Adding the Polygon network to your MetaMask wallet unlocks seamless access to one of the fastest-growing Ethereum-compatible blockchains. With Polygon (MATIC), you can enjoy low-cost transactions, high-speed transfers, and full compatibility with thousands of decentralized applications (dApps) across DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 gaming. This guide walks you through the simple steps to connect MetaMask to Polygon, import custom tokens, and optimize your setup for security and performance.
Whether you're a beginner exploring Layer 2 solutions or an experienced user expanding your multi-chain portfolio, integrating Polygon into MetaMask is a fundamental step. Let’s dive in.
Why Connect Polygon to MetaMask?
MetaMask is one of the most widely used cryptocurrency wallets, supporting Ethereum and all EVM-compatible chains—including Polygon. By adding Polygon, you gain access to:
- Low transaction fees: Save significantly on gas compared to Ethereum mainnet.
- Fast confirmations: Enjoy near-instant transaction finality.
- Broad dApp support: Use popular platforms like Aave, QuickSwap, and OpenSea with MATIC-powered transactions.
- Cross-chain compatibility: Easily bridge assets from Ethereum to Polygon using official or third-party bridges.
👉 Discover how to securely manage multi-chain assets with advanced wallet features.
Step-by-Step: Add Polygon Network to MetaMask
Follow these straightforward steps to configure your MetaMask wallet for the Polygon network.
Step 1: Open MetaMask Settings
Launch your MetaMask extension or mobile app. Click the profile icon in the top-right corner and select Settings from the dropdown menu.
Navigate to Networks under the Settings section. This displays all currently configured networks like Ethereum Mainnet, BNB Chain, etc.
Click Add Network, then choose Add a network manually if you're entering details yourself—or look for a quick-add option.
Step 2: Select Polygon Mainnet (Recommended)
Fortunately, Polygon is pre-listed as a popular network in MetaMask. If available:
- Find Polygon Mainnet in the list of suggested networks.
- Click Add next to it.
- Confirm by clicking Approve, then Switch Network.
MetaMask will automatically populate the correct settings without requiring manual input.
Step 3: Manual Setup (If Needed)
If Polygon isn’t listed, enter the following configuration manually:
- Network Name: Polygon Mainnet
- New RPC URL: https://polygon-rpc.com
- Chain ID: 137
- Currency Symbol: MATIC
- Block Explorer URL: https://polygonscan.com
After entering these values, click Save. MetaMask will switch to the Polygon network, and your balance will display in MATIC instead of ETH.
You can toggle between networks at any time using the network selector at the top of the MetaMask interface.
How to Add Polygon-Based Tokens to MetaMask
Once connected to the Polygon network, MATIC will appear automatically as your native token. However, other tokens—like USDC, DAI, or WMATIC—won’t show up unless imported manually.
Here’s how to add them:
Step 1: Find the Token Contract Address
Use a reliable block explorer such as PolygonScan to locate the correct contract address.
For example:
- Search for “USDC” on PolygonScan.
- From the results, click on the official Circle USDC token.
- Copy the Contract Address listed under "Profile Summary."
Ensure you’re copying the address specific to the Polygon network, not Ethereum or another chain.
Step 2: Import into MetaMask
Back in MetaMask:
- Click Import Tokens below your wallet balance.
- Paste the contract address into the Token Contract Address field.
- Wait for MetaMask to auto-fill the token symbol (e.g., USDC) and decimals (usually 6).
- Click Add Custom Token, then confirm with Import Tokens.
The token will now appear in your wallet dashboard whenever you’re on the Polygon network.
Repeat this process for any additional tokens you wish to track or use.
👉 Learn how to track cross-chain token balances efficiently across networks.
Supported Blockchains in MetaMask
Polygon is just one of many EVM-compatible chains supported by MetaMask. Thanks to standardized protocols, adding other networks follows a nearly identical process. Commonly used chains include:
- BNB Chain – Low-cost alternative powered by Binance
- Arbitrum – High-performance Ethereum Layer 2 solution
- Avalanche C-Chain – Fast finality and scalable infrastructure
- Fantom Opera – Asynchronous consensus for rapid transactions
Each requires unique RPC details, but once configured, switching between them is effortless within MetaMask.
This interoperability makes MetaMask a powerful tool for managing diverse crypto portfolios across multiple ecosystems.
Security Best Practices When Using MetaMask with Polygon
While MetaMask offers unmatched convenience, relying solely on software wallets increases exposure to phishing attacks and malware risks.
Consider these security enhancements:
- Pair with a hardware wallet: Devices like Ledger allow you to sign transactions securely while maintaining MetaMask’s user-friendly interface.
- Verify contract addresses: Always double-check token addresses on trusted sources before importing.
- Use separate accounts: Create different MetaMask accounts for testing and real funds.
- Avoid suspicious links: Never enter your seed phrase on websites or share it digitally.
For long-term holdings, storing assets on a hardware wallet connected to MetaMask provides optimal protection without sacrificing usability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use Polygon with MetaMask for free?
Yes, connecting the Polygon network to MetaMask is completely free. However, you’ll need a small amount of MATIC to pay for transaction fees when sending tokens or interacting with dApps.
Do I need MATIC to add the Polygon network?
No. You can add the Polygon network and view balances without holding any MATIC. But you’ll need MATIC for gas fees when performing actions like swaps or withdrawals.
What should I do if my tokens don’t appear after import?
Ensure that:
- You’re on the correct network (Polygon Mainnet),
- The contract address is accurate and copied fully,
- The token actually has a balance in your wallet.
Try refreshing MetaMask or re-importing the token if issues persist.
Is it safe to add custom RPC networks?
Generally yes—but only add networks from trusted sources. Malicious RPCs could potentially expose transaction data. Stick to official URLs like polygon-rpc.com.
Can I bridge ETH to MATIC directly in MetaMask?
MetaMask doesn’t offer built-in bridging, but it integrates with third-party bridges like Polygon Bridge (formerly PoS Bridge) and第三方 services. You can access these via dApp browsers within MetaMask.
Will adding Polygon affect my existing Ethereum assets?
No. Your Ethereum-based tokens remain untouched. Adding Polygon simply expands your wallet’s capabilities—it doesn’t move or alter existing funds.
Final Thoughts: Unlocking Multi-Chain Potential
Integrating Polygon into MetaMask is a quick, straightforward process that opens doors to faster, cheaper blockchain interactions. From DeFi yield farming to minting NFTs, leveraging Polygon enhances both efficiency and cost-effectiveness in your Web3 journey.
With proper security practices—especially combining software wallets with hardware signers—you can safely explore everything the ecosystem offers.
👉 Explore tools that simplify multi-chain management and enhance wallet security.