Introduction
When discussing browser wallets, most people immediately think of browser extension projects like MetaMask, which can be directly downloaded into Chrome, Brave, and other browsers.
What Is a Browser Wallet?
A browser wallet is a cryptographic wallet accessed via a web browser. Beyond wallet extensions, various browser-centric services also fall under the umbrella of "browser wallets."
Today, we examine 10 different browser wallet projects, categorized into four distinct styles:
Browser Extensions
- MetaMask
- Coinbase Wallet
- GameStop Wallet
- Rabby
- Math Wallet
Browsers with Built-in Wallets
- Brave
- Opera
"Any Browser" Wallet Services
- WalletConnect
- Portis
Browser-Compatible Desktop Wallets
- Frame
We’ll explore each wallet’s strengths and weaknesses to answer the key question: Which is the best browser wallet today?
Browser Extensions
1. MetaMask
Launched in April 2015, MetaMask has grown to 30 million monthly active users (as of March 2022), becoming the most widely used blockchain application globally. Many consider it the "Google of Web3."
Supported Browsers: Chrome, Brave, Firefox, Edge
Supported Chains: All EVM-compatible blockchains.
Pros:
✅ Easy to download and use
✅ Clear explanation of recovery phrases and backup processes
✅ Compatible with Ledger, Trezor, and GridPlus hardware wallets
✅ Built-in token swap feature
Cons:
❌ No account recovery for lost wallets (unlike smart contract wallets)
❌ Frequent phishing attacks due to its popularity
Rating: 9/10
👉 Discover MetaMask alternatives
2. Coinbase Wallet
Coinbase launched its browser extension in November 2021, positioning itself as a strong MetaMask competitor.
Supported Browsers: Chrome
Supported Chains: All EVM chains.
Pros:
✅ Self-custody
✅ Easy funding via Coinbase Pay
✅ Supports non-EVM cryptocurrencies
Cons:
❌ Less emphasis on recovery phrase security
❌ No built-in token swaps or hardware wallet support
Rating: 8/10
3. GameStop Wallet
GameStop’s Web3 team developed this wallet, notable for its Loopring zk-rollup L2 support.
Supported Browsers: Chrome
Supported Chains: Ethereum, Loopring L2
Pros:
✅ Built-in L2 support
✅ Direct hardware wallet compatibility
Cons:
❌ Limited dApp integration
Rating: 7/10
4. Rabby
Created by DeBank, Rabby emphasizes multi-chain support and transaction security.
Supported Browsers: Chrome, Brave (Firefox/Edge coming soon)
Supported Chains: 30+ chains, including EVM and non-EVM.
Pros:
✅ Open-source
✅ Strong security approvals
Cons:
❌ Cluttered UI
Rating: 7/10
5. Math Wallet
Supports 100+ blockchains but suffers from usability issues.
Supported Browsers: Chrome, Brave, Edge
Rating: 5.5/10
Browsers with Built-in Wallets
6. Brave Wallet
Integrated into the Brave browser, it supports EVM chains and Solana.
Pros:
✅ Built-in swaps
✅ Ramp/Wyre compatibility
Rating: 8/10
7. Opera Crypto Browser
Features Telegram/Discord integration but limited chain support.
Rating: 7/10
"Any Browser" Wallet Services
8. WalletConnect
A universal connector for linking mobile wallets (e.g., Rainbow) to dApps.
Pros:
✅ Open-source
✅ Cross-browser compatibility
Rating: 9.2/10
👉 Learn about WalletConnect integrations
9. Portis
Offers email/password logins but limited dApp support.
Rating: 6.5/10
Desktop-Compatible Wallets
10. Frame
A privacy-focused desktop wallet with browser extensions.
Rating: 5.5/10
Final Verdict
| Wallet | Score | Best For |
|-----------------|-------|-----------------------|
| WalletConnect | 9.2 | Universal connectivity|
| MetaMask | 9 | EVM dApps |
| Brave Wallet | 8 | Built-in convenience |
The browser wallet space is rapidly evolving, with projects like Ledger and Argent entering the fray.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the safest browser wallet?
A: MetaMask (with hardware wallet integration) or WalletConnect for mobile security.
Q2: Can I use WalletConnect on any browser?
A: Yes! It works via QR codes or deep links.
Q3: Which wallet supports Solana?
A: Brave Wallet and Math Wallet (limited).
Key Takeaways
- MetaMask remains the standard for EVM dApps.
- WalletConnect offers unparalleled flexibility.
- Always prioritize security—use hardware wallets where possible.
For deeper dives into Web3 tools, explore our guides below!
Note: This content is for educational purposes only. Not financial advice.