How to bridge ETH from Ethereum to Arbitrum
Arbitrum is an Ethereum layer 2: the same ETH and the same addresses, but transactions cost a fraction of mainnet gas. Most people bridge to Arbitrum to use DeFi apps without paying mainnet fees for every action.
Step by step
- Open the Ethereum → Arbitrum route in xChange (it pre-selects ETH on both sides).
- Enter the amount you want to send. Quotes from several bridges appear within a few seconds.
- Compare the routes: amount received, estimated time and the fee breakdown.
- Connect your wallet and approve the transaction. Some tokens need a one-time approval first.
- Keep the page open until the transfer shows as completed, then check your balance on Arbitrum.
Tips
- Mainnet gas is the biggest cost of this route, so bridging a very small amount can cost more in gas than it is worth. Check the gas line in the quote.
- Your wallet address is the same on Arbitrum, so you can receive into the wallet you are using.
- Keep a little ETH on Arbitrum after bridging: you need it to pay gas there.
Bridges and smart contracts carry risk and transactions cannot be reversed. Start with a small test amount if you are new to this route.
FAQ
How long does it take to bridge ETH from Ethereum to Arbitrum?
Usually from under a minute to a few minutes, depending on the bridge you pick. Each quote shows its estimated time.
What fees do I pay?
Network gas on the sending chain, the bridge or DEX fee, LI.FI's 0.25% routing fee and xChange's 0.25% interface fee. All of them are shown in the quote before you confirm.
Does xChange hold my funds?
No. You sign every transaction in your own wallet; xChange never has access to your funds or keys.