Wallet wars in Web3: Base App/Coinbase Wallet vs. MetaMask
Sep 23, 2025・5 min read
Sending crypto from a centralized exchange (CEX) to a self-custodial wallet is a major step for investors. These wallets remove counterparty interference, which means users take full responsibility for securing their digital assets. So it’s understandable they want a crypto wallet with a proven security record to avoid hacks or technical failures.

When comparing wallet options, Base App (formerly Coinbase Wallet) and MetaMask stand out as two of the most trusted crypto wallets for desktop and mobile. Both serve similar purposes, but they differ in features, supported blockchains, and the way each cryptocurrency wallet manages digital assets.
Before deciding between Base App/Coinbase Wallet) versus MetaMask, it helps to understand how each wallet works and where they diverge. A clear comparison gives crypto traders the context they need to choose the app that best fits their goals.
What’s Coinbase Wallet?
Coinbase Wallet (now also branded as Base App) is a free, non-custodial crypto wallet created by U.S.-based CEX Coinbase. It gives users full control of their private keys and crypto assets, eliminating counterparty risk. Unlike cold wallets or hardware wallets, the Coinbase Wallet app stays online as a hot wallet, balancing accessibility with user ownership of private keys.
Originally launched as Toshi in 2017, the app was rebranded to Coinbase Wallet in 2018 as a hot wallet designed for the Ethereum (ETH) ecosystem. While Coinbase Wallet still supports Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) chains, it’s grown into a multi-chain wallet compatible with Bitcoin (BTC), Solana (SOL), Dogecoin (DOGE), and more. Its native integration with decentralized applications (dApps) allows users to connect directly to Web3 platforms, trade tokens, and manage transactions without leaving the app.
Beyond decentralized features, the Coinbase Wallet app also makes it simple to buy crypto with fiat currency through bank transfers, debit cards, and credit cards. Users with a Coinbase account can link the wallet for quick transfers, though the wallet works independently and doesn’t require an exchange login.
In 2025, Coinbase rebranded the wallet again as Base App. While it has all the same features of Coinbase Wallet, Base emphasizes Web3 functionality and adds deeper integration with Coinbase's Layer 2 blockchain scaling solution, also named Base.
What’s MetaMask?
Known for its fox mascot, MetaMask is a self-custodial hot wallet also designed for the Ethereum ecosystem. Consensys launched the MetaMask wallet in 2016 as a lightweight browser extension for Chrome and Firefox that allows users to connect directly to Ethereum-based dApps.
Like Coinbase Wallet, MetaMask has expanded well beyond its original scope. As of this writing, it has millions of users worldwide and offers a mobile app for Android and iOS. The wallet also supports buying cryptocurrency through third-party providers like PayPal and Revolut.
Although MetaMask still centers on Ethereum, it also supports other EVM-compatible blockchains, including Binance Smart Chain (BNB), Avalanche (AVAX), and Polygon (MATIC).
2025
Crypto Tax
Guide is here
CoinTracker's definitive guide to Bitcoin & crypto taxes provides everything you need to know to file your 2024 crypto taxes accurately.

Base App/Coinbase Wallet vs. MetaMask: Key differences
As two of the most widely used hot wallets, Coinbase Wallet and MetaMask both have a strong reputation in the crypto community for ease of use and security. Users can integrate either wallet into most dApps to access decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms or manage non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
The biggest difference between Coinbase Wallet and MetaMask is blockchain compatibility. Despite the recent rollout of Snaps integrations for non-EVM chains, MetaMask remains closely tied to the Ethereum ecosystem. Traders who want multi-asset support with a beginner-friendly interface often choose Coinbase Wallet, while those who prioritize custom options for EVM dApps tend to prefer MetaMask.
How to choose between Base App/Coinbase Wallet vs. MetaMask
As mentioned, multi-chain support is the main difference between Base App/Coinbase Wallet and MetaMask. Traders who want easy access to non-EVM chains often opt for Base App/Coinbase Wallet. With broad in-app connections, a direct link to the Coinbase exchange, a clean UI/UX, and USDC rewards, it stands out as a convenient self-custodial option for assets both inside and outside the Ethereum ecosystem.
But that doesn't make MetaMask a second-tier choice. It remains one of the most trusted self-custodial wallets on the market, thanks to its history, features, and integrations. MetaMask offers a high level of personalization, open-source code, and advanced settings that appeal to developers and experienced traders who want maximum control over their Web3 activity. With regular feature updates, a dedicated support portal, and a MetaMask debit card, Consensys continues to expand its capabilities beyond the EVM. MetaMask may take more effort to learn and lacks the same multi-chain support as Coinbase Wallet, but many traders still prefer it for its reputation, integrations, and customizability.
Sync all your crypto wallets on CoinTracker
Whether you use Base App/Coinbase Wallet, MetaMask, or another crypto wallet, CoinTracker syncs all your balances, transactions, and tax data in one place. With integrations to over 500 crypto wallets and exchanges, CoinTracker’s Portfolio Tracker records all your crypto activity for accurate cost basis analysis and compliant tax reporting. CoinTracker also makes it easy to import all your data into IRS forms like Schedule D to send to your CPA or upload to tax software like TurboTax and H&R Block.
Millions of crypto investors already trust CoinTracker – get started for free and see why we've become a trusted name in crypto tax reporting.
FAQ
Is MetaMask a good wallet?
Yes. MetaMask is one of the most reputable crypto wallets, with millions of users and a long track record of security in Web3.
Is Coinbase Wallet a hot wallet?
Yes. Base App/Coinbase Wallet is a hot wallet because it's a software application that stays connected to the internet.
How do you transfer from MetaMask to Coinbase?
To transfer cryptocurrency from a MetaMask wallet to Coinbase or a Base App/Coinbase Wallet, copy the public wallet address for the digital asset you want to send from your Coinbase account. For example, to send ETH, copy your Coinbase ETH address on Coinbase, and then open your ETH wallet in MetaMask. Next, enter the amount to send, and paste your Coinbase wallet address. After you confirm the transaction, the ETH should appear in your Coinbase account within minutes, depending on gas fees and network congestion.
What's the difference between Base App and Coinbase Wallet?
Base is both the name for Coinbase's Layer 2 blockchain on Ethereum and the new name for the Coinbase Wallet app. Existing Coinbase Wallet users don't need to switch apps – their wallets update automatically to Base App. New users can simply download Base App on mobile or desktop to access all the same features that were available in Coinbase Wallet, along with deeper integration with Coinbase’s Base blockchain.
Are there cryptocurrencies that don't work on Coinbase Wallet?
Yes. Although Base App/Coinbase Wallet supports many EVM and non-EVM chains, it doesn't support every blockchain. For example, in 2023, Coinbase discontinued integrations with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), and Ripple's XRP.
Disclaimer: This post is informational only and is not intended as tax advice. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.