In this article, I will discuss the fastest blockchain cryptos, exploring the key platforms known for their high transaction speeds and scalability.
As blockchain technology continues to evolve, speed has become a critical factor for various applications such as decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and cross-border payments. Let’s take a closer look at the fastest blockchain networks in the crypto space.
Key Points & Fastest Blockchain Crypto List
| Blockchain | Key Features | Transaction Speed | Consensus Mechanism | Platform Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solana (SOL) | High throughput, low fees, fast processing, supports smart contracts and decentralized apps (dApps) | 65,000+ TPS | Proof of History (PoH) + Proof of Stake (PoS) | DeFi, dApps, NFTs |
| Avalanche (AVAX) | High scalability, low-latency consensus, subnets for customizable blockchains | 4,500+ TPS | Avalanche Consensus | DeFi, NFTs, Enterprise Solutions |
| Polygon (MATIC) | Ethereum scaling solution, sidechain technology, low fees, high-speed transactions | 7,000+ TPS | Proof of Stake (PoS) | Ethereum scaling, DeFi |
| Fantom (FTM) | Fast, scalable, decentralized, supports dApps, DeFi, NFTs | 25,000+ TPS | Lachesis (aBFT) | DeFi, dApps, NFTs |
| Binance Smart Chain (BSC) | Fast, low-fee blockchain, integrated with Binance ecosystem, supports smart contracts | 100+ TPS | Proof of Staked Authority (PoSA) | DeFi, NFTs, dApps |
| Algorand (ALGO) | Fast finality, scalable, secure, supports dApps and smart contracts | 1,000+ TPS | Pure Proof of Stake (PPoS) | DeFi, dApps, Asset Tokenization |
| EOS (EOS) | High scalability, fast transaction processing, low transaction fees, supports smart contracts | 4,000+ TPS | Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) | dApps, Enterprise Solutions |
| Near Protocol (NEAR) | Developer-friendly, sharding, low fees, fast processing, cross-chain interoperability | 100,000+ TPS | Nightshade (Sharding) + PoS | dApps, DeFi, NFTs |
| Cardano (ADA) | Focus on security and scalability, peer-reviewed research, supports smart contracts | 250+ TPS | Ouroboros PoS | DeFi, NFTs, dApps |
| Tezos (XTZ) | Self-amending blockchain, energy-efficient, low transaction fees | 50+ TPS | Liquid Proof of Stake (LPoS) | dApps, Smart Contracts |
| Polkadot (DOT) | Multi-chain interoperability, high scalability, supports parachains | 1,000+ TPS | Nominated Proof of Stake (NPoS) | Cross-chain, DeFi, NFTs |
| Hedera Hashgraph (HBAR) | Fast, secure, low-fee, uses hashgraph consensus for high throughput | 10,000+ TPS | Hashgraph Consensus | Enterprise Solutions, dApps |
| Zilliqa (ZIL) | Sharded blockchain, high scalability, fast processing speed | 2,800+ TPS | Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) | DeFi, dApps, NFTs |
| Harmony (ONE) | Sharding for scalability, low fees, fast transaction finality | 2,000+ TPS | Effective Proof of Stake (EPoS) | DeFi, NFTs, dApps |
| Elrond (EGLD) | High scalability, secure, supports smart contracts, low fees | 15,000+ TPS | Secure Proof of Stake (SPoS) | DeFi, NFTs, dApps |
| Tron (TRX) | High throughput, low fees, decentralized content-sharing, supports smart contracts | 2,000+ TPS | Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) | DeFi, dApps, Content Creation |
| Ripple (XRP) | Fast, low-fee cross-border payments, focus on financial institutions | 1,500+ TPS | Ripple Consensus Protocol (RCP) | Payments, Enterprise Solutions |
| XDC Network (XDC) | Hybrid blockchain, focused on enterprise adoption, low-cost, scalable | 2,000+ TPS | Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) | Enterprise Solutions, Trade Finance |
| Celo (CELO) | Focus on mobile-first solutions, low fees, supports stablecoins | 100+ TPS | Proof of Stake (PoS) | Mobile payments, DeFi, Stablecoins |
| Cosmos (ATOM) | Interoperable, scalable, cross-chain communication, modular design | 10,000+ TPS | Tendermint BFT | Cross-chain, DeFi, Interoperability |
20 Fastest Blockchain Crypto
1.Solana (SOL)
Solana (SOL) ranks on top of the fastest blockchain crypto-currencies. Their fees are also low alongside the high throughput.
A concurrent combination of Proof of History (PoH) and Proof of Stake (PoS) gives them the network’s scale needed for fast transaction processing. Solana is capable of processing more than 65,000 TPS which is great for dApps, DeFi, and NFTs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (65,000+ TPS) | Relatively less decentralization |
| Low transaction fees | Occasional network outages |
| Scalable platform for dApps and DeFi | Complicated network upgrades |
2.Avalanche (AVAX)
Avalanche (AVAX) is a fast blockchain usually associated with speedy transaction finality and low latency. It leverages a mechanism of consensus called Avalanche Consensus which is capable of handling 4500 TPS.
This scalability and low cost makes Avalanche well-suited for DeFi, NFTs and enterprise solutions and positioning it among the fastest platforms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (4,500+ TPS) | Requires significant hardware for validators |
| Low transaction fees | Limited adoption compared to Ethereum |
| Scalable with subnets for customization | Complex for new users and developers |
3.Polygon (MATIC)
Polygon (MATIC) is an efficient and quick layer-two solution for the blockchain. While packing sidechains, layer-2 solutions, and crosschain operations for high transactions, its TPS is over 7000.
Polygon facilitates easy construction of dApps, many Defi protocols, and NFTs, all of which run faster than the base layer of Ethereum without sacrificing security and decentralization.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ethereum scalability through Layer 2 | Dependent on Ethereum’s success |
| Low transaction costs and fast finality | Centralized validator set |
| Strong ecosystem with dApp and DeFi support | Occasional network congestion during peak usage |
4.Fantom (FTM)
Fantom (FTM) is a blockchain that rarely disappoints when it comes to speed and scalability. Thanks to the Lachesis consensus protocol, Fantom boasts of being able to offer in excess of 25,000 transactions per second (TPS).
This technically makes it one of the fastest networks around. With low costs on transaction and time needed for them to be finalized, Fantom comes across as being very appealing in the world of decentralized finance, NFTs or dApp development. It is simply a superior choice when compared to conventional blockchains.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (25,000+ TPS) | Less adoption compared to major blockchains |
| Low transaction fees | Limited developer community |
| Supports decentralized finance (DeFi) | Centralized validators could impact decentralization |
5.Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
The Binance Smart Chain (BSC) is a decentralized blockchain that is efficient and inexpensive, meant for the digital application and transaction of assets.
BSC is now considered to be among the faster blockchains, as it is able to handle over 100 transactions per second, thanks to its Proof of Staked Authority (PoSA) consensus mechanism.
Thank about BSC as a functioning multi-chain network for DeFi, NFTs and dApps where Fast Finality, low fees and scaling is made possible.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast transaction speed (100+ TPS) | High centralization due to validator structure |
| Low transaction fees | Network congestion during high demand |
| Strong ecosystem with DeFi and NFT support | Limited interoperability with other blockchains |
6.Algorand (ALGO)
Algorand (ALGO) is a next-generation blockchain created for efficiency and security. The Pure Proof of Stake (PPoS) consensus mechanism allows for more than 1,000 transactions per second (TPS) with instant finality.
Algorand has expensive and quick transactions which makes it suitable for a variety of decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi, and tokenized assets, making it one of the fastest blockchain networks in the industry.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed with instant finality | Limited adoption in the DeFi ecosystem |
| Secure and energy-efficient Proof of Stake (PoS) | Lower developer activity compared to competitors |
| Scalable platform for dApps and enterprise use | Limited interoperability with other blockchains |
7.EOS (EOS)
EOS (EOS) is a blockchain which has been created with the focus of high efficiency and scalability thanks to high speed transactions.
The Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) allows EOS to achieve over 4000 TPS (Transactions Per Second), thus enabling low-cost transactions with speedy transaction confirmation.
It’s suitable for Dapps and smart contracts as well as enterprise applications, being one of the fastest and most optimal blockchain ecosystems.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High scalability with thousands of transactions per second (TPS) | Centralized block producers limit decentralization |
| Free transactions for users | Controversial governance and decision-making model |
| Strong focus on dApps and enterprise adoption | Lower adoption in comparison to Ethereum and other platforms |
8.Near Protocol (NEAR)
The Near Protocol also called NEAR (NEAR)’s unique sharding and Nightshade consensus algorithm allows it to reach a throughput of more than 100 000 TPS.
NEAR’s fast and scalable architecture, low transaction fees, and fast transaction finality make it suitable for dApps, DeFi, and cross-chain solutions.
NEAR is indeed one of the most advanced and fastest performing blocks out there which puts it in great competition among other protocols.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High scalability with sharding technology | Less developer adoption compared to Ethereum |
| Fast transaction finality and low fees | Relatively newer blockchain with fewer dApps |
| Strong focus on user-friendly developer tools | Centralized validators could affect decentralization |
9.Cardano (ADA)
Cardano (ADA) is a fast and secure blockchain and is also very scalable and sustainable. With the Ouroboros Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism
Cardano has fast transaction speeds of several hundred transactions per second (TPS). Cardano boasts of an energy-efficient approach to dApps, DeFi and asset tokenization, owing to its emphasis on research-based development and the capability of smart contracts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Energy-efficient Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus | Slow development due to rigorous research approach |
| Strong focus on security and scalability | Limited smart contract capabilities initially |
| Peer-reviewed, research-driven approach | Lower transaction speed compared to competitors |
10.Tezos (XTZ)
Tezos (XTZ) is a highly secure and fast Self-amending scalable blockchain targeted at bringing the highest level of scalability and decentralization to its users. As a blockchain layer that implement’s LPoS consensus, Tezos enables swift transactions across the network without sacrificing decentralization.
Due to its low costs and high capacities for processing transactions, it is suitable for decentralized applications, smart contracts, and assets. Another distinguishing factor about Tezos is token governance model and frequent network improvements.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Self-amending blockchain with on-chain governance | Low transaction throughput compared to others |
| Energy-efficient Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus | Adoption and ecosystem still growing |
| Strong focus on formal verification for security | Limited support for complex smart contracts |
11.Polkadot (DOT)
Polkadot (DOT) is a fast multi chain cryptosystem which incorporates a Consensus Layer and diverse networks into its blockchain creating a chain of chains.
It utilizes a parallel thread architecture, facilitating rapid transaction speed and low latency. Polkadot is arguably one of the fastest platforms and allows for efficient inter-blockchain communication which is suitable for dApps, DeFi, and blockchain-integrated applications in general.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Interoperability between different blockchains | Complex network structure for developers |
| High scalability with parachains | Slower adoption compared to other networks |
| Strong governance model with decentralized control | Limited smart contract functionality initially |
12.Hedera Hashgraph (HBAR)
Hedera Hashgraph (HBAR) as a very fast and secure blockchain alternative, features a distinct hashing consensus algorithm. With more than 10,000 transactions per second (TPS) and quick finality, Hedera guarantees affordable and scalable transactions.
Thanks to its novel technology, it is suited for business solutions, decentralized applications (dApps), as well as efficient and secure digital transactions making it one of the fastest blockchain platforms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed with low latency | Centralized governance by the Hedera council |
| Energy-efficient and secure consensus mechanism | Less developer adoption compared to blockchains |
| Scalable and capable of handling enterprise-level applications | Limited compatibility with other blockchains |
13.Zilliqa (ZIL)
Zilliqa (ZIL) is a sharding-architecture based high-speed blockchain addressing the scalability trilemma of blockchains. With 2800 transactions per second (TPS) potential, quick and nearly free transaction finality is attainable.
Its structure serves best for decentralized apps, DeFi, and tokenized assets making Zilliqa one of the fastest blockchains networks with different applications and high volume.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High scalability with sharding technology | Lower adoption compared to Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain |
| Fast transaction speeds (2,800 TPS) | Relatively small ecosystem and dApp support |
| Low transaction fees | Limited smart contract language flexibility |
14.Harmony (ONE)
Harmony (ONE) is a fast and scalable blockchain that uses sharding to enhance transaction speed and efficiency. With the ability to process up to 2,000 transactions per second (TPS), Harmony offers low-cost, fast transactions and near-instant finality.
Its ecosystem supports decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi, and cross-chain interoperability, making it one of the fastest blockchain platforms for high-performance use cases.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (2,000+ TPS) | Limited ecosystem compared to larger blockchains |
| Low transaction fees | Security concerns related to validators and centralization |
| Cross-chain compatibility with Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain | Fewer decentralized applications (dApps) |
15.Elrond (EGLD)
Elrond (EGLD) is a blockchain that’s easily recognized for its speed and scalability. Due to its hybrid consensus mechanism known as Secure Proof of Stake (SPoS)
Elrond now processes more than 15,000 transactions per second (TPS). With low fees and rapid finality, it is well-suited for dApps, DeFi, and enterprise solutions placing Elrond among the fastest blockchain platforms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (15,000+ TPS) | Centralized validator set affecting decentralization |
| Low transaction fees | Limited adoption in DeFi compared to Ethereum |
| Scalable with Secure Proof of Stake (SPoS) | Complex for new users and developers |
16.Tron (TRX)
Tron (TRX) is one of the fast and scalable blockchains with the ability to achieve low transaction costs. Tron can process more than 2,000 transactions per second (TPS), which means that transactions can be included and confirmed quickly.
The blockchain employs a decentralized structure that provides dApps, DeFi, and content sharing which is best for both builders and users who want a blockchain with inexpensive and efficient transactions and good speed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed (2,000+ TPS) | Centralized governance model |
| Low transaction fees | Limited DeFi ecosystem compared to Ethereum |
| Strong focus on content sharing and dApps | Less decentralization in the network |
17.Ripple (XRP)
Ripple (XRP) is a revolutionary blockchain that was created to execute low-cost cross-border payments and transactions quickly. XRP processes more than 1,500 transactions within seconds, which guarantees inexpensive transaction fees and quick transaction finalization.
Its consensus method guarantees decentralization as well as security which makes it good for financial institutions and payment service providers. According to the text, Ripple has one of the fastest transaction systems with its blockchain technology.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast cross-border payments with low fees | Centralized control due to Ripple Labs’ influence |
| High transaction throughput (1,500+ TPS) | Regulatory uncertainties with the SEC lawsuit |
| Strong partnerships with financial institutions | Limited adoption in decentralized finance (DeFi) |
18.XDC Network (XDC)
XDC Network (XDC) is an efficient and practical blockchain designed to meet enterprise requirements and serve cross-border transactions. XDC boasts internet-like speeds of up to 2000 Tps with low fees and quick finality.
As a proof of stake (DPoS) network, XDC also allows the easy creation and management of smart contracts and tokenized assets, perfectly positioning it for trade finance and dApps.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High transaction speed and low fees | Limited adoption compared to larger blockchains |
| Focus on enterprise solutions and trade finance | Smaller ecosystem and fewer decentralized applications |
| Interoperable with Ethereum and other blockchains | Relatively centralized governance structure |
19.Celo (CELO)
Celo (CELO) is a mobile-focused and scalable blockchain. Celo has it low transaction fees and fast finality. Celo allows safe and incentives payments, has stablecoins, and supports dApps.
Celo’s PoS makes it scalable which makes Celo good for mobile payments and serving in the regions where there is no access to such services.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mobile-first blockchain for financial inclusion | Limited ecosystem compared to larger blockchains |
| Fast and low-cost transactions | Centralized governance model |
| Supports stablecoins for seamless payments | Less adoption in DeFi and smart contracts |
20.Cosmos (ATOM)
Cosmos (ATOM) is a scalable inter-blockchain network powered by the scalability of its Tendermint consensus algorithm that enables the protocol to process thousands of transactions per second.
The low fees are another advantage of fast finality provided by the adoption of the algorithm. Thanks to the emergence of Cosmos,
The Protocol is positioning itself for significant growth in demand for dApps, DeFi applications, and building cross-chain blockchain networks. This makes Cosmos one of the fastest Blockchain dApp development and deFi development platform in the space.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Interoperability between different blockchains | Less adoption compared to Ethereum and Solana |
| High scalability with Tendermint consensus | Complexity in setting up cross-chain solutions |
| Focus on developer-friendly tools | Limited dApp ecosystem compared to competitors |
How We Choose Fastest Blockchain Crypto
Throughput (TPS): In blockchain networks, how many transactions are completed per second? This is also known as throughput. The higher the TPS, the faster it processes information.
Type of consensus: Different types of consensus mechanisms (PoS, PoH, SBFT, etc.) affect the speed and scalability of the blockchain
Scalability of the blockchain: This is often overlooked but very important. A blockchain not only needs to be able to expand to meet growing transaction numbers but do so without degrading the user experience.
Finalization speed of a transaction: This is highly relevant in a global context. The lower the finality time, the better it is for certainty regarding transaction completion.
Cost of a transaction: It would only make sense for the two (profitability, low-cost transactions) to go together if it is inherently possible to charge low fees for a blockchain because the throughput is extremely high.
Latency of the network: The perception of ‘globalized’ networks can often lead to low-latency expectations. The lower the network latency, the quicker it gets to process a specific transaction.
Development of Sharding and Layer-2 solutions: There is a growing trend of making chains with layer-2 scaling solutions which from observation can sometimes make smaller chains faster at scale.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is a common characteristic of the fastest blockchain cryptos and that is their enhanced transaction speed as well as their advanced and scalable consensus mechanisms.
Most blockchain networks like Solana, Avalanche and Polygon are also very remarkable by achieving thousands of TPS while keeping fairly low fees and rapid finality.
The limit lies in the technology’s speed and therefore the selected blockchain depends on a variety of use cases such as DeFi, dApps, or cross-chain interoperability.
