What is MetaMask used for?

MetaMask is a self-custody crypto wallet delivered as a browser extension and mobile app for holding, swapping and using tokens with web3 apps. It is a good fit for signing in to and using web3 apps, holding and swapping tokens in self-custody, and adding wallet support to a dapp.

Is MetaMask open source?

No. MetaMask is proprietary (closed-source) software. In the Finance & Accounting category, open-source options include Bitcoin Core, Actual Budget and Firefly III.

What are some alternatives to MetaMask?

MetaMask competes with Coinbase and Robinhood.

MetaMask: features, pricing and alternatives

About MetaMask

MetaMask is a crypto wallet that runs as a browser extension and as a mobile app. Users hold their own keys, which is why the vendor describes it as self-custody, and use it to store tokens, connect to Ethereum-based web3 applications and approve transactions from their own accounts.

Beyond storing assets, the wallet includes in-app actions for buying crypto with cash, swapping tokens across popular networks, earning, and spending through a card. The site also advertises trading features such as perpetual futures, tokenized stocks and funds, and prediction markets, plus a rewards program. The vendor lists Bitcoin and Solana alongside Ethereum.

For developers, MetaMask offers tools for connecting apps to the wallet, a dashboard for managing API keys and endpoints, a Smart Accounts Kit, embedded wallets, and Snaps, an extension system for adding features to the wallet. The wallet itself is free to install, while individual actions such as swaps or purchases involve network or provider fees.

Key features

Browser extension and mobile wallet
Self-custody of keys and tokens
Token swaps across popular networks
Buying crypto with cash
Connection to web3 apps and dapps
Snaps extensions for added wallet features
Developer tools for wallet integration

Good fit for

→Signing in to and using web3 apps
→Holding and swapping tokens in self-custody
→Adding wallet support to a dapp

Tags: crypto-wallet; web3; ethereum; self-custody; browser-extension; defi; blockchain

MetaMask: questions and answers

What is MetaMask used for?: MetaMask is a self-custody crypto wallet delivered as a browser extension and mobile app for holding, swapping and using tokens with web3 apps. It is a good fit for signing in to and using web3 apps, holding and swapping tokens in self-custody, and adding wallet support to a dapp.
Is MetaMask free?: Yes. MetaMask has a free plan.
Is MetaMask open source?: No. MetaMask is proprietary (closed-source) software. In the Finance & Accounting category, open-source options include Bitcoin Core, Actual Budget and Firefly III.
What are some alternatives to MetaMask?: MetaMask competes with Coinbase and Robinhood.