Dash Address Types Explained

Quick overview

Unlike Bitcoin and Litecoin, which have adopted newer SegWit address formats widely, Dash primarily sticks to the classic address types. This makes the ecosystem simpler for users, as there is less confusion about compatibility.

Today you will encounter two main types of addresses:

• Standard address
• Script address

Standard (P2PKH)

Addresses start with X.

P2PKH stands for Pay to Public Key Hash. This is the standard Dash address format used by almost everyone. Coins are locked to the hash of a public key.

Because Dash fees are structurally very low, the need for complex data-saving formats (like SegWit) has been less pressing than for Bitcoin. This format is supported by 100% of Dash wallets and exchanges.

Recommendation: Use this format for all standard transactions.

Script (P2SH)

Addresses start with 7.

P2SH stands for Pay to Script Hash. Funds are sent to the hash of a script rather than a direct public key.

This format is primarily used for multisignature wallets (where funds require keys from multiple people to move) or automated exchange deposit addresses.

Recommendation: You will likely only use this address type if you are generating a deposit address on an exchange or setting up a shared wallet. Sending DASH from a standard X address to a 7 address works perfectly fine.

Summary

Dash keeps things simple.

For most personal wallets and transfers, you will use Standard addresses (starting with D). They are universally compatible and reliable.

If you are interacting with complex services or multisig setups, you might encounter Script addresses (starting with 7).