DeFi Wikipedia

MyEtherWallet vs MetaMask

2023-05-27 15:48:39 UTC
MyEtherWallet (MEW) and MetaMask are both tools that allow users to interact with the Ethereum blockchain. They are quite different in terms of their design and use cases, but they can also complement each other in various ways. Here's a comparison:


MyEtherWallet (MEW)

  • MyEtherWallet is a free, open-source, client-side interface for creating and managing Ethereum wallets.
  • It's a web-based service that allows users to create a new wallet and store their coins. It also allows users to interact with the Ethereum blockchain, including sending and receiving transactions, interacting with smart contracts, and so forth.
  • MEW is not an online wallet, but an interface to interact with the Ethereum blockchain. The private keys and passwords are never sent to the MEW servers. They are stored on the client-side, making it more secure against online threats. However, it also means users need to take good care of their private keys.
  • MEW also supports hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor, which adds an additional layer of security for users who have significant amounts of ETH or other Ethereum-based tokens.
  • MEW also integrates with decentralized exchanges like Changelly and Bity, allowing users to swap tokens directly within the wallet interface.

MetaMask

  • MetaMask is a browser extension and mobile app that serves as an Ethereum wallet. It also allows users to interact with decentralized applications (Dapps) directly from the browser.
  • MetaMask is more than just a wallet. It's also a bridge that allows users to visit the distributed web of tomorrow in their browser today. It allows each user to run Ethereum dApps right in their browser without running a full Ethereum node.
  • Like MEW, MetaMask keeps the keys on the client-side.
  • MetaMask has an integrated swap feature that lets you directly swap tokens from your wallet.
  • Since MetaMask is a browser extension, it's particularly suited for interacting with Dapps. For instance, if you want to use a decentralized exchange like Uniswap, having MetaMask makes the process much simpler.
  • MetaMask also has a mobile app version, providing flexibility and convenience for users on the go.

So, in summary, both MEW and MetaMask allow users to create Ethereum wallets and interact with the Ethereum blockchain. The choice between the two largely depends on what you want to do.

  • If you want to interact with Dapps in a seamless way, MetaMask would be more suitable due to its integration with web browsers.
  • If you want a straightforward way to create a wallet, send/receive Ethereum, or manage your hardware wallet, then MEW is a solid choice.
  • Also, they can be used together: you can create a wallet with MEW and then use MetaMask to interact with Dapps using the same wallet.

Please note that in both cases, you are entirely responsible for the security of your private keys. So, always follow best practices for digital security when using such tools.

Official Website:

MyEtherWallet: https://www.myetherwallet.com/
MetaMask: https://metamask.io/
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