Best Layer 2 Protocols for Orbiter Finance

Loopring serves as an open protocol designed for the creation of scalable non-custodial exchanges on the Ethereum network. By utilizing zero-knowledge proofs (zkRollup), it facilitates efficient trading with high throughput and low settlement fees while ensuring the robust security measures characteristic of Ethereum. Throughout the entire trading process, users retain complete control over their assets. You can explore trading on Loopring to experience its features firsthand. As a protocol that is open-sourced, audited, and non-custodial, it eliminates the need for trust among participants within the Loopring ecosystem. Users’ cryptoassets are consistently under their own control, backed by 100% security guarantees equivalent to Ethereum's standards. Loopring enhances the capacity of decentralized exchanges by processing thousands of requests off-chain, ensuring verifiable execution through zero-knowledge proofs. Consequently, the limitations of underlying blockchains are no longer a hindrance to performance. Most functions, such as order-matching and trade settlement, are conducted off the Ethereum blockchain, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. This innovative approach positions Loopring as a leader in the realm of decentralized finance.

The next-generation layer 2 solution for Ethereum decentralized applications (dApps) allows developers to leverage their preferred tools while achieving cost-effective scaling for their projects. In this ecosystem, an aggregator functions similarly to a node in the Ethereum network, enabling client software to perform remote procedure calls (RPCs) to interact with an Arbitrum chain via a standard API. Once a client makes a request, the aggregator interacts with the EthBridge to generate transaction results, akin to the operation of an Ethereum node. Although most clients will typically route their transaction submissions through an aggregator for efficiency, it is not a strict requirement for operation. There are no restrictions on the number of aggregators that can be established, nor on who is eligible to serve as one. To enhance processing efficiency, aggregators often consolidate several client transactions into a singular message for submission to the Arbitrum chain. Additionally, Arbitrum features a specialized Sequencer that has the capability to prioritize transaction ordering and provide rapid transaction receipts, further optimizing the user experience. This innovative structure opens up new possibilities for developers looking to enhance their dApps on Ethereum.

Introducing the pioneering layer 2 solution for NFTs on Ethereum, which offers zero gas fees, instantaneous transactions, and enhanced scalability for games, applications, and marketplaces, all without sacrificing quality. The digital future of asset trading is here, guaranteeing that NFTs are exchanged within an open and decentralized framework that is safeguarded by Ethereum's robust infrastructure. Enjoy gas-free peer-to-peer trading while setting your own transaction fees, eliminating custodial risks as users maintain control of their private keys. The platform boasts impressive scalability, capable of handling over 9,000 transactions per second, and stands apart as a genuine layer 2 solution that inherits the security of layer 1. It supports both ERC-20 and ERC-721 tokens, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of digital assets. With Immutable X Mint, you can swiftly create and distribute assets at an unprecedented scale, enabling the creation of both ERC-721 and ERC-20 tokens with no gas costs involved. Assets are ready for immediate trading, and the security is on par with Ethereum’s mainnet. To facilitate your success, we offer onboarding assistance, technical consulting for essential integrations, and expert advice on industry best practices to help your team thrive. In this rapidly evolving digital landscape, we are committed to providing the tools and support needed for seamless NFT transactions.

Base is a secure, cost-effective, and developer-friendly layer 2 solution for Ethereum, designed to usher in the next billion users to the web3 ecosystem. It offers the essential security and scalability required for your decentralized applications, utilizing Ethereum's foundational security while allowing smooth onboarding from Coinbase, Ethereum L1, and other compatible chains. Experience the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) at a reduced cost, and gain early access to advanced Ethereum functionalities like Account Abstraction (ERC4337), alongside straightforward developer APIs for gasless transactions and smart contract wallets. Built on Optimism’s open-source OP Stack, Base provides an effortless way for decentralized applications to tap into the extensive range of products and distribution options from Coinbase. With seamless integrations, easy fiat onramps, and entry into the Coinbase ecosystem—home to 110 million verified users and $80 billion in assets—Base positions itself as a pivotal player in the web3 landscape. The combination of innovative features and robust support makes Base an attractive option for developers looking to create impactful decentralized applications.

Starknet functions as a decentralized ZK-Rollup on Ethereum, operating without permission and allowing any decentralized application (dApp) to attain boundless computational scale while maintaining Ethereum's security and composability. By generating STARK proofs off-chain and verifying them on-chain, Starknet successfully scales while safeguarding the integrity of Layer 1 Ethereum. Developers can seamlessly implement diverse business logic through Starknet Contracts, promoting Ethereum-level composability that encourages straightforward development and fosters innovation. The STARK Prover drives the StarkEx scalability engine, showcasing its capability to handle up to 600,000 transactions in a single proof on Mainnet, which highlights its efficiency and robustness. This combination of features positions Starknet as a vital infrastructure for the next generation of decentralized applications.

Linea is the Ethereum-aligned Layer 2 network designed to amplify the security, scalability, and economic value of the ETH ecosystem. Built as a zkEVM rollup, it maintains complete compatibility with Ethereum’s tooling while offering faster settlement times and significantly reduced fees. Each transaction contributes to Ethereum’s value by burning ETH, creating long-term scarcity and aligning incentives between Linea and Ethereum mainnet. The network enhances capital efficiency by enabling bridged ETH to be natively staked, with yield distributed to liquidity providers and DeFi protocols. Its tokenomics mirror Ethereum’s Genesis model, avoiding insider allocations while dedicating supply to builders, users, and public goods. An Ecosystem Council composed of trusted Ethereum stewards guides funding and R&D support across the community. Linea’s infrastructure is enterprise-grade, designed for global finance use cases such as tokenization, trading, and payments, while integrating seamlessly with custodians and DeFi leaders. As a product of Consensys and Ethereum’s open-source community, Linea embodies Ethereum’s ethos of decentralization and sustainable growth.

Blast is the sole Ethereum Layer 2 solution that offers native yield for both ETH and stablecoins. The yield generated comes from ETH staking alongside real-world asset (RWA) protocols. Users of Blast benefit as the yield from these decentralized systems is automatically redistributed to them. In contrast, the standard interest rate on other Layer 2 platforms sits at a mere 0%. Our vision as contributors is to enhance the on-chain economy by providing the highest-yield Layer 2 experience available. Those who participate in our community mission will have a chance to receive the Blast Airdrop as a reward. Notably, Blast's capabilities were made feasible this year, following the Shanghai upgrade to Ethereum. Additionally, yield from L1 staking, which was initially facilitated by Lido, is seamlessly transferred to users through a rebasing mechanism of ETH on the Layer 2 platform, ensuring they benefit from the staking rewards effortlessly. This innovative approach promotes both growth and accessibility within the blockchain ecosystem.

Mode is an Ethereum Layer 2 solution that incentivizes users for expanding its network through innovative economic strategies. This platform is creating a novel on-chain economy that compensates individuals for their contributions to network expansion. Developers can receive a share of the sequencer fees generated through their smart contracts. Additionally, Mode's innovative treasury will facilitate automated rewards throughout the ecosystem. Built on the modular OP stack, Mode is part of the super chain network, which includes both base and OP mainnet. Users can enjoy a streamlined, user-friendly blockchain experience with the Mode name service. Furthermore, the Mode bridge enables seamless asset transfers between Layer 1 and the Mode platform, enhancing the overall flexibility and accessibility of the network for its users. This multifaceted approach not only fosters growth but also strengthens community engagement within the blockchain space.

Polygon is the global leader in blockchain scalability solutions, offering an advanced infrastructure that transforms how money and data move across the internet. Purpose-built for real-time transactions, Polygon enables instant settlement, high throughput (1,000+ TPS), and transaction costs as low as $0.001. With over 5.3 billion transactions processed and $141 billion in transfer volume, it has become the backbone for digital payments, DeFi, and stablecoin ecosystems. Enterprises leverage Polygon’s robust framework to eliminate wire fees, improve liquidity, and ensure compliance—all while maintaining speed and transparency. The network’s aggregation layer, zkEVM, and AggLayer CDK provide developers with modular scalability for any use case—from tokenized assets (RWA) to cross-border payments. Its POL token secures the network and powers staking, governance, and utility functions. With account abstraction, social recovery, and seamless user onboarding, Polygon makes blockchain accessible to the masses. Backed by a thriving ecosystem and proven reliability, Polygon is redefining global payments and decentralized innovation at internet scale.

Ethereum's latest scalability framework ensures rapid transactions alongside efficient smart contracts. Optimism operates as a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), which is a profit-driven entity established to create societal advantages while maintaining responsible and sustainable practices. This structure compels us to harmonize the financial interests of our shareholders with the welfare of individuals impacted by our actions, all while adhering to a specific "public benefit charter" we have adopted. The core mission of the Company is to improve and secure equitable access to internet public goods through the creation of open-source software. This charter embodies our commitment to the Ethereum community, as we strive to uphold its principles by developing infrastructure that fosters the growth and sustainability of a public goods ecosystem. In doing so, we aim not only to enhance technological innovation but also to cultivate an inclusive environment for all users.

zkSync stands out as the most user-focused ZK rollup solution in the Ethereum ecosystem. This innovative scaling method has no limitations on the volume it can securely manage in Layer 2, setting it apart from other strategies. In contrast to optimistic rollups, it facilitates rapid and economically efficient transfers of assets between the ZK rollup and Layer 1. Notably, zkSync boasts the lowest transaction costs among all current and forthcoming rollups. Additionally, it offers features like meta-transactions, immediate confirmations with economic finality, and affordable privacy options. The design philosophy of zkSync emphasizes simplicity and enjoyment in the development process. Developers can easily integrate payments and atomic swaps using just a few lines of code. Moreover, zkSync allows for the creation of type-safe, functional smart contracts with Zinc, a Rust-based framework, and enables the deployment of existing EVM codebases with minimal adjustments. This combination of features makes zkSync an attractive choice for developers seeking efficiency and innovation in blockchain applications.