USDT networks: TRC20, ERC20 and TON
How USDT networks differ, what a transfer costs, why you must not mix networks up and how to send USDT to a wallet or exchange correctly.
USDT is issued on several blockchains at once. The token has the same value everywhere, but technically these are separate records on separate networks. You cannot move USDT from one network to another directly.
Main networks
| Network | Blockchain | Address starts with | Fee | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TRC20 | Tron | T | Usually about $1 or more | 1–3 minutes |
| ERC20 | Ethereum | 0x | From cents to a few $ | Depends on load |
| TON | The Open Network | UQ or EQ | Cents | Seconds |
Fees change with network load and the price of the network's token. The exchanger or exchange shows the exact amount at withdrawal.
Why the network matters
Addresses on different networks look different and are incompatible. If you send ERC20 USDT to an address expecting TRC20, the transfer will not reach the recipient, and recovery is often impossible.
Choosing a network
- TRC20 is supported by almost every exchanger and exchange and is the most common choice.
- ERC20 is needed for Ethereum apps.
- TON suits small transfers and is supported by the wallet in Telegram.
Network fees and gas
On Tron you pay fees in TRX, on Ethereum in ETH, on TON in TON. If you keep USDT in your own wallet, hold a little of the network token there, or you will not be able to send USDT.
In short
Pick the network the recipient supports. Copy the address from the wallet, check the network twice and test new routes with a small transfer.
Updated October 6, 2026