10 Best zk-Rollup Projects to Watch in 2026

I’ll talk about the Best zk-Rollup Projects to Watch in this post, emphasizing platforms that are revolutionizing Ethereum’s scalability.

These zk-rollups, which range from privacy-focused networks like Aztec and NFT-optimized platforms like Immutable zkEVM to high-speed, low-cost alternatives like StarkNet and zkSync Era, are propelling innovation and facilitating quicker transactions, reduced fees, and more robust ecosystem growth for both developers and consumers.

Benefits Of zk-Rollup Projects to Watch

Scalability – zk-Rollups boost scalability because thousands of transactions can be processed off-chain and only one single proof is posted to Ethereum, reducing congestion on the network.

Low Transaction Fees – Transaction gas fees are significantly lowered when they are batched because of zero-knowledge proof, making microtransactions possible.

Security – Using zero-knowledge proofs, Ethereum is capable of authenticating transactions, and therefore it is always decentralized.

Ethereum Compatibility – Several zk-rollups, like zkSync Era, Polygon zkEVM, and Scroll, are EVM-compatible, which means you can deploy your smart contracts and dApps that were created on Ethereum.

Fast Finality – Almost instant transaction confirmation is possible because of the off-chain computation and proof submission. This is desirable for users of decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and gaming industries.

Privacy Options – Ethereum zk-rollups, like the Aztec Network, allow users to protect their transaction data, while still verifying transactions.

Specialized Use Cases – Certain zkEVMs like Immutable and Loopring cater to NFTs, gaming, and payments.

Tools for Developers – Numerous zk-rollups provide advanced SDKs, bridges, and documentation, simplifying developer migration and integration.

Growth of the Ecosystem – zk-Rollups bring dApps, decentralized finance applications, and NFT projects, creating active communities and increasing the use of Ethereum.

Reduced Energy Consumption – With zk-rollups, less computational work is done on Ethereum, making them less energy-consuming than the work done on Layer 1 Ethereum.

Key Point & Best zk-Rollup Projects to Watch

Platform	Key Point
StarkNet	Uses STARK-based zk-rollups to enable high scalability and low-cost transactions while maintaining Ethereum security.
zkSync Era	EVM-compatible zk-rollup offering near-instant finality, low gas fees, and strong Ethereum ecosystem integration.
Polygon zkEVM	zk-rollup fully compatible with Ethereum smart contracts, focusing on scalability and minimal developer friction.
Scroll	Open-source zkEVM with Ethereum compatibility and fast transaction throughput using zero-knowledge proofs.
Linea (Consensys)	zkEVM solution from ConsenSys emphasizing security, scalability, and seamless integration with Ethereum dApps.
Immutable zkEVM	Layer 2 zk-rollup tailored for NFT projects, enabling gas-free minting and high-performance trading.
Aztec Network	Privacy-focused zk-rollup providing confidential transactions while leveraging Ethereum security and zk-SNARK technology.
Mina Protocol	Ultra-lightweight blockchain using recursive zk-SNARKs, keeping node size constant and enabling efficient verification.
Loopring	zk-rollup focused on decentralized exchange (DEX) and payments, providing low-cost, high-throughput transactions.

1. StarkNet

StarkNet uses zero knowledge (ZK) rollup technology to support a high volume of transactions and provide low cost transactions while keeping the security of the Ethereum blockchain. StarkNet uses a unique programming language called Cairo which allows developers to create scalable smart contracts.

StarkNet uses on-chain verification of STARK proofs to reduce gas fees and increase the economic viability of decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces, and blockchain-based gaming applications. In the Ethereum ecosystem, StarkNet is one of the most promising projects in the zk-rollup space and one of the most zk-rollup projects to watch.

StarkNet Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. zk-rollup for Ethereum scalability based on STARK technology.
2. Smart contracts can be written in Cairo.
3. Offers low fees and high volumes for transactions.
4. Good developer ecosystem.
5. Offers off-chain batching with on-chain verifications.

Pros:

• The use of STARK proofs ensures heightened security.
• Lower gas fees.
• Offers scalability for DeFi, NFTs, and gaming.
• The developer community is highly active.
• The security of Ethereum mainnet is provided.

Cons:

• Learning Cairo can be difficult.
• EVM-nativeness is limited.
• Some dApps will require adjustment during migrations.
• Adoption is slower in comparison to Polygon.
• Tooling is limited in comparison to less mature L2s.

2. zkSync Era

Designed to enable secure, fast, and inexpensive transactions, zkSync Era is an Ethereum-compatible zk-rollup solution. It is fully smart contracts and uses zero-knowledge proofs to validate off-chain transactions on Ethereum.

This approach achieves scalability while preserving decentralization. zkSync Era also offers developer toolkits, token bridges, and a convenient dApp migration tool from Ethereum.

With low gas fees and transactions that finalize in seconds, zkSync Era is a great candidate for DeFi, NFT minting, and payments. With growing adoption, zkSync Era is one of the top zk-rollup projects for large-scale Ethereum zk-rollup solutions.

zkSync Era Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. This platform is a zk-rollup and is EVM-compatible.
2. Smart contracts on Ethereum are supported.
3. Transactions are finalized in the near-instant range.
4. Users incur very low gas fees.
5. There are bridges for the transfer of assets.

Pros:

• The EVM support streamlines the process for developers.
• Transactions are speedy and inexpensive.
• There is a high level of integration with the DeFi ecosystem.
• The community is very active and there are frequent updates.
• There is high security with the use of zero-knowledge proofs.

Cons:

• Adoption is relatively low.
• Some features are still in beta.
• The tools available for NFTs are limited.
• Complex contracts will incur gas fees.
• The infrastructure of the platform is reliant on the Ethereum mainnet.

3. Polygon zkEVM

Polygon zkEVM is a Layer 2 scaling solution that integrates zk-rollups with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility. This means that developers can make changes to their Ethereum smart contracts and enjoy improved transaction throughput and reduced gas fees. Polygon zkEVM offers EVM compatibility for developers, meaning they can streamline their processes and accelerate deployment.

As such, and due to extensive backing from the Polygon ecosystem, EVM zk-rollups is among the top projects to watch for Polygon zk EVM. Polygon is expected to increase Ethereum scalability across the board for DeFi, gaming, and NFT platforms. Polygon zkEVM is among the top zk-rollup projects to watch for 2026.

Polygon ZkEVM Features, Pros & Cons

Features

1. EVM compatible ZK-Rollup

• High throughput and low transaction fees.
• Requires few adjustments for Ethereum smart contract integration.
• Supported by the Polygon ecosystem.
• Transactions are batched and processed off the blockchain.

Pros:

• Compatible with the entire Ethereum Virtual Machine.
• Simple for developers to migrate.
• Transactions for decentralized applications are inexpensive.
• Robust ecosystem and collaborations.
• Suitable for expansion in decentralized finance and gaming.

Cons:

• Rollout is still ongoing.
• Advanced smart contracts may require additional fees.
• Initial validator set is centralized.
• Significant dependence on the Ethereum mainnet.
• Network’s adoption is increasing, though still not widespread.

4. Scroll

Scroll is an open-source zkEVM network that prioritizes Ethereum EVM compatibility. It focuses on decentralization and security and uses off-chain zk proofs to lower gas fees and increase throughput. It allows developers to build on Ethereum’s ecosystem using zk-rollups without changes to the smart contract.

Developers can use the deployed smart contract to monitor and test dApps, and increase the Ethereum network’s throughput. Scroll’s community engagement and continuous updates has made it a top contender in zk-rollups. It is a reliable and efficient layer 2 solution to the dApps Ethereum ecosystem and scaled EVM compatible dApps.

Scroll Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. zkEVM network that is open-source.
2. Smart contracts compatible with Ethereum.
3. High throughput for transactions.
4. Validation is decentralized.
5. Developer resources for validation and testing.

Pros:

• Open-source, community-led initiative.
• Ethereum decentralized applications easily migrate.
• Transactions are fast, scalable, and reasonably priced.
• Decentralization and security are maintained.
• Development updates are still ongoing.

Cons:

• Adoption is in early stages.
• Advanced features are still being developed.
• Developer adjustments may be required for some features.
• Smaller community than Polygon and zkSync.

5. Linea (Consensys)

Linea is a zk-rollup developed by Consensys, providing scalability and security to Ethereum, while also supporting smart contracts that are EVM-compatible.

It uses zero-knowledge proofs to off-chain batch transactions and on-chain submit proofs allowing execution to be performed quickly and inexpensively. Linea prioritizes security at the enterprise level, offers easy-to-use developer tools, and easy-to-use Ethereum dApp integration.

The design allows projects to scale without the concerns of high gas costs and network congestion. With Ethereum compatibility, Linea offers a competitive advantage to DeFi, NFT, and gaming developers. With solid support and strong innovation on the tech side, Linea is one of the best zk-rollup projects to watch in the Ethereum Layer 2 space.

Linea (Consensys) Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. ConsenSys’ zk-rollup is compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
2. Transactions are inexpensive and fast.
3. Security that is enterprise-grade.
4. Integration with the Ethereum mainnet.
5. Resources for developers.

Pros:

• Backing from ConsenSys is robust.
• Scalable and secure.
• Deployment of smart contracts is simple.
• Supports enterprise and dApp projects.
• Gas fees are lower than L1.

Cons:

• Adoption is still early.
• The ecosystem is smaller than Polygon or StarkNet.
• Very limited support for NFTs.
• Some features are centralized.
• The documentation can be overly technical.

6. Immutable zkEVM

Immutable zkEVM is a zk-rollup designed specifically for NFTs and gaming, providing gas-free minting and quick transactions. It is compatible with Ethereum smart contracts and employs zero-knowledge proofs to ensure security and a decentralized structure.

It is purpose-built to improve NFT marketplaces and gaming ecosystems, lowering transaction costs and enhancing user experience.

The protocol offers sustained high throughput, supporting massive NFT drops and trading applications alongside bolstering the NFT sector. Immutable zkEVM has quickly garnered the support of developers and gamers, making it a top-tier candidate for zk-rollup projects targeting specialized scalable solutions for digital assets.

 Immutable zkEVM Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. Tailored for NFTs and gaming.
2. Users can mint for free.
3. Quick transaction speed.
4. Can use Ethereum smart contracts.
5. Secured by zero-knowledge proof.

Pros:

• Great support for the ecosystem for NFTs.
• Transaction fees are very low.
• The potential for gaming and collecting is huge.
• Documentation and dev tools are great.

Cons:

• There is not a lot of general DeFi support, just NFT and gaming.
• Smaller adoption outside of gaming.
• The ecosystem is still growing.
• For other assets you may have to bridge.
• Some more complex contracts may be more expensive.

7. Aztec Network

Aztec Network is a pioneering zk-rollup with an emphasis on Ethereum. By employing zk-SNARK technology, Aztec obfuscates transaction specifics while preserving on-chain verifications and security.

Users can conduct Ethereum secure and gas-optimized (due to zero-knowledge architecture, batching, and on-chain proof submissions) token transfers, smart contract interactions, and DeFi operations.

Aztec provides services to developers for dApps with privacy features. With the growing importance of privacy-centric features in blockchain, Aztec Network is position as a leading zk-rollup to enable private and secure transactions on Ethereum.

Aztec Network Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. zk-rollup focused on privacy.
2. Supports transactions that are private.
3. Uses zero-knowledge proofs (zk-SNARKs).
4. The security of Ethereum mainnet.
5. Tools for developers for privacy dApps.

Pros:

• Strong on privacy and confidentiality.
• Secure off-chain transaction batching.
• Supports private DeFi operations.
• Development for privacy is active.

Cons:

• Limited adoption for general dApps.
• There is a significant learning curve for the use of the privacy protocols.* NFT support is limited.
• Less community activity than mainstream L2s.
• Less compatible compared to some Ethereum tools.

8. Mina Protocol

Mina’s innovative use of zk-SNARKs allows it to maintain a constant chain size of a few kilobytes. This means the entire network can be verified quickly, ensuring the network is highly scalable and easily accessible to everyone. Mina’s smart contracts are called Snapps and use zero-knowledge proofs to ensure the safety and privacy of users.

Snapps can be used by anyone without requiring them to have top-end hardware, resulting in further network accessibility. Combining privacy, security, and the compactness of blockchain technology, Mina is a zk-rollup-adjacent project that shows the impressive potential zero-knowledge technology holds to improve blockchain efficiency and scalability.

Mina Protocol Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. Ultra lightweight blockchain.
2. Constant chain size via recursive zk-SNARKs.
3. Supports Snapps (smart contracts).
4. Fast node sync.
5. Low hardware requirements for validators.

Pros:

• Lightweight and scalable blockchain.
• Node participation is easy.
• zk-SNARKs enable efficient verification.
• Private smart contracts are supported.
• Low decentralization barrier.

Cons:

• Not completely EVM compatible.
• DeFi and NFT adoption are limited.
• Ecosystem is smaller than Ethereum L2s.
• Snapps introduces a learning curve.
• Developer tooling is limited.

9. Loopring

Loopring is a Layer 2 zk-rollup that is focused on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and payment systems. Using zk-rollup technology, Loopring can handle thousands of transactions off-chain, and then submit those transactions to Ethereum for security and proof.

Loopring has a user-friendly interface and aims to increase trading efficiency and lower fees. Loopring has payment, NFT minting, and decentralized application (dApp) support, and also uses zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technology for user verification.

Loopring is one of the best zk-rollup technologies for trading and payment services, and is a fantastic choice for users and developers looking for Ethereum-based trading and payment solutions that are both market-efficient and cost-efficient.

 Loopring Features, Pros & Cons

Features:

1. zk-rollup optimized for DEX and payments.
2. High trading throughput.
3. Low cost transaction.
4. Smart contract support on Ethereum.
5. NFT mint and trade.

Pros:

• Fast and efficient trading.
• Low gas fees.
• Payment solutions are scalable.
• Supports NFTs and DeFi.
• Ethereum security is maintained.

Cons:

• Focused on exchange and payment use cases.
• Less suitable for general purpose dApps.
• Developer ecosystem is smaller.
• Limited privacy innovations.
• Not fully EVM native for all dApps.

Conclusion

The advent of zk-rollups, which provide quicker, less expensive, and more secure transaction options, is revolutionizing Ethereum’s scalability. For DeFi and dApp developers, platforms such as StarkNet, zkSync Era, Polygon zkEVM, and Scroll are perfect since they offer high throughput and EVM compatibility.

Lightweight chains like Mina Protocol and privacy-focused alternatives like Aztec Network demonstrate how flexible zero-knowledge technology is. NFTs and decentralized exchanges are the focus of specialized platforms like Immutable zkEVM and Loopring, which optimize costs and user experience.

These initiatives, which are supported by robust ecosystems and cutting-edge technology, are the most potential zk-rollup options to keep an eye on as Ethereum’s acceptance and scaling continue to increase.

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