MetaMask vs Phantom
The two dominant browser wallets, split by ecosystem history. MetaMask is Ethereum's incumbent — the default door to most of DeFi, with the sprawl and clunk of a decade of accretion; Phantom won Solana with polish and speed, then expanded multi-chain. Which chains you actually use decides most of this — and either way, browser wallets are hot wallets: spending money, not savings.
| Measure | MetaMask | Phantom |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Type | software | software |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Best for | DeFi standard | Solana ecosystem |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Platforms | ios, android, extension | ios, android, extension |
| Coin support | EVM + Solana + Bitcoin (2025) | Solana, EVM, Bitcoin, Sui |
Scores, security history, setup notes and where to buy it in Australia.
Full Phantom review →Scores, security history, setup notes and where to buy it in Australia.
Undecided between types entirely? The hardware vs software deep-dive covers where people actually lose money, and the migration checklist is the step-by-step for the move itself. All wallet head-to-heads · every wallet we review.
FAQ
Which is more secure, MetaMask or Phantom?
Both keep private keys off your internet-connected devices, which is the security property that matters most. The differences above — secure-element certification, open-source firmware, air-gapping — are about which residual risks each design chooses to eliminate. For nearly everyone, either beats any software-only setup.
Where should I buy whichever I choose?
Only from the manufacturer or an authorised retailer — never marketplace resellers, where tampered devices are a documented attack. Our individual reviews link the official stores.
Do I still need an exchange account?
Yes — wallets store crypto; they don't convert Australian dollars. The usual flow is buying on an AUSTRAC-registered exchange, then withdrawing to your wallet. Our migration checklist covers doing that safely, test transaction included.
Specifications from our verified review database; prices are indicative AUD retail and change. General information only, not financial advice.