Layer 2 networks make Ethereum faster and cheaper. They handle transactions off-chain and settle on the main chain.
Optimism (OP) – Governance-Driven Scaling for Ethereum
Optimism is one of the most mature Layer 2 solutions that uses Optimistic Rollups to process thousands of transactions at a fraction of the cost of Ethereum. It emphasizes open-source development, community governance, and transparency through its Optimism Collective — a digital democratic system where users can influence protocol upgrades and treasury allocation. Many major DeFi platforms like Uniswap and Synthetix already run on Optimism.
Base – Coinbase-Backed Layer 2 for the Next Billion Users
Base, developed by Coinbase, is an Ethereum Layer 2 that aims to make crypto accessible to everyday users and developers. It’s built on the OP Stack (the same framework as Optimism) and integrates seamlessly with Coinbase’s exchange and wallet ecosystem. Base provides low fees, simple onboarding, and has quickly become one of the fastest-growing networks for retail adoption and consumer dApps.
zkSync Era – Zero-Knowledge Rollups for Instant Finality
zkSync Era uses zero-knowledge proofs (ZK-Rollups) to offer ultra-fast and secure Ethereum transactions. It bundles multiple transactions off-chain and verifies them with cryptographic proofs on Ethereum, ensuring privacy and scalability. zkSync supports full EVM compatibility, meaning developers can deploy existing smart contracts without major code changes. It’s known for low gas fees, instant confirmations, and strong security guarantees.
StarkNet – Developer-Centric ZK Layer 2 with Cairo Language
StarkNet is built on STARK-based zero-knowledge proofs, providing both scalability and security. What makes StarkNet unique is its Cairo programming language, designed specifically for high-performance smart contracts. The network is completely permissionless, supports parallel transaction processing, and focuses on building infrastructure for large-scale decentralized applications (dApps) such as gaming, DeFi, and identity systems.
Polygon zkEVM – Ethereum-Compatible zk Rollup
Polygon zkEVM combines Ethereum’s security with zero-knowledge technology, enabling faster transactions and lower fees while maintaining full compatibility with Ethereum tools like MetaMask and Solidity. It’s part of Polygon’s broader scaling ecosystem that includes Polygon PoS, Polygon CDK, and Supernets. Developers can migrate apps from Ethereum to zkEVM without rewriting code, making it one of the easiest Layer 2s to adopt.
Linea (by Consensys) – Developer-Friendly zk Layer 2 for Web3
Linea is a zkEVM-based Layer 2 solution developed by Consensys, the team behind MetaMask and Infura. It provides a secure, EVM-equivalent environment that allows Ethereum dApps to scale efficiently. Linea focuses on developer experience, seamless integration with MetaMask, and reliable infrastructure for Web3 builders. Its ecosystem is quickly expanding with DeFi, gaming, and NFT projects.
Scroll – Seamless EVM-Equivalent zk Rollup
Scroll is a fully EVM-equivalent zk-Rollup, designed to make Ethereum scaling smooth and simple. Its mission is to preserve Ethereum’s developer culture while offering scalability through zero-knowledge proofs. Scroll’s architecture prioritizes security, decentralization, and transparency, making it an ideal Layer 2 for developers who value compatibility and open-source governance.
Blast – Layer 2 with Native Yield on ETH and Stablecoins
Blast is a new-generation Layer 2 that offers native yield — meaning users earn interest automatically on their ETH and stablecoin balances. Built with the Ethereum OP Stack, Blast integrates yield generation directly into the protocol layer, allowing DeFi projects to benefit without extra contracts. It’s designed for on-chain passive income while maintaining low transaction fees and high performance.
Manta Network – Privacy-Focused Modular Layer 2
Manta Network is a modular Layer 2 that combines scalability with privacy. It uses zero-knowledge proofs to enable private transactions and user anonymity while staying interoperable with other blockchains. Manta’s Manta Pacific (an EVM-compatible L2) focuses on dApps that require privacy features, such as identity protection, confidential DeFi, and privacy-preserving NFTs.
