How to Add Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask

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MetaMask is one of the most widely used cryptocurrency wallets, enabling seamless interaction with decentralized applications (dApps) across Ethereum and other EVM-compatible blockchains. By integrating the Polygon network into your MetaMask wallet, you gain access to a high-speed, low-cost Layer 2 scaling solution that enhances Ethereum’s usability without compromising security.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn how to add Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask, understand its architecture, acquire MATIC tokens, and optimize your experience with expert tips and troubleshooting solutions.

What Is Polygon?

Before diving into the setup process, it’s essential to understand what Polygon is and why it has become a go-to solution for Ethereum scaling.

Polygon as a Scalability Solution

Polygon—formerly known as Matic Network—is a Layer 2 scaling platform designed to alleviate congestion and reduce transaction fees on the Ethereum blockchain. Instead of processing every transaction directly on Ethereum’s mainnet, Polygon operates as a sidechain that handles transactions off-chain and periodically submits batched data back to Ethereum.

This hybrid approach maintains Ethereum’s decentralization while significantly improving throughput and cost-efficiency. With the ability to process up to 7,000 transactions per second and average fees around $0.001, Polygon delivers a superior user experience for DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and Web3 applications.

Real-World Adoption and Ecosystem Growth

Polygon has seen rapid adoption across the blockchain space. As of 2025, key metrics highlight its growing influence:

These figures underscore Polygon’s role as a leading Ethereum scaling solution with strong developer support and real-world utility.

Understanding Polygon’s Architecture

Polygon combines elements of sidechains and rollups to offer both scalability and security. Here are the core components that power its performance:

Proof-of-Stake (PoS) Chain: Validators secure the network using a PoS consensus mechanism, enabling faster confirmations compared to Ethereum’s energy-intensive Proof-of-Work.

Plasma Bridge: This secure two-way bridge allows users to transfer assets between Ethereum and Polygon with finality guarantees.

Checkpointing Mechanism: Regular state updates are submitted to Ethereum’s mainnet, ensuring fraud resistance and alignment with Layer 1 security.

EVM Compatibility: Polygon supports Solidity-based smart contracts and integrates seamlessly with existing Ethereum tools, making it developer-friendly.

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This robust architecture enables developers and users alike to enjoy low-latency interactions while benefiting from Ethereum’s underlying security model.

Setting Up MetaMask Wallet

Since Polygon is EVM-compatible, you can use your existing MetaMask wallet without needing a new one. If you're just getting started, follow these steps:

  1. Install the MetaMask browser extension (available for Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge).
  2. Create a new wallet and securely back up your 12-word recovery phrase.
  3. Fund your wallet with ETH via purchase or transfer from an exchange.

Once set up, MetaMask becomes your gateway to both Ethereum and Polygon ecosystems.

How to Add Polygon Network to MetaMask

Adding the Polygon network manually ensures full control over your connection. Follow these steps:

  1. Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown (default: “Ethereum Mainnet”).
  2. Select “Custom RPC” at the bottom of the list.

  3. Enter the following details:

    • Network Name: Polygon
    • New RPC URL: https://polygon-rpc.com/
    • Chain ID: 137
    • Currency Symbol: MATIC
    • Block Explorer URL: https://polygonscan.com
  4. Click Save.

You should now see “Polygon Mainnet” in your network selector. Switching between Ethereum and Polygon is as simple as changing this dropdown.

How to Get MATIC Tokens in MetaMask

MATIC is the native token used for gas fees on the Polygon network. To start transacting, you’ll need MATIC in your wallet:

  1. Buy MATIC on a centralized exchange like Coinbase or Binance.
  2. Withdraw MATIC to your MetaMask wallet using the ERC-20 (Ethereum) network.
  3. After receiving MATIC on Ethereum, switch MetaMask to Polygon Mainnet.

  4. Click “Add Token”, select “Custom Token”, and enter:

    • Token Contract Address: 0x0d500b1d8e8ef31e21c99d1db9a6444d3adf1270
    • Symbol: MATIC
    • Decimals: 18
  5. Confirm by clicking Add Token.

Your MATIC balance will now appear under the Polygon network.

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Best Practices for Using Polygon with MetaMask

Maximize your experience with these expert tips:

Polygon vs. Ethereum: Performance Comparison

One of the main reasons users migrate to Polygon is cost efficiency. Here's how they compare:

Simple Token Transfer

ERC-20 Approval

These benchmarks show that Polygon reduces transaction costs by over 99% while delivering near-instant finality—making it ideal for frequent traders and DeFi users.

How Does Polygon Compare to Other Layer 2 Solutions?

While several L2 options exist, Polygon leads in adoption metrics:

Daily Active Users

Number of Integrated DApps

These numbers reflect broader ecosystem engagement, confirming Polygon’s leadership in real-world usage across NFTs, DeFi, and gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is adding Polygon to MetaMask safe?
A: Yes, adding the Polygon network via Custom RPC is completely safe as long as you use verified settings and avoid sharing your private keys.

Q: Do I need ETH to use Polygon?
A: No. While Ethereum requires ETH for gas, Polygon uses MATIC for transaction fees. However, you’ll need ETH on Ethereum mainnet to pay for initial bridging costs.

Q: Can I lose funds when bridging to Polygon?
A: Not if you follow correct procedures. Always double-check addresses and use official bridges like the Polygon Bridge.

Q: Why can’t I see my MATIC balance after adding the token?
A: Ensure you’re on the Polygon Mainnet network in MetaMask and that the contract address is entered correctly.

Q: Are all Ethereum dApps available on Polygon?
A: Many top dApps have Polygon versions (e.g., Aave, SushiSwap), but not all. Check individual platform documentation for multi-chain support.

Q: What happens if I send MATIC directly to my MetaMask without bridging?
A: If you withdraw MATIC as an ERC-20 token from an exchange, it arrives on Ethereum. You must then bridge it to Polygon or add it manually as described above.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite its reliability, occasional issues may arise:

For persistent issues, visit the Polygon Discord for community support.

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Final Thoughts

Adding Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask unlocks faster, cheaper transactions while maintaining compatibility with Ethereum’s vast ecosystem. With widespread dApp integration, strong security through checkpointing, and EVM compatibility, Polygon stands out as a leading Layer 2 solution.

Whether you're trading tokens, exploring NFTs, or participating in DeFi protocols, leveraging Polygon through MetaMask enhances performance and reduces costs—making blockchain interactions more accessible than ever.

Now that you know how to add and use Polygon in MetaMask, take advantage of its speed and scalability today. Customize your RPC settings, bridge some assets, and experience the next generation of Ethereum-powered applications.