WalletsSumo Pick Fact-checked 2026-08-14
MetaMask logo

MetaMask

Established 2016

The most widely used self-custody wallet and the default gateway to Web3.

MetaMask is the browser-extension and mobile wallet most people first meet when they touch Ethereum, DeFi or NFTs. It holds the keys to your EVM accounts locally and connects them to tens of thousands of dapps. Tens of millions of people use it monthly.

Quick facts

Founded

2016

Category

Wallets

Platforms

Browser, iOS, Android

Key facts

Non-custodial, Open source, EVM chains

Pros

  • Universal dapp support — virtually every EVM app connects to it
  • Full self-custody with a 12-word recovery phrase
  • Built-in swaps, bridges and fiat on-ramps

Cons

  • Popularity makes its users a prime target for phishing
  • No built-in transaction simulation by default
  • Beginner-unfriendly at first: gas, networks and tokens need learning

Best for

Most people's first self-custody wallet and everyday DeFi use

Fees

Free; you pay network gas. Swaps/on-ramps carry a MetaMask service fee.

Security notes

Non-custodial, audited and open source. Your recovery phrase is the entire security model — never enter it on any website, ever.

ethereumbrowserdefi

Frequently asked questions

What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is The most widely used self-custody wallet and the default gateway to Web3. MetaMask is the browser-extension and mobile wallet most people first meet when they touch Ethereum, DeFi or NFTs. It holds the keys to your EVM accounts locally and connects them to tens of thousands of dapps. Tens of millions of people use it monthly.
Is MetaMask safe to use?
Non-custodial, audited and open source. Your recovery phrase is the entire security model — never enter it on any website, ever. As always, verify details on the official site before trusting funds to any service.
How much does MetaMask cost?
Free; you pay network gas. Swaps/on-ramps carry a MetaMask service fee. Figures change — confirm current pricing on the official site before deciding.

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