Basics · 9 min read
What is 1inch? A Beginner's Guide to the 1inch Network
How the 1inch DEX aggregator works, who built it, the Pathfinder routing engine, Fusion mode and the 1INCH token — explained for beginners.
Read more about What is 1inchIndependent guide · Updated 2026
What is 1inch? The ultimate guide to the leading DEX aggregator
1inch scans hundreds of decentralised exchanges in a single query, splits your order across the cheapest routes and settles it straight from your own wallet. This site explains how the 1inch exchange works, how to swap safely, what the 1INCH token does and how the 1inch affiliate program pays.
$0B+
Lifetime trading volume
approx.
0+
Supported blockchains
EVM networks
0+
Integrated liquidity sources
DEXs & market makers
0M+
Wallets served
since 2019
Figures are approximate, based on publicly reported network data, and change constantly.
Why use 1inch?
A DEX aggregator solves a simple problem: liquidity in DeFi is scattered across hundreds of pools, and no single one always has the best price.
Best available rates
The Pathfinder routing engine compares hundreds of pools and splits a single order across several of them so the effective price beats most single-DEX quotes.
Lower slippage
Splitting large orders across pools reduces price impact, and Fusion mode lets professional resolvers compete to fill your trade with MEV protection.
Multi-chain support
One familiar interface across Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Base and more, with the same routing logic on every network.
Security and audits
Non-custodial by design and repeatedly audited, with a public bug bounty. Your keys and your tokens never leave your wallet during a swap.
How 1inch works in three steps
- Step 01
Connect your wallet
Open the 1inch app, pick a network and connect MetaMask, Rabby, a hardware wallet or WalletConnect. Nothing is deposited — you stay in control.
- Step 02
1inch finds the best route
Pathfinder queries every integrated liquidity source and builds a split route, showing you the expected output, price impact and gas cost before you sign.
- Step 03
Swap at the best price
You approve the token (once per token) and confirm. The router executes the whole multi-hop route atomically in a single on-chain transaction.
Latest 1inch guides
Six in-depth articles covering everything from your first swap to staking the 1INCH token and earning referral commissions.
Tutorial · 10 min read
How to Use 1inch Exchange: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners
Connect a wallet, swap tokens, read the routing breakdown, place limit orders and use Fusion mode — with gas-saving tips at every step.
Read more about How to use 1inchToken · 9 min read
1inch Token (1INCH) Explained: Price, Staking, and Governance
1INCH tokenomics, supply and distribution, how to buy it, staking for resolver rewards, DAO governance and a no-hype look at price drivers.
Read more about 1inch tokenEarning · 10 min read
1inch Affiliate Program: How to Earn Crypto with 1inch Referrals
How 1inch referrals work, the referrer fee model, joining as a developer or creator, promotion channels, tracking, payouts and realistic earnings.
Read more about 1inch affiliate programComparison · 9 min read
1inch vs Uniswap vs PancakeSwap: Which DEX is Best in 2025?
A side-by-side comparison of fees, slippage, supported chains, liquidity depth and user experience across the three biggest names in DeFi swapping.
Read more about 1inch vs Uniswap vs PancakeSwapReview · 8 min read
1inch Wallet Review: Features, Security, and Setup Guide
An honest review of the 1inch mobile wallet: multi-chain support, built-in swaps, the Web3 browser, key management, audits and setup walkthrough.
Read more about 1inch wallet review1inch FAQ
1inch is a decentralised exchange (DEX) aggregator. Instead of trading on a single exchange, it scans hundreds of liquidity sources across multiple blockchains, splits your order across the cheapest routes and settles the trade from your own wallet.
Try a swap on 1inch
Connect a wallet you control, start with a small amount and compare the quote against a single DEX. Our step-by-step 1inch tutorial walks through every screen.
Visit 1inch