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Trouble accessing testnet de xes: get more usdc now

Troubles Mount for Testnet Dexes | Users Struggling with USDC on Base Sepolia

By

Gabriela Chen

May 21, 2025, 12:38 PM

Edited By

Omar Al-Farsi

2 minutes estimated to read

A person using a laptop to access decentralized exchanges like Uniswap and Sushi on Base Sepolia testnet, looking for help with RPC settings in MetaMask.
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A rising number of people are hitting roadblocks while attempting to transact with USDC on Base Sepolia. Many report difficulties using popular decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like Uniswap and SushiSwap on testnets, causing frustration and seeking answers.

Backing the claims, users have engaged actively on forums, sharing their experiences and attempting various solutions. One user stated they are having trouble even after setting the RPC in Metamask: "I can't seem to get Uniswap or Sushi to operate on any testnets."

Others indicate that the core issue may be related to the existence of the tokens on the testnet itself. One comment suggested, "Surely this is because those tokens donโ€™t exist on testnet? Why not mint a token and use that instead?" This points to a workaround, as minting a token could simplify testing ERC20 transfers.

Insufficient Resources or Misplaced Expectations?

Some users are finding themselves confused about the availability of certain contracts.

One happened to mention, "I also couldn't find contracts on explorers" This raises the question of whether the issue relates to an incomplete setup of the Base Sepolia testnet or misunderstandings concerning contract visibility.

Then thereโ€™s the takeaway on gas fees. Another user noted, "when I try swapping on Aerodrome, I get an insufficient gas error, when I have more than enough ETH."

Whatโ€™s Behind the Frustration?

The combination of these factors shows a pressing need for clearer resources and documentation from DEX platforms and network developers.

Key Observations:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Token Availability: Users question the existence of USDC and similar tokens on testnets.

  • ๐Ÿ” Contract Discovery: Users are struggling to locate necessary contracts on explorers.

  • โš ๏ธ Gas Issues: Reported insufficient gas errors, despite adequate ETH balance.

While some find solutions through minting options, many are left confused.

In a world where testing is meant to pave the way for innovation, why are fundamental resources still out of reach? The clock is ticking, and clarity is needed as the landscape of crypto continues to evolve.

Potential Shifts Amidst DEX Challenges

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that as more people voice their frustrations, DEX platforms and network developers will gather to address the issues surrounding token availability and contract discovery. With the growing urgency, experts estimate around a 70% probability that enhanced documentation and support will emerge in the next few months. This could involve clearer guidelines on setting up wallets like Metamask and strategies for easily minting testnet tokens. As developers adapt to users' needs, we may see a surge in compatibility improvements across various DEXes, encouraging more experimentation and innovation in decentralized finance.

Reflections from Past Innovations

In the early days of online banking, many faced confusion regarding electronic transactions, as the technology was new and support scarce. Similar to todayโ€™s situation with DEXes, these customers struggled with issues like account access and transaction visibility. Yet, over time, banks ramped up communication and user support, leading to a more accessible and user-friendly system. Just as that era paved the way for online financial services, the current challenges in the crypto space could catalyze a wave of enhancements that will ultimately lead to smoother operations for everyone in the ecosystem.