Coinbase offers multiple wallet products to support different developer needs:

This guide compares these options and helps you decide which is best for your use case.

​
Wallet Comparison Table

FeatureWallet API v2 (Beta)Wallet API v1Smart Wallet
AudienceBackend developersBackend developersFront-end developers and end-users
OwnershipDeveloper-controlledDeveloper-controlledUser-controlled (via passkey/biometrics)
Key ManagementSecured in AWS Nitro Enclave TEE1-of-1 or MPC (2-of-2)End-user passkey (biometrics), keyless onboarding
AuthenticationSingle secret for all accountsOne secret per accountNo secrets; app login and passkey-based UX
Network SupportEVM (multi-network, all L2’s) + SolanaEVM single network (Base, Arbitrum, Polygon, Ethereum)EVM multi-network (Base, Arbitrum, Optimism, Zora, Polygon, BNB, Avalanche, Ethereum)
Wallet TypesEOA and Smart Accounts (4337) for EVM, Solana accountsEOA and Smart Accounts for EVMSmart Accounts only (4337)
Advanced FeaturesSmart Accounts: batch calls, gas sponsorship, spend permissionsNoneGas sponsorship, spend permissions, sub-accounts
Transaction SigningCDP-signed in TEEDeveloper-controlled private key or MPC signingUser-signed via passkey
viem Compatibility✅ Guide❌N/A
Smart Wallet API✅ Composable✅ Composable✅ Built-in
Example Use CasesMulti-chain apps, AI agents, backend-controlled appsBackend wallets needing features not yet available in v2Consumer apps, cross-app experiences

​
Choosing the Right Wallet

Use CaseRecommended Solution
AI agents, backend-controlled walletsWallet API v2
Solana and EVM supportWallet API v2
User-custodied wallets for onchain appsCoinbase Smart Wallet
Backend-controlled wallets with gas sponsorship, transaction batching, and other 4337 programmabilityWallet API v2 smart accounts

​
Resources