Key Takeaways
- MetaMask is the standard for Ethereum and EVM networks and is supported by almost every Web3 app.
- Phantom is the most popular Solana wallet, known for a polished, beginner-friendly design.
- Both have expanded to multiple chains, but each is strongest in its home ecosystem.
- Both are hot wallets; pair either with a hardware wallet for larger balances.
MetaMask and Phantom are two of the most widely used self-custody wallets. MetaMask built its reputation on Ethereum, while Phantom became the go-to wallet for Solana. Both now support several blockchains, which makes the choice less obvious. Here's how they compare.
MetaMask vs Phantom at a glance
| MetaMask | Phantom | |
|---|---|---|
| Home ecosystem | Ethereum and EVM networks | Solana |
| Other networks | Many EVM chains and layer 2s; Solana support added | Ethereum, Base, Polygon, Bitcoin and others |
| Platforms | Browser extension and mobile | Browser extension and mobile |
| App support | Near-universal across EVM apps | Dominant across Solana apps |
| Built-in swaps | Yes, with a service fee | Yes, with a service fee |
| Hardware wallet support | Ledger, Trezor and others | Ledger |
| Cost | Free (network and swap fees apply) | Free (network and swap fees apply) |
Supported blockchains
MetaMask supports Ethereum plus a long list of compatible networks such as Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, Polygon and BNB Chain, and has added Solana. Phantom started as a Solana wallet and has expanded to Ethereum, Base, Polygon, Bitcoin and other networks. In practice, MetaMask is still the default on Ethereum apps, and Phantom is the default on Solana apps.
Ease of use
Phantom is widely praised for its clean, consumer-friendly design, with clear token and NFT displays. MetaMask is very capable but can feel more technical, particularly when adding custom networks or managing token approvals. Both have improved onboarding in recent years.
Security
Both are self-custody wallets: you control your keys through a recovery phrase. Both include transaction previews and warnings about known malicious sites. As hot wallets, both are exposed to phishing and malware on your device. The biggest risks are fake apps and malicious signature requests. Read how to spot crypto scams.
Swaps, NFTs and DeFi
Both wallets offer built-in swaps that aggregate quotes, with a service fee added on top of network fees. Both display NFTs and connect to DeFi apps. Network fees on Solana are usually far lower than on Ethereum mainnet, which shapes the experience as much as the wallet does.
Which should you choose?
- Choose MetaMask if you mostly use Ethereum, layer 2s or other EVM apps, or want the widest hardware wallet support.
- Choose Phantom if you mostly use Solana apps or want the most polished multi-chain wallet experience.
- Use both if you're active on both ecosystems; many people do.
Read our full MetaMask review and see best crypto wallets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use MetaMask for Solana?
Yes, MetaMask has added Solana support, though Phantom remains the most widely used Solana wallet.
Can Phantom hold Ethereum?
Yes. Phantom supports Ethereum and several other networks in addition to Solana.
Can I import the same recovery phrase into both?
Often yes, but address derivation can differ between wallets. Be careful, and never enter your phrase anywhere you don't fully trust.
Do I need a hardware wallet with these?
For larger balances, yes. Connecting a hardware wallet keeps your keys offline while you use the wallet's interface.
This comparison is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Features change; confirm details on each wallet's official website.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments are volatile and risky. Some links may be affiliate links — see our disclosure.