How to send crypto to the Base network with Coinbase Wallet?

Understanding the Base Network and Coinbase Wallet Compatibility

The Base network is an Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) blockchain developed by Coinbase, designed to offer fast, low-cost transactions while maintaining Ethereum’s security. It is fully EVM-compatible, meaning it supports smart contracts and decentralized applications similar to Ethereum. Coinbase Wallet is a self-custodial digital wallet that allows users to store, send, and receive various cryptocurrencies across multiple blockchains, including the Base network. Before sending crypto to Base, ensure your Coinbase Wallet app is updated to the latest version, as older versions may not support Base natively.

To interact with the Base network, users must manually add the network configuration to their wallet if it’s not already listed. This involves inputting specific RPC (Remote Procedure Call) details. The Base Mainnet RPC URL is https://mainnet.base.org, chain ID is 8453, and the currency symbol is ETH. These details are essential for proper network recognition and transaction execution.

Setting Up the Base Network in Coinbase Wallet

Before sending any assets, configure your Coinbase Wallet to recognize the Base network. Open the Coinbase Wallet app and navigate to the 'Settings' menu. Select 'Networks' and then 'Add Network'. Input the following parameters:

• Network Name: Base
• New RPC URL: https://mainnet.base.org
• Chain ID: 8453
• Currency Symbol: ETH
• Block Explorer URL: https://basescan.org

After entering these details, tap 'Save'. The Base network will now appear in your network options. Switch to the Base network by tapping the network selector at the top of the wallet dashboard and choosing 'Base'. This ensures that all subsequent transactions occur on the correct chain.

Failure to correctly configure the network may result in lost funds. Always double-check the Chain ID and RPC URL. If you see an error like 'Invalid Network,' revisit the settings and confirm each field.

Transferring ETH from Coinbase Exchange to Coinbase Wallet

To send crypto to the Base network, you first need ETH in your Coinbase Wallet to pay for gas fees. If your funds are in a Coinbase exchange account, initiate a transfer. Log into the Coinbase app, go to your ETH wallet, and select 'Send'. Enter your Coinbase Wallet address—this can be found by opening the wallet app and tapping the 'Receive' button.

Choose the Ethereum network (ERC-20) as the transfer method. Avoid using other networks like Arbitrum or Optimism unless explicitly supported. Confirm the transaction and wait for the ETH to arrive in your wallet. This may take several minutes depending on Ethereum congestion.

Once the ETH appears in your Coinbase Wallet, ensure you are still on the Base network. If not, switch networks using the dropdown at the top. Having ETH on Base is critical because all transactions on this network require gas paid in ETH.

Sending Tokens to the Base Network via Bridging

To move assets like ETH or ERC-20 tokens to the Base network, you must use the Base Bridge. Open a browser within the Coinbase Wallet app or use a trusted external browser like Brave. Navigate to https://bridge.base.org. Connect your wallet by tapping 'Connect Wallet' and selecting Coinbase Wallet from the options.

After connection, choose the token you wish to bridge—typically ETH. Enter the amount and confirm the transaction. The wallet will prompt you to approve two actions: the initial approval and the actual withdrawal. Review the gas fee, which is paid on the Ethereum mainnet for the outbound transaction.

Wait for the bridging process to complete. It may take 7–14 minutes due to Ethereum finality. Once done, the ETH will appear in your wallet balance under the Base network. You can verify this by checking your transaction history or viewing the balance while on the Base network.

For tokens other than ETH, ensure they are supported on Base. Not all ERC-20 tokens are automatically available on Layer 2 networks. Use BaseScan to verify token contracts and balances.

Executing Transactions on the Base Network

With ETH now on the Base network, you can send it to other addresses or interact with dApps. To send ETH, tap the 'Send' button in Coinbase Wallet. Enter the recipient’s wallet address—ensure it is correct and compatible with Base. Select ETH as the token and input the amount.

Review the transaction details. The network fee will be significantly lower than Ethereum mainnet, often under $0.01. Confirm the transaction and enter your wallet password or biometric authentication. The transaction will be processed within seconds.

When sending tokens other than ETH, ensure the token contract is correctly loaded in your wallet. If a token doesn’t appear, use the 'Add Token' feature and input the contract address from BaseScan. Only add tokens from trusted sources to avoid scams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send USDC directly from Coinbase Exchange to the Base network?No, Coinbase Exchange does not support direct withdrawals to the Base network. You must first send USDC to your Coinbase Wallet on the Ethereum network, then use the Base Bridge to transfer it to Base. After bridging, the USDC will be Base-native USDC, compatible with dApps on the network.

What happens if I send ETH to my Coinbase Wallet using the wrong network?If you select a network other than Ethereum (ERC-20) when sending from Coinbase Exchange, your funds may be lost. Always confirm the withdrawal network matches the deposit address’s expected chain. If sent incorrectly, contact Coinbase Support immediately with transaction details.

Why is my bridged ETH not showing up in my wallet?Ensure your Coinbase Wallet is set to the Base network. Bridged assets appear only when the correct network is selected. If still missing, check the transaction on BaseScan using your wallet address. If confirmed on-chain but not in-app, restart the wallet or re-add the token manually.

Is it safe to use third-party bridges instead of the official Base Bridge?The official Base Bridge (bridge.base.org) is the only recommended method. Third-party bridges may expose you to smart contract risks or phishing. Always verify URLs and avoid clicking links from untrusted sources. Stick to the official domain to protect your assets.