Every comparison
Which one, and why
Your activity is on Ethereum and the layer 2s, and you want the wallet every app and every guide assumes you have.
Full MetaMask pageYou are on Solana, or you want one wallet that covers Solana, Ethereum, Base and Bitcoin without feeling bolted together.
Full Phantom pageFollow the chain you actually use. On Solana, Phantom, and it is genuinely more pleasant software. On Ethereum, MetaMask remains the safest bet for compatibility even though it is not the nicest to use.
The specifications
| MetaMask | Phantom | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Browser and mobile | Browser and mobile |
| Networks | Ethereum and every EVM chain | Solana, Ethereum, Base, Polygon, Bitcoin |
| Custody | Self custody | Self custody |
| Strongest at | Works everywhere, huge support base, hardware wallet friendly | Beautiful interface, clear transaction previews, built in scam warnings |
| Weakest at | EVM only, and the built in swap fees are higher than using a DEX directly | Fewer niche EVM chains than MetaMask |
The parts that change the answer
Chain coverage
MetaMask is EVM only, which covers Ethereum and every layer 2, and does not cover Solana or Bitcoin. Phantom started on Solana and now handles several chains, which makes it the better single wallet if your activity is spread out.
Compatibility against polish
Every guide, every app and every support article assumes MetaMask, and that matters when something goes wrong. Phantom is the better designed product with clearer transaction previews.
Built in swaps
Both offer them and both charge more than going to a DEX directly. Convenient for small amounts, worth avoiding for anything of size.
Hardware support
Both pair with a Ledger, which is the thing to check before you decide, because that is what turns either into a wallet you can hold real money in.
Common questions
Can MetaMask hold Solana?
Can I use both wallets at once?
Which is safer?
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.