As the world of cryptocurrency continues to evolve, so do the tools that help you manage and interact with your digital assets. One of the most powerful tools for crypto users today is Coinbase Wallet — a self-custody wallet that gives you complete control over your digital identity, assets, and decentralized activity. Whether you're new to crypto or looking to explore the world of Web3, this complete guide to Coinbase Wallet has everything you need to get started safely and confidently.
Coinbase Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet developed by Coinbase. Unlike the Coinbase Exchange app, which stores your funds on your behalf, Coinbase Wallet gives you full control over your private keys and assets.
It’s designed to allow users to:
Store, send, and receive crypto assets
Access decentralized apps (dApps)
Buy and collect NFTs
Participate in DeFi protocols
Securely manage personal Web3 identity
Available on both mobile (iOS & Android) and as a browser extension, Coinbase Wallet acts as your personal gateway to the decentralized internet.
To understand Coinbase Wallet’s value, it helps to distinguish between custodial and non-custodial wallets:
Custodial Wallets (e.g., Coinbase Exchange): Coinbase manages your private keys. You rely on their security systems.
Non-Custodial Wallets (e.g., Coinbase Wallet): You control the private keys. Only you can access your crypto.
With Coinbase Wallet, you're not just holding assets—you’re in full control of your digital life.
Download Coinbase Wallet from the App Store or Google Play Store
Open the app and tap “Create New Wallet”
Set a strong passcode or enable biometric access
Write down your 12-word recovery phrase and store it safely offline
Your wallet is now ready to use!
Install the Coinbase Wallet Extension from the Chrome Web Store
Click the extension icon and choose “Create New Wallet”
Set a password and save your recovery phrase
Connect it to dApps directly from your browser
⚠️ Never share your recovery phrase with anyone. Anyone with access can control your funds.
Coinbase Wallet supports a wide range of crypto assets, including:
Ethereum (ETH) and all ERC-20 tokens
Bitcoin (BTC)
Solana (SOL)
Polygon (MATIC)
BNB Chain tokens
NFTs on Ethereum and other chains
You can import custom tokens and connect multiple networks like Arbitrum, Avalanche, and Base.
Coinbase Wallet opens up the world of decentralized applications:
DeFi: Trade, lend, and earn yield on platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and Compound
NFTs: Buy, sell, and store NFTs from marketplaces like OpenSea
Gaming: Interact with blockchain games such as Decentraland, Axie Infinity, and more
DAOs: Participate in decentralized governance using tokens or connected identities
With one wallet, you can access all of Web3—directly from your phone or browser.
You can link your Coinbase Wallet to your Coinbase Exchange account for easier transfers:
Move funds between Coinbase and Coinbase Wallet instantly
Convert fiat to crypto on the exchange, then self-custody it in your wallet
This feature gives users the flexibility of centralized trading with the independence of self-custody.
While you control your keys, Coinbase Wallet still provides advanced safety features:
Encrypted private keys stored locally on your device
Biometric logins for fast, secure access
Transaction previews so you know what you’re signing
Spam token filters to hide scams and dust attacks
Multi-network security alerts and phishing protection
🛡️ Always verify URLs and use official sources when interacting with dApps or signing transactions.
Backup your recovery phrase offline—never store it digitally
Bookmark trusted dApps and platforms
Use the wallet’s “hide spam” option to avoid misleading tokens
Keep your app and extension updated regularly
Be cautious with permissions when connecting to new sites
Is Coinbase Wallet the same as the Coinbase app?
No. The Coinbase app is a centralized exchange; Coinbase Wallet is self-custody.
Can I hold NFTs in Coinbase Wallet?
Yes, Coinbase Wallet supports Ethereum and Polygon NFTs.
Can I recover my wallet if I lose my phone?
Only if you have your 12-word recovery phrase. Without it, your wallet cannot be restored.
Does Coinbase Wallet charge fees?
Coinbase doesn’t charge wallet fees, but network gas fees (e.g., Ethereum) still apply.
Coinbase Wallet is more than just a place to store cryptocurrency—it's your key to the decentralized web. With full control over your private keys, support for thousands of assets, access to NFTs, and seamless dApp integration, Coinbase Wallet empowers you to own, grow, and explore the crypto world on your terms.