Connecting the BNB Smart Chain (BSC) to MetaMask unlocks access to a vibrant ecosystem of decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, nonfungible tokens (NFTs), and blockchain games. While MetaMask is natively designed for Ethereum and Ethereum-based tokens, it supports any blockchain compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)—including BNB Smart Chain.
This guide walks you through the complete process of adding BNB Smart Chain to your MetaMask wallet, ensuring seamless interaction with DApps, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and smart contracts on one of the fastest-growing EVM-compatible networks.
Why Connect BNB Smart Chain to MetaMask?
The BNB Smart Chain, developed by Binance, offers high-speed transactions and low fees compared to Ethereum—making it an attractive alternative for users exploring DeFi, yield farming, NFT marketplaces, and play-to-earn games. With thousands of active projects built on BSC, connecting it to MetaMask allows you to:
- Interact with popular DApps like PancakeSwap, Venus, and BakerySwap
- Stake or swap BEP-20 tokens
- Participate in token launches and liquidity pools
- Manage NFTs from BSC-based marketplaces
By integrating BSC into MetaMask, you gain a unified interface for managing both Ethereum and Binance-powered digital assets.
👉 Discover how easy it is to start using DeFi on BNB Smart Chain today.
Prerequisites: Setting Up MetaMask
Before connecting BNB Smart Chain, ensure your MetaMask wallet is properly installed and secured.
Install MetaMask
You can use MetaMask as:
- A browser extension (available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and more)
- A mobile app (for iOS and Android devices)
Download MetaMask only from the official website or trusted app stores to avoid phishing risks.
Secure Your Wallet
After installation:
- Create a strong password.
- Write down and securely store your 12-word recovery phrase (also known as seed phrase).
🔒 Never share this with anyone—losing it means losing access to your funds.
Once set up, your wallet is ready to receive crypto and connect to additional networks like BNB Smart Chain.
Step-by-Step Guide: Add BNB Smart Chain to MetaMask
Follow these simple steps to integrate BNB Smart Chain into your MetaMask wallet.
Step 1: Open MetaMask
Log in to your MetaMask extension or mobile app using your password or biometric authentication.
Step 2: Access Network Settings
- On desktop: Click the network dropdown at the top (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet") → Select "Add Network".
- On mobile: Tap the three-dot menu → Go to Settings > Networks > Add Network.
Step 3: Enter BNB Smart Chain Network Details
Manually input the following parameters:
- Network Name: BNB Smart Chain
- New RPC URL:
https://bsc-dataseed.binance.org/ - Chain ID:
56 - Currency Symbol: BNB
- Block Explorer URL:
https://bscscan.com
💡 Tip: Double-check each value—incorrect entries may lead to failed transactions or lost funds.
Step 4: Save and Confirm
Click “Save” or “Add” to finalize the network addition. MetaMask will now display BNB Smart Chain as an available network option.
Step 5: Switch to BNB Smart Chain
Use the network selector in MetaMask to switch from Ethereum (or another chain) to BNB Smart Chain.
You’re now connected!
Fund Your Wallet with BNB for Gas Fees
To interact with DApps on BNB Smart Chain, you need BNB tokens to cover transaction (gas) fees. These are paid in BEP-20 BNB, not BEP-2.
How to Get BEP-20 BNB
- Buy BNB on a supported exchange (like Binance or OKX).
- Withdraw using the BEP-20 (BSC) network.
- Send it to your MetaMask wallet address.
⚠️ Important: Always select BEP-20 when withdrawing. Using BEP-2 or ERC-20 without a bridge could result in permanent loss of funds.
Once received, your MetaMask balance will update, and you can begin transacting on BSC.
👉 Get started with low-cost transactions on BNB Smart Chain now.
Using DApps on BNB Smart Chain via MetaMask
With BSC connected and funded, you're ready to explore decentralized applications.
Example: Swap Tokens on PancakeSwap
- Visit pancakeswap.finance (do not click unverified links).
- Click “Connect Wallet” → Choose MetaMask.
- Confirm connection in your wallet.
- Switch to BNB Smart Chain if prompted.
- Select tokens to swap and approve the transaction.
Your trade executes within seconds, typically costing less than $0.10 in gas.
This process applies to most DApps on BSC—just connect your wallet and follow the interface prompts.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
❌ Transaction Stuck?
- Check current gas prices on BscScan Gas Tracker.
- Increase gas fee slightly and retry.
🔁 Network Not Showing?
- Re-enter network details carefully.
- Restart MetaMask or clear browser cache.
💸 Funds Not Showing After Deposit?
- Verify the withdrawal used BEP-20.
- Check your address on BscScan by pasting it into the search bar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is BNB Smart Chain the same as Binance Chain?
A: No. Binance Chain (BC) supports BEP-2 tokens and powers the Binance DEX. BNB Smart Chain (BSC) runs smart contracts and uses BEP-20 tokens. They are separate but interconnected via a cross-chain bridge.
Q: Can I use MetaMask with other EVM-compatible chains?
A: Yes! You can add networks like Polygon, Avalanche, Arbitrum, and others using similar steps—just input the correct RPC and chain ID.
Q: Do I need a new wallet for BNB Smart Chain?
A: No. Your existing MetaMask wallet works across all EVM chains. Only the network changes—not your private keys or address.
Q: Are transactions on BSC cheaper than Ethereum?
A: Significantly. Average gas fees on BSC range from $0.05–$0.30, while Ethereum often exceeds $1–$10 during peak times.
Q: Can I bridge assets between Ethereum and BSC?
A: Yes, using official bridges like the BNB Bridge, which securely transfers assets between networks.
👉 See how cross-chain flexibility can boost your crypto experience.
Final Thoughts
Adding BNB Smart Chain to MetaMask is a quick, one-time setup that opens doors to fast, affordable, and innovative blockchain experiences. Whether you're swapping tokens, earning yield, or collecting NFTs, leveraging BSC through MetaMask gives you full control over your digital assets in a secure environment.
With growing adoption and strong developer support, BNB Smart Chain remains a top choice for users seeking scalable alternatives to Ethereum—all while maintaining compatibility with familiar tools like MetaMask.
Now that your wallet is configured, dive into the world of DeFi with confidence and efficiency.
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