10 Best Layer 1 Crypto Coins to Watch in 2025
As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, one of the most critical components of blockchain innovation remains the Layer 1 (L1) blockchain — the foundational protocol upon which entire ecosystems are built. From enabling decentralized finance (DeFi) to powering NFTs, gaming, and decentralized identity, L1s are the highways of the decentralized world. Understanding which Layer 1 chains have the most potential in 2025 can help users, developers, and investors stay ahead of trends that could shape the next major shift in Web3.
This article highlights the 10 most promising Layer 1 coins to keep an eye on in 2025 — a mix of established giants, rising stars, and ambitious newcomers. In particular, we’ll spotlight HeLa — a modular, stablecoin-powered Layer 1 blockchain — placing it #1 due to its innovative design, growing ecosystem, and focus on real-world adoption.
What is a Layer 1 Blockchain?
Layer 1 blockchains are the base networks that process transactions 
and manage the blockchain ledger. They are “ground zero” for decentralized systems, as they handle validation, security, consensus, and scalability. These networks can support smart contracts, host decentralized applications (dApps), and provide their own native currencies.
Unlike Layer 2 solutions, which build on top of Layer 1s to increase scalability (such as Ethereum’s rollups), Layer 1 blockchains don’t rely on another blockchain to operate. Their performance, architecture, and level of decentralization play a critical role in the overall health and growth of the crypto ecosystem. In short, if crypto is an operating system for the new internet, Layer 1s are its kernel.
Top 10 Layer 1 Coins to Watch in 2025
Layer 1 blockchains are at the center of competition, development, and innovation. Some offer unique technical benefits, while others attract developers through ecosystem grants or user experience. The following is a curated list of ten Layer 1 coins to follow closely in 2025, starting with HeLa at the top.
1. HeLa (HLUSD)
The modular, stablecoin-powered Layer 1 with privacy and identity at its core.
HeLa is not just another Layer 1 — it’s a new model of blockchain infrastructure, offering modular design, decentralized identity (DID), and privacy-preserving technology. Powered by its native HELA token and a USD-pegged stablecoin (HLUSD), HeLa aims to be more than just fast and cheap; it’s built for real-world use, including government and enterprise applications.
HeLa supports EVM compatibility, allowing Ethereum-based applications to migrate easily. It boasts low, predictable gas fees thanks to its stablecoin-based fee model, and introduces identity tokens, privacy layers, and DAO-controlled features to enforce sovereignty and data ownership. The project’s focus on modular, AI-integrated and user-centric design makes it one of the most compelling Layer 1s to watch in 2025 — especially as privacy and digital identity become mainstream issues.
2. Ethereum (ETH)
The original smart contract platform, still leading the way.
Ethereum has cemented its status as the most robust and battle-tested smart contract platform in the world. With a thriving ecosystem of DeFi, NFTs, dApps, and DAOs, Ethereum powers a majority of Web3 today. Its transition to Proof of Stake (PoS) in the Merge, along with upcoming upgrades like Danksharding, promise greater scalability and lower gas costs in the years to come.
Despite competition from faster chains, Ethereum’s developer community and innovation pipeline continue to push it forward. Its role as the “base layer” of DeFi remains unmatched, and with Layer 2 scaling solutions such as Optimism and Arbitrum gaining traction, Ethereum’s Layer 1 is becoming a central coordination hub rather than just a transactional chain.
Also read: Top 7 Blockchain Explorers You Should Know in 2025
3. Solana (SOL)
A high-performance chain optimized for speed and consumer use.
Solana is a blockchain known for blazing-fast transaction speeds and extremely low fees. With a unique Proof of History mechanism and wide adoption in the NFT space, Solana has built a user-friendly ecosystem that includes mobile phones, dApps, and games. It’s also home to successful DeFi projects and marketplaces.
Solana’s rise hasn’t been without challenges, including network outages. But its rapid adoption by developers and strong ecosystem recovery make it a top contender going into 2025. If it can continue improving uptime and attract more enterprise applications, Solana could become the “consumer chain” of Web3.
4. Avalanche (AVAX)
A customizable Layer 1 with modular subnets and institutional appeal.
Avalanche is designed for flexibility and speed, allowing developers to create custom blockchains — known as subnets — tailored to specific use cases. This modular approach makes it ideal for enterprises, gaming, and real-world asset tokenization.
AVAX is EVM-compatible and already partners with institutions and Web2 brands. With its architecture designed to scale horizontally via subnets, Avalanche is well-positioned to power Web3 applications that need custom rules, permissioning, or isolated environments.
5. Bitcoin (BTC)
The king of crypto, now evolving with Layer 2 and smart contract capabilities.
Though primarily viewed as digital gold, Bitcoin is still a foundational Layer 1 network. Its unmatched security, decentralization, and institutional awareness make it a long-term safe-haven for crypto investors. In 2025, innovations like Bitcoin Ordinals, Rollkit, and other Layer 2 scaling solutions are introducing new possibilities for the original chain.
Bitcoin’s evolution might be slower, but it’s steady and extremely robust. It’s not likely to host dApps en masse, but it’s still crucial to watch in 2025, particularly as it expands its use case beyond just being a store of value.
6. Cardano (ADA)
Research-first blockchain with layered architecture and global ambitions.
Cardano is known for its academic approach to blockchain development. It uses a layered architecture, separating settlement and computation, and implements its PoS consensus via Ouroboros. The network continues to prioritize sustainability and long-term security.
While adoption has been slower compared to peers, Cardano’s governance model and vision for decentralized identity, education, and financial access in underserved regions could see meaningful growth in 2025.
7. Polkadot (DOT)
A network of interoperable blockchains connected via parachains.
Polkadot enables a scalable multi-chain future through its relay chain and parachain model. Each parachain can operate independently but still benefit from shared security and interoperability. This architecture is particularly valuable in a world of many specialized blockchains.
If interoperability becomes a central feature of the next wave of blockchain adoption, Polkadot’s architecture could make it a big winner in 2025.
8. NEAR Protocol (NEAR)
User-friendly, developer-first Layer 1 with fast finality.
NEAR Protocol prioritizes usability and developer accessibility. It features human-readable account names, fast finality, and low fees. The protocol also supports nightshade sharding, a design that allows for massive scalability.
NEAR has gained attention from developers due to its ease of use, and if it continues to grow its ecosystem and offer more real-world applications, it could see increased momentum in 2025.
9. Sui (SUI)
A high-speed Layer 1 using the Move language for next-gen applications.
Sui is a newer Layer 1 built by former Meta engineers, using the Move programming language originally designed for Facebook’s Diem project. It offers ultra-fast execution and is optimized for assets like NFTs, gaming items, and microtransactions.
As blockchain gaming and metaverse use-cases evolve, Sui could offer performance that older chains can’t match. Its emphasis on object-centric data models is particularly appealing for interactive apps.
10. BNB Smart Chain (BNB)
A high-utility chain backed by one of the largest crypto ecosystems.
Binance’s BNB Smart Chain (BSC) has grown rapidly due to its low fees and massive user base. It’s EVM-compatible and hosts a wide range of DeFi, GameFi, and token-based projects. Its utility in Binance’s broader exchange and ecosystem makes it one of the most used chains globally.
However, questions around decentralization and regulation remain. If BNB can continue growing its developer ecosystem and improve decentralization, it could remain highly relevant in 2025.
What to Look for in a Strong Layer 1 Chain
When evaluating Layer 1 blockchains for investment, development, or participation, consider these critical factors:
- Scalability: Can the network handle thousands of transactions per second without slowing down? How does it approach consensus and finality?
- Ecosystem: How many developers are building on the chain? Are there grants, tools, and support systems?
- Security & Decentralization: Is the chain secure from attack? Is governance distributed or centralized?
- Real-World Use: Is the chain finding actual usage — whether in finance, identity, gaming, or enterprise?
- Tokenomics: How is the native token used? Is it inflationary or deflationary? Does it offer staking or governance rights?
These elements will be key to determining which Layer 1s thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Table: Comparing Layer 1 Chains
| Chain | Key Feature | Consensus | EVM-Compatible | Ecosystem Maturity | Target Use-Case |
| HeLa | Stablecoin gas fees, privacy | PoS Modular | Yes | Early | Identity, real-world |
| Ethereum | Largest dApp ecosystem | PoS | Native | Mature | DeFi, NFTs, dApps |
| Solana | Ultra-fast, low fees | PoH + PoS | No | Growing | Gaming, NFTs |
| Avalanche | Subnet architecture | PoS | Yes | Growing | Enterprise, DeFi |
| Bitcoin | Store of value | PoW | No | Very Mature | Digital gold |
| Cardano | Research-driven | PoS | No | Growing | Social impact, DeFi |
| Polkadot | Interoperable parachains | NPoS | No | Growing | Multi-chain |
| NEAR | Developer-friendly | PoS | Yes (via Aurora) | Growing | Onboarding, usability |
| Sui | Move-based, asset-centric | PoS | No | Early | NFTs, gaming |
| BNB Chain | Exchange-backed | PoS | Yes | Very Mature | DeFi, exchange ecosystem |
Risks and What to Watch
Layer 1 chains face multiple risks in 2025:
- Scalability trade-offs: Can newer L1s scale without sacrificing decentralization or security? Modular chains like HeLa must prove their flexibility under pressure.
- Regulatory challenges: Especially for privacy-oriented or stablecoin-backed chains, regulation can be a bottleneck. HeLa’s identity framework must remain compliant while private.
- Adoption barriers: Without real-world traction, even the best tech can fade. Chains must focus on onboarding users and builders.
- Tokenomics issues: Inflation, poor rewards, or unclear governance can hurt growth. Projects need sustainable economic models.
- Competition: The L1 space is crowded. Differentiation is critical.
HeLa’s greatest challenge will be gaining traction and delivering on its novel ideas. But its strengths — modularity, real-world readiness, and privacy — make it one of the most interesting projects in the coming cycle.
Also read: What is Polymarket? A Beginner’s Guide to Crypto Betting and Forecasting
Conclusion
Layer 1 blockchains are the beating heart of the decentralized web. As 2025 approaches, chains that can combine performance, security, usability, and innovation are the ones most likely to succeed. While Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Solana continue to lead, HeLa stands out as a visionary Layer 1 with a bold focus on real-world impact, identity, and privacy — features that are increasingly essential in a digital-first world.
Whether you’re investing, developing, or just observing, keep your eyes on these Layer 1s — because the future of the internet may very well be built on their backs.
I'm Kris, a fintech writer with three years of experience. I've been on a mission to simplify the intricacies of trading through my words, bridging the gap between technology and finance. Join me on this journey as I empower traders and investors with clear, engaging content in the dynamic world of fintech.