Every comparison
Which one, and why
You want the wallet every app expects, and you are willing to learn the vocabulary as you go.
Full MetaMask pageYou are coming from a Coinbase account and you want the shortest possible path to your first onchain transaction.
Full Base App pageBase App is the softer landing, especially straight off a Coinbase balance. MetaMask is the wallet you will eventually want anyway, because everything assumes it. Many people run both.
The specifications
| MetaMask | Base App | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Browser and mobile | Browser and mobile |
| Networks | Ethereum and every EVM chain | Ethereum, Base, Solana, Polygon and more |
| Custody | Self custody | Self custody |
| Strongest at | Works everywhere, huge support base, hardware wallet friendly | Easy transfers from Coinbase, strong Base support, familiar interface |
| Weakest at | EVM only, and the built in swap fees are higher than using a DEX directly | Separate from your Coinbase exchange balance, which confuses people at first |
The parts that change the answer
Onboarding
Base App does not assume you already know what a network is. MetaMask does, which is why so many first transactions go to the wrong chain.
Coverage
MetaMask reaches every EVM chain and expects you to add networks yourself. Base App is centered on Base and covers several chains with less configuration.
Both are self custody
Whichever you choose, the recovery phrase is yours and the responsibility comes with it. Being made by Coinbase does not mean Coinbase can recover it for you.
Common questions
Can Coinbase recover my Base App wallet?
Which works with more apps?
Can I use both with the same phrase?
Want a second opinion on your own setup?
A comparison page cannot see what you already hold or what you are trying to do. On a call we can, and we will tell you when the honest answer is that it does not matter.