Contract Chain (C-Chain)
The C-Chain is an instance of the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). The Avalanche C-Chain network is available in most EVM compatible wallets, including Core, and is the most-commonly interacted with chain across various Avalanche Ecosystem dApps.
Exchange Chain (X-Chain)
The X-Chain is used for sending and receiving funds, however, it is not used for DeFi platforms. The format of this addresses begins with "X-avax".
Platform Chain (P-Chain)
The P-Chain is used for staking. If you are a validator or delegating to a validator, then the AVAX are staked and the rewards will be received on this chain. The format of this addresses begins with "P-avax".
For a more technical overview of the X, P, and C-Chains, please visit this developer documentation page.
NOTE: While most EVM wallets support the Avalanche C-Chain, the only wallet that supports the X and P-Chains of the Avalanche Primary Network is Core. To learn more about the Core wallets, please refer to this article.
For any additional questions, please view our other knowledge base articles or contact a support team member via the chat button. Examples are for illustrative purposes only.