Why can't MetaMask directly support the Sui network and how to resolve it

Technical Compatibility Issues: Why Can’t They Connect Directly

MetaMask Wallet is primarily designed for Ethereum and other EVM-compatible chains, which means its underlying architecture differs fundamentally from the Sui network’s protocol. As an independent Layer 1 blockchain, Sui employs a completely different consensus mechanism and virtual machine architecture, preventing MetaMask from natively integrating Sui network functions.

This technical incompatibility was once a significant obstacle, but with the introduction of MetaMask Snaps plugin system, the situation has changed.

Overview of Core Features of the Sui Network

Sui is a high-performance public chain developed by Mysten Labs, built using the Move programming language, which offers notable advantages over Ethereum’s Solidity. As of May 2024, the network has accumulated over 8 million active addresses and processes approximately 10 million transactions daily. The network promises a throughput of 125,000 TPS, with transaction fees around $0.001, far superior to traditional EVM chains.

In terms of ecosystem development, Sui has gathered over 500 application projects, with a total value locked (TVL) in DeFi exceeding $679 million, ranking 13th among global public chains. Gaming and NFT applications (such as Cryptomon) demonstrate strong user engagement.

MetaMask Snaps: A New Solution to Break Compatibility Barriers

MetaMask Snaps is a framework that allows third-party developers to create extension applications that run on the infrastructure provided by MetaMask. Through the Sui MetaMask Snap plugin, users can connect to Sui ecosystem applications and assets without leaving the MetaMask environment.

A Snap is essentially an authorized JavaScript program that can communicate with MetaMask’s account system, enabling interaction with specific blockchains and their applications. This architecture allows users to manage assets across multiple networks within a single wallet interface while maintaining existing security standards.

How to Integrate Sui into Your Wallet Using MetaMask Snap

Phase 1: Find and install the Sui Snap from the official directory

Visit the official MetaMask Snaps marketplace, search for the keyword “Sui,” and locate the Sui Snap wallet version maintained by Kuna Labs. Click the “Add to MetaMask” button, and a permission confirmation window will pop up. Carefully review the list of permissions requested by the Snap, confirm that everything is correct, and click confirm to complete the installation.

Phase 2: Authorize and activate wallet connection

After installation, visit the Snap provider’s official website to bind your account. On the website, select the “Connect Wallet” option. MetaMask will then display an interaction window in the browser. Follow the prompts to complete the authorization process, and your Sui Snap wallet will become active.

Phase 3: Obtain and safeguard your wallet address

The wallet interface will display the generated Sui network address at the top. Click the copy icon to add it to your clipboard for receiving funds or interacting with applications.

Common Operations Using Sui MetaMask Snap

Connect to Applications: Open a Sui-supported DeFi platform (e.g., Cetus Finance), select the wallet connect option, find “Sui MetaMask Snap” from the list, and follow the prompts to authorize.

Transfer Tokens: On the Snap wallet homepage, click the send function, enter the recipient address, select the asset type, input the amount, and approve the transaction signature in MetaMask.

Participate in Staking: In the wallet staking section, select SUI tokens, choose a validator, set the staking amount, submit the staking request, and confirm in MetaMask.

Dedicated Wallet Options within the Sui Ecosystem

If using MetaMask Snap is not very intuitive, the Sui ecosystem also offers several fully functional native wallets:

Sui Wallet: Provides both mobile app and browser extension versions. Users need to install and create a new wallet, securely store the 24-word mnemonic phrase (avoid digital storage), and then can directly send/receive SUI tokens and perform in-wallet exchanges. This wallet is popular for its user-friendly interface and strong security features.

Suiet Wallet: Trusted for its zero-trust architecture and open-source nature, supporting NFT management, multi-application integration, and strict security verification.

Fewcha Wallet: Optimized for gaming and asset management users, supporting both Aptos and Sui chains, emphasizing data privacy.

SafePal Wallet: Covers hardware wallets, mobile apps, and browser extensions, compatible with Sui, Ethereum, BSC, and other chains, offering biometric authentication and cross-chain interaction capabilities.

Key FAQs

Q: Can MetaMask directly operate Sui assets internally?
A: No. Although the Sui Snap Wallet is integrated and displayed within the MetaMask window, asset management actually occurs within the Snap environment. MetaMask acts as a connector, responsible for signing and verifying transactions.

Q: Will uninstalling the Snap cause account loss?
A: Uninstalling the Snap will only interrupt its communication with MetaMask, but the linked Sui account data remains intact. Reinstalling the same Snap will restore access to the account.

Summary

The compatibility issues between Sui network and MetaMask are no longer insurmountable. Through MetaMask Snaps technology, users can manage Sui assets and participate in network interactions within a familiar interface. For a more native experience, the above-mentioned dedicated wallets are ideal choices for deep integration into the Sui ecosystem.