List of the Top 6 Free Layer 2 Protocols in 2025

Loopring is an open-source protocol that enables the development of scalable non-custodial exchanges within the Ethereum ecosystem. By leveraging zero-knowledge proofs (zkRollup), it allows for efficient trading that boasts high throughput and minimal settlement fees while maintaining the strong security features synonymous with Ethereum. Users enjoy complete control over their assets throughout the trading journey, enhancing their overall experience. Engaging with Loopring lets individuals witness its capabilities in action. As a fully audited and non-custodial protocol, it fosters trustless interactions among participants in the Loopring network. This ensures that users' crypto assets remain under their own control, safeguarded by security guarantees that align with Ethereum's standards. Loopring significantly boosts the performance of decentralized exchanges by handling thousands of requests off-chain, with verifiable execution assured through zero-knowledge proofs. This means that the performance limitations of the underlying blockchains no longer impede operations. Most functionalities, including order-matching and trade settlements, take place off the Ethereum blockchain, leading to greater operational efficiency. This groundbreaking methodology firmly establishes Loopring as a frontrunner in the decentralized finance sector, paving the way for future innovations in trading technology.

Meter is an advanced infrastructure specifically designed to allow smart contracts to scale and operate seamlessly across multiple blockchain networks. As a hybrid of Layer 1 and Layer 2 protocols, Meter revolves around two essential tokens: MTRG, serving as the governance token (with its ERC20 version known as eMTRG), and MTR, which functions as a stable currency token. To ensure smooth and unrestricted transfer of financial assets among blockchains, Meter utilizes a HotStuff-based consensus mechanism that accommodates thousands of validator nodes, establishing itself as the most decentralized Layer 2 solution for Ethereum. The platform boasts the ability to handle thousands of transactions per second, resulting in near-instant transaction confirmations. Furthermore, Meter Passport allows for assets and smart contracts to move and engage across different blockchains, optimizing aspects such as price, liquidity, and yield. Notably, Meter distinguishes itself as an Ethereum-compatible platform enriched with unique characteristics. Unlike other Layer 2 solutions, decentralized exchanges (DEXes) on Meter are designed to be impervious to front-running and miner extractable value (MEV) dilemmas, ensuring transactions are both rapid and censorship-resistant. This unique blend of features positions Meter as a formidable contender in the ever-evolving blockchain landscape, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize cross-chain interactions.

A community dedicated to open-source development is committed to improving Bitcoin's scalability, particularly in relation to its proof-of-work security, to meet global demands and adapt to new applications, while also honoring the core principles upon which Bitcoin was built. Over the past ten years since its mainnet debut, Syscoin has established itself as a frontrunner in providing a resilient network and protocol designed for projects aiming to leverage Bitcoin Layer 2 solutions. As a Bitcoin Layer 2 operating directly on the mainnet, Syscoin implements a data availability protocol that facilitates the deployment of EVM and AltVM rollups on the Bitcoin blockchain. By being merge-mined by a substantial portion of Bitcoin's hash rate, Syscoin effectively ties these rollups to the reliability of Bitcoin's proof-of-work system, allowing for a smooth integration with the existing sequencer frameworks of these rollups. Furthermore, Syscoin offers a scalable data availability layer crucial for rollups and other EVM or AltVM platforms, enabling them to connect to Bitcoin’s network in a secure and efficient manner. This pioneering strategy not only increases Bitcoin’s functionality but also solidifies its role in the rapidly changing world of cryptocurrencies, paving the way for future innovations and broader adoption. As such, Syscoin is not only a participant in the ecosystem but also an influential driver of Bitcoin's ongoing evolution.

Polkadot represents a groundbreaking blockchain network tailored for the Web 3.0 vision, which seeks to establish a decentralized and fair internet where users maintain control over their personal data, thereby cultivating vibrant markets through improved network efficiency and robust security. Founded in 2016 by Gavin Wood, a former Co-Founder and CTO of Ethereum, Polkadot tackles significant obstacles that have previously slowed the broader adoption of blockchain technology. Its development framework, Substrate, created by Parity Technologies, is designed to simplify the creation of customized blockchains that cater to individual developer requirements. Furthermore, Polkadot promotes interoperability among different blockchains, ensuring that upgrades occur effortlessly, and implements a "shared security" model that enables developers to focus on technological advancements rather than allocating resources to manage a new blockchain's operational team. This innovative strategy not only accelerates the development process but also strengthens the entire blockchain ecosystem, fostering collaboration and innovation across various platforms. In this way, Polkadot is not just a technological solution, but a catalyst for a new era of interconnected blockchain applications.

COMBO emerges as a leading provider of scaling solutions specifically designed for the advancement of Web3 gaming. By leveraging cutting-edge game engine technology, COMBO is developing an open-source and decentralized gaming protocol aimed at ensuring universal access. The organization’s goal is to maximize the potential of Web3 gaming by effectively linking developers to the wider ecosystem in an efficient, economical, and secure manner. To bolster this vision, COMBO has forged strong partnerships with elite Web3 infrastructure initiatives, providing a comprehensive array of development tools and integrated game engines. These advanced resources empower game developers to navigate the Web3 domain effortlessly, while also expediting and enhancing their development workflows. With the incorporation of optimistic rollup technology, the platform can handle over 5,000 transactions per second, all achieved alongside exceptionally low gas fees of merely 0.000000008 Gwei. Furthermore, COMBO's relentless pursuit of innovation is evident in its continuous efforts to improve the gaming experience within the decentralized realm, ensuring that both developers and players benefit from cutting-edge advancements. The focus on creating a vibrant community around Web3 gaming also plays a crucial role in its mission.

Base serves as an economical and secure Layer 2 solution for Ethereum, specifically tailored for developers who want to broaden web3 access to a billion users. By leveraging Ethereum’s core security, it ensures the crucial scalability and safety required for decentralized applications, while allowing smooth transitions from platforms like Coinbase, Ethereum Layer 1, and other compatible ecosystems. Developers benefit from utilizing the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) environment at a dramatically lower cost. In addition, users can experience early access to cutting-edge Ethereum functionalities such as Account Abstraction (ERC4337), intuitive developer APIs for gasless transactions, and advanced smart contract wallet features. Constructed on the open-source OP Stack from Optimism, Base streamlines the integration process for decentralized applications with Coinbase’s range of products and vast distribution network. With seamless Coinbase integrations, accessible fiat onramps, and links to the Coinbase ecosystem—which includes 110 million verified users and $80 billion in managed assets—Base stands out as a prime platform for developers eager to enhance their visibility and efficiency in the web3 domain. The array of features offered by Base not only appeals to developers but also fosters an environment ripe for innovation within the decentralized landscape, encouraging a new wave of creative applications and services.