How to Add Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask

Adding the Polygon network to your MetaMask wallet unlocks access to a faster, cheaper Ethereum-compatible blockchain ecosystem. With transaction fees often under $0.001 and confirmation times below two seconds, Polygon has become a go-to layer-2 solution for users seeking scalability without sacrificing security. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Polygon (MATIC), MetaMask, and how to seamlessly integrate them—so you can start using decentralized applications (dApps), swapping tokens, staking, and exploring DeFi with ease.

What Is Polygon (MATIC)?

Polygon, formerly known as MATIC Network, is a layer-2 scaling solution designed to enhance Ethereum’s performance by reducing congestion and lowering gas fees. Often referred to as the "Internet of Blockchains," Polygon provides a multi-chain system that supports interoperability between various blockchain networks while maintaining Ethereum’s robust security model.

At the core of Polygon’s infrastructure is the Polygon SDK, a modular framework that enables developers to build and connect customized blockchains. This flexibility allows projects to maintain autonomy in governance and scalability while still benefiting from Ethereum’s vast developer community and decentralized security.

The network leverages advanced technologies like ZK Rollups and Optimistic Rollups to bundle thousands of transactions off-chain before finalizing them on Ethereum. As a result, Polygon achieves up to 65,000 transactions per second (TPS) on a single sidechain, with block finality in under two seconds—making it one of the most efficient ecosystems in Web3.

👉 Discover how fast blockchain transactions can be with the right tools.

Understanding MATIC: Polygon’s Native Token

MATIC is the native cryptocurrency of the Polygon network. Built initially as an ERC-20 token on Ethereum, MATIC powers all activities within the Polygon ecosystem. Its primary use cases include:

• Paying transaction fees on the network (similar to ETH on Ethereum)
• Staking to secure the network and earn rewards
• Governance participation, allowing holders to vote on Polygon Improvement Proposals (PIPs)

Because MATIC is compatible with Ethereum wallets, it's easy to store, transfer, and manage across platforms—including MetaMask.

What Is MetaMask Wallet?

MetaMask is one of the most widely used cryptocurrency wallets in the world. It functions both as a browser extension and a mobile app, serving as a bridge between users and the decentralized web (Web3). With MetaMask, you can:

• Store and manage digital assets
• Interact with dApps across Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains
• Swap tokens with low fees
• Participate in DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and blockchain games

One of MetaMask’s biggest advantages is its simplicity. It gives users full control over their private keys while offering an intuitive interface—perfect for both beginners and advanced users.

👉 Start interacting with Web3 dApps securely today.

Why Use MetaMask with Polygon?

Integrating Polygon into MetaMask expands your access to a thriving ecosystem of decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and NFT platforms—all with minimal costs and lightning-fast speeds. Here are some key benefits:

• ✅ Low transaction fees: Spend fractions of a cent per transaction
• ✅ High-speed confirmations: Enjoy sub-2-second block times
• ✅ Wide dApp support: Access popular platforms like Aave, QuickSwap, and OpenSea on Polygon
• ✅ EVM compatibility: Seamlessly interact with tools built for Ethereum
• ✅ Security & control: Maintain ownership of your funds at all times

How to Add Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask

You can add the Polygon network to MetaMask in three simple ways. All methods are secure and effective—choose the one that best fits your comfort level.

Method 1: Auto-Detect via dApp (Recommended)

This method uses a decentralized application (dApp) that automatically prompts MetaMask to add the Polygon network.

1. Visit a trusted dApp that supports Polygon (e.g., a DeFi exchange).
2. Click "Connect Wallet" and select MetaMask.
3. Once connected, click on the network selector and choose Polygon.
4. MetaMask will display a prompt asking if you want to switch networks.
5. Click "Approve", then "Switch Network".

MetaMask will automatically configure the correct settings for Polygon—no manual input required.

Method 2: Add via Polygonscan

Polygonscan is the official block explorer for the Polygon network and offers a one-click integration feature.

1. Go to polygonscan.com
2. Scroll down to the bottom of the homepage
3. Click the "Add Polygon Network" button
4. Confirm the request in your MetaMask popup
5. Approve and switch networks

This method is fast, reliable, and pulls configuration data directly from the source.

Method 3: Manual Network Configuration

If automatic methods don’t work or you prefer full control, you can manually add the network.

1. Open MetaMask and click the network dropdown at the top
2. Select "Add Network"
3. Enter the following details:

Network Name: Polygon
New RPC URL: https://rpc.ankr.com/polygon
Chain ID: 137
Currency Symbol: MATIC
Block Explorer URL: https://polygonscan.com

4. Click "Save"

Your wallet will now be connected to the Polygon mainnet.

💡 Pro Tip: During periods of high traffic, you may experience slow loading or failed transactions. Try switching to an alternative RPC URL such as:

• https://rpc-mainnet.matic.network
• https://matic-mainnet.chainstacklabs.com
• https://rpc-mainnet.maticvigil.com

How to Add Polygon Testnet (Mumbai) to MetaMask

Developers testing dApps can easily add the Polygon Mumbai testnet using ChainList, a trusted registry of Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) networks.

1. Visit ChainList.org
2. Connect your MetaMask wallet
3. Toggle on "Include Testnets"
4. Search for "Polygon Mumbai"
5. Click "Add to MetaMask"

You’ll now be able to deploy and test smart contracts using free test MATIC tokens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of blockchain is Polygon?
Polygon is a layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum, designed to improve speed, reduce costs, and enable interoperability across multiple blockchains.

Is MATIC an ERC-20 token?
Yes, MATIC was originally launched as an ERC-20 token on Ethereum and remains compatible with Ethereum wallets like MetaMask.

Can I use MetaMask for other blockchains?
Absolutely. MetaMask supports any EVM-compatible chain, including Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche, Arbitrum, and more—simply add the custom network.

Do I need ETH to use Polygon?
Yes, you need a small amount of ETH on the Ethereum mainnet to bridge funds or pay for initial interactions. Once bridged, you’ll use MATIC for gas on Polygon.

How do I get MATIC tokens?
You can buy MATIC on major exchanges like OKX, transfer it from another wallet, or bridge it from Ethereum using the official Polygon Bridge.

Is adding Polygon to MetaMask safe?
Yes, as long as you enter the correct network details from official sources like Polygonscan or use verified dApps.

Final Thoughts

Connecting Polygon (MATIC) to MetaMask is a quick and essential step for anyone looking to explore scalable DeFi, low-cost NFTs, or fast blockchain gaming experiences. Whether you choose an automatic setup through a dApp or manually configure the network, the process takes just minutes—and opens doors to a powerful ecosystem built on efficiency and innovation.

With faster transactions, negligible fees, and full compatibility with Ethereum tools, Polygon empowers users to take full advantage of Web3 without limitations.

👉 Take your first step into scalable blockchain interactions now.