MetaMask and Trust Wallet are among the most popular non-custodial crypto wallets that allow crypto users to store, send, receive, exchange and purchase cryptocurrencies. Both wallets also support decentralized applications (DApps) and decentralized finance (DeFi) projects.
Though the two wallets are fundamentally similar, there are some key differences between them. To help you understand the finer details, this guide details the key differences between MetaMask and Trust Wallet, including fees, features, supported cryptocurrencies and more.
Trust Wallet vs MetaMask – At a glance
Before we dive into the differences between Trust Wallet vs MetaMask, let’s take a glance at the key differences between the two:
MetaMask | Trust Wallet | |
Release year | 2016 | 2017 |
Blockchains supported | Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain (BSC), Polygon, and other EVM-compatible networks | Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Solana, and many more |
Supported OS | iOS, Android, Web3 and Browser extension | iOS, Android, and Web3 |
NFT support | Yes (mainly Ethereum-based NFTs) | Yes |
Staking | Yes (only for Ethereum) | Yes |
Interface | Easy (but more technical for multi-chain use) | Easy |
DApp integration | via browser extension and mobile app browser | via built-in DApp browser on mobile |
Trust Wallet vs MetaMask – Key differences
Now, let’s delve into a more detailed look at Trust Wallet vs MetaMask.
Related: If these crypto wallets don’t quite meet your needs, check out our full roundups of the best Trust Wallet alternatives and best MetaMask alternatives.
Pros and cons of MetaMask
Knowing the pros and cons of each wallet will help you decide the best crypto hot wallet for yourself. Here are some of the key points to consider.
Pros
- Features a more advanced and customizable interface that may appeal more to experienced users
- Offers active live support via a bot and live chat with a human customer service agent
- Native crypto wallet for Ethereum and Ethereum-compatible blockchains
- Supports interaction with dApps on the Ethereum and layer-2 networks
- Supports token swaps natively on the app depending on prices from popular DEXs
Cons:
- Levies a markup fee for DEX token swaps and staking
- Support limited to a few cryptocurrencies
- Interface is user-friendly, but manual processes may be challenging to beginners
Pros and cons of Trust Wallet
Pros
- Supports more coins, tokens and blockchains
- No markup fee for DEX token swaps and staking
- Allow access to decentralized applications across many networks
- Supports native swapping for some networks and multi-asset swapping supported through partners
- Acquired by Binance in 2018 and enjoys BNB Chain support.
Cons:
- No live support
- Limited support for dApps
- Not available as a browser extension
How to set up Trust Wallet
Download and install Trust Wallet on desktop or mobile
Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for “Trust Wallet” to download the app on mobile. Alternatively, you can download it as a browser extension on Chrome, Brave, Opera, and Edge browsers. Once downloaded, open the app (or extension) and click on ‘Get Started’ to start the setup process.
Create a new wallet
Open the Trust Wallet app (or extension) and select “Create a New Wallet.” Go through the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy and agree to them. Next, create a 6-digit password to access the wallet.
Back up your recovery phrase
Your Trust Wallet will automatically generate a 12-word recovery phrase. It is recommended that you note it down and store it safely, as it will allow you to recover the wallet if you somehow lose access to it.
Confirm recovery phrase
You will now be prompted to verify your recovery phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. This step ensures that you have correctly noted down the phrase.
How to set up MetaMask
Follow the below steps to set up your MetaMask wallet.
Download and install
Visit the MetaMask website to download its extension for your preferred browser (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge). Alternatively, visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) to download the app on your mobile. Once downloaded, install the extension or app.
Create a wallet
Once installed, open the extension or app and click “Get Started.” Next, click “Create a Wallet” and agree to the terms of use. You will now be prompted to create a strong password and confirm it.
Back up your recovery phrase
Your MetaMask wallet will now display a 12-word secret recovery phrase, which you need to write down carefully and store securely. Next, you will be prompted to confirm your recovery phrase.
Conclusion
Trust Wallet and MetaMask are both among the most popular and reputable software wallets globally. Both wallets have their own strengths and weaknesses, and thus, choosing the right one depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Trust Wallet, for instance, is apt for those who want a simple and intuitive wallet that supports multiple tokens across several blockchains. MetaMask, on the other hand, is best for users who desire an advanced wallet that supports Ethereum and other EVM networks.
You can use both wallets together as well, provided you keep your private keys and recovery phrase safe.