Connecting your Coinbase Wallet to MetaMask unlocks greater flexibility in managing your digital assets across decentralized applications (dApps), blockchains, and trading platforms. While both are self-custody wallets, they serve slightly different purposes—Coinbase Wallet offers a built-in dApp browser and direct control over your private keys, while MetaMask is widely used for Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks. This guide walks you through how to securely import your Coinbase Wallet into MetaMask and transfer assets between the two.
Understanding Self-Custody Wallets
A self-custody wallet gives you full control over your cryptocurrency private keys—meaning only you can access and manage your funds. Unlike custodial services such as Coinbase Exchange, where a third party holds your keys, wallets like Coinbase Wallet and MetaMask store keys directly on your device.
This ensures:
- Full ownership of your crypto
- Direct interaction with dApps
- No reliance on centralized exchanges
👉 Discover how self-custody empowers your digital asset journey today.
While similar in function, each wallet has unique features:
- Coinbase Wallet: Mobile-first, includes a dApp browser, supports NFTs, and allows global access without requiring a Coinbase account.
- MetaMask: Available as a browser extension and mobile app, optimized for Ethereum and EVM chains, widely integrated with DeFi protocols.
Because both use the same cryptographic standard (BIP-39), you can import one wallet’s recovery phrase into the other—though this should be done carefully and only on trusted devices.
How to Import Coinbase Wallet to MetaMask
You cannot "connect" Coinbase Wallet to MetaMask like linking accounts. Instead, you import the wallet using the 12-word recovery phrase. This gives MetaMask access to the same private keys, effectively making it the same wallet under a different interface.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Open Coinbase Wallet App
- Launch the Coinbase Wallet mobile app.
- Tap on the profile icon or go to Settings.
Access Recovery Phrase
- Select Recovery Phrase.
- Authenticate using your biometrics or passcode.
- Your 12-word seed phrase will appear. Write it down in exact order on paper—never save it digitally.
Open MetaMask
- If you're using MetaMask for the first time, choose Import Wallet.
- If already using MetaMask, tap your profile > Import Account.
Enter Recovery Phrase
- Choose Import using Secret Recovery Phrase.
- Carefully type in the 12 words from your Coinbase Wallet.
- Create a new password for MetaMask (this is local to the app/device).
- Confirm and proceed.
Verify Access
- Once imported, MetaMask will display the same wallet address as Coinbase Wallet.
- All assets previously accessible via Coinbase Wallet are now visible in MetaMask.
🔐 Security Note: Never share your recovery phrase. Anyone with it can fully access your funds. Only perform this process on secure, private devices.
After successful import, you can use MetaMask across browsers and devices while retaining access to all your assets originally managed in Coinbase Wallet.
How to Transfer Assets from Coinbase Wallet to MetaMask
If you prefer not to import the entire wallet, you can simply send tokens from Coinbase Wallet to a MetaMask wallet address. This method keeps your seed phrases separate and enhances security.
Step-by-Step Transfer Guide
Open Coinbase Wallet
- Tap Send at the bottom of the screen.
Select Token and Amount
- Choose the cryptocurrency you want to transfer (e.g., ETH, USDC, BNB).
- Enter the amount and tap Next.
Get MetaMask Receive Address
- Open MetaMask.
- Ensure you're on the correct network (e.g., Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain).
- Tap Receive and copy the displayed public address.
Paste Recipient Address
- Back in Coinbase Wallet, paste the copied address into the recipient field.
- Double-check for accuracy—mistakes may result in permanent loss of funds.
Confirm Network Compatibility
- Make sure both wallets are on the same network (e.g., BEP-20 for BSC, ERC-20 for Ethereum).
- If transferring BNB or BEP-20 tokens, ensure MetaMask has Binance Smart Chain added.
👉 Learn how to seamlessly move assets across blockchain networks with confidence.
Complete Transfer
- Review transaction details.
- Tap Send and confirm with your authentication method.
The transfer typically completes within seconds to minutes, depending on network congestion and gas fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect Coinbase Wallet directly to MetaMask?
No. You cannot directly link or pair the two wallets. However, you can either import your Coinbase Wallet into MetaMask using the 12-word recovery phrase or transfer assets manually by sending them to your MetaMask address.
Is it safe to import my Coinbase Wallet into MetaMask?
Yes—if done securely. Always verify that you're using an official MetaMask app or extension, never enter your recovery phrase on suspicious websites or phishing pages. Import only on devices you fully trust.
Will I lose my funds if I import my wallet?
No. Importing does not remove funds from your original wallet. It simply grants MetaMask access to the same account. Your balance remains intact and accessible through either interface.
Do I need a Coinbase account to use Coinbase Wallet?
No. The Coinbase Wallet is independent of the Coinbase exchange platform. You can download and use it globally without linking to a Coinbase.com account.
Can I reverse a transfer between wallets?
Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. Always double-check recipient addresses before confirming any transfer. Once sent, there’s no way to retrieve funds sent to the wrong address.
Which networks does MetaMask support?
MetaMask supports all Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible blockchains, including:
- Ethereum
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
- Polygon
- Avalanche C-Chain
- Arbitrum
- Optimism
You can manually add custom networks if needed.
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These keywords naturally reflect user search intent around wallet integration, asset migration, and security best practices—ensuring strong SEO performance without keyword stuffing.
By understanding how to properly import or transfer funds between wallets, you gain more freedom in navigating DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 ecosystems. Whether you're consolidating access or diversifying tool usage, knowing these processes helps you stay in control of your digital future.
👉 Start managing your crypto with enhanced tools and security features now.