers. Fees are quoted in real-time by the respective network, such as Ethereum or Polygon. In addition, MetaMask offers three options when transferring funds to some other wallet – low, market, and aggressive.

Choosing the “Low” option means that the transaction will be slower, and vice versa for “Aggressive.” Network validators prioritize transactions with higher fees, as this is how they make money.

Swap Fees

Moving onto swap fees, users should be aware of three charges:

• Liquidity Provider Fees: MetaMask obtains exchange rates from external liquidity providers like Uniswap, Curve, and DeGate. It automatically shows which provider offers the best price. Crucially, you get the exact exchange rate offered by the liquidity provider (which includes their respective fee).
• 0.875% Commission: MetaMask adds a 0.875% commission to all token swaps, regardless of the trade size. For example, suppose you’re swapping $1,000 worth of ETH for USDC. You’d pay an $8.75 commission on this trade. This is considerably higher than most online exchanges, which average 0.1% per slide.
• Network Fee: When using MetaMask’s swap feature, you must also cover the network fee. No markup is added; fees are quoted by the respective network.

In my view, while the swap feature is super convenient, it’s not worth the 0.875% commission. Instead, you can go straight to the DEX, which offers the best rate.

For example, suppose Uniswap is the most competitive provider. You can instantly connect MetaMask to Uniswap, complete the swap, and avoid the 0.875% commission. The purchased tokens will be deposited in the MetaMask balance anyway.

Fiat Gateway Fees

Buying and selling cryptocurrencies with fiat money is the most expensive MetaMask feature—so much so that I’d suggest avoiding it.

First, MetaMask uses third-party gateways when facilitating fiat transactions, so specific fees will vary. For example, MoonPay charges 4.5% when using Visa cards. This aligns with other partnered gateways. What’s more, the fees are often built into the exchange rate shown by MetaMask, which lacks transparency.

In addition, MetaMask adds an extra 1% to the quoted fee. This is based on the total amount being purchased or sold. Users must also cover network fees when buying or selling cryptocurrencies. This does, however, come without additional markups. Nonetheless, much cheaper options exist, so it’s worth researching alternatives if you’re planning to engage with fiat money.

Staking Fees

Staking cryptocurrencies on MetaMask also attract fees. MetaMask takes 15% of any staking rewards earned, leaving users with just 85%. This is cheaper than Coinbase, which charges up to 35%. Discounted fees are available to those joining Coinbase One, but this requires a paid subscription.

Nonetheless, MetaMask users will enjoy a more cost-effective experience when using other providers. One option is to go direct with the respective staking pool. For example, staking ETH on MetaMask goes through Rocket Pool or Lido. Connecting with these providers directly means avoiding the MetaMask fee.

MetaMask Wallet User Experience

Most features on MetaMask offer a user-friendly experience. This is the case with the MetaMask wallet app and browser extension. For instance, sending and receiving cryptocurrencies, staking, or swapping tokens is relatively straightforward.

The interface is clean and clear instructions are provided for each required task. Getting set up is simple too. Users are guided through the security steps, such as how to backup up the secret passphrase and installing biometrics.

Ultimately, I found that MetaMask suits beginners and experienced investors, and this is why it has attracted more than 100 million users since its inception.

How to Setup a MetaMask Wallet Account

This section explains how to use MetaMask. Read on to get started in under five minutes.

Step 1: Download the MetaMask App or Browser Extension

The first step is to download MetaMask on the preferred device type. Most users opt for the browser extension, which is what I’m using for this walkthrough.

Supported browsers include Google Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Opera, Edge, and Safari. Alternatively, use the MetaMask app to manage cryptocurrencies on a mobile device. Both iOS and Android are supported.

Step 2: Complete Security Steps

The next step is to set MetaMask up, including the security steps. Agree to the terms of use and click “Create a New Wallet”. Now create a long password (or PIN if using the mobile app).

Next, click the “Secure my Wallet” button. This will reveal the wallet’s 12-word secret passphrase. It’s unique to your wallet and must be written down in the correct order. Keep it somewhere safe, and never store it on a device.

Step 3: Using MetaMask

Your wallet is now set up. A unique Ethereum wallet address is automatically provided. You can copy it beneath the “Account 1” tab. Ensure transfers are only made in ETH or ERC-20 tokens when using this address.

Sending funds on MetaMask is also simple. Just click the “Send” button and provide the receiving address. Select the fee category (e.g. market) and confirm. The funds will be released instantly.

Is MetaMask the Best Crypto Wallet?

Having reviewed MetaMask extensively, you might still be wondering whether it’s the right wallet for you. In my view, while MetaMask is user-friendly it falls short in many departments. In particular, MetaMask doesn’t directly support non-EVM networks, meaning you can’t store Bitcoin, Solana, XRP, Litecoin, and other popular cryptocurrencies.

MetaMask is also expensive when using its third-party features, including swaps, fiat purchases, and staking. It also falls short of maximum security, with MetaMask offering no direct support for 2FA. Considering these drawbacks, I found that Best Wallet is a better alternative.

Here’s why:

Best Wallet – The Best MetaMask Alternative in 2025:

Best Wallet is a secure crypto wallet available as a free mobile app for iOS and Android. Unlike MetaMask, Best Wallet supports the most popular networks, including Bitcoin, Solana, and XRP. This is in addition to EVM-compatible networks like Ethereum, Base, and Polygon. All of Best Wallet’s 60+ networks come preinstalled.

This means you don’t need to add the network credentials manually. Another benefit is that Best Wallet is also a DEX. It supports anonymous and cost-effective trades, with Best Wallet securing exchange rates from hundreds of liquidity providers. Cross-chain trading is supported too. For example, users can swap UNI (Ethereum) for SOL (Solana) at the click of a button.

The Best Wallet DEX also connects with fiat gateways. No KYC procedures are needed, ensuring complete privacy. As a non-custodial wallet, private keys are encrypted on the user’s smartphone. Unlike MetaMask, a wide range of security features are offered, including 2FA. Biometrics, PIN, and real-time transaction notifications are also supported.

Best Wallet is also a great MetaMask alternative for staking. It offers a staking aggregator, so the highest yields are automatically sourced. Best Wallet also comes preinstalled with a launchpad, providing access to the newest and most innovative blockchain startups. Ultimately, Best Wallet offers the ideal combination of convenience and maximum security.

Visit Best Wallet

Customer Support

MetaMask’s customer support team operates 24/7, which is a solid offering, considering MetaMask is a free wallet provider. That said, MetaMask strongly encourages users to search its Help Center before requesting contact. This is because most queries can be solved using the available guides.

If not, MetaMask offers a live chat feature. This is initially connected with an AI bot, meaning automated replies based on the query. Replying with something like “Live Human Agent” can get you closer to a real MetaMask representative, but additional questions must be answered first.

For example, you need to state the wallet type (e.g., browser extension or mobile app), operating system (e.g., Mac), and network (e.g., Ethereum blockchain). You also need to provide the wallet address. Waiting times vary considerably, ranging from a few minutes to several days. An email will be sent when a reply has been received.

The Verdict

I have left no stone unturned, covering the most important points for potential users. While I like MetaMask’s user-friendly dashboard and support for both browser extensions and mobiles, it falls short in key areas. This includes no support for Bitcoin, Solana, and other non-EVM networks and high fees when trading and staking tokens.

Instead, Best Wallet offers a solid alternative to MetaMask for holding your crypto assets. It comes preinstalled with 60+ networks, including Bitcoin. It also offers cheaper fees when swapping, staking, and buying cryptocurrencies with fiat money. Plus, unlike MetaMask, Best Wallet comes with two-factor authentication, a security feature favored by most investors.

Visit Best Wallet

MetaMask

7.6

Ease of use

8.0/10

Selection of coins

9.2/10

Chain support

6.0/10

Fees

6.5/10

Reputation

8.5/10

Pros

• Great for Ethereum chains
• User-friendly
• Good for beginners
• Relatively high security

Cons

• Limited support of other blockchains
• Fees can be high and not transparent
• Security could be strengthened

FAQs

References

1. What investors need to know about ‘staking,’ the passive income opportunity at the center of crypto’s latest regulation scare (CNBC)
2. Cybercriminals target metaverse investors with phishing scams (CNBC)