{"id":22091,"date":"2026-09-01T13:35:49","date_gmt":"2026-09-01T13:35:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/?p=22091"},"modified":"2026-09-01T13:35:51","modified_gmt":"2026-09-01T13:35:51","slug":"top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Layer-2 Blockchain Cryptos in September 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#10_Notable_Layer-2_Crypto_Coins\" >10 Notable Layer-2 Crypto Coins<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#OKB_OKB\" >OKB (OKB)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Mantle_MNT\" >Mantle (MNT)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Polygon_prev_MATIC_POL\" >Polygon [prev. MATIC] (POL)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Arbitrum_ARB\" >Arbitrum (ARB)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Stacks_STX\" >Stacks (STX)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Immutable_IMX\" >Immutable (IMX)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Optimism_OP\" >Optimism&nbsp;(OP)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Starknet_STRK\" >Starknet (STRK)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#SOON_SOON\" >SOON (SOON)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#ZKsync_ZK\" >ZKsync (ZK)&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Should_I_Invest_in_Layer-2_Crypto_Projects\" >Should I Invest in Layer-2 Crypto Projects?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#What_exactly_is_a_Layer-2_blockchain_and_why_does_it_exist\" >What exactly is a Layer-2 blockchain, and why does it exist?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#What_are_the_different_types_of_Layer-2_solutions\" >What are the different types of Layer-2 solutions?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#What_are_the_most_popular_Layer-2_cryptos_right_now\" >What are the most popular Layer-2 cryptos right now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#How_is_a_Layer-2_token_different_from_Ethereum_ETH\" >How is a Layer-2 token different from Ethereum (ETH)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/top-10-layer-2-blockchain-cryptos-in-2026\/#Are_Layer-2_blockchains_secure_enough_to_trust_with_real_money\" >Are Layer-2 blockchains secure enough to trust with real money?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As blockchain networks attract more users and applications, scaling their infrastructure without compromising efficiency has become increasingly important. <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-a-layer-2-blockchain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Layer-2 (L2)<\/strong><\/a> solutions address this challenge by operating above Layer-1 (L1) blockchains and taking on a significant portion of transaction processing. Instead of requiring every transaction to be executed directly on the base network, L2s process activity separately and periodically settle transactions on L1. This can increase throughput and reduce transaction costs while allowing the underlying blockchain to continue providing the foundation for settlement and security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The need for this additional capacity becomes particularly evident when activity on a Layer-1 network increases. Ethereum, for instance, can experience congestion and higher gas fees when demand for block space rises. Layer-2 networks help ease this pressure by processing transactions away from the main chain and, in many cases, grouping multiple transactions before submitting the relevant data or cryptographic proofs to L1. Different L2 designs achieve this in different ways, including Optimistic Rollups, Zero-Knowledge (ZK) Rollups, state channels, and sidechains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rather than replacing Layer-1 blockchains, Layer-2 solutions extend their functionality. Smart contracts and specialised scaling mechanisms allow these networks to handle greater transaction activity, while the underlying L1 provides the base infrastructure for settlement and, depending on the architecture, important security guarantees. Put simply, Layer-1 establishes the foundation, consensus, and settlement, while Layer-2 adds capacity, speed, and cost efficiency. This article examines 10 leading Layer-2 crypto projects and their role in advancing blockchain scalability and the broader Web3 ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-dogecoin-doge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What is Dogecoin?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Notable_Layer-2_Crypto_Coins\"><\/span><strong>10 Notable Layer-2 Crypto Coins<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Coin Name<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Current Price<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Market Capitalization<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">24-Hour Volume<\/span><\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>OKB (OKB)<\/strong><\/td><td>$110.62<\/td><td>$2.32 billion<\/td><td>$17.22 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Mantle (MNT)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.5410<\/td><td>$1.78 billion<\/td><td>$29.47 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Polygon [prev. MATIC] (POL)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.09050<\/td><td>$966.81 million<\/td><td>$116.77 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Arbitrum (ARB)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.1093<\/td><td>$730.29 million<\/td><td>$618.21 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Stacks (STX)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.2564<\/td><td>$465.29 million<\/td><td>$15.79 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Immutable (IMX)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.1238<\/td><td>$247.77 million<\/td><td>$8.58 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Optimism (OP)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.09714<\/td><td>$221.08 million<\/td><td>$132.37 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Starknet (STRK)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.02642<\/td><td>$189.73 million<\/td><td>$49.42 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>SOON (SOON)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.1890<\/td><td>$109.66 million<\/td><td>$7.72 million<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>ZKsync (ZK)<\/strong><\/td><td>$0.009340<\/td><td>$97.77 million<\/td><td>$23.09 million<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Note:&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><em>This list has been made based on internal research and should not be taken as investment advice. Investors should do their thorough research before buying or selling crypto assets.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"OKB_OKB\"><\/span><strong>OKB (OKB)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/OKB-1-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42090\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">OKB is the native utility token powering the OKX ecosystem, offering users a wide range of benefits across the platform. Introduced in 2018, OKB provides advantages such as reduced trading fees, staking opportunities, participation in token launch events, and access to exclusive platform features. The token plays an important role across OKX\u2019s trading, DeFi, and Web3 services, while also supporting integrations with various blockchain networks and smart contract applications. Over time, OKB has evolved beyond an exchange utility token into a broader ecosystem asset with multiple use cases within the digital asset space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mantle_MNT\"><\/span><strong>Mantle (MNT)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Mantle-1-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42091\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a rapidly emerging layer-2 scaling token built on Ethereum, designed to power the Mantle network, a modular execution layer focused on enhancing scalability and transaction efficiency for dApps. Mantle aims to reduce costs, increase throughput, and support advanced features such as tokenization services for real-world assets (RWA). Mantle\u2019s ecosystem expands beyond simple transaction execution, offering infrastructure like Tokenization-as-a-Service (TAAS) and integrating with <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-a-stablecoin\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>stablecoin<\/strong><\/a> systems to support regulated asset issuance. The MNT token plays a central role in network economics, governance, and potentially future utility models as the Mantle ecosystem grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/blog\/cbdc-vs-crypto-future-of-digital-currency\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CBDC vs Crypto: Future of Digital Currency Explained<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Polygon_prev_MATIC_POL\"><\/span><strong><strong>Polygon [prev. MATIC] (POL)<\/strong><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Polygon-1-9-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42092\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the native token of the Polygon ecosystem, previously known as MATIC, powering a suite of scaling solutions built to improve Ethereum\u2019s performance and interoperability. POL supports high-throughput and low-cost transactions across Polygon\u2019s multi-chain infrastructure, helping developers deploy dApps and seamlessly connect to Ethereum\u2019s security. Following the upgrade and rebranding from MATIC, the POL token now serves as the central asset for staking, network security, and governance across Polygon\u2019s expanding family of Layer-2 and Layer-3 chains. Its enhanced role is designed to facilitate multi-chain validation and empower holders to participate in decisions shaping the ecosystem\u2019s future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Arbitrum_ARB\"><\/span><strong>Arbitrum (ARB)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Arbitrum-1-9-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42093\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is an inventive L2 initiative, enabling individuals to construct projects on Ethereum, the prominent <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-a-layer-1-blockchain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>layer-1 blockchain<\/strong><\/a>. Built by Offchain Labs, the project utilizes rollup technology, consolidating numerous transactions into a single entity, resulting in enhanced scalability and reduced on-chain transaction expenses. Furthermore, <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-arbitrum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Arbitrum&#8217;s native token, ARB<\/strong><\/a>, plays a pivotal role in the ecosystem, allowing users to engage in protocol development decisions and fund distribution through voting. The platform simplifies the transfer of Ethereum to Arbitrum via a bridge, facilitating exchanges with other platforms as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stacks_STX\"><\/span><strong><strong>Stacks (STX)<\/strong><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Stacks-1-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42094\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the native token of the Stacks network, a blockchain that brings smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), and DeFi functionality to Bitcoin by anchoring its operations to Bitcoin\u2019s security. The Stacks protocol enables developers to build Web3 applications that interact with Bitcoin while inheriting its robustness. STX is used to pay transaction fees, support network consensus through Stacking (which can reward participants with Bitcoin), and participate in ecosystem governance and incentives. By bridging Bitcoin\u2019s security with programmable features, Stacks expands the utility of Bitcoin beyond a store of value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Immutable_IMX\"><\/span><strong><strong>Immutable (IMX)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Immutable-1-9-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42095\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is a dedicated Ethereum-based layer-2 network focused on enabling high-performance NFT infrastructure and Web3 <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-crypto-gaming\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>gaming<\/strong><\/a> experiences. Built using zero-knowledge rollup technology, Immutable allows users and developers to build, mint, trade, and interact with digital assets and games while benefiting from Ethereum\u2019s security and dramatically reduced transaction costs. The platform offers tools, APIs, and developer-focused infrastructure that make it easier to launch NFT projects, gaming economies, and digital marketplaces with fast, scalable transactions and near-<a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-ethereum-gas-fee\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>zero gas fees<\/strong><\/a>. IMX is the native utility token of the network, used for paying protocol fees, staking for rewards, and participating in governance across the expanding Immutable ecosystem, which supports hundreds of integrated projects in the NFT and gaming space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimism_OP\"><\/span><strong>Optimism&nbsp;(OP)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Optimism-1-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42096\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It serves as a layer-2 scaling solution on the Ethereum network, designed to lower transaction costs and latency while preserving Ethereum\u2019s strong security guarantees. Built as an extension of Ethereum, Optimism enables users and developers to benefit from the base layer\u2019s decentralised security at a fraction of the cost typically seen on the mainnet. Using Optimistic Rollup technology, it batches large amounts of transaction data and posts them to Ethereum, resulting in significantly more cost-effective and faster transactions compared with executing directly on the base chain. While other L2 solutions like Arbitrum and Base also have large TVL figures, Optimism continues to be a major player in scaling Ethereum and supports widely used projects including Velodrome, Aave, Curve, and Uniswap.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/smart-contracts-an-overview-of-the-future-of-transactions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart Contracts: An Overview of the Future of Transactions<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Starknet_STRK\"><\/span><strong>Starknet (STRK)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Starknet-1-9-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42097\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is the utility and governance token of Starknet, a decentralized Layer-2 network built on Ethereum that uses zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup technology to scale the base chain. Starknet processes transactions off-chain and attests their validity to Ethereum, enabling lower fees, faster execution, and robust security for decentralized applications. STRK supports core network functions, including paying transaction fees, participating in governance decisions, and contributing to network security through planned staking mechanisms. This token plays a key role in driving Starknet\u2019s decentralization and long-term growth as a high-performance Ethereum scaling solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SOON_SOON\"><\/span><strong>SOON (SOON)&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/SOON-1-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42098\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SOON is the native utility and governance token of the SOON ecosystem, designed to support a high-performance blockchain infrastructure powered by scalable Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) rollups. Launched alongside the SOON Alpha Mainnet in 2025, the token enables a variety of on-chain functions, including staking, governance participation, transaction-related activities, and ecosystem incentives. Token holders can vote on protocol decisions, stake their assets to contribute to network security and earn rewards, and participate in initiatives that encourage developer and community engagement. Serving as the core asset across SOON Mainnet, SOON Stack, and other ecosystem applications, SOON plays a key role in powering the network and fostering its continued growth and adoption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-is-an-automated-market-maker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What is an Automated Market Maker?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ZKsync_ZK\"><\/span><strong>ZKsync (ZK)&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/ZKsync-1-9-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-42099\" style=\"width:1120px;height:auto\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Image source: <strong>CoinMarketCap<\/strong><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It operates as a layer-2 protocol that uses <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/what-are-zk-rollups\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>zero-knowledge rollup (zk-rollup)<\/strong><\/a> technology to scale Ethereum by processing transactions off-chain and submitting cryptographic proofs to the mainnet. This allows zkSync to deliver faster and much cheaper transactions while preserving Ethereum\u2019s foundational security and decentralisation. zkSync is designed as a trustless, scalable network where transaction validity is ensured through zero-knowledge proofs, meaning users\u2019 funds remain as secure as if they were on Ethereum\u2019s base layer. The protocol has evolved into the zkSync Era ecosystem, which supports EVM-compatible smart contracts and enables developers to deploy dApps with minimal changes from Ethereum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\/10-best-cryptos-to-buy-under-one-dollar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10 Best Cryptos to Buy Under $1 in 2026<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_Invest_in_Layer-2_Crypto_Projects\"><\/span><strong>Should I Invest in Layer-2 Crypto Projects?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The growing demand for blockchain-based applications has increased the need for infrastructure that can handle more activity without making transactions slower or more expensive. Layer-2 networks are helping meet this demand by adding capacity to existing Layer-1 blockchains. Their ability to improve transaction speed and efficiency is supporting use cases across decentralised applications (dApps), DeFi, blockchain gaming, and other areas of Web3. As adoption continues to expand, L2 infrastructure could become increasingly important to the way blockchain ecosystems scale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That growth does not make Layer-2 tokens free from risk. Their performance can be influenced by broader market conditions as well as technological progress, competition between scaling solutions, and changes in regulation. Each project also differs in terms of its architecture, adoption, developer and user activity, ecosystem strength, token utility, and long-term viability. Investors should therefore evaluate these factors individually, conduct thorough research, and consider their financial goals and risk tolerance before making investment decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unravel everything that you need for your crypto journey via <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/blog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ZebPay blogs<\/strong><\/a>. Get started today and join 6 million+ registered users on <a href=\"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>ZebPay<\/strong><\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-vivid-cyan-blue-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/onboarding.zebpay.com\/onboarding?returnUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fzebpay.com%2Fapp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trade now<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><strong>FAQs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779890636454\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_exactly_is_a_Layer-2_blockchain_and_why_does_it_exist\"><\/span><strong>What exactly is a Layer-2 blockchain, and why does it exist?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Layer-2 blockchains are built on top of an existing Layer-1 network (like Ethereum) to solve its scalability limitations. They process transactions off the main chain and periodically settle results back to it, dramatically increasing speed and reducing fees \u2014 without sacrificing the security of the underlying base layer.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779890652526\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_different_types_of_Layer-2_solutions\"><\/span><strong>What are the different types of Layer-2 solutions?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The main types include:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; <strong>Rollups<\/strong> (Optimistic &amp; ZK-Rollups) \u2014 bundle multiple transactions and post them to Layer-1<br \/>&#8211; <strong>State Channels<\/strong> \u2014 allow parties to transact off-chain and only settle the final state on-chain<br \/>&#8211; <strong>Plasma<\/strong> \u2014 creates child chains anchored to the main chain<br \/>&#8211; <strong>Validium<\/strong> \u2014 similar to ZK-Rollups but stores data off-chain for even lower costs<\/p>\n<p>Today, rollups (especially ZK-Rollups) are considered the gold standard.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779890701916\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_most_popular_Layer-2_cryptos_right_now\"><\/span><strong>What are the most popular Layer-2 cryptos right now?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The leading Layer-2 projects include Polygon (POL), Arbitrum (ARB), Optimism (OP), zkSync, StarkNet (STRK), and Base (developed by Coinbase). Each uses a different technical approach, but all aim to make Ethereum faster and cheaper for everyday users and developers.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779890728056\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_is_a_Layer-2_token_different_from_Ethereum_ETH\"><\/span><strong>How is a Layer-2 token different from Ethereum (ETH)?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>ETH is the native currency of the Ethereum base layer, used for securing the network and paying gas fees on Layer-1. Layer-2 tokens like ARB or OP are used for governance, fee payments, or staking within their specific ecosystems. You often still need ETH to bridge assets between Layer-1 and Layer-2.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1779890756031\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_Layer-2_blockchains_secure_enough_to_trust_with_real_money\"><\/span><strong>Are Layer-2 blockchains secure enough to trust with real money?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Generally, yes \u2014 especially rollup-based Layer-2s, since they inherit Ethereum&#8217;s security by posting transaction data back to the main chain. However, risks still exist, including smart contract bugs, bridge vulnerabilities, and varying degrees of decentralization. Always research a project&#8217;s audit history and how long it has been running in production before committing significant funds.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As blockchain networks attract more users and applications, scaling their infrastructure without compromising efficiency has become increasingly important. Layer-2 (L2) solutions address this challenge by operating above Layer-1 (L1) blockchains and taking on a significant portion of transaction processing. Instead of requiring every transaction to be executed directly on the base network, L2s process activity [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":36,"featured_media":27429,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[385,79,16,399,395,396,436,398,135,458,397,387,400],"class_list":["post-22091","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-crypto","tag-arbitrum","tag-blockchain","tag-crypto","tag-immutable","tag-layer-2","tag-mantle","tag-okb","tag-optimism","tag-polygon","tag-soon","tag-stacks","tag-starknet","tag-zksync"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22091","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/36"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22091"}],"version-history":[{"count":35,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22091\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27619,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22091\/revisions\/27619"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27429"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22091"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22091"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zebpay.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22091"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}