TRC-10 vs. TRC-20: Which Token Standard Should You Choose? A Beginner's Guide to Creation

Curious about launching a token on the TRON network but confused about TRC-10 and TRC-20? While their names sound similar, they are fundamentally different. Think of one as a “simple piggy bank” and the other as a “smart safe deposit box.” This article breaks down their key differences and provides a step-by-step guide on how to easily create a versatile TRC-20 token—no coding required.

I. The Quick Choice: Which One is Right for You?

• Choose TRC-10: If you need a simple community point system, an airdrop, or a basic token where lowest cost and maximum speed are priorities, and you don’t require complex functions, then TRC-10 is sufficient.

• Choose TRC-20: If you want your token to be traded, integrated into DeFi (Decentralized Finance), listed on exchanges, or designed with future smart rules like staking or rewards, then TRC-20 is the standard. Major applications (like USDT-TRC20) use this format.

II. Core Differences: Simple Piggy Bank vs. Smart Safe Deposit Box

Here’s a helpful analogy:

The Bottom Line: TRC-10 wins on simplicity and cost. TRC-20 wins on functionality and ecosystem integration.

III. How to Create a TRC-20 Token (Do I Need to Code?)

Traditionally, creating a TRC-20 token requires:

1. Writing smart contract code (programming knowledge needed).

2. Extensive testing on a testnet.

3. Preparing TRX for mainnet deployment fees (Energy/Bandwidth).

4. Completing contract verification.

This creates a significant barrier for non-technical users. Fortunately, user-friendly solutions now exist.

IV. A Beginner-Friendly Solution: Using PandaTool for One-Click Creation

For creators, community builders, or small projects without a technical background, tools like PandaTool’s One-Click Token Creation significantly lower the barrier. It acts as a “token generator,” turning complex coding into simple form filling.

Key Advantages:

• No Coding Required: Operate entirely through a web interface.

• Visual Configuration: Set your token’s name, symbol, total supply, and features (like mintable/burnable) via a form.

• Automated Resource Handling: The tool estimates and manages resource consumption (paid in TRX); you simply confirm with your wallet.

• Rapid Deployment: Your custom TRC-20 token can be live on the TRON mainnet within minutes.

Simplified Process:

1. Navigate to PandaTool’s “One-Click Token Creation” page.

2. Connect Your Wallet: Link a TRON wallet like TronLink (Crucial: Never enter your private key or seed phrase on any website!).

3. Enter Token Details: Provide the desired token name (e.g., “My Community Coin”), symbol (e.g., “MCC”), total supply, decimals, etc.

4. Select Features (Optional): Choose advanced options like “mintable,” “burnable,” or “transaction fee.”

5. Review & Pay: Confirm all details, sign the transaction with your wallet, and pay the small deployment fee in TRX.

6. Done! Wait for blockchain confirmation. Your token and its contract address are now active. You can verify it on a TRON blockchain explorer.

V. Essential Security Tips & Best Practices

When using any third-party tool, security is paramount. Please remember:

1. Trust, but Verify: Prioritize tools like PandaTool that use open-source, auditable smart contract templates. After deployment, verify the contract source code on a TRON explorer for transparency.

2. Never Share Private Keys: The process only requires transaction signatures from your wallet. You should never input your private key or seed phrase. Any site requesting this is a scam.

3. Test First, Deploy Later: If available, always run a complete trial on the Shasta Testnet to familiarize yourself with the process and test token functions.

4. Understand Permissions: Pay attention to “admin rights” during setup. Decide if you need to retain the ability to modify rules. To build community trust, many projects renounce ownership after deployment.

5. Compliance is Key: Before launching a token, understand the legal and regulatory landscape in your jurisdiction. Clearly define the token’s purpose to avoid potential legal issues.

Conclusion

Choosing between TRC-10 and TRC-20 depends on your vision for the token. TRC-10 works for small-scale experiments, while TRC-20 is essential for projects aiming for real-world utility and liquidity.

Today, tools like PandaTool have lowered the technical barriers, empowering anyone to securely and efficiently bring their token ideas to life. Unleash your creativity and start by launching your very first TRC-20 token!