PancakeSwap's V3 trading system employs an intelligent router that automatically sources liquidity from multiple pools to execute trades at the best available prices. Here's how you can optimize and customize your trading experience.
How PancakeSwap's Smart Router Works
By default, the smart router dynamically combines liquidity from:
- V3 pools
- V2 pools
- StableSwap pools (BNB Chain)
- AMM pools
- Market makers (BNB Chain and Ethereum)
This multi-source approach ensures traders always get optimal pricing. However, advanced users can customize which liquidity sources to use.
Viewing Transaction Fees
To check fees for your current trade:
- Locate the "Transaction Fee" section in trade details
- Review the "Swap Route" section to see which pool types and fee tiers are being used
- Click the magnifying glass icon to view the complete transaction path
Customizing Liquidity Sources
Access routing customization via:
- The "Customize Route" button below the route display
- The gear icon in the swap interface → "Customize Route"
Default settings enable all available liquidity sources. Important notes:
- AMM pools and market maker liquidity don't mix
- MM-executed trades bypass AMM pools entirely
- Use the "Reset" button (top-right) to restore default settings
Advanced Routing Preferences
Fine-tune your swap path by enabling/disabling:
Multi-Hop Swaps
- Enabled: Uses intermediate pools for better pricing
- Disabled: Restricts to direct swaps (may increase slippage)
Split Routes
- Enabled: Divides trade across multiple paths
- Disabled: Uses single route (may yield worse prices)
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Troubleshooting
If custom settings prevent trade execution:
- Click "Check Your Settings" to review routing
- Select "Reset to Default" for automatic optimization
FAQ
How does PancakeSwap determine the best route?
The algorithm evaluates all enabled liquidity sources, calculating the most cost-effective path based on current market conditions.
Can I permanently save my routing preferences?
Currently, settings apply per-session only. You'll need to reconfigure for each new trading session.
Why would I disable certain liquidity sources?
Some traders may prefer specific pool types for predictability, though this often results in worse pricing.
What happens if I disable both multi-hop and split routes?
Your trade will use the simplest possible path, typically resulting in higher slippage - we don't recommend this.
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Remember: Custom routing offers control but requires understanding of trade-offs. Beginners should start with default settings.