Coinbase Wallet Extension — Browser Wallet for Web3

What Is the Coinbase Wallet Extension?

The **Coinbase Wallet Extension** is a browser‑based, self‑custody wallet that gives you direct access to decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and more, **right from your browser toolbar**. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Unlike centralized, custodial wallets (such as your account on an exchange), with the extension you retain full control of your private keys. Coinbase never stores or has access to them. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

It integrates seamlessly with Web3 sites and supports multiple blockchain networks, token swaps, NFT handling, hardware wallet connectivity, and synchronizes with the Coinbase mobile wallet. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Key Features & Advantages

Non-custodial & private keys local: You control your private keys, stored locally in your extension environment. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Multi‑network / multi‑chain support: Supports Ethereum, Polygon, BNB Chain, Avalanche, and other EVM-compatible chains. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
dApp integration: You can connect instantly from sites like Uniswap, Compound, OpenSea, Aave, etc. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Token swap within extension: You can swap supported tokens directly inside the wallet without leaving it. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
NFT support: View, send, receive ERC‑721 / ERC‑1155 NFTs in supported networks. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Sync with mobile: Link your extension to the Coinbase Wallet mobile app for unified access. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Import / recover wallets: You can import existing wallets via recovery phrase (e.g. from MetaMask, Trust Wallet, or previous Coinbase Wallet). :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Hardware wallet support: You can connect devices like Ledger to the extension for added security. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Transaction preview and safety: Each transaction preview is shown for you to review before signing, reducing risk of unintended actions. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

How to Install & Use the Extension

Install from official store: Visit the Chrome Web Store or Brave extension store, and add the **Coinbase Wallet Extension**. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Create a new wallet or import existing one: After installation, you can choose “Create new wallet” (which gives you a 12‑word recovery phrase) or “Import existing wallet” with your recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Backup your recovery phrase: Write down the 12 words and store them securely offline. No one else can restore your wallet without them. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Set a password: This password is used to unlock the extension when used from your browser. Coinbase cannot recover it for you. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Optionally claim a username: You may be prompted to pick a Web3 username which helps others find your wallet address. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Start using Web3: You can now connect to dApps, swap tokens, send/receive crypto, and view NFTs — service requires you to approve each transaction. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

Read FAQ →

Tips & Common Use Cases

Here are some ways people typically use the extension and how to make the most of it:

Connect to dApps: On decentralized apps, click “Connect Wallet” → select Coinbase Wallet. Approve the connection in your extension interface. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Send / Receive Crypto: Use the “Receive” tab to copy your address, or “Send” to enter recipient, amount, and confirm. Always double-check addresses. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Swap Tokens: Use the in‑wallet swap feature to exchange supported tokens across networks. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
View NFTs: On supported networks, you can browse NFTs in your wallet gallery. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Hardware support: For higher security, connect a Ledger device to authorize transactions via Ledger + extension. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Cross-device sync: If you have the Coinbase Wallet mobile app, sync it to the extension to view same wallet across devices. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a Coinbase.com account to use this extension?

No — the extension is fully independent and non‑custodial. You don’t need a Coinbase exchange account to use it. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Is it safe to use a browser extension for wallets?

While browser wallets have risks, Coinbase's extension is designed with security in mind: keys are local, each transaction must be approved, and transaction previews are shown. But always keep your recovery phrase safe and ensure you installed the legitimate extension. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

What happens if I lose my browser or computer?

You can restore access using your 12‑word recovery phrase on another device or supported wallet. Without the recovery phrase, you cannot recover your funds. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Why is my extension wallet balance different from my mobile app?

Sometimes syncing or indexing delays cause discrepancies. Users have reported mismatch in balances or missing transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Can I import my MetaMask or Trust Wallet into Coinbase extension?

Yes — if you have your recovery phrase, you can import wallets from MetaMask, Trust Wallet, or other self‑custody wallets. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

Is the extension vulnerable to phishing attacks?

Yes — there are reports of scam/fake extensions. One user lost funds after installing a fake “Coinbase Wallet” extension. Always verify developer name, reviews, and source before installing. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

Why doesn’t my browser extension show the same NFTs or tokens?

Some networks or tokens may not be indexed or supported in the extension, causing missing items. In one forum, users reported that NFTs and balances did not display correctly in the extension though they were visible on mobile. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Does the extension support Ledger hardware wallets?

Yes — you can connect a Ledger device to the extension to use it as the signing authority for transactions. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

What should I do if the extension popup shows "site might be unsafe"?

That may indicate a redirect or phishing attempt, a certificate issue, or browser warning. Don’t proceed. Reinstall the extension from the official store, and ensure you’re using trusted URLs. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}