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Bitcoin testnet

Test Bitcoin transactions safely using the Bitcoin testnet in Trezor Suite. The testnet is a separate version of the Bitcoin blockchain where you can practice transactions, test apps, and explore advanced Bitcoin features without risking real BTC. This guide covers how to get testnet coins, set up testnet accounts in Trezor Suite, and understand the transition from Testnet3 to Testnet4.

Trezor Suite supports Testnet4, the newest version of the Bitcoin testnet. Testnet3 remains available but has ongoing reliability issues.

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What is Bitcoin testnet?

Bitcoin Testnet is a version of the Bitcoin network where you can experiment with features and transactions without using real BTC. It is ideal for developers, educators, and anyone wanting to practice Bitcoin operations safely.

Why use the Bitcoin testnet?

You can use the Bitcoin testnet to:

  • Practice Bitcoin transactions, wallet recovery, and more advanced setups like multisig wallets without using real BTC.
  • Develop and test apps, scripts, and integrations safely.
  • Explore Bitcoin scripting features such as OP_RETURN and timelocks.

You can view your testnet transactions or check balances on a Testnet4 block explorer.

How to get Bitcoin testnet coins

You can get testnet coins from websites called faucets. These faucets send small amounts of testnet Bitcoin to your address for free.

Here are some active Testnet4 faucets (as of April 2025):

Faucet availability can change. If one site doesn’t work, try another or search for updated faucet links online.

Using Bitcoin testnet in Trezor Suite

Setting up a testnet account in Trezor Suite works just like adding a regular account:

Step 1: Press the plus (+) button on the left side of the screen to add an account.

Testnet1.png

Step 2: Select your desired testnet (e.g. Bitcoin Testnet) and click Find my testnet accounts.

Testnet2.png

Step 3: You can now use your testnet account like any other account in Trezor Suite.

Testnet3.png

Why the switch from Testnet3 to Testnet4?

Testnet4 is the current version of the Bitcoin testnet and is supported in Trezor Suite.

  • Testnet3 ran for over 13 years but became increasingly difficult to use due to low block rewards network disruption.
  • Testnet4 starts fresh and added protocol changes to mining make the network more resilient against exploits.

You can still use Testnet3 with Trezor Suite by setting up a custom blockbook and connecting to: https://tbtc1.trezor.io/

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