Starknet ID vs. Traditional Addresses: Which On-Chain Identity System Is Right for You?

Replace complex hexadecimal addresses with memorable .stark domains using this step-by-step comparison.

Juggling multiple 64-character addresses across different Starknet dApps can lead to transaction errors and a clunky workflow. The old way of managing addresses doesn't offer a unified identity and forces you to copy and paste long, forgettable strings for every interaction. This guide compares Starknet ID with standard wallet addresses to help you pick the best system for your activity on Starknet.

Simplified digital identity representation

Step 1: Evaluate Your Options

Standard Wallet Addresses

• Cost: Free to generate
• Memorability: None (long, 64-character strings)
• Error Rate: High, due to copying and pasting
• Cross-dApp Recognition: None
• Security: Basic address validation

Starknet ID

• Cost: A free NFT for your identity, plus domain registration fees (around 0.009 ETH for domains with 5+ characters)
• Memorability: High (easy-to-read .stark domains)
• Error Rate: Low, since names are easy to read
• Cross-dApp Recognition: Works across the entire Starknet ecosystem
• Security: An NFT-based identity that can be linked to your social media profiles for verification

Step 2: Calculate the Costs

What you'll need: ETH bridged to the Starknet mainnet. You can use services like Orbiter Finance or the official Starknet Bridge.

Standard Address Setup:

1. Deploy wallet: One-time gas fee
2. Total ongoing cost: $0

Starknet ID Setup:

1. Deploy wallet: One-time gas fee
2. Mint identity NFT: Free
3. Register .stark domain: 0.009 ETH (around $240-300) for names with 5+ characters

Step 3: Compare the Workflow

Making a Transaction:

• With a standard address: Copy address → Manually check 64 characters → Paste → Confirm
• With a Starknet ID: Type your domain name → It auto-resolves → Confirm

Avoiding Mistakes:

• Standard addresses require you to double-check every single character.
• With .stark domains, you can visually confirm the name is correct at a glance.

Streamlined transaction workflow

Step 4: Decide What You Need

Stick with a Standard Address if:

• Your budget is less than 0.009 ETH.
• You only make a few transactions per month.
• A consistent identity across dApps isn't a priority.

Go for a Starknet ID if:

• You're a regular user of multiple dApps on Starknet.
• You want to build a recognizable on-chain presence.
• Making sure your transactions are accurate is a top priority.
• You want to connect your social media accounts to your Web3 identity.

Step 5: How to Set Up Your Starknet ID

Getting started with Starknet ID is simple:

1. Bridge some ETH to Starknet.
2. Go to starknet.id.
3. Connect your Starknet wallet.
4. Mint your free identity NFT.
5. Register the .stark domain you want.
6. Link other data, like your social media profiles or ENS domains.

Final Check: Make sure your new .stark domain points to your wallet address correctly. You can test this on a few different Starknet dApps.

Is a Starknet ID Worth It?

For active Starknet users, a Starknet ID offers clear benefits in accuracy and recognition across the ecosystem. The one-time cost for a domain can quickly pay for itself by preventing costly errors and simplifying your workflow.

Get your Starknet ID and build a unified digital presence on Starknet.