How to Get USDC on Base

Stablecoins like USDC are continuing to become essential components of the evolving digital economy. USDC is a dollar-backed stablecoin that is celebrated for its transparency, regulatory¹ compliance, and seamless 1:1 convertibility with the US dollar. Among the many blockchain networks supporting USDC, Base is a Layer-2 (L2) scaling solution designed to make its underlying blockchain, Ethereum, more usable and affordable. Base distinguishes itself with its ability to process transactions more quickly and affordably compared to Ethereum, while still supporting seamless integration within Ethereum’s vast and diverse ecosystem of decentralized apps (dApps) — including well-known decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols like Interport, Jumper, Matcha, and others.

This guide delves into what makes Base an appealing platform for utilizing USDC, the advantages it offers, and a step-by-step walkthrough to help you acquire USDC on the Base blockchain.

What is USDC?

USDC is a stablecoin that’s reshaping the way value is exchanged. Fully backed by US dollars and liquid reserves, USDC represents a stable digital dollar that harnesses the speed of blockchain. Unlike traditional banking systems, the blockchains USDC utilizes operate 24/7/365, and USDC transactions settle near-instantly, at minimal cost, any time. USDC is available in over 180 countries worldwide, making it widely accessible to individuals and businesses alike. Its transparent reserve backing and adherence to high regulatory¹ standards make it a trusted choice for users seeking an efficient digital dollar solution.

What is Base?

Base is a Layer-2 blockchain designed to address Ethereum’s scalability challenges — namely, that Ethereum’s popularity and widespread usage occasionally cause network congestion that can result in higher network fees and slower transaction times. L2 blockchains like Base operate by executing transactions off the main Ethereum chain, which helps reduce congestion and improve overall efficiency. Transactions on Base are later synchronized with the Ethereum mainnet for consistency and security within the broader blockchain ecosystem.

Developed by Coinbase, Base provides faster transaction speeds and lower fees than Ethereum while still benefiting from Ethereum’s robust security framework. It’s particularly well-suited for DeFi applications and token transfers.

Key features of Base include:

• Cost-efficiency: Lower gas fees compared to Ethereum.
• Speed: Increased transaction throughput compared to Ethereum.
• Compatibility: Compatibility and interoperability with Ethereum’s existing dApps and tokens.

USDC’s steady value and Base’s low-cost, fast transaction processing make a great match for managing financial activities on the blockchain.

ERC-20 USDC on Base?

Ethereum L2s like Base borrow Ethereum’s ERC-20 token standard in large part to make it easier for developers to integrate any ERC-20 token into existing dApps. USDC on Base adheres to the ERC-20 token standard, whereas USDC on other blockchains is configured to follow their specific tokenization standards.

In addition to being used for creating and managing tokens on the Ethereum blockchain, Ethereum’s ERC-20 tokenization standard is also used to create and manage tokens on its related Layer-2 blockchains, meaning ERC-20 USDC can exist on Ethereum, Base, and other Ethereum L2s. ERC-20 provides a set of rules that ensure tokens can be easily transferred and interact seamlessly with other smart contracts and applications within the Ethereum ecosystem.

Learn more about USDC’s ERC-20 implementation on Base.

Developers who’ve made dApps that support ERC-20 tokens don’t need to redesign their apps or adjust for compatibility when adding support for a blockchain like Base because it already uses a familiar token standard. This seamless interoperability eliminates the hassle of complex conversions or adjustments, making transactions and operations with USDC on Base straightforward and efficient for users.

Circle launched USDC on Base’s mainnet in 2023. As of January 1, 2024, there’s over $3 billion USDC in circulation on Base.

Why use USDC on Base?

Using USDC on Base provides numerous benefits:

• Speed: Transactions on Base settle more quickly than transactions on Ethereum itself, ensuring smooth financial operations. You can send or receive funds almost instantly, which is especially useful for time-sensitive activities like trading or making payments. Faster finality also helps improve user confidence in transaction reliability.
• Low fees: Base significantly reduces gas fees compared to Ethereum’s mainnet, making it cost-effective for transacting in USDC. This allows users to make frequent transactions or interact with dApps without worrying about high fees eating into their funds. Whether you’re sending USDC or engaging in DeFi, Base’s lower costs provide a more accessible experience.
• Ecosystem access: Base hosts a growing ecosystem of dApps, including DeFi protocols that offer services like staking and lending, among others. From DeFi to gaming and more, the Base ecosystem offers a wide variety of dApps that integrate USDC.
• Accessibility: As an affordable Layer-2 blockchain, Base makes it easier for individuals to access and use USDC, promoting financial inclusion around the world. This helps users in regions with limited access to traditional banking services to participate in the global, digital economy. Base’s seamless integration with Ethereum further extends its reach to a global audience, as existing Ethereum users can easily use Base as an alternative in most contexts.

These advantages make Base a go-to choice for anyone seeking a scalable and efficient platform for using USDC.

Understanding crypto exchanges and crypto wallets

Before diving into the step-by-step process of acquiring USDC on Base, it’s important to understand the platforms and tools you’ll use: crypto exchanges and wallets.

Crypto exchanges are platforms where users can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. They act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers and often allow fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat transactions, making it possible for users to on- and off-ramp to and from digital assets like USDC. There are two main types of crypto exchanges:

• Centralized exchanges (CEXs): These platforms are managed by companies and often include user-friendly interfaces and robust customer support. However, assets purchased on a CEX are stored in exchange-based crypto wallets that are custodial, meaning users must trust the CEX to custody and secure their assets. Users don’t have full control over their assets unless they withdraw them to a non-custodial wallet.
• Decentralized exchanges (DEXs): These are decentralized, blockchain-based platforms where trades are conducted without a central authority. Instead users make peer-to-peer trades with the assistance of smart contracts. Connecting to a DEX requires connecting a compatible non-custodial crypto wallet. Non-custodial wallets offer greater control over your assets, but more responsibility for securing them. Likewise, DEXs offer greater control over the trading experience, but can be more complex to use.

Crypto wallets are tools for securely storing and managing your digital assets. Crypto wallets are divided into two main categories:

• Custodial wallets: Often provided by CEXs, these wallets are convenient but rely on the exchange to manage your assets’ associated private keys.
• Non-custodial wallets: These give users full control over their funds and private keys (or recovery phrases), but require careful management to avoid loss.

By understanding the differences between exchanges and wallets, you can make informed decisions about where to buy, store, and manage your USDC, and find the balance of convenience and security that’s right for you.

Step-by-step guide to acquire USDC on Base

Acquiring USDC on the Base blockchain is a simple and flexible process, with several methods available to suit different preferences. For those seeking convenience, purchasing Base-native USDC with fiat on a centralized exchange (CEX) is a quick and efficient option. Alternatively, users who prefer greater control can use a non-custodial wallet and trade through a decentralized exchange (DEX) that supports USDC on the Base network.

Here’s a breakdown of the main ways to obtain USDC on Base, along with detailed, step-by-step instructions for each method:

1. Buy USDC on Base via a centralized crypto exchange (CEX)

As the developer of the Base network, Coinbase is currently the only CEX offering support for the Base network and Base-native USDC. Note that Coinbase enables users to send and receive certain assets via multiple compatible blockchain networks. You can send or receive USDC, for example, using Ethereum, Base, Solana, and many other compatible blockchains. When you initially purchase USDC with fiat currency, you won’t have an option to choose which network to use. The ability to select your desired network will only appear when receiving USDC from another crypto wallet, or sending USDC from Coinbase to an external wallet. This eliminates the need to choose which network you’d like to use before you purchase an asset.

Steps to get USDC through Coinbase:

• Create a Coinbase account: Ensure Coinbase operates in your region. If you don’t already have one, sign up for a Coinbase account and complete the onboarding process, including account verification.
• Deposit fiat currency: Use a supported payment method like bank transfer, debit/credit card, or deposit digital assets from another wallet. Be aware of fees associated with your chosen deposit method, as they vary.
• Purchase USDC: Input the amount to purchase, confirm the details, and finalize the transaction. Once the transaction processes, you should see USDC in your account.

After completing the purchase, you can either leave your USDC in your custodial Coinbase wallet or transfer it to a non-custodial wallet for broader access to the Base ecosystem’s decentralized applications (dApps). Note that Coinbase offers a self-custody wallet, Coinbase Wallet, which is distinct from the custodial wallet you create when signing up on the Coinbase platform.

If you leave your USDC in the custodial wallet Coinbase provides, you won’t need (or have the option) to choose which blockchain network it’s on. If and when you decide to send your purchased USDC to another wallet (e.g., send USDC to MetaMask to use within dApps), then you’ll select the desired network (in this case, Base) before sending your USDC.

2. Swap for USDC on Base using a decentralized crypto exchange (DEX)

If you already hold digital assets in a self-custodial wallet, you can utilize a Base-compatible DEX to trade for USDC. This method is ideal for users who prefer decentralized platforms or already have crypto assets on Base. (Keep in mind that most DEXs don’t support fiat-to-crypto purchases, though some large and reputable DEXs do offer this functionality.)

How to swap assets for USDC on Base via a DEX:

• Select a reliable DEX: Popular Base-compatible DEXs include Interport, Jumper, and Matcha. Verify the official website of the DEX to avoid scams and understand their fee structure.
• Connect your wallet: Use a Base-compatible self-custodial wallet, such as MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet, to connect to the DEX.
• Choose a trading pair: In the DEX’s interface, choose the Base network and select a trading pair like ETH/USDC, then input the amount of USDC you wish to receive. Some DEXs may include advanced settings like slippage tolerance; understand and adjust these carefully before executing the transaction.
• Confirm the trade: Review the transaction details and approve it. Ensure you have sufficient ETH to cover gas fees. (Base uses ETH as its native asset for network gas fees.) After confirmation, your wallet should reflect the updated balance.

Many DEXs also enable cross-chain swaps, allowing users to exchange one asset from one network (e.g., ETH on the Arbitrum network) for another asset on another network (e.g., USDC on Base) — streamlining the process without needing separate bridging steps.

3. Use the built-in swap function in a self-custody wallet like Coinbase Wallet

Self-custody wallets that are compatible with Base and integrate a swap feature (like MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet) offer another seamless way to get USDC on Base. If you hold assets like ETH (or any other asset with USDC trading pairs) in your wallet, you can use this feature to trade directly for USDC.

Steps for acquiring USDC through a wallet’s swap function:

• Open the trading tab in your wallet and select the asset you want to trade (e.g., ETH).
• Choose USDC on Base as the receiving asset and input your desired trade details.
• Review the transaction for accuracy and confirm.

In case of transaction errors, consider adjusting settings like slippage tolerance or ensure your wallet has enough funds to cover gas fees (e.g., enough ETH if you’re using a network like Ethereum or Base). For troubleshooting, you can check the Base network’s status using a blockchain explorer like BaseScan, which may provide insights into network congestion or other issues.

4. Use a Base USDC bridge

We’ve spoken a bit about cross-chain swaps, and how some wallets and DEXs support the function of transferring an asset between two different blockchains. But in the case of USDC, there are two distinct ways to transfer USDC to another blockchain network, and the key distinction revolves around native vs bridged USDC.

As a reminder, native USDC originates directly from Circle on a particular blockchain, and is fully supported by the originating blockchain. Bridged USDC, however, is created when USDC is locked in a smart contract on one blockchain (i.e., the origin blockchain) and a “synthetic” or “bridged” form of USDC is minted (or created) on another blockchain (i.e., the destination blockchain) by a third-party bridge dApp. Crucially, bridged USDC is not issued by Circle, and only native USDC is fully reserved and designed to be redeemable 1:1 directly from a Circle-authorized partner. Many blockchains support both native and bridged USDC — so you should always be aware of which version you’re interacting with. If you obtained USDC directly through a Circle-authorized partner or exchange supporting native issuance, it is likely native; if you used a cross-chain bridge, your USDC is likely bridged. If you’re not sure, compare the token’s contract address on a blockchain explorer (e.g., Etherscan or BaseScan) with the official list provided by Circle.

Why does the distinction between native and bridged USDC matter? Because traditional blockchain bridges deal with bridged USDC, while bridges powered by the Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) deal with native USDC. Developed by Circle as an permissionless tool for transferring USDC between blockchains, the CCTP is a powerful tool that burns (or destroys) USDC on one chain, and mints native USDC on another chosen destination chain, like Base, without having to keep any USDC “locked” in a smart contract. Transferring USDC natively is a better alternative to using a traditional bridge, whose security protocols may not be as robust as Circle’s, the issuer of USDC. 

CCTP is integrated into wallets like MetaMask, DEXs like OKX (not to be confused with the centralized exchange, OKX), and cross-chain bridges like Allbridge, Mayan, and Wormhole — just to name a few. Learn more about CCTP and see a complete list of dApp integrations here. Then use the built-in swap functionality in these or other CCTP-powered platforms to seamlessly bridge native USDC between supported blockchains.

Key considerations when transferring or acquiring USDC on Base

When acquiring or transferring USDC to the Base blockchain, there are several crucial considerations to keep in mind:

• Exchange compatibility: Not all exchanges currently support deposits or withdrawals for USDC on the Base network. Before initiating a transfer, verify that your exchange allows transactions specifically for Base-native USDC. Additionally, ensure you use a wallet address that is compatible with the Base blockchain to avoid transaction errors.
• Understanding native vs non-native USDC: USDC issued natively on the Base blockchain integrates seamlessly with the Base ecosystem without requiring additional steps. However, USDC originating from other blockchains (e.g., Solana-native USDC) will not automatically work on Base. To use it on Base, you’ll need to either swap it for Base-native USDC or bridge it from its original blockchain to Base.
• Gas fees when bridging USDC to Base: If you choose to transfer USDC via a cross-chain bridge, remember that gas fees apply on both the source and destination blockchains. Because Base has no native network token, you can use ETH to cover gas fees when sending ETH to Base as the destination chain. These fees cover actions like locking or burning assets on the origin network and releasing or minting assets on the Base network. Be sure you have sufficient funds to cover these fees before starting a bridge transaction.
• Conduct a small test transaction first: If you’re new to transferring USDC or using cross-chain bridges, it’s a good practice to test the process by sending a small amount first. Doing so allows you to confirm that your transaction is successfully completed before moving a larger amount of USDC, reducing the risk of errors.

Note: Sending or withdrawing non-native tokens between blockchains without proper bridging can lead to transaction failures or, worse, permanent loss of funds. Always double-check token compatibility and transaction details before proceeding.

How to use USDC on Base

USDC on Base combines the dependability of a stable digital dollar with the speed and scalability of a high-performance L2 blockchain. Whether you’re exploring crypto for the first time or are a seasoned blockchain user, the Base ecosystem provides an ideal platform to utilize USDC for activities like sending, spending, saving, and trading. By following the guidance provided here, you can seamlessly acquire Base-native USDC and begin harnessing its benefits across the Base ecosystem.

Beyond Base, native USDC is issued on over 15 leading blockchain networks, reflecting its broad integration across the crypto ecosystem. To learn more about USDC and the diverse range of dApps, wallets, exchanges, and services that support it, explore our comprehensive USDC Ecosystem Catalog.