How to buy and sell AVAX on a decentralized exchange (DEX)?

Buying and selling AVAX on a DEX like Trader Joe or Pangolin involves choosing a platform, setting up a compatible wallet, and executing trades directly with other users for greater privacy and control.

Apr 19, 2025 at 10:07 am

Buying and selling AVAX on a decentralized exchange (DEX) can be an empowering way to take control of your cryptocurrency transactions. Decentralized exchanges allow you to trade directly with other users without the need for intermediaries, offering greater privacy and control over your funds. In this guide, we will walk you through the detailed process of buying and selling AVAX on a DEX, ensuring you understand every step of the way.

Choosing the Right DEX

Before you can start trading AVAX, you need to select a DEX that supports it. Some popular DEXs that list AVAX include Trader Joe, Pangolin, and SushiSwap. Each DEX has its own interface and features, so it's important to choose one that suits your needs.

• Visit the DEX website and explore its features. Look for user reviews and check the trading volume to gauge the liquidity of AVAX on the platform.
• Ensure the DEX is compatible with the Avalanche network, as AVAX is the native token of the Avalanche blockchain.

Setting Up Your Wallet

To interact with a DEX, you need a cryptocurrency wallet that supports the Avalanche network. Popular options include MetaMask, Avalanche Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet.

• Download and install the wallet of your choice from its official website.
• Create a new wallet or import an existing one. Make sure to securely store your recovery phrase.
• Add the Avalanche network to your wallet. For MetaMask, you can do this by clicking on the network dropdown, selecting "Custom RPC," and entering the following details:
  • Network Name: Avalanche Network
  • New RPC URL: https://api.avax.network/ext/bc/C/rpc
  • Chain ID: 43114
  • Symbol: AVAX
  • Explorer: https://snowtrace.io/

Depositing AVAX into Your Wallet

Before you can trade on a DEX, you need to have AVAX in your wallet.

• Purchase AVAX from a centralized exchange like Binance or Coinbase, if you don't already have it.
• Withdraw the AVAX to your wallet. Copy your wallet's Avalanche address and paste it into the withdrawal section of the centralized exchange. Confirm the transaction and wait for the AVAX to arrive in your wallet.

Connecting Your Wallet to the DEX

Once you have AVAX in your wallet, you can connect it to the DEX.

• Navigate to the DEX website and look for the "Connect Wallet" button.
• Select your wallet from the list of supported wallets. If you're using MetaMask, it will prompt you to connect to the site.
• Authorize the connection by clicking "Connect" in your wallet. This allows the DEX to interact with your wallet.

Buying AVAX on the DEX

If you want to buy AVAX using another cryptocurrency, follow these steps:

• Select the trading pair you want to use, such as ETH/AVAX or USDT/AVAX.
• Enter the amount of the cryptocurrency you want to swap for AVAX. The DEX will show you how much AVAX you will receive based on the current market rate.
• Review the transaction details, including the slippage tolerance and any network fees.
• Confirm the transaction in your wallet. You may need to sign the transaction and pay a gas fee to complete the swap.

Selling AVAX on the DEX

To sell AVAX for another cryptocurrency, follow these steps:

• Select the trading pair you want to use, such as AVAX/ETH or AVAX/USDT.
• Enter the amount of AVAX you want to sell. The DEX will show you how much of the other cryptocurrency you will receive.
• Review the transaction details, including the slippage tolerance and any network fees.
• Confirm the transaction in your wallet. Sign the transaction and pay the required gas fee to complete the swap.

Withdrawing Your Funds

After completing your trades, you may want to withdraw your funds from the DEX.

• Navigate to the "Withdraw" or "Send" section of the DEX.
• Enter the amount you want to withdraw and the recipient's address. If you're withdrawing to your own wallet, use the address you used to deposit.
• Confirm the transaction in your wallet. Sign the transaction and pay any required gas fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a hardware wallet with a DEX?

A: Yes, you can use a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor with a DEX. You'll need to connect your hardware wallet to a software wallet like MetaMask, which then interacts with the DEX.

Q: What is slippage, and how does it affect my trades on a DEX?

A: Slippage is the difference between the expected price of a trade and the price at which the trade is executed. On a DEX, slippage can occur due to market volatility or low liquidity. You can set a slippage tolerance in the DEX settings to control how much slippage you're willing to accept.

Q: Are there any fees associated with trading on a DEX?

A: Yes, trading on a DEX typically involves two types of fees: network fees (gas fees) for executing transactions on the blockchain, and liquidity provider fees, which are a small percentage of each trade that goes to the liquidity providers.

Q: How can I ensure the security of my funds when trading on a DEX?

A: To ensure the security of your funds, always use reputable DEXs, keep your wallet software up to date, and never share your private keys or recovery phrases. Additionally, consider using a hardware wallet for added security.