Five Alternatives to MetaMask Web3 Wallets

With the rapid development of the Web3 and DeFi sectors, users now have more options besides the popular MetaMask Wallet. This article will introduce 5 Web3 wallets that can serve as alternatives to MetaMask, all of which support interaction with decentralized applications on Ethereum and other blockchains.

MetaMask, as one of the most well-known Web3 wallets, has millions of users. Its advantages include ease of use, being open-source, and good integration with most DeFi protocols. However, MetaMask also has some drawbacks, such as:

• The private key is stored in the browser, and its security is not as good as that of a hardware Wallet.
• By default, it connects to the Ethereum network via Infura. If there is an issue with Infura, it may result in a connection interruption.
• Lack of content parsing during transaction confirmation may make it difficult for non-technical users to understand the specific operation details.

Next, we will detail 5 alternatives to MetaMask, all of which support cross-chain DeFi operations.

Frame

Frame is a privacy-focused Ethereum Wallet that runs on MacOS, Windows, and Linux systems. It allows users to manage accounts, tokens, and projects while supporting connections to various decentralized applications. One of Frame's key features is that it stores private keys outside of the browser, enhancing security. Additionally, it is compatible with multiple mainstream hardware wallets.

After users download and install Frame, they can seamlessly trade on EVM-compatible chains such as Ethereum, Optimism, Arbitrum, Polygon, and xDai through the browser extension.

Rabby

Rabby is an open-source Web3 wallet developed by the DeFi portfolio tracking tool DeBank. It can automatically switch to the corresponding blockchain network based on the websites visited by the user, providing a convenient multi-chain experience.

To enhance security, Rabby will provide a detailed breakdown of the transaction content in the transaction confirmation window. When users confirm a transaction, the Wallet will clearly explain the purpose of the transaction and display the estimated balance change. For example, when purchasing the Bankless DeFi Innovation Index ($GMI) on the Token Sets platform, users can intuitively see the transaction details and expected results.

In addition, Rabby also has a security engine that performs risk checks on each transaction before the user signs, and issues warnings when potential vulnerabilities are detected. This feature helps users identify possible risks.

XDEFI Wallet

XDEFI Wallet is a cross-chain browser extension that natively supports THORChain, Ethereum, and multiple EVM-compatible networks (such as BSC and Polygon) and Terra. Users can perform cross-chain transactions directly within the wallet without the need for centralized intermediaries or custodial services.

The XDEFI Wallet also integrates Ramp services, allowing users to purchase cryptocurrencies directly with fiat currency. However, the wallet is currently not open source, which may be a drawback. It is reported that XDEFI plans to support more blockchains such as Avalanche, Cosmos, Fantom, and Solana in the first quarter of 2022.

Web3Auth

Web3Auth (formerly known as Torus) is an open-source browser extension that allows users to authenticate directly with their Google account and use decentralized applications, exchanges, or blockchains.

Users can log in with one click using their Google account, automatically accessing the wallet in the browser without the need to remember the mnemonic phrase. During the first authentication, Web3Auth will automatically create an account using threshold signatures and distributed key generation, ensuring the security of self-custody while providing a convenient user experience.

Web3Auth is an improvement based on MetaMask, integrating tKey technology and using the Shamir secret sharing scheme for key management. It splits the user's private key into three parts, allowing the complete private key to be restored as long as two parts can be accessed.

Wallet 3

Wallet 3 is an open-source non-custodial Wallet that supports connecting to DeFi applications via the WalletConnect protocol. When users access DeFi applications like Perpetual Protocol, they just need to copy the WalletConnect URI, and if Wallet 3 is open and the manual connection feature is enabled, it will automatically connect to the application.

A highlight feature of Wallet 3 is the support for quick account switching, cross-chain transfers, and direct interaction with top DeFi protocols such as Aave and Yearn within the wallet. Additionally, it provides users with a portfolio dashboard that supports multiple networks including Ethereum, BSC, Polygon, Avalanche, and Fantom.

These alternatives to MetaMask provide users with more options, each wallet having its unique features and advantages. Users can choose the Web3 wallet that best suits their needs to participate in the decentralized financial ecosystem more securely and conveniently.