BRC-20 is an experimental token standard designed for issuing fungible tokens on the Bitcoin blockchain. Unlike Ethereum’s ERC-20, which relies on smart contracts, BRC-20 leverages the Ordinals protocol to embed token data directly into Bitcoin’s blockchain using JSON-formatted inscriptions. This innovative approach enables developers and users to mint, transfer, and trade tokens without requiring a separate smart contract layer.
While Bitcoin was originally built for peer-to-peer transactions, the emergence of Ordinals has unlocked new possibilities—NFTs, digital artifacts, and now fungible tokens like BRC-20. As interest grows, platforms such as OKX have integrated support for BRC-20 tokens, making it easier than ever to buy, sell, and manage these digital assets.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete process of buying and selling BRC-20 tokens using the OKX app, explain key concepts, and address common questions to help you navigate this evolving ecosystem confidently.
Understanding BRC-20 and the Ordinals Protocol
Before diving into transactions, it’s essential to understand how BRC-20 works. Since Bitcoin does not support traditional smart contracts, BRC-20 tokens are created and managed through inscriptions—pieces of data (like JSON) inscribed onto individual satoshis (the smallest unit of Bitcoin).
The Ordinals protocol assigns a unique identity to each satoshi, allowing users to attach metadata such as text, images, or code. When used for BRC-20, this metadata defines token properties like symbol, supply, and minting rules.
This method makes BRC-20 tokens fully on-chain and secured by Bitcoin’s robust network, but also introduces complexity in handling transfers and trades—especially since not all wallets or marketplaces support them yet.
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How to Sell BRC-20 Tokens on OKX Ordinals Marketplace
Selling your BRC-20 tokens on OKX is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open the OKX App and Access Wallet
Launch the OKX app and navigate to the Wallet section. This is where your digital assets, including Bitcoin and inscribed satoshis, are stored.
Step 2: Go to the Ordinals Marketplace
From the Wallet dashboard, select Market and then choose Ordinals. This will take you to the dedicated marketplace for Bitcoin-based inscriptions, including BRC-20 tokens.
You’ll now be on the “Ordinals Market” page, where available inscriptions and listings are displayed.
Step 3: Select Your BRC-20 Token
Browse the BRC-20 section and locate the token you wish to sell. Once found, tap List for Sale.
If you don’t currently hold any eligible assets, you can choose “Inscribe Transfer” to prepare your token for sale.
Step 4: Inscribe and Confirm Transfer (If Needed)
Enter the amount you want to inscribe for transfer. Tap Next, review all details carefully, and confirm the action. This step ensures your token is properly inscribed and ready for listing.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation
After initiating the inscription, wait until it reaches 3 block confirmations. This ensures network validation and prevents double-spending risks.
Once confirmed, return to the marketplace and tap List for Sale again.
Step 6: Set Your Price and Finalize Listing
In the Set Price field, enter your desired price in BTC or USD (depending on interface settings). Then tap List.
Double-check all information—including token amount, price, and inscription ID—and tap Confirm Listing to publish your offer.
Your token is now live on the marketplace and visible to potential buyers.
How to Buy BRC-20 Tokens on OKX Ordinals Marketplace
Buying BRC-20 tokens is just as simple. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Launch OKX and Go to Wallet
Open the OKX app, go to Wallet, then select Market > Ordinals to access the marketplace.
Step 2: Find the Desired BRC-20 Token
Navigate to the BRC-20 section and browse available tokens. You can filter by name, price, or recent activity.
Step 3: Choose Quantity and Initiate Purchase
Select the inscription (token unit) you want to buy based on quantity and listed price. Tap Buy to proceed.
This action opens a confirmation screen showing total cost and transaction details.
Step 4: Select Payment Wallet
Under Pay with, choose the wallet you want to use for the purchase. Ensure it contains sufficient balance in BTC to cover both the token price and network fees.
Only wallets that support Ordinals transactions can be used for BRC-20 purchases.
Step 5: Confirm the Transaction
Review all details one final time. If everything looks correct, tap Confirm to complete the purchase.
Once confirmed, the BRC-20 token will be transferred to your wallet as an inscribed satoshi. It may take a few minutes to appear depending on network congestion.
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Key Considerations When Trading BRC-20 Tokens
While BRC-20 offers exciting opportunities, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Network Fees: Bitcoin transaction fees can be high during peak times. Always check current rates before inscribing or trading.
- Irreversible Transactions: Like all blockchain operations, BRC-20 transfers cannot be reversed. Double-check recipient addresses and inscription IDs.
- Wallet Compatibility: Not all Bitcoin wallets support BRC-20 or Ordinals. Use trusted platforms like OKX that offer full functionality.
- Token Verification: Since BRC-20 is experimental, some tokens may lack audits or community trust. Research projects before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between BRC-20 and ERC-20?
BRC-20 tokens operate on the Bitcoin blockchain using the Ordinals protocol and JSON-based inscriptions, while ERC-20 tokens run on Ethereum and rely on smart contracts. BRC-20 lacks native programmability but benefits from Bitcoin’s security.
Can I mint my own BRC-20 tokens?
Yes, developers can create new BRC-20 tokens by defining a deployment inscription with parameters like ticker symbol and maximum supply. However, minting requires technical knowledge of Bitcoin scripting and Ordinals.
Are BRC-20 transactions expensive?
Transaction costs depend on Bitcoin network congestion. Because BRC-20 uses on-chain data storage (inscriptions), fees can be higher than standard BTC transfers due to larger data size.
Is OKX safe for trading BRC-20 tokens?
OKX is a regulated cryptocurrency exchange with advanced security measures, including cold storage and two-factor authentication. Its native support for Ordinals makes it one of the safest platforms for trading BRC-20 tokens.
How do I check if my wallet supports BRC-20?
Only wallets that support the Ordinals protocol can handle BRC-20 tokens. Check your wallet’s documentation or try importing a test inscription. OKX Wallet provides built-in support.
Can I transfer BRC-20 tokens to any Bitcoin address?
No. Transfers must go to Ordinals-compatible wallets. Sending an inscribed satoshi to a non-supporting wallet may result in permanent loss of access.
Final Thoughts
The rise of BRC-20 represents a significant evolution in how we think about fungible assets on Bitcoin. By combining simplicity with blockchain immutability, it opens new doors for creators, collectors, and traders alike.
Whether you're listing your first token or purchasing a rare BRC-20 asset, platforms like OKX streamline the experience with intuitive tools and secure infrastructure.
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With careful attention to detail and awareness of network dynamics, anyone can participate in this innovative space safely and effectively. Stay informed, verify every step, and embrace the future of decentralized digital ownership on Bitcoin.