The evolution of blockchain technology has redefined how we think about trust, security, and digital ownership. At the heart of this transformation lies Layer 1 blockchains—the foundational networks that power decentralized applications (DApps), smart contracts, and next-generation financial systems. As we move into 2025, Layer 1 protocols continue to push the boundaries of scalability, interoperability, and user accessibility.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 Layer 1 blockchains shaping the future of Web3. From pioneers like Bitcoin and Ethereum to emerging innovators like Hela and Shardeum, each network brings unique strengths to the ecosystem.
What Is a Layer 1 Blockchain?
A Layer 1 blockchain refers to the base-level protocol where core network operations occur—transaction validation, consensus mechanisms, and data storage. It serves as the underlying infrastructure upon which Layer 2 scaling solutions and decentralized applications are built.
Layer 1 networks define key attributes such as:
- Security model (e.g., Proof-of-Work or Proof-of-Stake)
- Transaction throughput
- Decentralization level
- Smart contract capabilities
Examples like Bitcoin and Ethereum laid the groundwork for trustless systems, while newer entrants are solving long-standing challenges in speed, cost, and environmental impact.
👉 Discover how Layer 1 innovations are powering the next wave of digital finance.
Top 10 Layer 1 Blockchains in 2025
1. Hela
Hela is a next-generation Layer 1 blockchain developed by Hela Labs with a mission to bring Web3 into real-world use. Designed for mass adoption, Hela addresses critical barriers such as scalability, privacy, and user experience through a modular architecture.
Key Features:
- Modular design for flexible upgrades
- Stablecoin-denominated gas fees for predictable costs
- Built-in decentralized identity (DID) support
- Full EVM compatibility for seamless developer onboarding
Consensus Mechanism:
Tendermint BFT combined with Proof-of-Stake (PoS), ensuring fast finality and high security.
Why It Stands Out:
Hela integrates an Asset Integration Layer and collaborates with A*STAR’s Institute of High Performance Computing to co-develop its core chain, positioning it at the forefront of research-driven blockchain innovation.
2. Bitcoin (BTC)
As the original cryptocurrency, Bitcoin remains the gold standard for decentralized digital money. Launched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto, it introduced a trustless peer-to-peer payment system secured by cryptography and consensus.
Key Feature:
Pioneered decentralized digital currency.
Consensus Mechanism:
Proof-of-Work (PoW), known for its robust security and resistance to attacks.
Why It Stands Out:
Despite limited smart contract functionality, Bitcoin’s unmatched security and global adoption make it a cornerstone of the crypto ecosystem.
3. Ethereum (ETH)
Ethereum revolutionized blockchain by introducing smart contracts in 2015, enabling developers to build decentralized applications across finance, gaming, and identity management.
Key Feature:
Programmable blockchain with Turing-complete smart contracts.
Consensus Mechanism:
Transitioned from PoW to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) with Ethereum 2.0, improving energy efficiency and scalability.
Why It Stands Out:
Home to the largest DeFi and NFT ecosystems, Ethereum continues to lead in developer activity and ecosystem maturity.
4. Cardano (ADA)
Founded by Ethereum co-creator Charles Hoskinson, Cardano emphasizes scientific rigor and peer-reviewed research in its development process.
Key Feature:
Academic-driven approach ensuring long-term sustainability.
Consensus Mechanism:
Ouroboros PoS—a provably secure and energy-efficient protocol.
Why It Stands Out:
Cardano’s focus on formal verification and layered architecture makes it ideal for enterprise-grade applications requiring high assurance.
5. Polkadot (DOT)
Created by Dr. Gavin Wood, Polkadot enables interoperability between multiple blockchains through its relay chain and parachain model.
Key Feature:
Cross-chain communication without intermediaries.
Consensus Mechanism:
Nominated Proof-of-Stake (NPoS), balancing decentralization and efficiency.
Why It Stands Out:
Polkadot allows specialized blockchains to connect securely, fostering a heterogeneous multi-chain ecosystem.
6. Solana (SOL)
Solana is renowned for its high-speed transaction processing, achieving up to 65,000 transactions per second (TPS) using a hybrid consensus model.
Key Feature:
Ultra-fast and low-cost transactions.
Consensus Mechanism:
Proof-of-History (PoH) combined with PoS for time-stamped transaction ordering.
Why It Stands Out:
Solana’s performance rivals traditional payment networks, making it popular among DeFi and Web3 developers.
7. Avalanche (AVAX)
Avalanche offers rapid finality and the ability to launch custom blockchains tailored to specific use cases.
Key Feature:
Subnets allow enterprises and projects to create dedicated virtual machines.
Consensus Mechanism:
Avalanche consensus—an innovative approach using repeated randomized sampling for quick agreement.
Why It Stands Out:
No forking required during upgrades; supports complex rulesets for regulated environments.
8. Sei Labs
Sei is a high-performance Layer 1 designed specifically for trading applications and digital asset platforms.
Key Features:
- Transaction finality in under 500ms
- Carbon-neutral operations
- Supports over 20,000 orders per second
Consensus Mechanism:
Proof-of-Stake (PoS) optimized for orderbook efficiency.
Why It Stands Out:
With over 100 million testnet transactions and 4 million testnet users, Sei demonstrates strong traction in decentralized exchange (DEX) infrastructure.
👉 See how high-performance blockchains are transforming digital asset trading.
9. Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
Developed by Binance, BSC runs parallel to Binance Chain and supports EVM-compatible smart contracts.
Key Feature:
Low-cost alternative to Ethereum with full tooling compatibility.
Consensus Mechanism:
Proof-of-Stake Authority (PoSA), a variation of PoS with limited validator nodes.
Why It Stands Out:
Fueled explosive growth in DeFi during 2021–2023 due to low fees and fast settlements.
10. Shardeum
Shardeum is a scalable EVM-based Layer 1 that uses dynamic state sharding to automatically scale with demand.
Key Features:
- Linear scalability: TPS increases as more nodes join
- Consistently low gas fees
- Leaderless consensus combining Proof-of-Quorum (PoQ) and PoS
Why It Stands Out:
Shardeum is the first L1 to achieve linear scalability without compromising decentralization or security.
Comparing Layer 1 Blockchains
When evaluating Layer 1 networks, three core principles guide assessment:
- Scalability: Can the network handle growing transaction volume?
- Security: Is the consensus mechanism resistant to attacks?
- Decentralization: How distributed is control across nodes?
| Network | Scalability | Security | Decentralization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin | Low | High | High |
| Ethereum | Medium | High | Medium |
| Solana | High | Medium | Medium |
| Cardano | Medium | High | High |
| Polkadot | High | High | Medium |
| Shardeum | Very High | High | High |
Emerging networks like Shardeum and Hela aim to achieve all three—often referred to as the “blockchain trilemma”—through architectural innovation.
The Future of Layer 1 Blockchains
As blockchain adoption accelerates across finance, supply chains, identity systems, and entertainment, Layer 1 protocols will remain central to this transformation. Key trends shaping their future include:
- Interoperability: Chains communicating seamlessly via bridges and cross-chain messaging.
- Sustainability: Shift toward energy-efficient consensus models like PoS.
- Regulatory readiness: Identity integration and compliance features built into base layers.
- User experience: Wallet abstraction, gasless transactions, and simplified onboarding.
Moreover, sectors like decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and metaverse platforms rely heavily on robust Layer 1 foundations to deliver secure and scalable experiences.
👉 Explore how emerging Layer 1 blockchains are enabling the future of decentralized economies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains?
A: Layer 1 is the base blockchain protocol (e.g., Ethereum), while Layer 2 solutions (like Polygon) are built on top to improve scalability and reduce costs without altering the base layer.
Q: Which Layer 1 blockchain is best for developers?
A: Ethereum leads in developer tools and community support, but Avalanche, Solana, and Hela offer competitive advantages in speed, cost, and EVM compatibility.
Q: Can a Layer 1 blockchain be both fast and decentralized?
A: Achieving both is challenging—the "blockchain trilemma"—but newer designs like Shardeum and Polkadot use sharding and interoperability to balance these traits effectively.
Q: Why does consensus mechanism matter in Layer 1 blockchains?
A: The consensus model determines security, energy usage, transaction speed, and resistance to centralization—critical factors in network reliability and trust.
Q: Are all Layer 1 blockchains compatible with smart contracts?
A: No. Bitcoin’s scripting language is limited; modern L1s like Ethereum, Cardano, and Solana were designed specifically for programmable logic.
Conclusion
The landscape of Layer 1 blockchains in 2025 reflects a dynamic ecosystem evolving beyond simple digital currencies into full-fledged platforms for global innovation. From Bitcoin’s unshakeable foundation to Hela’s modular vision and Shardeum’s linear scalability, each network contributes uniquely to the decentralized future.
Understanding these leading protocols helps investors, developers, and users navigate the rapidly expanding Web3 world. As technology advances, expect greater convergence between performance, security, and accessibility—ushering in true mass adoption of blockchain-powered systems.