The 15 Major Mainstream Layer 1 Blockchain Projects Not to Be Missed in 2025: Data and Future Outlook Fully Explained

Layer 1 blockchains are the foundation of the entire crypto ecosystem, representing the core innovation and competitive focus of blockchain technology. As Ethereum successfully transitions to proof of stake, eco-friendly public chains rise, and Layer 2/Layer 3 solutions develop in parallel, the Layer 1 space is undergoing a profound reshuffle. This article highlights 15 noteworthy Layer 1 projects, evaluated based on ecosystem popularity, market capitalization, on-chain activity, and native token performance.

What is a Layer 1 Blockchain?

Layer 1 (base layer) is the underlying network of a blockchain, where all transactions are finalized and recorded. Unlike Layer 2 solutions built on existing blockchains, Layer 1 protocols are independent networks with their own consensus mechanisms and security models. These networks are crucial for achieving decentralized, secure, and transparent transaction processing.

Core Advantages of Layer 1 Networks

Decentralization and Security: No single entity controls the network; transaction data is permanent and accurate, fully transparent and auditable.

Independent Operation: Executes transactions and smart contracts supported by external systems, using consensus mechanisms like Proof of Work (PoW) or Proof of Stake (PoS) to ensure network integrity.

Native Token Ecosystem: Supports network tokens used for paying transaction fees, staking, and governance, enhancing network utility and value.

Broad Compatibility: As infrastructure, enjoys widespread recognition, providing a flexible foundation for developers to build decentralized applications.

Strong Network Effects: Compared to Layer 2 solutions, Layer 1 can better resist network congestion. Increasing user base enhances its value and utility, though Layer 2 still relies on Layer 1 for transaction settlement.

In-Depth Analysis of 15 Leading Layer 1 Projects

1. Solana (SOL) — Pioneer of High-Speed Transactions

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: Based on on-chain data
• Market Rank: Top 5 crypto assets by market cap

Solana stands out in the Layer 1 space for its high throughput and low transaction costs. Its innovative Proof of History (PoH) combined with Proof of Stake enables ultra-fast and efficient operation, making it a popular choice for decentralized applications. The SOL token is mainly used for paying transaction fees and executing smart contracts; validators stake SOL to maintain network security.

In 2023, Solana ecosystem made significant progress. The Solana Improvement Proposal (SIP) process standardized protocol upgrades, with 79 SIP documents; Firedancer upgrade aimed to greatly increase transaction speed; the network has over 2000 nodes with diversified validators. Successful integration of Helium demonstrated strong ecosystem support for decentralized systems.

Ecosystem growth is reflected in diverse projects, including meme tokens and airdrops (e.g., BONK), DeFi liquid staking protocols (Marinade Finance, Jito), NFT marketplaces and applications like Raydium, Orca, STEPN, Star Atlas, and Audius. Jupiter, as a DeFi hub, introduced Jup tokens and top routing engines; partnerships with Google Cloud and AWS enhanced transparency and RPC deployment ease; the launch of Solana Mobile Saga phones and collaborations with Helium Mobile showcase ecosystem expansion ambitions.

2. Bitcoin (BTC) — The Eternal Benchmark of Security

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $92,960
• 1-Year Change: -5.43%
• Circulating Market Cap: $1.856T

As the pioneer of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin’s position in Layer 1 is unshakable. Launched in 2009 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, its innovative blockchain technology offers unmatched security and immutability, becoming the most widely recognized crypto asset, serving as both a store of value and a medium of exchange. BTC is mainly used for digital payments, investment, and reserves, often called “digital gold” due to its fixed supply of 21 million and decentralization.

Bitcoin halving (roughly every four years, reducing block rewards to increase scarcity) is a key event. In 2023, Bitcoin ecosystem achieved multiple breakthroughs. Ordinals protocol enabled NFTs to be directly minted on Bitcoin, driving assets like ORDI, SATS, RATS, DOVI. Despite challenges, infrastructure improvements and developer incentives accelerated ecosystem growth.

Sidechains and Layer 2 solutions like Stacks emerged, addressing smart contract limitations and opening new possibilities for complex DeFi applications. Derivative protocols like Atomicals and ARC20 utilize satoshi (the smallest Bitcoin unit) to represent tokens. Taproot asset protocol from Lightning Labs leverages UTXO scripts to record various assets, showcasing Bitcoin’s multifunctionality.

3. Ethereum (ETH) — The King of Application Ecosystems

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $3,170
• 1-Year Change: -13.22%
• Circulating Market Cap: $383.18B

Ethereum boasts the largest developer community and a thriving ecosystem of over 3000 active applications, leading the Layer 1 space. Launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and others, Ethereum has evolved from a digital currency platform into the largest hub for decentralized apps, NFTs, and DeFi. Its core advantages include first-mover advantage and ecosystem accumulation, with developers contributing extensive tools, frameworks, and protocols driving continuous innovation.

In 2023, Ethereum continued its transition to Ethereum 2.0. Key milestones include further development of Layer 2 scaling solutions (like rollups), effectively reducing fees and increasing throughput. Looking ahead to 2024, the community expects full realization of Ethereum 2.0 benefits, focusing on scalability and energy efficiency. The proof-of-stake transition is expected to further reduce environmental impact, attracting eco-conscious investors. Ongoing evolution of Layer 2 solutions and cross-chain integrations will make Ethereum’s ecosystem more interconnected, scalable, and user-friendly.

4. BNB Chain (BNB) — The Efficient Engine of the Binance Ecosystem

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $905.70
• 1-Year Change: +26.88%
• Circulating Market Cap: $124.75B

BNB Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain, BSC), launched by Binance in September 2020, runs parallel to Binance Chain, providing a high-performance network compatible with smart contracts. Its dual-chain architecture allows seamless cross-chain asset transfers, with applications spanning DeFi, NFTs, and gaming.

Compared to Ethereum, BNB Chain’s ecosystem is younger but growing rapidly, with over 1300 active applications as of October 2023. The native BNB token fuels the ecosystem, widely used within Binance’s ecosystem and broader markets. Its PoSA consensus offers faster and cheaper transactions than Ethereum and is compatible with existing Ethereum applications and tools, attracting many developers.

In 2023, the project rebranded as BNB Chain, emphasizing a broader vision beyond exchange-linked activities, focusing on DeFi and NFTs. It introduced a dedicated PoS chain for staking and governance, enhancing security and decentralization. Cross-chain bridges improved interoperability with other ecosystems. In 2024, focus is expected on Layer 2 scalability solutions and potential sharding, with more strategic partnerships, innovative DeFi, and NFT projects entering the ecosystem.

5. Polkadot (DOT) — Architect of Multi-Chain Interoperability

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $2.11
• 1-Year Change: -72.47%
• Circulating Market Cap: $3.49B

Polkadot is a multi-chain platform supporting different blockchains to transfer messages and value trustlessly, with each chain showcasing unique features while sharing security. Its core strengths are interoperability, scalable multi-chain architecture, and the ability to connect dedicated parachains. DOT tokens are used for governance, staking for security, and bonding parachains.

In 2023, Polkadot’s ecosystem accelerated. GitHub contributions reached 19,090 in March, driving application and security evolution. Parachains introduced cost-optimization models; new scheduling improved scalability and flexibility; Polkadot 2.0 announced upgrades for scalability, governance, and interoperability. Nominating pools increased staking by 49%, broadening user participation and security; USDC integration and Rococo testnet improved transaction experience. Ecosystem expansion included 5 new parachains, scalability tech upgrades, and institutional investor programs (including Zodia custody).

6. Avalanche (AVAX) — The Speed King of Confirmations

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $14.12
• 1-Year Change: -66.82%
• Circulating Market Cap: $6.07B

Avalanche is a high-performance, scalable Layer 1 platform designed for decentralized applications and custom blockchain networks. Its key selling point is fast transaction confirmation, under 2 seconds. Its unique consensus mechanism blends classical and Nakamoto consensus elements, delivering a secure, scalable, and decentralized system. AVAX tokens are used for paying transaction fees, staking for security, participating in consensus, and as the base unit within subnetworks.

In 2023, Avalanche ecosystem experienced major growth and AVAX price rebounded. C-Chain set a record of 3.07 million transactions, indicating network acceleration. NFT transactions accounted for over 50% of on-chain activity, boosting fees. Within just five days, users paid $13.8 million in fees for minting and transferring NFTs, reflecting high demand for block space and rising costs. AVAX tokens saw significant burn activity due to increased registration and trading. On November 19, C-Chain hit a new record of 2.3 million transactions in a single day, a sharp increase from the average of 450,000. ASC-20 tokens surged, supporting over 40 transactions per second on mainnet with finality around 1 second. Major collaborations like J.P. Morgan’s Onyx blockchain demonstrate Avalanche’s practical value across industries.

7. Kaspa (KAS) — The Path of Innovation for PoW Newcomer

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $0.05
• 1-Year Change: -60.65%
• Circulating Market Cap: $1.33B

Kaspa employs an innovative GHOSTDAG consensus mechanism supporting fast transaction processing and scalability. High block rates and instant finality are its core advantages, achieving significant speed and scalability improvements over traditional architectures. KAS tokens are mainly used for transaction fees and circulation, incentivizing miners and supporting economic activity.

In 2023, the emerging KAS ecosystem made notable progress. Upgrading to the Dag Knight consensus (an evolution of GHOSTDAG) marked a leap in efficiency, enabling faster transactions and confirmations. Kaspa migrated from GoLang to Rust to leverage modern hardware capabilities, aiming for unprecedented transaction and block processing speeds; high-performance mobile wallets responded to demand for mobile-friendly crypto solutions. The number of blocks and transactions processed per second increased sharply, with Rust playing a key role in this upgrade. KAS’s native token value soared over 1800% in 2023, reflecting growing market interest. Archive node P2P communication improvements support scalable data retrieval and broader historical data access. The goal of building a fast, scalable, secure PoW Layer 1 crypto platform is accelerating, laying a solid foundation for smart contracts and decentralized applications.

8. Cosmos (ATOM) — Pioneer of Inter-Blockchain Communication

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $2.27
• 1-Year Change: -68.76%
• Circulating Market Cap: $1.11B

Cosmos is a decentralized network of independent blockchains designed to solve scalability and interoperability issues. Its key advantage is the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol, enabling blockchains to communicate and share data while maintaining sovereignty — a unique value proposition. ATOM tokens are mainly used for staking to enhance security and governance participation, allowing holders to influence network decisions.

In 2023, Cosmos ecosystem grew significantly through key developments. Cross-chain security features enhanced the safety of smaller chains within the network. Hub activity surged, with daily transactions reaching 500,000 and ATOM transaction volume hitting 20 million, indicating rising popularity. Upgrades like Theta introduced cross-chain accounts, strengthening inter-chain interaction; Rho added liquid staking and NFT modules, expanding functionality. The Hub 2.0 white paper outlined new visions for the Hub and ATOM token. The Cross-Chain Foundation allocated $26.4 million to support development in 2024, with optimistic investor outlooks from Arthur Cheong and others (especially considering dYdX migration and Noble’s USDC integration), signaling capital inflow and ecosystem expansion.

9. The Open Network (TON) — Telegram’s Ambitious Ecosystem

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $1.87
• 1-Year Change: -67.55%
• Circulating Market Cap: $4.52B

The Open Network (TON), conceived by Telegram founders Nikolai and Pavel Durov, aims to be a high-scalability, user-friendly decentralized Layer 1 blockchain. After a regulatory clash with the US SEC over a $1.7 billion ICO, Telegram withdrew in 2020; development shifted to the TON Foundation and independent developer communities (NewTON).

Its multi-layer architecture incorporates sharding to improve efficiency and support high transaction volumes. TON’s native token Toncoin is used for facilitating transactions, governance, staking, and decentralized storage. The ecosystem has expanded to include social platforms, DeFi services, and NFT marketplaces, fostering a strong developer environment.

In 2023, ecosystem development included launching decentralized file storage and high-speed off-chain payment systems, enhancing Web3 applications and decentralized services. In March 2024, Telegram announced plans to distribute 50% of ad revenue to channel owners via TON blockchain payments with Toncoin. This boosted TON’s price by 40%, linking the token to Telegram’s practical ecosystem. A major development is Telegram’s potential IPO and fundraising plans, which could significantly impact Toncoin’s utility and market perception. Further integration of blockchain features and leveraging Toncoin’s vast user base could strengthen token utility and demand, potentially increasing its value.

10. Internet Computer (ICP) — Dream of On-Chain Cloud Computing

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $3.19
• 1-Year Change: -73.92%
• Circulating Market Cap: $1.74B

Internet Computer, developed by the DFINITY Foundation, aims to extend traditional blockchain capabilities by supporting on-chain smart contracts and full software system deployment. Its advantages include high transaction throughput and scalable consensus mechanisms; its unique goal is to reshape the internet into a decentralized, serverless cloud computing environment. ICP tokens are used for network transactions, smart contract processing, participant incentives, and governance via the Network Nervous System (NNS).

In 2023, ICP ecosystem made significant progress in decentralized computing. WebSocket integration supports real-time apps; stable memory expansion enables complex application development. Canister contracts support secure external HTTPS calls, broadening smart contract use cases. Direct integration with Bitcoin simplifies cross-chain transactions without intermediaries. Ecosystem supports permissionless DAO governance token issuance, with SNS (Service Nervous System) governance enhancing DAO participation. The foundation further stimulates growth through new services and grants. Community and NFT projects surged, including social media platforms and marketplaces, demonstrating organic growth and innovation vitality.

11. Sui (SUI) — High-Throughput New Power

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $1.68
• 1-Year Change: -68.24%
• Circulating Market Cap: $6.37B

Sui is a high-throughput, scalable blockchain platform designed to support large-scale decentralized applications with fast, efficient performance. Its innovative consensus mechanism and Move programming language offer enhanced security and flexibility — key selling points, combined with large transaction processing and low costs, making it popular among developers. SUI tokens are used for transaction fees, governance, and staking, vital for network operation.

In 2023, Sui ecosystem advanced through strategic token reallocation. The mainnet launch and exchange listings demonstrated scalability — daily transactions hit 65.8 million, TVL peaked at $188 million, ranking in the top 10 for on-chain TVL. zkLogin introduced a new user access method via Web 2 social accounts, enhancing privacy. TurboStar, a DeFi project, aims to boost ecosystem growth through funding, awareness, and pre-sales, with investor protections and zero-fee plans.

12. Aptos (APT) — Parallel Execution Benchmark

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $1.91
• 1-Year Change: -80.85%
• Circulating Market Cap: $1.43B

Aptos is a Layer 1 blockchain focused on high scalability, reliability, and usability, aiming to empower decentralized applications. Its advantages include the Move language for secure, flexible smart contracts and a parallel execution engine that enhances transaction speed and throughput. APT tokens are used for transaction fees, governance, and staking to secure the network.

Supported by a strong team with over $400 million in funding from Tiger Global, PayPal Ventures, and others, Aptos ecosystem flourished in 2023. Its technical edge lies in Move and parallel execution, supporting scalable transaction processing; TVL remains above $85 million, reflecting growing trust. Network activity surged, with millions of transactions daily and new accounts rapidly increasing. Strategic partnerships include integration with Sushi for DeFi, Coinbase Pay for Petra wallet, and collaborations with Microsoft, NEOWIZ, MARBLEX, and Lotte Group for gaming and entertainment. It also introduced standards for real-world digital assets, with infrastructure upgrades like NFT indexers and multi-signature solutions.

13. Polkadot Parachain Ecosystem — Practice of Multi-Chain Strategy

Note: See item 5 for detailed Polkadot analysis.

14. Sei (SEI) — Innovator of DeFi-Optimized Chain

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: Based on on-chain real-time price
• Market and activity: Continually growing

Sei is a Layer 1 chain optimized for DeFi, offering fast and efficient trading and financial transactions. Its strengths include specialized order book optimization and native matching engine integration, significantly reducing latency and improving DEX and DeFi protocol efficiency. SEI tokens are used for transaction fees, governance, and staking, essential for network security and operation.

In 2023, Sei accelerated through strategic initiatives. Ecosystem funds expanded to $120 million, with $50 million from Foresight Ventures, supplementing previous $30 million from investors. Supports NFT, gaming, and DeFi applications. Growth emphasizes penetration in Asian markets, leveraging regional tech maturity and adoption; partnerships with Graviton in India exemplify this. Technologically, Sei surpasses DEXs and trading apps in performance and scalability, becoming a developer favorite. Ecosystem funds also support early startups and teams, fostering innovation.

15. ZetaChain (ZETA) — Dreamer of Full-Chain Interoperability

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $0.08
• 1-Year Change: -87.36%
• Circulating Market Cap: $91.92M

ZetaChain aims to be the first truly “full-chain” Layer 1 blockchain, revolutionizing interoperability by connecting and interacting with any blockchain regardless of architecture or native smart contract capabilities. It supports seamless asset transfers, data exchange, and cross-chain smart contracts, fostering a unified Web3 experience. Launched in March 2023, it is a relatively new player with rapid growth. Over 20 active applications and strategic partnerships with Chainlink, The Sandbox, and others have been established.

ZetaChain’s core strength is its full-chain smart contract capability, enabling seamless interaction across chains. This innovative feature addresses challenges in multi-chain and cross-chain environments, highly valuable for DeFi developers and users seeking interoperability. In 2023, milestones include over 1 million active users on mainnet, deployment of over 100 cross-chain applications, and more than 6.3 million cross-chain transactions. Strategic partnerships and funding of $27 million support ecosystem growth, including collaborations with BYTE CITY and Ultiverse to enable cross-chain social and gaming experiences.

16. Kava (KAVA) — Explorer of Hybrid Architecture

Real-time Data (January 5, 2026)

• Current Price: $0.08
• 1-Year Change: -84.75%
• Circulating Market Cap: $90.62M

Kava is a unique Layer 1 blockchain combining Cosmos SDK’s scalability and interoperability with EVM compatibility, supporting Ethereum dApps and Kava features. Its “cross-chain” architecture positions Kava as an innovative DeFi hub with fast transactions, low fees, and multi-asset access. Though smaller than giants like Ethereum, Kava’s ecosystem is rapidly growing, with over 110 active applications and a TVL exceeding $250 million. The native KAVA token is used for governance and staking, promoting diverse DeFi activities.

Kava leverages Cosmos’s Tendermint BFT consensus for high security and resilience. Its USD-pegged stablecoin USDX supports decentralized lending without relying on centralized oracles. Recent upgrades like Kava 14 introduced direct minting of USDT on Cosmos, supported by strategic partners, enhancing liquidity and cross-Defi usability. Throughout 2023, major upgrades included Kava 12 and 13, focusing on DAO flexibility, ecosystem expansion, and user experience. Integration of large stablecoins, bridging, security, and governance further solidify Kava’s position as a leading blockchain platform.

A key shift is the transition of KAVA tokens to a fixed supply as part of the “Kava Tokenomics 2.0” upgrade. This aims to boost adoption and scarcity, potentially impacting liquidity and market dynamics. Community treasury assets exceeding $300 million demonstrate a deeper commitment to decentralization and community value growth.

The Symbiotic Evolution of Layer 1 and Layer 2

The ongoing development of Layer 1 and Layer 2 solutions reflects the dynamic nature of blockchain technology. While Layer 2 solutions enhance scalability and speed to meet performance demands, Layer 1 blockchains remain the foundation, ensuring security, decentralization, and infrastructure support for the entire crypto universe.

Their relationship is symbiotic. Layer 2 boosts performance but relies on Layer 1’s security and decentralization. Co-evolution occurs—Layer 1 improvements (like Ethereum sharding) can strengthen Layer 2 performance; successful Layer 2 solutions can inspire Layer 1 upgrades. This dual-layer development strategy is likely to continue as blockchain applications expand, requiring a balance of security, decentralization, scalability, and speed.

Summary

By 2025, Layer 1 blockchains remain at the forefront of the crypto revolution. Their continuous evolution and adaptation are vital to meet the increasingly diverse needs of the digital world. From Solana’s blazing-fast transactions to Bitcoin’s unmatched security, each Layer 1 contributes unique attributes, weaving a vibrant tapestry in the blockchain universe. While Layer 2 solutions enhance performance, they depend on Layer 1’s security and decentralization, ensuring a balanced ecosystem: Layer 1 provides a secure, decentralized foundation, and Layer 2 empowers scalability and speed.