Guide · 5 min read
USDT: TRC20, ERC20, BEP20… which network to choose?
The same USDT can move on several blockchains, called networks. Choosing the right network is the most important decision before you send or receive: here is how.
What is a network?
A network is the blockchain on which the transaction is recorded. USDT is issued on several of them: TRC20 (Tron network), ERC20 (Ethereum) and BEP20 (BNB Smart Chain) are the most common. PayFaye also offers other networks depending on the crypto, shown before each confirmation.
These networks do not talk to each other: USDT sent on TRC20 cannot arrive at an address that only expects ERC20.
What differs from one network to another
- Fees: they vary by network and by moment. TRC20 is often chosen for lower fees, ERC20 is generally more expensive when the network is busy. PayFaye shows an estimate before you confirm.
- Compatibility: not every wallet and platform accepts every network. This is the deciding criterion.
- Address format: a TRC20 address usually starts with the letter T, an ERC20 or BEP20 address with 0x.
How to choose
- Look at which networks your wallet or platform offers to receive USDT.
- Among those, keep a network supported by PayFaye and compare the estimated fees shown.
- Copy the deposit or receiving address of the same network, never one from another.
- For a first transfer, send a small test before the final amount.
The 0x address trap
ERC20 and BEP20 addresses have exactly the same format (0x followed by 40 characters). Nothing in the address tells you the network: it is up to you to pick the right network when you send. A mistake here cannot be undone.
Good to know
This guide is general information, not investment advice. The value of cryptocurrencies moves: only trade what you can afford to see fluctuate.
Frequently asked questions
- Which network is the cheapest?
- It depends on the moment. PayFaye shows the estimated network fee of each network before you confirm: compare them and check that your wallet or platform accepts the chosen network.
- Can I send ERC20 USDT to a BEP20 address?
- No. Even if the two addresses look alike, they are different blockchains: a transfer on the wrong network can be lost.
- Where can I see the network of an address?
- In the wallet or platform that generated the address: the network is shown next to the deposit address.
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