If you hold USDT TRC20 tokens and need to convert them to ERC20, this guide provides a clear, step-by-step process. Understanding the differences between these standards is crucial for seamless conversions.
Understanding TRC20 vs. ERC20: Key Differences
ERC-20 and TRC-20 are token standards on different blockchains:
- ERC-20: Ethereum’s standard, ensuring compatibility with wallets/exchanges in the Ethereum ecosystem.
- TRC-20: TRON’s standard, optimized for faster transactions and lower fees compared to Ethereum.
| Feature | ERC-20 (Ethereum) | TRC-20 (TRON) |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction Speed | Slower (~15 sec–minutes) | Faster (~1–3 seconds) |
| Fees | Higher (gas fees in ETH) | Lower (paid in TRX) |
| Use Cases | Smart contracts, DeFi | High-throughput apps |
How to Identify Your USDT Network
Follow these steps to determine if your USDT is TRC20 or ERC20:
- Check Wallet/Exchange: Look for network labels (e.g., "TRON" or "Ethereum").
Token Address: Search the address on:
- Etherscan.io (ERC20)
- Tronscan.org (TRC20)
- Transaction Fees: ETH fees = ERC20; TRX fees = TRC20.
- Speed/Cost: Fast/cheap transactions suggest TRC20.
Step-by-Step Conversion: TRC20 to ERC20
Prerequisites
- TRX tokens for TRON network fees.
- A wallet supporting both networks (e.g., Trust Wallet).
- Acceptable loss due to gas fees (~10–20% of swapped amount).
Conversion Steps Using SimpleSwap
Visit SimpleSwap.io:
- Select USDT TRC20 as "You send."
- Choose USDT ERC20 as "You get."
- Enter the amount and check the estimated output.
Enter Wallet Details:
- Provide your ERC20 wallet address (destination).
- Add a TRC20 refund address and email (for contingencies).
Initiate Exchange:
- Click Create an exchange.
- Copy the deposit address shown on SimpleSwap.
Send USDT TRC20:
- Paste the deposit address into your wallet (e.g., Trust Wallet).
- Confirm the transaction, including network fees.
Track Progress:
- Monitor via TronScan (TRC20) or Etherscan (ERC20).
- Wait for completion (5 minutes to several hours).
👉 Stuck? Explore troubleshooting tips
FAQs
1. Why is my converted amount less than expected?
Gas fees and exchange rates reduce the final ERC20 amount. Always check the estimated output before confirming.
2. How long does the swap take?
Typically 10 minutes to a few hours, depending on network congestion.
3. Can I cancel a swap after initiating it?
No. Transactions are irreversible once confirmed on the blockchain.
4. What if I enter the wrong wallet address?
Funds may be lost. Double-check addresses before submitting.
5. Which network is cheaper for USDT transfers?
TRC20 costs less (~$0.01–$0.10) vs. ERC20 (~$1–$20 during peak times).
6. Do I need KYC for SimpleSwap?
No. Decentralized exchanges like SimpleSwap don’t require identity verification.
By following this guide, you can efficiently bridge USDT between TRON and Ethereum networks. Always verify addresses and network compatibility to avoid errors. For secure swaps, use trusted platforms and keep small amounts of native tokens (TRX/ETH) for fees.