Coinbase Extension™ — Getting Started | Coinbase Wallet®

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— 2 min read

Coinbase Wallet Extension is a powerful self-custody browser extension (primarily for Chrome, with compatibility for browsers like Brave) developed by Coinbase. It serves as a standalone crypto wallet that puts you in full control of your private keys and assets, enabling seamless access to the decentralized web (Web3) directly from your desktop browser.

Unlike the centralized Coinbase.com exchange (where Coinbase holds your keys), the Wallet extension is non-custodial — you alone manage your funds, recovery phrase, and security. It unlocks thousands of dApps, decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, NFT marketplaces, decentralized exchanges (DEXes), and more without needing to confirm transactions on your phone (in its standalone mode).

Key Features

  • Connect to thousands of dApps across Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains like Polygon, Avalanche, BNB Chain, Optimism, Base, and others.
  • Send/receive cryptocurrencies, including support for Solana and SPL tokens.
  • Trade tokens on DEXes, participate in DeFi (e.g., earn yield), and collect/ manage NFTs.
  • Import existing wallets (e.g., from MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Phantom) using your 12-word recovery phrase.
  • Option to link hardware wallets like Ledger for added security.
  • Supports thousands of tokens, including ERC-20 standards, stablecoins (USDC, DAI), and more.
  • Create a new wallet with a username for easy crypto transfers between Coinbase Wallet users.
  • Standalone desktop functionality — no mobile app required for most actions.

How to Get Started

  1. Install from the official Chrome Web Store (search for "Coinbase Wallet extension" or visit wallet.coinbase.com).
  2. Create a new wallet or import an existing one via recovery phrase.
  3. Securely back up your 12-word recovery phrase (write it down or store in a safe manager — never share it).
  4. Set a password for quick access.
  5. Fund your wallet by transferring crypto from exchanges or other wallets.

FAQs

Q: Is Coinbase Wallet extension the same as the Coinbase exchange account?
A: No. Coinbase.com is a custodial exchange for buying/selling crypto easily. The Wallet extension is a separate self-custody tool for Web3/dApps where you control your keys.

Q: Do I need the mobile app to use the extension?
A: Not anymore — the extension now functions fully standalone on desktop for most features, though the mobile app complements it for on-the-go use.

Q: How secure is it?
A: Very secure if used properly — private keys stay on your device/browser. Always back up your recovery phrase offline and beware of phishing sites. Coinbase cannot recover lost phrases.

Q: Can I import my MetaMask or other wallet?
A: Yes, import using your 12-word recovery phrase. Your assets remain on the blockchain and are unaffected.

Q: What networks and assets are supported?
A: Ethereum + all major EVM chains, Solana/SPL tokens, thousands of ERC-20 tokens, NFTs, and more. You can add custom EVM networks.

Q: Are there fees?
A: No Coinbase fees for basic use, but blockchain network/gas fees apply for transactions (e.g., ETH for Ethereum-based actions).

Disclaimer

Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody product — you are solely responsible for securing your recovery phrase, private keys, and device. Coinbase cannot recover lost or stolen funds, forgotten phrases, or assets sent to incorrect addresses. Crypto investments are highly volatile and involve significant risk of loss. Always verify URLs (official: chromewebstore.google.com/detail/coinbase-wallet-extension/hnfanknocfeofbddgcijnmhnfnkdnaad or coinbase.com/wallet), avoid phishing scams, and never share your recovery phrase. This is not financial advice — conduct your own research before using or investing. For official support, visit help.coinbase.com or wallet.coinbase.com.

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