What is a cross-chain swap (in plain English)?
How moving value between blockchains works, why routes differ, and what to look for before you confirm a transaction.
A cross-chain swap is when you trade or move crypto from one blockchain to another — for example, turning Bitcoin into Solana tokens or moving Ethereum assets to a different network. Unlike a simple trade on one chain, the process usually involves liquidity pools, bridges, or routing protocols that connect networks.
Routes can look different from one provider to the next: fees, wait times, and the exact steps you sign in your wallet may change. Retail-friendly tools show you those options side by side so you can pick what fits your priorities, whether that is speed, cost, or simplicity.
Non-custodial means the app never takes custody of your funds. You connect a wallet, review quotes, and approve transactions yourself. Always read what your wallet displays and only proceed when the destination and amounts match what you expect.