ETCswap is the primary decentralized exchange on Ethereum Classic, offering token swaps, liquidity provision, and a token launchpad. This guide walks through connecting your wallet and executing your first trade.
Step 1: Configure MetaMask for ETC
Before using ETCswap, your wallet needs the Ethereum Classic network. In MetaMask, add a custom network with these settings:
- Network Name: Ethereum Classic
- RPC URL: https://etc.rivet.link
- Chain ID: 61
- Currency Symbol: ETC
- Block Explorer: https://etc.blockscout.com
Once added, switch to the Ethereum Classic network in MetaMask. You'll need ETC in your wallet for gas fees and trading.
Step 2: Visit ETCswap
Navigate to etcswap.org in your browser. The interface is available as both V2 and V3 versions. V2 is simpler for beginners. V3 offers concentrated liquidity for experienced LPs.
Step 3: Connect Your Wallet
Click the “Connect Wallet” button and select MetaMask. Approve the connection request in the MetaMask popup. The interface will display your ETC balance and connected address.
Step 4: Swap Tokens
Select the token you want to sell (e.g., ETC) and the token you want to buy (e.g., USC). Enter the amount. The interface will display:
- The estimated output amount
- Price impact (how much the trade moves the pool price)
- Minimum received (accounting for slippage tolerance)
- Network fee estimate
Step 5: Set Slippage Tolerance
Slippage tolerance defines the maximum acceptable price change between when you submit the swap and when it executes. The default is usually 0.5%. In volatile markets or for low-liquidity tokens, you may need to increase this. For stablecoin swaps, you can decrease it.
If your slippage is set too low, the transaction will revert (fail) but you'll still pay the gas fee. If set too high, you risk receiving a worse price from front-running.
Step 6: Review and Confirm
Click “Swap” to see the confirmation dialog with final details. If this is your first time swapping a particular token, you'll first need to approve ETCswap to spend that token. This is a one-time approval per token. After approval, confirm the swap in MetaMask.
ETCswap V2 vs V3
V2
Simpler interface. Full-range liquidity provision requires equal value of both tokens. Best for beginners and passive LPs who don't want to manage positions actively.
V3
Concentrated liquidity allows LPs to focus capital within specific price ranges, earning higher fees relative to capital deployed. Better capital efficiency but requires active management to keep positions in range.
Providing Liquidity
To become a liquidity provider, navigate to the “Pool” section. Select the token pair, deposit the required tokens, and confirm. On V2, you deposit equal value of both tokens. On V3, you also choose a price range.
LP positions earn a share of all trading fees in that pool. You can withdraw your liquidity at any time by redeeming your LP tokens (V2) or NFT position (V3).
ETCswap Launchpad
The Launchpad enables fair token launches using a bonding curve. New tokens start at a low price that increases as people buy. Once the bonding curve fills, the token “graduates” to a full V3 liquidity pool with the accumulated liquidity burned—meaning it can never be removed. This protects against rug pulls.
Tips for Safe Trading
- Always verify you're on the correct URL (etcswap.org)
- Double-check token addresses before trading unfamiliar tokens
- Start with small amounts to familiarize yourself with the interface
- Monitor your LP positions regularly, especially on V3