Overview
The MetaMask Card is a crypto debit card offered by the well-known Ethereum wallet provider, MetaMask, in partnership with Mastercard. It is designed to bridge the gap between the world of decentralized finance (DeFi) and traditional payment systems, allowing users to spend their cryptocurrency seamlessly. The card comes in two tiers: Virtual and Metal. The Virtual card is free, while the Metal card has an annual fee of $199 but offers enhanced rewards and benefits.
Currently, the card is available in over 40 countries, including most of the EU, Canada, and Latin America. However, it is important to note that signups for the US and UK markets are temporarily closed. The MetaMask Card supports several stablecoins, including mUSD, EURe, GBPe, USDC, and USDT, as well as wETH, and operates on blockchain networks such as Linea, Base, Polygon, and Solana.
How it works
The MetaMask Card operates on a self-custodial model, meaning users retain control of their tokens until the moment of payment. This is a significant advantage for those who prioritize security and control over their funds. To use the card, users can top up their MetaMask wallet with supported cryptocurrencies, which are then converted to mUSD for transactions.
One of the standout features of the MetaMask Card is its integration with popular mobile payment systems. Users can link their MetaMask Card to Apple Pay and Google Pay, making it convenient to use for both online and in-store purchases. This integration allows for a smooth transition between crypto and traditional payment methods.
For more details on how self-custodial cards work, you can visit our self-custodial cards category page.
Fees and value
The MetaMask Card offers a straightforward fee structure. The Virtual card is free to use, making it an attractive option for those who want to dip their toes into crypto spending without additional costs. On the other hand, the Metal card, while costing $199 per year, provides a higher rewards rate of 3% mUSD back on the first $10,000 spent, after which it drops to 1%.
International transactions are facilitated by Mastercard’s exchange rate, with no additional MetaMask fee, which is a significant advantage for frequent travelers or those who make purchases in foreign currencies. However, specific details about ATM fees and top-up fees are not published by the issuer, which may be a consideration for potential users.
For a comprehensive comparison of crypto card fees, you can check out our crypto card comparison page.
Who it’s for
The MetaMask Card is ideal for users who are already familiar with the MetaMask wallet and are looking for a way to integrate their crypto assets into everyday spending. The self-custodial nature of the card will appeal to those who prioritize security and control over their funds. Additionally, the support for multiple cryptocurrencies and blockchain networks makes it a versatile option for crypto enthusiasts.
However, the card may not be suitable for everyone. The $199 annual fee for the Metal card could be a deterrent for those who do not plan to spend enough to justify the cost. Furthermore, the temporary suspension of signups in the US and UK limits its accessibility for some users.
Conclusion
The MetaMask Card offers a unique blend of crypto and traditional payment features, with a focus on security and flexibility. While it presents several advantages, such as self-custody and no additional FX fees, potential users should weigh the benefits against the limitations, including the high annual fee for the Metal card and the current unavailability in certain regions.
VERDICT: The MetaMask Card is a versatile, self-custodial option for crypto users but comes with a high fee for the Metal tier and limited availability in some regions.
Fees & costs
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual / issuance | Virtual: free; Metal: $199/yr |
| FX / spend fee | No additional MetaMask fee (uses Mastercard's exchange rate) |
| ATM withdrawal | — |
| Top-up / load | — |
| Staking / lockup | None |
Pros & cons
Pros
- Self-custodial: user keeps custody of tokens until the moment of payment (official)
- No additional MetaMask FX fee on international transactions
- Apple Pay and Google Pay supported
Cons
- Metal tier costs $199/year
- US and UK signups temporarily closed
Supported crypto
Coins:
Chains: