MetaMask Review
By Itai Varochik | Last updated February 1, 2026
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Our Verdict
MetaMask is the essential wallet for anyone actively using Ethereum and DeFi. Its ubiquitous dApp compatibility is unmatched, but the self-custody model demands personal responsibility for security. Beginners should start with small amounts and learn the fundamentals before committing significant funds.
GetASearch Score: 8/10
Rating: 4.6/5 (2100 reviews)
Pros
- Largest dApp ecosystem
- Open-source
- Browser extension + mobile
- Supports all EVM chains
Cons
- Ethereum-only by default
- Gas fee UI confusing
- Phishing target
- No built-in exchange
Score Breakdown
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Features | 8.0/10 |
| Ease of Use | 7.0/10 |
| Value for Money | 9.0/10 |
| Customer Support | 5.0/10 |
| Overall | 8.0/10 |
What is MetaMask?
MetaMask is the most widely used self-custodial cryptocurrency wallet, with over 30 million monthly active users. Developed by ConsenSys, MetaMask serves as the primary gateway to Ethereum and EVM-compatible blockchains (Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, BNB Chain, Avalanche, and more), enabling users to store assets, interact with decentralized applications (dApps), and manage their on-chain identity. As a browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge) and mobile app (iOS/Android), MetaMask functions as both a wallet and a Web3 browser. When you visit a dApp - whether it's Uniswap for token swaps, OpenSea for NFTs, or Aave for lending - MetaMask handles the connection, transaction signing, and gas fee estimation. This seamless integration has made it the de facto standard wallet for DeFi users. Security follows the self-custody model: you control your private keys through a 12-word seed phrase generated during setup. MetaMask never has access to your keys or funds - which means security is entirely your responsibility. The wallet supports hardware wallet integration (Ledger, Trezor) for cold storage of larger holdings, and the recent addition of Snaps (third-party plugins) extends functionality for advanced users. MetaMask Swaps, the built-in DEX aggregator, sources prices from multiple decentralized exchanges to find optimal rates. While convenient, the 0.875% service fee makes it more expensive than using DEXs directly. The Portfolio dApp provides a dashboard view of assets across multiple chains, though it's still less polished than dedicated portfolio trackers like Zerion or Zapper. Key limitations include the absence of native Bitcoin support (ETH and EVM tokens only), relatively high swap fees, occasional gas estimation errors during network congestion, and the inherent risk of phishing attacks targeting MetaMask users. The wallet also lacks built-in fiat on-ramps in some regions, though partnerships with MoonPay, Transak, and Sardine cover most major markets. For beginners, the learning curve is moderate - understanding gas fees, network switching, and seed phrase security requires education. MetaMask's documentation has improved, but the wallet assumes a baseline familiarity with blockchain concepts that may intimidate newcomers.
MetaMask Features
| Feature | Available | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Chain | Yes | Support for EVM networks |
| Token Swaps | Yes | Built-in DEX aggregator |
| Hardware Wallet | Yes | Ledger/Trezor support |
MetaMask Pricing
Free
Best For
- Ethereum users
- DeFi traders
- NFT collectors
- Web3 developers
Final Verdict
MetaMask is the essential wallet for anyone actively using Ethereum and DeFi. Its ubiquitous dApp compatibility is unmatched, but the self-custody model demands personal responsibility for security. Beginners should start with small amounts and learn the fundamentals before committing significant funds.