Adding a custom token to your MetaMask wallet is a fundamental skill for anyone navigating the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. Whether you're exploring new tokens on Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, or other EVM-compatible networks, knowing how to manually or automatically import tokens ensures you can view and manage your digital assets with confidence.
This comprehensive guide walks you through both methods—automatic token detection and manual import—across desktop and mobile versions of MetaMask. We’ll also cover essential tips, common issues, and best practices for securely managing custom tokens.
Understanding Custom Tokens in MetaMask
MetaMask is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet that supports multiple blockchains compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). By default, it displays Ether (ETH) and popular ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum mainnet. However, many tokens—especially newer or network-specific ones—are not visible until you add them manually or enable automatic detection.
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How to Add a Custom Token Automatically Using Token Detection
MetaMask includes an experimental feature called Token Detection, which automatically identifies ERC-20 tokens in your wallet. This works only for Ethereum-based tokens already sent to your address.
Step 1: Open and Unlock MetaMask
Launch the MetaMask browser extension and enter your password to unlock your wallet.
Step 2: Switch to Ethereum Mainnet
Automatic detection only works on the Ethereum Mainnet. Click the network dropdown at the top and select "Ethereum Mainnet" if you're on another network.
Step 3: Enable Token Detection
- Click your account icon in the top-right.
- Go to Settings > Experimental.
- Toggle on "Use Token Detection".
This feature uses community-curated lists to scan your wallet balance and display compatible tokens.
Step 4: Refresh Your Token List
Return to the home screen and scroll down to click "Refresh List". MetaMask will now scan for all detectable ERC-20 tokens in your wallet.
⚠️ Note: If a token doesn’t appear, it may be too new to be in detection lists or not yet transferred to your wallet.
How to Manually Add a Token to MetaMask
When automatic detection fails—or when dealing with tokens on non-Ethereum networks—you must add them manually using the contract address.
Step 1: Find the Token’s Contract Address
You can find this on trusted platforms:
- CoinMarketCap or CoinGecko: Search the token name and copy the contract address under the "Contracts" section.
- Blockchain Explorers: Use Etherscan for ERC-20, BSCScan for BEP-20, etc.
Ensure you select the correct network (e.g., Binance Smart Chain vs. Ethereum).
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Step 2: Switch to the Correct Network
In MetaMask, click the network selector and choose the blockchain where the token exists (e.g., BSC, Polygon). If the network isn’t listed, you’ll need to add it first.
Step 3: Import the Token
- Scroll down and click "Import Tokens".
- Use the search bar to find the token by name or symbol.
- If found, select it and click "Next", then "Import Tokens".
If the token doesn’t appear in search results:
- Switch to the "Custom Token" tab.
- Paste the contract address.
- Wait for MetaMask to auto-fill the token symbol and decimals.
- Click "Add Custom Token", then confirm import.
The token will now appear in your asset list.
How to Add a Custom Token on the MetaMask Mobile App
The process on Android and iOS is similar but adapted for touch navigation.
Step 1: Copy the Contract Address
Use CoinMarketCap or a blockchain explorer in your mobile browser to copy the correct contract address for your network.
Step 2: Switch Networks
Tap the network banner at the top of the app and select the appropriate chain (e.g., Binance Smart Chain).
Step 3: Tap “Import Tokens”
On the home screen, tap "Import Tokens" below your asset list.
Step 4: Search or Paste Contract Address
- Type the token name and tap "IMPORT" if it appears.
- If not found, switch to the "Custom Token" tab.
- Paste the contract address into "Token Address".
- Let MetaMask auto-populate symbol and decimals.
- Tap "IMPORT" to finalize.
Your token will now be visible in your portfolio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why isn’t my token showing up after import?
A: Double-check that you’re on the correct network and that the contract address is accurate. Also, ensure the token has been sent to your wallet address.
Q: Is it safe to add custom tokens?
A: Only add tokens from trusted sources. Malicious contracts can mimic real tokens—always verify addresses on official websites or explorers.
Q: Can I remove a custom token from MetaMask?
A: Yes. Go to Settings > Tokens, find the token, and click “Remove Token.” This doesn’t affect your balance—just hides it.
Q: Does adding a token give others access to my funds?
A: No. Importing a token only allows MetaMask to display your balance. It does not grant spending permissions unless you approve a transaction.
Q: Why doesn’t token detection work on BSC or Polygon?
A: As of now, MetaMask’s automatic detection is limited to Ethereum mainnet. For other chains, manual import via contract address is required.
Q: What are token decimals? Do I need to enter them manually?
A: Decimals define how divisible a token is (e.g., 18 for most ERC-20s). MetaMask usually fetches this automatically when you paste the contract address.
Final Thoughts
Adding a custom token to MetaMask—whether automatically or manually—is a straightforward process once you understand the steps. While automatic detection simplifies managing ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum, manual import remains essential for cross-chain activity and newer projects.
Always verify contract addresses from official sources before importing, and stay cautious of scams. With proper care, MetaMask becomes a powerful gateway to explore DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 ecosystems across multiple blockchains.
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