List of the Top 9 Layer 2 Protocols for Kryptos in 2025

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.

The latest advancements in layer 2 solutions for Ethereum dApps empower developers to leverage their preferred tools while effectively reducing the expenses associated with scaling their applications. Within this framework, an aggregator functions similarly to a node on Ethereum, allowing client software to execute remote procedure calls (RPCs) through a standardized API to interact with an Arbitrum chain. This aggregator plays a crucial role by transmitting these calls to the EthBridge and returning the results of transactions to the client, reflecting the behavior of a conventional Ethereum node. Although it's common for clients to route their transactions through an aggregator when engaging with an Arbitrum chain, this is not strictly necessary. The architecture permits an unlimited number of aggregators to be created, and there are no restrictions on who can act as an aggregator. To optimize processing efficiency, aggregators often merge several client transactions into a single submission to the Arbitrum chain. Moreover, the Arbitrum ecosystem includes a specialized Sequencer capable of organizing transactions, which leads to rapid transaction confirmations with minimal latency. This groundbreaking arrangement not only enhances overall throughput but also cultivates an adaptable environment where developers can explore and innovate without the constraints of high costs, ultimately promoting greater experimentation within the blockchain space. By providing such flexibility, layer 2 solutions are poised to significantly transform the landscape of decentralized applications.

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.

We are launching a groundbreaking creative studio and NFT community on Ethereum, in partnership with some of the leading names in fine art, cryptoart, and entertainment, with a focus on both scalability and sustainability. Palm NFT Studio acts as a bridge, connecting projects and platforms with the Palm ecosystem by collaborating with artists, creatives, marketplaces, and rights holders. Designed with adaptability at its core, Palm is crafted to support the varied artistic expressions of creators. At present, we are working to improve the functionality and effectiveness of NFTs through an Ethereum sidechain, with aspirations to transition to an Ethereum Layer 2 soon. Participants within the Palm ecosystem will benefit from significantly lower gas fees, while the community itself will foster incentives for both creators and users alike. This dedication to cultivating a lively community is set to amplify collaboration and spur innovation throughout the NFT landscape, enabling new opportunities and experiences for all involved. Ultimately, our vision is to create a thriving space that empowers artists and enhances the value of their contributions to the digital art world.

Boba is an innovative scaling solution based on Ethereum's Layer 2 Optimistic Rollup technology, designed to significantly cut gas fees, accelerate transaction speeds, and broaden the capabilities of smart contracts. With the implementation of community-driven liquidity pools, Boba effectively shortens the exit time for Optimistic Rollups from an entire week down to mere minutes, while also offering enticing yield farming options for liquidity providers. Furthermore, the platform's adaptable smart contracts enable developers in the Ethereum ecosystem to build decentralized applications that can leverage code executed on extensive platforms like AWS Lambda, thus allowing for the execution of algorithms that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive or unfeasible to perform directly on-chain. Our mission is to enhance Boba with a clear focus on the needs of our users and developers alike. We envision creating a practical Layer 2 solution that acts as a bridge for the next billion users to interact with the Ethereum network. We encourage you to join us on this exciting journey, as your participation can help foster the expansion of our vibrant community. Together, we have the potential to redefine the landscape of decentralized applications and make a lasting impact on the blockchain ecosystem.

Astar Network acts as a strong and versatile foundation specifically designed for applications within the realm of Web3.0. Built on Parity’s Substrate framework, it has the capability to transition into a Polkadot parachain while also serving as a proficient smart contract platform. A noteworthy aspect is that the Polkadot Relaychain is purposefully constructed without smart contract support, allowing Astar to fill this gap effectively. For developers focused on decentralized applications (dApps), scalability is a primary concern, enabling the creation of a wide variety of applications on Astar Network without the lingering worry of scalability issues. As an open-source project, Astar Network offers countless opportunities for individuals to engage with its ecosystem, inviting contributions from anyone keen on enhancing its features. The goal of Astar Network is to provide a decentralized application platform that is not only scalable and interoperable but also plays a crucial role in shaping the forthcoming landscape of the internet, referred to as Web3.0. Through its community-driven approach, the initiative cultivates an environment rich in innovation and collaboration, fostering a vibrant network of developers and users who are eager to explore new possibilities together. This collaborative spirit ensures that Astar Network remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the decentralized space.

Ethereum's new scalability framework guarantees swift transactions and effective smart contract execution. Optimism functions as a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), which is designed to generate profits while also delivering societal benefits through responsible and sustainable methodologies. This organizational model requires us to balance our shareholders' financial interests with the well-being of those affected by our decisions, adhering to a defined "public benefit charter." The primary goal of the Company is to enhance and protect fair access to public goods on the internet by developing open-source software. This charter reflects our dedication to the Ethereum community, as we work to uphold its core values by building infrastructure that supports the growth and sustainability of a public goods ecosystem. By doing so, we not only seek to advance technological progress but also to promote an inclusive atmosphere where all users can thrive. Ultimately, our efforts aim to bridge the gap between innovation and accessibility, ensuring that the benefits of technology are shared widely.

zkSync emerges as the leading user-centric ZK rollup solution within the Ethereum landscape. This cutting-edge scaling technique is unparalleled in its ability to securely handle unlimited volume on Layer 2, distinguishing it from alternative approaches. Unlike optimistic rollups, zkSync enables swift and cost-effective asset transfers between the ZK rollup and Layer 1. It's worth noting that zkSync offers the most affordable transaction fees among all existing and upcoming rollups. Moreover, it includes functionalities such as meta-transactions, instant confirmations with economic finality, and economical privacy solutions. The philosophy driving zkSync's design prioritizes both simplicity and a pleasurable development experience. Developers can seamlessly incorporate payment systems and atomic swaps with minimal coding effort. Additionally, zkSync supports the development of type-safe, functional smart contracts using Zinc, a Rust-based framework, while also allowing the deployment of existing EVM codebases with slight modifications. This impressive array of features positions zkSync as a compelling option for developers who are eager to achieve both efficiency and innovation in their blockchain projects, ultimately fostering a more accessible environment for blockchain advancement.

RSK distinguishes itself as the leading smart contract blockchain platform, leveraging the solid security infrastructure of the Bitcoin Network. It is increasingly viewed as a vital player in the realm of decentralized finance (DeFi), enabling Bitcoin holders to engage in activities such as lending, borrowing, trading, and earning interest on their assets. The shift towards decentralized financial systems is evident, with RSK at the forefront as the premier global smart contract platform. The main aim of RSK's Contracts is to bolster the Bitcoin Contracts ecosystem by streamlining smart contract execution, facilitating near-instant payments, and enhancing scalability. Through Merged Mining and a two-way peg, RSK Blockchain forges a robust link to Bitcoin, thereby boosting its security and operational capabilities. Additionally, RIF, which is built on RSK, seeks to establish the essential components for a fully decentralized internet, enabling Decentralized Sharing Economies that empower users with improved identity management, innovative payment solutions, versatile storage options, enhanced communication methods, gateway services, and comprehensive marketplace features. This forward-thinking framework not only safeguards individual assets but also contributes to a more just and inclusive digital economy, paving the way for broader access to financial services. Ultimately, RSK's vision aligns with the future of finance, emphasizing the importance of security, efficiency, and user empowerment in an increasingly digital world.