As blockchain adoption accelerates, users and institutions alike are seeking faster, more affordable ways to interact with decentralized applications (dApps), NFTs, and DeFi protocols. While Ethereum remains the most robust programmable blockchain, its rising transaction costs have created barriers for everyday users. In response, Coinbase is rolling out multichain support—starting with Polygon and Solana—to make sending and receiving crypto simpler, cheaper, and more accessible than ever.
👉 Discover how easy it is to move crypto across chains with low fees and fast confirmations.
This integration allows eligible Coinbase customers to send and receive ETH, MATIC, and USDC on Polygon, and USDC on Solana—marking the first time Coinbase has enabled asset transfers on a Layer 2 or sidechain. Over time, support will expand to additional tokens and networks, reinforcing Coinbase’s mission to streamline access to the broader cryptoeconomy.
Why Multichain Support Matters
Ethereum’s dominance in decentralized finance and web3 innovation comes at a cost: high gas fees. Sending even small amounts of crypto can cost over $10, while complex DeFi interactions—like lending large sums on Aave—can exceed $100 in transaction fees. These costs deter new users and complicate routine financial activities.
Meanwhile, alternative networks like Polygon and Solana have surged in popularity due to their low fees and fast settlement times. Today, more than 30% of DeFi’s total value locked (TVL) resides outside Ethereum, spread across scalable blockchains that offer better user economics.
Yet moving assets between chains has traditionally been a fragmented process:
- Buy crypto on an exchange.
- Transfer to a self-custody wallet.
- Use a bridge to move funds to another network.
- Pay additional gas fees and wait for confirmations.
For example, purchasing an NFT on OpenSea using Polygon previously required up to 10 steps, ~20 minutes, and around $50 in cumulative fees. Now, users can convert fiat directly into USDC on Polygon or Solana within minutes and at a fraction of the cost.
Seamless Cross-Chain Transfers for All Users
Coinbase is eliminating friction by integrating multichain functionality directly into its platform. Whether you're an individual user or an institutional trader, you can now deposit, withdraw, and manage assets across multiple networks without juggling bridges or managing duplicate balances.
For Individual Users
Using the Coinbase mobile app or website, customers can send crypto to self-custody wallets on supported networks in just a few taps:
- Choose a self-custody wallet compatible with Polygon or Solana—such as Coinbase Wallet.
- Open the Coinbase app or log in at coinbase.com.
- Tap Pay > Send, then select ETH, MATIC, or USDC.
- Enter the recipient’s wallet address.
- Before confirming, tap the network selector arrow and choose your desired chain (e.g., Polygon).
- Review and complete the transaction.
This streamlined flow ensures users no longer need third-party bridges or technical know-how to access lower-cost networks.
For Coinbase Wallet Users
Users of the Coinbase Wallet browser extension or latest mobile app can also buy or transfer crypto directly across chains:
- Click the Buy (+) button.
- Select Add crypto with Coinbase Pay.
- Choose your token (ETH, MATIC, or USDC) and amount.
- Pick your preferred network during checkout.
- Confirm the transaction.
Older app versions support network selection via the Settings tab under "Buy or Transfer," ensuring broad accessibility.
For Institutional Traders (Coinbase Exchange)
Institutional clients benefit from unified trading and settlement across chains. On exchange.coinbase.com, traders can:
- Go to Withdraw.
- Select ETH, MATIC, or USDC.
- Choose the destination network (Ethereum, Polygon, or Solana).
- Enter the wallet address and withdrawal amount.
- Confirm the transfer.
Additionally, API users can leverage updated documentation to include the network parameter in deposit and withdrawal requests—enabling automated, multichain operations at scale.
👉 Start moving your crypto across high-performance blockchains with ease.
Unified Balances, Simplified Experience
One of the biggest challenges in multichain crypto usage is balance fragmentation. Holding separate balances of USDC on Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana complicates portfolio management and increases the risk of errors.
Coinbase solves this with a unified balance system that abstracts away network complexity. When you deposit USDC via any supported chain, it appears as a single balance in your account—regardless of the originating network. This means no more tracking which portion of your assets lives where.
Behind the scenes, Coinbase handles cross-chain routing securely and efficiently, so users enjoy seamless interoperability without sacrificing control or security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which networks and tokens are currently supported?
A: Eligible users can send and receive ETH, MATIC, and USDC on Polygon, and USDC on Solana. Support for more tokens and networks will be added over time.
Q: Can I send MATIC on Solana?
A: Not currently. Only USDC is supported on Solana at launch. MATIC transfers are limited to Polygon.
Q: Are there extra fees for using different networks?
A: No additional service fees apply. You’ll only pay standard network transaction costs (gas), which are typically much lower on Polygon and Solas than on Ethereum.
Q: What happens if I send funds using the wrong network?
A: Transactions to incorrect addresses or networks cannot be reversed. Always double-check both the wallet address and selected network before confirming.
Q: Is this feature available worldwide?
A: Multichain support is subject to jurisdictional restrictions. Availability may vary based on your location.
Q: Do I need a new wallet to use Polygon or Solana?
A: No—but your wallet must support the target network. Most modern wallets like Coinbase Wallet allow you to switch between chains easily.
The Future of Cross-Chain Access
Coinbase envisions a future where moving crypto between networks is as simple as sending money through a digital payment app. By enabling direct fiat-to-multichain conversions, the platform lowers entry barriers for millions of users eager to explore DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and more.
Looking ahead, expect expanded token support across additional high-performance blockchains. The goal is clear: build the most intuitive gateway to web3—one that empowers individuals and institutions alike to navigate the multichain world safely, affordably, and efficiently.
👉 Take full advantage of low-cost, high-speed blockchains today—start your journey now.
By simplifying cross-chain transactions, Coinbase isn’t just adapting to the evolution of web3—it’s helping shape it. As the ecosystem grows more interconnected, seamless asset mobility will become essential. With this update, that future is already here.