For many, the first step in entering the space is to buy USDT.

As a result, before even starting to invest, you may have already overspent several hundred or even thousands on the first order.

Many of these losses can actually be avoided.

Today's article will help you clarify—before buying USDT, newcomers must understand these 3 things.

1. Clarify the exchange rate differences, do not 'passively give money away.'

USDT is a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, 1 USDT ≈ 1 USD.

But this does not mean that when you buy with RMB, it is calculated according to the real-time USD exchange rate.

Many newcomers often encounter this situation:

  • The actual USD exchange rate is only 7.2.

  • The seller's quoted price is 7.5 or even 7.8.

  • Buying 1000 USDT at once can cost an extra 300-600 yuan.

Pitfall avoidance suggestions:

  • Check the real-time USD exchange rate first (you can use a regular financial information app).

  • Not only look at the total price, but also calculate the unit price of each USDT.

  • Avoid opaque private transactions to prevent price hikes.

2. Clarify the chain route, do not 'transfer incorrectly and lose everything.'

After buying USDT, many people will transfer it to a wallet or trading platform account.

The problem is that USDT has multiple versions (running on different blockchains):

  • TRC20 (Tron chain): low fees, fast speed.

  • ERC20 (Ethereum chain): high security, but expensive fees.

  • BEP20 (Binance chain), Polygon, etc.

If the chain name is inconsistent when you transfer, for example, if the other party gives you a TRC20 address but you choose ERC20, the coins may not reach the other party's account and may even be unrecoverable.

Pitfall avoidance suggestions:

  • Before collecting the coins, confirm that the chain name is consistent.

  • If unsure, test with a small amount first, then transfer a larger amount.

  • Newcomers are advised to prioritize TRC20 (lower fees, faster arrival).

3. Clarify the storage method, do not 'buy and leave it in someone else's account.'

Some newcomers buy USDT and leave it in the account of the platform where they purchased it.

It seems convenient, but the risk lies in:

  • If the private key of the asset is not in your hands, it is equivalent to 'someone else holding it for you.'

  • If the platform encounters risk control, technical failures, or other issues, withdrawals may be restricted.

Pitfall avoidance suggestions:

  • For long-term holding USDT, it is recommended to transfer it to your own wallet.

  • Hot wallets (mobile apps) and cold wallets (hardware) each have their advantages and disadvantages.

  • Mnemonic phrases must be saved offline, cannot be screenshot, and cannot be sent to others.

4. Additional reminder: do not ignore safety for the sake of cheapness.

Some people choose unknown platforms or trade with strangers to save on fees, thinking the price is lower.

However, once encountering counterfeit coins or fake pages, the losses may far exceed the fees.

Remember: security costs are always more important than saving small amounts.

Transparent exchange rates, correct chains, and secure storage are the three bottom lines for buying USDT.

Written at the end.

Before buying USDT, clarify these 3 things:

1️⃣ Is the exchange rate reasonable?

2️⃣ Is the chain route compatible?

3️⃣ Is the storage safe?

It may seem like it takes a few extra minutes, but it can save you thousands in 'tuition' in the future.

For beginners, the first order should not seek to buy a lot but to buy safely with a smooth process.

This way, you can take the next step with more peace of mind.