How do I switch to Optimism in Coinbase Wallet?

Switching to Optimism in Coinbase Wallet is easy: add the network, switch to it, and enjoy faster, cheaper Ethereum transactions.

Apr 25, 2025 at 05:21 am

Switching to Optimism in Coinbase Wallet is a straightforward process that allows you to interact with the Optimism network, a layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum. This guide will walk you through the steps to switch to Optimism, ensuring you can take advantage of faster and cheaper transactions.

Understanding Optimism and Its Benefits

Optimism is a layer 2 scaling solution built on top of Ethereum. It aims to increase transaction speed and reduce costs by processing transactions off the main Ethereum chain and then settling them back on the mainnet. By using Optimism, you can enjoy the benefits of Ethereum's security and decentralization while experiencing improved performance.

Preparing Your Coinbase Wallet

Before you switch to Optimism, ensure that your Coinbase Wallet is set up and ready. If you haven't already, download the Coinbase Wallet app on your mobile device or access it through the browser extension. Make sure you have your wallet's recovery phrase securely stored, as you will need it to access your funds on different networks.

Adding Optimism to Coinbase Wallet

To switch to Optimism, you need to add the network to your Coinbase Wallet. Follow these steps:

• Open Coinbase Wallet: Launch the Coinbase Wallet app on your mobile device or access it through the browser extension.
• Navigate to Settings: Tap on the settings icon, usually located in the top right corner of the app.
• Select Active Network: Scroll down and find the "Active Network" option.
• Add Custom Network: Tap on "Add Network" or "Custom Network."
• Enter Network Details: You will need to enter the following details for Optimism:
  • Network Name: Optimism
  • RPC URL: https://mainnet.optimism.io
  • Chain ID: 10
  • Symbol: ETH
  • Block Explorer URL: https://optimistic.etherscan.io
• Save the Network: After entering the details, tap "Save" or "Add" to add Optimism to your list of networks.

Switching to Optimism

Once you have added Optimism to your Coinbase Wallet, you can easily switch to it:

• Open Coinbase Wallet: Launch the app or access it through the browser extension.
• Navigate to Settings: Tap on the settings icon.
• Select Active Network: Scroll down to the "Active Network" option.
• Choose Optimism: From the list of available networks, select "Optimism."
• Confirm Switch: Confirm that you want to switch to the Optimism network.

Verifying the Switch

After switching to Optimism, it's important to verify that you are indeed on the correct network:

• Check Network Indicator: Look for the network indicator at the top of the Coinbase Wallet app or browser extension. It should now display "Optimism."
• Verify Transaction Fees: When you initiate a transaction, check the estimated gas fees. They should be significantly lower than on the Ethereum mainnet, indicating you are on Optimism.
• Use a Dapp: Try accessing a decentralized application (dapp) that supports Optimism. If it recognizes your wallet as being on the Optimism network, you have successfully switched.

Interacting with Optimism

Now that you are on the Optimism network, you can start interacting with dapps and making transactions. Here are some common activities you might want to perform:

• Sending and Receiving ETH: You can send and receive ETH on Optimism just like on the Ethereum mainnet. The process is the same, but the fees will be lower.
• Using Dapps: Many popular dapps have been deployed on Optimism. You can interact with them directly from your Coinbase Wallet.
• Bridging Assets: If you need to move assets between Ethereum and Optimism, you can use a bridge service. Coinbase Wallet supports bridging through its interface.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Switching to Optimism is usually smooth, but you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Network Not Appearing: If Optimism does not appear in your list of networks, double-check the network details you entered. Ensure the RPC URL, Chain ID, and other details are correct.
• Transaction Failures: If a transaction fails, check the gas fees you set. Sometimes, setting the gas too low can cause transactions to fail. Adjust the gas and try again.
• Wallet Not Recognizing Optimism: If your wallet does not recognize Optimism, ensure you have the latest version of the Coinbase Wallet app or browser extension. Updating might resolve the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I switch back to the Ethereum mainnet from Optimism in Coinbase Wallet?

A: Yes, you can switch back to the Ethereum mainnet at any time. Simply follow the same steps to switch networks, but select "Ethereum Mainnet" instead of "Optimism."

Q: Are there any risks associated with using Optimism?

A: While Optimism is designed to be secure, there are risks associated with any blockchain network. These include smart contract vulnerabilities and potential issues with the bridge between Ethereum and Optimism. Always use reputable dapps and keep your recovery phrase secure.

Q: Can I use other wallets to switch to Optimism?

A: Yes, other wallets like MetaMask also support switching to Optimism. The process is similar, but you will need to add the network details manually, just as you did with Coinbase Wallet.

Q: How do I know if a dapp supports Optimism?

A: You can check the dapp's official website or documentation to see if it supports Optimism. Many dapps will explicitly state their support for different networks, including Optimism.