How To Swap Tokens? (2025)

Swapping tokens required dealing with different prices, extra steps, long wait times, and various fees on different networks (i.e., turning a simple trade into a hassle).

In this article, we’ll cover a better process of swapping tokens (step-by-step) and answer your most common questions about transaction times, fees, and even tax implications.

How do I swap tokens?

To swap tokens on MC² Finance Studio, browse over 18,000 tokens and click the cart icon to add your chosen tokens. Next, fund your purchase by either using your current BTC or ETH self-custodial wallet/s or adding funds through Aarc. For example, you may choose BTC or ETH as your payment method to swap for AVAX. After funding, review your purchase and hit “Confirm Trade” for a fast checkout; the platform automatically handles and optimizes the transaction across chains.

Key steps

✅ Step 1: Choose Your tokens

Open MC² Finance Studio, selects the tokens and amounts you wish to swap, and proceed to checkout.

✅ Step 2: Pick Your payment method

After selecting the tokens, choose between two different payment method:

1. Use the current wallet (Portfolio): Fund the purchase directly from their existing wallet, selecting the amount of tokens and crypto you want to use from your available balance.
2. Use external funding via Aarc: Add funds from external sources (e.g., credit cards or other wallets) before proceeding.

Example: You select your wallet containing BTC and ETH, specify the investment amount, and confirms BTC/ETH → AVAX as the payment method.

✅ Step 3: Review & confirm

After funding, review the purchase summary and click Confirm Trade to execute the swap with a single signature checkout.

✅ Step 4: Let the platform optimize your swap

MC² Finance automatically optimizes the transaction, identifying the most efficient route and executing the swap across chains instantly.

✅ Step 5: Receive Your AVAX

The swapped AVAX is directly deposited into the user’s Avalanche wallet (i.e., no manual bridging, no extra steps).

Final thoughts

Swapping tokens on MC² Finance Studio turns a typically complex process into a streamlined, user-friendly, “one-click-all-done” experience.

So what are you waiting for, head on over and try it out.

💡 Or read how we rate each token across more than 32 different data points

FAQs

How long does a crypto swap take?

Crypto swaps usually take just a few minutes, sometimes even seconds, thanks to fast, automated systems. If you’re swapping tokens on the same blockchain, it's almost instantaneous. However, cross-chain swaps might take a little longer (i.e., usually just a few extra minutes) because they require additional steps and confirmations. Overall, while most swaps are quick, occasional network delays can add a bit of waiting time.

How much does it cost to swap a token?

The cost of swapping a token depends on a few factors, like the network you're using and the current price of gas fees. On most blockchains, you'll pay a small fee for the transaction, which is usually a few dollars. If you're using a platform like Ethereum, fees can be higher during busy times ($1.10 up to $5.48). However, newer blockchains or platforms like MC² Finance are trying to make swaps cheaper by combining transactions to save on fees. So, while there are always costs, they can vary depending on the situation.

Is swapping tokens taxable?

Yes, swapping tokens is generally considered a taxable event. This means that when you trade one token for another, it's treated similarly to selling an asset, and any profit you make could be subject to taxes. Tax rules can vary depending on where you live, so it's a good idea to check your local regulations or consult with a tax professional to make sure you're handling everything correctly.

What is the cheapest way to swap on ETH?

The cheapest way to swap on ETH is by using MC² Finance Studio. This platform automatically aggregates liquidity and combines transactions, which helps minimize gas fees. It routes your swaps through the most cost-effective paths, ensuring you get the best prices with a simple, one-click checkout process.

Difference between buying and swapping tokens?

Buying tokens means you're purchasing a digital asset with the intent to hold it, usually with fiat currency (such as USD or EUR), or by exchanging another cryptocurrency. When you swap tokens, on the other hand, you're exchanging one cryptocurrency for another based on a pre-existing value—like trading Bitcoin for Ethereum. The main differences are in the process (buying usually involves a payment system, while swapping only involves other digital assets) and the intention (buying is for ownership, swapping is for quickly trading between assets).

Can you turn tokens into cash?

Yes, you can turn tokens into cash by selling them on an exchange or swapping them for stablecoins, which can then be converted to fiat and withdrawn to your bank account. The process is similar to selling any asset—once the sale is complete, you can easily access your funds.

‍