Layer-1 blockchains serve as the foundational layer of a blockchain ecosystem, providing the core infrastructure on which all other applications and protocols are built. Using distributed ledger technology (DLT), they enable the secure, transparent, and decentralised processing, validation, and recording of transactions, eliminating the need for central intermediaries. By maintaining consensus and ensuring network security, Layer-1 blockchains establish the trust and reliability required for additional layers and decentralised applications to function effectively.
The native crypto assets of these networks, commonly known as Layer-1 tokens, play a crucial role in their operation. For example, Ether (ETH) powers the Ethereum blockchain. These tokens are typically used to pay transaction fees and incentivise validators who help secure the network. While Layer-1 blockchains are essential to the growth of decentralised ecosystems, they may face scalability challenges as adoption increases. In this article, we take a closer look at 10 leading Layer-1 crypto tokens by market capitalisation. This list is based on internal research and is intended for informational purposes only. Investors are encouraged to conduct their own research and make informed decisions.
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Top 10 Notable Layer-1 Coins
| Coin Name | Current Price | Market Capitalization | 24-Hour Volume |
| Bitcoin (BTC) | $80,577.40 | $1.61 trillion | $47.69 billion |
| Ethereum (ETH) | $2,369.54 | $286.02 billion | $20.84 billion |
| BNB (BNB) | $626.16 | $84.40 billion | $1.82 billion |
| Solana (SOL) | $84.52 | $48.71 billion | $4.54 billion |
| TRON (TRX) | $0.3399 | $32.25 billion | $812.93 million |
| Bitcoin Cash (BCH) | $454.78 | $9.10 billion | $302.12 million |
| Cardano (ADA) | $0.2573 | $9.31 billion | $520.80 million |
| Hyperliquid (HYPE) | $42.95 | $10.94 billion | $320.54 million |
| Monero (XMR) | $406.83 | $7.51 billion | $141.42 million |
| Canton (CC) | $0.1485 | $5.71 billion | $18.91 million |
Bitcoin (BTC)
As the initial and most significant crypto based on market capitalization, Bitcoin continues to stand out as the premier layer-1 project. With a restricted supply of only 21 million tokens, Bitcoin is well-suited to function as a store of value. The Bitcoin Halving event, which took place in April 2024, triggered a prolonged bullish trend.
Ethereum (ETH)
The Ethereum blockchain hosts thousands of crypto tokens, establishing it as the preferred layer-1 blockchain for developers. Ethereum encompasses a wide range of applications, including metaverses, play-to-earn games, and decentralised finance ecosystems. Despite its substantial market capitalisation in current trading, many analysts believe its current value represents only a fraction of its future potential.
BNB (BNB)
Supporting one of the largest crypto ecosystems globally, BNB serves as Binance’s primary layer-1 blockchain. It is essential for settling transaction fees on the BNB chain. BNB operates as a deflationary layer-1 project, with Binance regularly reducing tokens from the circulating supply.
Solana (SOL)
This primary blockchain layer presents a compelling substitute for Ethereum, particularly in terms of speed, cost efficiency, and scalability. Solana can manage smart contracts and decentralised applications without compromising security or energy efficiency.
TRON (TRX)
This Layer-1 blockchain is designed to support high-throughput applications, particularly in the areas of decentralised content sharing and digital entertainment. TRON focuses on fast transaction speeds and low costs, enabling developers to deploy smart contracts and decentralised applications at scale while maintaining network efficiency and accessibility.
Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
This Layer-1 blockchain was created to enable faster and more affordable peer-to-peer transactions by increasing block size compared to Bitcoin. Bitcoin Cash prioritises scalability and low transaction fees, making it well suited for everyday payments while preserving the security and decentralisation of a public blockchain.
Cardano (ADA)
Cardano is a third-generation proof-of-stake blockchain platform that provides scalability, interoperability, and sustainability based on peer-reviewed academic research. It uses a specially designed proof-of-stake (PoS) blockchain protocol for consensus called Ouroboros. Cardano’s native asset is the ADA crypto, which plays a critical role in maintaining and operating the network.
Hyperliquid (HYPE)
This Layer-1 blockchain is built with a strong focus on decentralised trading infrastructure, offering high-speed execution and low-latency performance. Hyperliquid is designed to support advanced on-chain financial applications, particularly decentralised derivatives, while maintaining transparency, scalability, and capital efficiency.
Monero (XMR)
This privacy-focused Layer-1 blockchain is designed to enable secure, untraceable transactions through advanced cryptographic techniques. Monero prioritises user anonymity and fungibility, ensuring transaction details remain confidential while maintaining a decentralised and censorship-resistant network.
Canton (CC)
This Layer-1 blockchain is purpose-built for institutional use cases, emphasising privacy, compliance, and interoperability. Canton enables secure smart contracts and asset transfers between regulated financial entities, combining the benefits of blockchain technology with enterprise-grade controls and scalability.
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Should I Invest in Layer-1 Crypto Coins?
Layer-1 crypto tokens are often considered relatively more reliable within the broader crypto ecosystem, as they are backed by established and widely adopted blockchain networks. These networks form the core infrastructure of decentralised systems, supporting a wide range of applications, users, and use cases. Their maturity, network activity, and ongoing development contribute to a stronger foundation compared to newer or less-tested projects, making them a common starting point for many participants exploring the crypto space.
That said, the crypto market remains highly dynamic and uncertain, which calls for a measured and informed approach. While some investors are willing to take on higher levels of risk in pursuit of potential returns, it is important to carefully evaluate each investment based on its fundamentals, use case, and long-term viability. Conducting thorough research and aligning decisions with your financial goals and risk tolerance can help ensure a more balanced and responsible approach to investing in Layer-1 tokens.
Also Read: What are Blockchain Layers
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FAQs
What is a Layer-1 blockchain?
A Layer-1 blockchain is the foundational blockchain network that processes and finalizes transactions, maintains consensus, and provides the base protocol on which decentralised applications (dApps) and secondary layers can be built. These networks operate independently and have their own native tokens used for fees and security.
How do Layer-1 blockchains maintain security and validate transactions?
Layer-1 blockchains use consensus mechanisms like Proof of Work (PoW) or Proof of Stake (PoS) to validate transactions and secure the network. In PoW, participants (miners) solve cryptographic puzzles to add blocks, while in PoS, validators stake tokens to earn the right to validate and secure the network.
Why are Layer-1 blockchains important for decentralised applications (dApps)?
Layer-1 networks provide the core infrastructure, processing power, security, and consensus needed for dApps, smart contracts, and token ecosystems to function. Without a robust Layer-1, higher-level applications wouldn’t have a reliable base to build on.
What are the main challenges Layer-1 blockchains face?
Common challenges include scalability limits (slower transaction throughput during peak usage) and, for some networks using PoW, higher energy consumption. These constraints are part of the “blockchain trilemma” balancing speed, decentralisation, and security.
How do Layer-1 and Layer-2 blockchains differ?
Layer-1 blockchains are the base networks that independently process transactions and maintain security. Layer-2 solutions are built on top of these base chains to improve performance, especially scalability and cost, by handling some transaction load off the main network while still relying on Layer-1 for settlement.
