Ethereum L2s

Ethereum is the original smart contract blockchain for crypto, but it's fees can be a bit high making microtransactions and such unviable. These are the top L2s that utilized some of the trust from the Ethereum L1 without the high fees.

Shiba Inu Shiba Inu 5.0 Shiba Inu (SHIB) is a decentralized, community-driven cryptocurrency built as an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum network (Layer-1). Originating as a meme coin inspired by Dogecoin, it has since grown into a full ecosystem featuring additional tokens (LEASH, BONE), NFTs, DeFi utilities, and its own Layer-2 network, Shibarium, which enhances scalability and lowers transaction costs. The project emphasizes decentralized governance, community creativity, and the transition from meme culture to real-world blockchain utility.
Arbitrum Arbitrum 5.0 Arbitrum is a unified blockchain platform for building and deploying applications, leveraging Optimistic Rollups to scale Ethereum with faster execution, optimized block times, and efficient data storage. It supports bridging assets via its official bridge, exploring over 900 ecosystem apps like Robinhood, GMX, and Magic Eden, and launching custom interconnected chains through Orbit. With 1.45 million active wallets, $19.21 billion in total value locked, and a 37.1% L2 market share, it emphasizes developer tools, governance participation, and community contributions to advance Ethereum's scalability.
Base Base 5.0 Base is an Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain built by Coinbase, delivering low-cost, high-speed transactions with full EVM compatibility. Utilizing Optimistic Rollups, it achieves up to 2,000 transactions per second with fees as low as $0.01. It supports over 1,000 dApps, including Uniswap and Aave, and offers secure, developer-friendly infrastructure with seamless Coinbase wallet integration for user onboarding.
Optimism Optimism 5.0 Optimism is a layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum, utilizing Optimistic Rollups to boost transaction speed and reduce costs while maintaining Ethereum’s security. It supports a vibrant ecosystem of dApps, including DeFi, NFTs, and gaming, with tools for developers to build scalable applications. The Optimism Collective governs the platform, fostering community-driven innovation and decentralization. Compatible with Ethereum’s EVM, it enables seamless asset bridging and boasts significant total value locked, driving adoption across Web3.
Polygon Polygon 5.0 Polygon Technology provides a layer-2 scaling framework for Ethereum, enhancing transaction speed and cost-efficiency while preserving security. It offers tools like the Polygon PoS chain, zkEVM for zero-knowledge rollups, and Miden for privacy-focused solutions, supporting developers in building dApps for DeFi, NFTs, and gaming. With a robust ecosystem, seamless asset bridging, and EVM compatibility, Polygon drives Web3 adoption through scalable, interoperable blockchain infrastructure.