Fantom is a high-performance decentralized blockchain platform designed for scalable smart contract execution and fast transaction processing. With growing interest in its ecosystem, many users are looking to integrate Fantom into their digital wallets—especially MetaMask, one of the most widely used Ethereum-compatible wallets.
This guide walks you through the complete process of adding Fantom to MetaMask, while also exploring key aspects of the Fantom network, including staking, DeFi applications, cross-chain bridges, and wallet compatibility. Whether you're new to Fantom or expanding your crypto portfolio, this step-by-step tutorial ensures a seamless setup.
👉 Learn how to securely connect Fantom to your MetaMask wallet in minutes.
What Is Fantom?
Fantom is a scalable, EVM-compatible smart contract platform built on a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) consensus mechanism called Lachesis, rather than a traditional blockchain structure. Launched in December 2019 by the Fantom Foundation, it was engineered for speed, security, and interoperability.
Although initially aiming for an ambitious 300,000 transactions per second (TPS), Fantom currently supports around 4,500 TPS, with near-instant transaction finality—typically within 1–2 seconds. This makes it ideal for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and high-frequency dApp interactions.
As an Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible network, Fantom allows developers to easily port Ethereum-based applications with minimal code changes. It also integrates with the Cosmos SDK, enabling broader cross-chain functionality.
Its native cryptocurrency, FTM, powers transactions, governance, and staking on the network.
Fantom Staking: Earn Rewards with FTM
Fantom uses a unique Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus model powered by Lachesis, which supports up to 50 active validators at any time. To run a validator node, users must stake at least 1 million FTM tokens—a high barrier that ensures network stability.
However, individual token holders don’t need to meet this requirement to participate. Instead, they can delegate their FTM tokens to an existing validator and earn staking rewards in return. You only need 1 or more FTM to start delegating.
When delegating:
- Choose a lock-up period between 1 day and 1 year.
- Rewards are distributed proportionally based on your stake.
- After the delegation period ends, you’ll need to re-stake if you wish to continue earning.
An added benefit: Staked FTM can still be used in DeFi protocols through wrapped representations like sFTM, enhancing capital efficiency across the ecosystem.
👉 Discover how staking FTM can generate passive income in the Fantom ecosystem.
Native DeFi on Fantom
Fantom’s native DeFi ecosystem includes core protocols developed specifically for the network:
fMint
Allows users to mint fUSD, a stablecoin pegged to the value of FTM at a 5:1 ratio. While not USD-pegged, fUSD plays a role in internal ecosystem stability and liquidity provision.
fSwap
A decentralized exchange (DEX) enabling token swaps across various assets such as fBTC, fETH, and other wrapped tokens. It offers low fees and fast trade execution thanks to Fantom’s underlying speed.
fLend
A lending protocol where users can supply tokens to liquidity pools and earn yield. Borrowers can take out loans using their deposited assets as collateral.
These tools form the backbone of Fantom’s financial infrastructure and are optimized for performance on the DAG-based network.
Imported DeFi Projects on Fantom
Thanks to its EVM compatibility, many popular Ethereum-based dApps have migrated or deployed versions on Fantom. These include:
- Curve Finance
- SushiSwap
- Cream Finance
- SpookySwap (a native-inspired DEX built specifically for Fantom)
Developers can deploy Solidity-based smart contracts directly onto Fantom with minimal modifications, making it attractive for projects seeking lower fees and faster confirmations than Ethereum mainnet.
The result? A vibrant, hybrid DeFi environment combining homegrown innovation with battle-tested external protocols—all running smoothly due to Fantom’s high scalability.
Fantom Roadmap and Development Fund
While the original Fantom roadmap concluded in 2020, development continues actively through community-driven initiatives and foundation support.
A significant catalyst is the Fantom Development Fund, holding approximately 370 million FTM tokens—valued at over $700 million at peak prices. These funds are allocated to incentivize new dApp development, ecosystem growth, grants, and partnerships.
With strong financial backing and technical capabilities, Fantom remains well-positioned to attract developers and expand its utility in the broader Web3 landscape.
Using the Fantom Bridge
To move assets between blockchains like Ethereum and Fantom, you must use a cross-chain bridge. Simply sending tokens directly to a wallet address without bridging will result in permanent loss of funds.
Currently, two primary bridges support asset transfers to and from Fantom:
- Fantom Bridge – Official bridge maintained by the Fantom Foundation.
- Ren Bridge – Third-party solution supporting multiple chains.
Always verify bridge URLs and follow official instructions carefully to avoid scams or errors during transfer.
Wallet Compatibility: Is Fantom Supported?
Yes—Fantom is supported by numerous wallets due to its EVM compatibility. Options include:
- MetaMask (web and browser extension)
- Trust Wallet (mobile)
- Coinbase Wallet
- Ledger (hardware wallet with manual network addition)
Most EVM-compatible wallets allow users to manually add custom networks using RPC settings—a process we’ll walk through next.
How to Add Fantom to MetaMask
Follow these simple steps to add the Fantom network to your MetaMask wallet:
- Open your MetaMask wallet (install it first if you haven’t already).
- Click on the network dropdown in the top-left corner (e.g., "Ethereum Mainnet").
- Select "Add Network", then choose "Add a Network Manually" (or "Custom RPC").
Enter the following details:
- Network Name:
Fantom - New RPC URL:
https://rpc.ftm.tools - Chain ID:
250 - Currency Symbol:
FTM - Block Explorer URL:
https://ftmscan.com
- Network Name:
- Click Save.
Once saved, your wallet will connect to the Fantom network. You can now send, receive, and interact with FTM tokens and dApps on Fantom.
To switch back to Ethereum or another network later, just click the network selector and choose your preferred chain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Fantom a blockchain or something else?
A: Technically, Fantom uses a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) called Lachesis instead of a traditional blockchain. However, it functions similarly and supports smart contracts and decentralized apps.
Q: Can I lose my funds if I send them incorrectly?
A: Yes. Always use an official bridge when transferring assets between chains. Sending tokens directly without bridging may result in irreversible loss.
Q: Do I need FTM tokens before adding the network?
A: No. You can add the Fantom network to MetaMask even without holding FTM. However, you’ll need FTM for gas fees once you start transacting.
Q: Are there fees when using Fantom?
A: Yes, but they are typically much lower than on Ethereum. Transactions cost a small amount of FTM as gas.
Q: Can I use hardware wallets with Fantom?
A: Yes. Ledger devices support Fantom when connected via MetaMask or other compatible interfaces.
Q: Why isn’t my balance showing after adding the network?
A: Ensure you’ve imported your account correctly and that tokens have been sent to the right address on the Fantom network. Also check if you’re viewing the correct network in MetaMask.
Ready to explore decentralized apps on one of the fastest EVM networks? Adding Fantom to MetaMask opens doors to high-speed transactions, low-cost DeFi, and innovative staking opportunities.
👉 Start using Fantom today—connect your wallet securely now.