MetaMask and Trust Wallet are two cryptocurrency wallet tools. One is geared toward having a modern user interface, and the other is more of a simple wallet with a robust API.
Understanding how they compare and their unique aspects can help you determine which one will suit your needs.
Neither MetaMask nor Trust Wallet are fundamentally different in their core functionality. Both are digital wallets used to store, send, and receive virtual currencies.
If you’re wondering whether to use MetaMask or Trust wallet, this comparison review will help you see what these tools do, how they work, their features, pricing, and integrations. Let’s get started.
MetaMask vs Trust Wallet: What Are They & How They Work
MetaMask
MetaMask is a fairly easy-to-use Ethereum wallet specifically designed for those who have never before used an Ethereum wallet or have never used cryptocurrency at all. It is also highly compatible with other blockchain browsers like Brave and Chrome.
The wallet supports all tokens on the ERC20 blockchain, which means it can store just about any token on the Ethereum network. It is equipped with an inbuilt token swap feature that enables you to exchange tokens without jumping through hoops.
MetaMask has a very easy user interface that easily manages your funds and efficiently operates your transactions.
You can use MetaMask on both mobile and desktop platforms, making it convenient for users of all devices. Its security features are also top-notch, and you can rest assured that your funds will remain safe when stored on MetaMask.
Also Read: NiceHash vs BetterHash
Trust Wallet
Trust Wallet is a mobile wallet that simplifies the use of Ethereum and all other ERC20 tokens by providing a secure and user-friendly platform. It doesn’t have the same functionality as MetaMask—you can only use it to manage your Ethereum coins.
But it’s very accessible. You can sign up and use Trust Wallet within minutes. It’s also open-source, so its developers usually address any issues with it quickly.
Trust Wallet is a hot wallet—meaning that it’s only available on mobile devices and isn’t suitable for long-term storage of large amounts of cryptocurrency—but it does offer a variety of features that make using crypto easy and safe.
It supports dozens of different cryptocurrencies and can be used to store your crypto tokens or to trade them with other users.
You can also use it to make in-app purchases or send funds to others through social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Twitter, and Telegram.
Trust Wallet offers better security features by ensuring that your private keys are always stored locally and protected with many layers of security.
Find out more tools like Trust Wallet here.
MetaMask vs Trust Wallet: Features
MetaMask
MetaMask is a browser-based extension that allows users to manage their Ethereum-based tokens (ERC20 and ERC721). Below are its key features.
Dashboard
The MetaMask dashboard is an easy-to-use interface for managing your Ethereum accounts and funds. It also allows you to interact with web pages that utilize Ethereum. You can easily see your balances, change accounts, and send transactions from the main page.
When you first log in to MetaMask, you’ll be directed to the dashboard. This is where you can view your Ethereum wallets and balances and any tokens or other assets they may contain. There are two primary tabs here: “Accounts” and “Tokens.”
The “Accounts” tab is where you can view your Ethereum wallets and balances, and the “Tokens” tab is where you can view any tokens or other assets your wallets may contain.
The dashboard also contains a settings button at the top right corner of each wallet’s box. Clicking on this will open up a menu with options for sending Ether from that account or importing more accounts from another source (e.g., Ledger Nano S).
Templates
MetaMask templates allow users to customize their tokens following the size of their wallets. The user can select from various templates available or create a token from scratch. After the user creates the token, they can send it to other users or store it in their wallet for later use.
Roles
MetaMask can view all tokens on the Ethereum blockchain without adding them manually. Also, you can search for tokens using a list of popular tokens that are currently being used in the market.
Additionally, MetaMask allows users to access DApps directly from their browser without downloading extra software like Mist or Geth. You may use any Ethereum-enabled DApp with their browser extension without running your full node or syncing the blockchain ever again!
Also Read: Best NiceHash Alternatives
Security
MetaMask is one of the most secure wallets out there. The wallet has a variety of built-in security features like password protection, two-factor authentication, and more which helps to keep your funds safe from hackers and scammers. Moreover, MetaMask also allows you to export your private keys to use them as backups whenever needed.
Trust Wallet
Trust Wallet is a mobile app that allows users to store, receive, and send Ethereum-based tokens (ERC20 and ERC721) and Ethereum coins from their mobile devices. Let’s look at some of its key features.
Dashboard
The dashboard offers live pricing information on the blockchain assets in your portfolio. You can see current prices listed in U.S. dollars or other currencies, so you can always track how your investments are faring against the dollar.
The chart displays market prices for your assets over time and lets you toggle between different kinds of charts to explore the data even further.
You can also check out the current price of any token or cryptocurrency by searching its name (or its ticker symbol) in the search bar at the top of the page.
You can add and remove assets from your wallet by tapping on them at the bottom of the page. This lets you easily track which coins and tokens you own to quickly check their performance over time and decide whether to buy more or sell off some of your holdings.
Templates
To begin using Templates, head over to the settings menu in Trust Wallet and toggle on “Enable Templates.”
Once enabled, you’ll notice an additional option in your wallet’s main menu: Templates. When sending funds from your wallet, click the “Save as Template” checkbox at the bottom of the Send interface.
After saving a template, you’ll be able to access it under the Templates tab in your main wallet menu.
Roles
With Trust Wallet, you can send money to others instantly or schedule payments for later. You can even split the charges for recurring credit card payments between multiple people, making it simple to split the costs of various high-volume monthly expenses.
Security
Since its launch, Trust Wallet has grown to support over 20,000 Ethereum-based tokens (ERC20, ERC721, and ERC223), being used by over two million users. It is a secure, open-source, decentralized, and anonymous Ethereum wallet application.
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MetaMask vs Trust Wallet: Integrations
MetaMask
MetaMask integrates easily with popular decentralized application platforms like Fortmatic, Portis, and Torus, allowing users to access apps through sign-in methods they are already familiar with.
These integrations are a great solution for App developers looking to bring in new users and provide their existing user base with a better onboarding experience.
MetaMask allows you to send Ethereum and ERC20 tokens directly from your browser and provide users with seamless integration of Ethereum Name Service (ENS).
Think of it this way: if you’ve ever used PayPal to log in on a website or app, you know how easy it is to simply click the ‘PayPal’ button and let PayPal take care of the rest.
ENS does precisely that for Ethereum apps and websites – allowing users to simply type in their username without remembering their long, complex wallet address.
In addition, MetaMask also offers users integrated support for all of their favorite decentralized applications (DApps). Simply click the DApp icon at the top right of your browser window, search for your favorite DApp and click ‘Connect.’
Trust Wallet
Trust Wallet has integrated with Kyber Network, so users can exchange their tokens directly in the app without leaving the platform. This latest integration puts Trust Wallet one step closer to being a truly all-in-one solution for your crypto needs.
Trust Wallet has recently launched the new desktop version of its non-custodial crypto wallet app, allowing users to store, send, receive and swap crypto assets on macOS, Windows, and Linux computers. The main reason to integrate your token into this wallet is that Trust Wallet has a large audience of crypto enthusiasts.
Users with an Ethereum or ERC20 token can use Trust Wallet as a storage solution. This allows them to keep their funds safe while enjoying all of the platform’s benefits.
Trust Wallet has teamed up with Amazon to provide an easier way for users to shop online. Users will now be able to convert their cryptocurrency into Amazon gift cards and use them directly on Amazon.com as payment at checkout time.
Trust Wallet has partnered with StableUSD (USDS) to offer users a way of sending money internationally without worrying about fluctuating exchange rates or high fees associated with traditional money transfer services. To start using this new service, simply log into your Trust Wallet account on any supported device.
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MetaMask vs Trust Wallet: Pricing
MetaMask
MetaMask is free to use. The browser extension and the app can be downloaded on the official website.
Trust Wallet
Trust Wallet does not charge any fees, this is determined by the blockchain or the network where the token resides.
MetaMask vs Trust Wallet: Similarities & Differences
There are plenty of reasons to choose one over the other, but one thing is certain; if you plan on using DApps, you’ll need some kind of wallet to keep your funds safe. Below we’ll explore the similarities and differences between the two wallets and help you determine which one is best for your needs.
Differences
The main difference between MetaMask and Trust Wallet is that MetaMask is a web-based cryptocurrency wallet that works as an extension on a compatible internet browser. At the same time, Trust Wallet is an app-based mobile wallet that supports Android and iOs.
Another difference lies in the user interface: while MetaMask has a sleek look and feel, Trust Wallet’s interface focuses more on simplicity than aesthetics.
In addition to being a fully functioning cryptocurrency wallet, Trust Wallet is also an app store for decentralized applications (DApps), making it easy to browse and find new apps that you may be interested in trying out.
This feature makes the wallet unique from other cryptocurrency wallets, which can typically only manage your crypto assets without any additional functionality. Trust Wallet also has a built-in exchange where you can buy/sell cryptocurrencies using credit/debit cards or bank transfers.
While both tools can manage Ethereum-based tokens (ERC20 and ERC721), MetaMask also allows users to swap between ETH-based currencies using ShapeShift’s API. On the other hand, Trust Wallet only supports sending and receiving ETH-based currencies.
MetaMask supports multiple blockchains in addition to Ethereum, including Bitcoin through the Rootstock protocol (RSK) and Litecoin through the Litewallet protocol (LTC). In contrast, Trust Wallet only supports Ethereum through its native interface.
While MetaMask can be used to access DApps on desktop devices, it does not allow users to store crypto assets or Ether coins. However, users can use it to transfer funds from one wallet to another.
On the other hand, Trust Wallet provides a secure way for users to store their crypto assets and Ether coins on a mobile device.
Trust Wallet supports only Ethereum-based assets (like ETH, KNC, OMG), whereas MetaMask supports Ethereum, Bitcoin, and other blockchains.
MetaMask has an integrated exchange feature where you can buy ETH or BTC directly through Coinbase without leaving the browser extension; however, Trust Wallet does not have this feature.
Also Read: Best Bitcoin Alternatives
Similarities
Both wallets allow you to switch between testnets and mainnets easily. This is useful for testing new projects or connecting with other users on decentralized apps and using the network in real life.
You can also easily import your wallet from MetaMask into Trust Wallet using a .json file or import from another hardware wallet like Trezor or Ledger using a .csv file.
You can connect to different networks on either wallet without creating new accounts for each one; just export your private key from one network and use it on another!
Both MetaMask and Trust Wallet allow users to send and receive Ethereum (ETH) tokens from anywhere globally without having an account on centralized exchanges like Coinbase or Binance.
Both wallets also offer a password-protected interface where users can view their transaction history, verify balances, generate new tracking codes, etc., often simply by clicking on a button or entering a set of numbers on the page they’re visiting.
As far as compatibility is concerned, both wallets support ERC20-based tokens.
They both support all major platforms such as Chrome, Firefox, iOS, and Android. So, if you want to use MetaMask on your smartphone or tablet, you’ll have to download its Android or iOS app; if you want to use Trust Wallet in your browser, you’ll have to download the app for your specific device (iOS or Android) then find a way to integrate it into your browser.
They also enable users to interact with DApps directly from their browsers by providing easy access via built-in web3 APIs (Application Programming Interface).
Both tools are open source so that everyone can contribute to their improvement and development by submitting bug fixes or functionalities they would like to see in future updates.
Both tools also allow users to set up notifications for token transfers and check transaction history.
Trust Wallet vs MetaMask: Pros & Cons
MetaMask Pros
We will explore some of the pros and cons of using MetaMask.
- MetaMask makes it easy to interact with Ethereum-based DApps. In addition, it allows users to use a single Ethereum wallet address across multiple devices without needing to install additional software or configure anything.
- Secure connection – MetaMask is open source and can be used as a standalone desktop or mobile app, but it’s most commonly used as a browser extension. Browser extensions give more control over security when accessing sites and allow users to switch between accounts and networks quickly.
- Run DApps right in your browser
- Easy account management and exchange with ShapeShift
- Ease of use for developers
- MetaMask allows you to connect to websites at a button and enables you to send Ether to any wallet address in a few clicks.
- As a user, you control your funds stored in your MetaMask accounts. These accounts allow users to store their tokens and Ether in separate wallets that can be accessed by other decentralized applications (DApps) or exchanges.
- MetaMask also helps its users engage with smart contracts on the Ethereum network without having to install their full node. This saves time and money while also lowering the barrier to entry for Ethereum-based DApps.
MetaMask Cons
- MetaMask isn’t compatible with all browsers; currently, MetaMask is only available on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave.
- MetaMask doesn’t fully protect you from scams – while MetaMask can help you avoid phishing sites and protect your private key, there are still some things it cannot do. If you see a website that looks sketchy, don’t log in! Instead, copy the URL into EtherscamDB (which is run by the same people who make MetaMask). This database will tell you if the site has ever been reported as fraudulent. If it hasn’t been reported, then it’s probably safe!
- It stores all private keys locally, which means that if your hard drive crashes or you lose your computer, you will lose access to all funds stored in the account registered with MetaMask.
Trust Wallet Pros
- You can store your private key on the device, so no one else has access to it (this makes it more secure than other wallets)
- It lets you buy cryptocurrency directly from the app using credit cards or bank transfers (this is only available in certain countries).
- Trust Wallet does not have access to its users’ private keys, making it impossible for anyone associated with the wallet to access your funds (a common feature of so-called “hot wallets”). Instead, you download the app and create your private key. This level of security gives you peace of mind that only you are in control of your money.
- With its built-in support for decentralized applications (DApps), you can interact with the Ethereum blockchain—and any DApp on it—directly through the Trust Wallet app. This means you can use Trust Wallet as a browser for all things Ethereum. After all, one of the best features of blockchain technology is how many amazing projects are being built on top of it; why not use an app that makes interacting with those projects easy?
- Trust Wallet uses AES hardware encryption with an app password to secure private keys and transaction data. To provide additional security, you can use Face or Touch ID to prevent unauthorized access.
- Trust Wallet supports over 20 different cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum (ETH) tokens, Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), Monero (XMR), and many more. This gives you the flexibility to buy in fiat currencies like USD or Euro, then quickly convert them into your preferred coin, all in one place! There are no fees for sending cryptocurrency from one address within the app.
- It has built-in integration with Kyber Network, Changelly, and Bancor decentralized exchanges. This allows you to buy cryptocurrencies directly within your wallet.
Trust Wallet Cons
- Trust Wallet is an SPV wallet, which means that it doesn’t store a complete copy of the blockchain. Instead, it uses special servers that verify transactions without going through all blocks on the blockchain. This method is less secure than full-node verification because hackers have more opportunities to corrupt the information.
- You can’t use two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account. It only has one level of protection—your password—making it easier for hackers to get into your account if they don’t know your password.
Conclusion
Overall, MetaMask is hands down a better choice for most people. MetaMask is a little more versatile, as it lets you use your existing Chrome or Firefox browser and acts as a plugin for some Ethereum wallets.
Also, If you don’t want to type in your password each time you use the DApp, I recommend using MetaMask.
It gives you access to many other tools like My Ether Wallet, EtherDelta, and ERC20 tokens. Because of this, you won’t need another wallet for different coins, so you save your money (it can be an important factor when supporting different coins).
The fact that MetaMask is free and doesn’t charge their users anything proves they are honest people, and they want to help everyone enjoy the benefits of cryptocurrencies.
