The 9 Best Blockchain Platforms to Get Started with Ease

Have you ever wondered what powers cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum? The answer lies in blockchain platforms, the foundation of technology-changing industries worldwide. As of 2024, the global blockchain market is projected to grow from $27.84 billion to $825.93 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 52.8%. These platforms are the unacknowledged heroes […]

Have you ever wondered what powers cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum? The answer lies in blockchain platforms, the foundation of technology-changing industries worldwide. As of 2024, the global blockchain market is projected to grow from $27.84 billion to $825.93 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 52.8%.

These platforms are the unacknowledged heroes of innovation, enabling everything from decentralized applications to smart contracts and secure digital asset management. When it comes to blockchain technology, there are so many options available, from flexible open-source blockchain platforms to powerful, modular solutions like IBM Blockchain. No matter your specific needs, there’s a platform for you.

Thus, we’re simplifying this guide for you: we will see the top blockchain platforms and break down what makes each one special. Ready to explore? Let’s get started!

How We Selected the Best Blockchain Platforms

When selecting the blockchain platforms, we focused on the most important criteria for users. With so many options available, we narrowed it down based on the following aspects:

  • Security and Reliability: The platform should efficiently manage growing transactions. Essential for accommodating future growth.
  • Scalability: As the platform grows, it has to efficiently manage increasing transactions to support growth and demand without compromising performance.
  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Users appreciate fast processing times and low transaction costs.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: It is important to be able to support programmable contracts, as smart contracts help automate and facilitate complex transactions. 
  • Community and Developer Support: An active community indicates a healthy ecosystem and ongoing innovation. 
  • Interoperability: The platform should operate smoothly with other blockchains and existing systems.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Alignment with legal standards to ensure legitimacy and reduce the risk of future legal challenges. 

After carefully considering various important factors to users, we’ve chosen the platforms that stand out for their performance and alignment with user needs.

Comparison of the Top 10 Blockchain Platforms

1. Ethereum: The Best Blockchain for Smart Contracts and dApps

Ethereum Platform

Ethereum is one of the top blockchain platforms that started it all. It introduced smart contracts, automated agreements without intermediaries, powering decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi tools, and NFTs.

Regarding security and reliability, Ethereum’s decentralized network of thousands of computers ensures no single point of failure. Combined with its massive developer community, the platform remains secure and constantly improving.

Scalability used to be Ethereum’s biggest challenge. However, with the move to Proof of Stake (PoS) and upgrades like layer-2 solutions (e.g., Optimism and Arbitrum), Ethereum now handles more transactions at faster speeds and lower costs.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: While gas fees can still vary, recent upgrades have reduced costs and improved transaction speeds.
  • Community and Developer Support: Ethereum’s developer community is unmatched. It continuously builds tools and expands the platform’s capabilities.

Ethereum also leads to interoperability. Its standards, like ERC-20 and ERC-721, make connecting and collaborating with other blockchain networks easy.

For businesses, Ethereum supports features like KYC (Know Your Customer) to meet regulatory compliance, making it a trusted choice for projects needing to align with legal standards.

It is worth noticing that there are plenty of Ethereum Layer2’s, with far better fees, such as:

  • Optimism Network – a part of the Superchain. Fees: between 2 and 5 cents.
  • Base Network – Created by Coinbase, a part of the Superchain: Fees: between 1 and 5 cents.
  • Arbitrum Network – One of the best L2s to use. Fees: under 1 cent and 2-3 cents.

2. Binance Smart Chain: Best for Affordable and Fast Blockchain Solutions

BNB CHAIN Platform

Binance Smart Chain (BSC) was built to fix two of the blockchain’s biggest issues: slow transactions and high fees. Designed to work alongside Binance Chain, BSC supports smart contracts, making it a simple and affordable choice for developers building apps, managing digital assets, or exploring DeFi.

For security and reliability, BSC uses Proof of Staked Authority (PoSA), a system where trusted validators keep the network running smoothly. While it’s less decentralized than other platforms, it balances safety and speed well.

Scalability is one of BSC’s strongest features. Even during high traffic, the network stays fast and efficient, handling thousands of transactions without delays.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: BSC is lightning-fast, and fees are so low you’ll barely notice them; perfect for developers and everyday users.
  • Community and Developer Support: Backed by Binance, BSC has a growing network of developers who constantly improve and expand the platform.

Regarding interoperability, BSC “speaks the same language” as Ethereum, allowing apps and tools built for Ethereum to transfer over easily.

For businesses, BSC supports regulatory compliance with features like KYC (Know Your Customer), making it a trusted choice for projects that need to meet legal standards.

3. Solana: Best for Lightning-Fast Transactions and Scalability

Solana Blockchain Platform

Solana, also known as the “speedster” of blockchain platforms, is built to be fast and efficient. It handles thousands of transactions every second without missing a beat, making it a favorite for developers building decentralized applications (dApps) and projects where speed matters.

Regarding security and reliability, Solana operates on a unique system that combines Proof of Stake (PoS) with Proof of History (PoH). While it’s not as decentralized as Ethereum, Solana balances speed and security to keep its network reliable.

Solana stands out in terms of scalability. Designed with a modular architecture, the network can process up to 65,000 transactions per second (TPS) without slowing down, even when things get busy.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Solana offers transactions at a fraction of the cost. The low fees make Solana a top choice for developers and regular users.
  • Community and Developer Support: Solana’s growing community constantly creates tools, apps, and new ways to use the platform. It’s a blockchain platform built for builders who want speed and flexibility.

Solana is catching up with interoperability. It’s not as seamlessly connected as some networks yet, but ongoing projects are working to improve how Solana interacts with other blockchain networks and tools.

Solana also focuses on regulatory compliance for businesses and developers, allowing projects to incorporate features like KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols and other legal tools to meet global standards.

4. Polkadot: Best for Building Bridges Between Blockchains

5. Polkadot: Best for Building Bridges Between Blockchains

Polkadot is the bridge builder of the blockchain world. Its main purpose is to connect multiple blockchain networks, allowing them to share data and work together. This approach makes creating flexible and scalable solutions across different platforms easier.

When it comes to security and reliability, Polkadot uses a shared security model. All the smaller connected blockchains, called parachains, benefit from the protection of Polkadot’s main chain, the Relay Chain.

Scalability is built into Polkadot’s design. Running transactions parallel across parachains avoids bottlenecks and keeps everything fast and efficient.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Polkadot processes transactions quickly, and fees stay low because the network distributes the workload across parachains.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: While smart contracts aren’t native to Polkadot, developers can build them on its connected parachains, enabling the flexible creation of blockchain applications.

Polkadot’s focus on interoperability makes it stand out. It connects blockchain frameworks and systems, allowing seamless communication and data sharing.

For businesses, tools like KYC (Know Your Customer) can be added to meet regulatory compliance requirements, ensuring projects remain legal and trusted.

5. Tezos: Best for Seamless Upgrades and Smart Contract Flexibility

6. Tezos: Best for Seamless Upgrades and Smart Contract Flexibility

Tezos is a blockchain platform built to grow and change easily. Instead of needing big, complicated updates, it upgrades itself smoothly. This means the network keeps improving without breaking things, which is perfect for long-term projects.

Regarding security and reliability, Tezos uses Proof of Stake (PoS) to keep things safe and energy-efficient. It’s like having a strong, dependable system that doesn’t waste resources but does the job. Yet, scalability is another strength. No matter how many users join or how busy things get, Tezos keeps transactions fast and affordable.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Transactions happen quickly, and fees are so low they’re barely noticeable. Whether you’re managing digital assets or building apps, Tezos won’t slow you down.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: Tezos supports secure smart contracts, making it easy for developers to create apps for anything from finance to gaming.

What makes Tezos stand out is its community and developer support. Upgrades happen through voting, meaning people decide how the platform develops, keeping it in tune with users’ needs.

For businesses, Tezos is ready for regulatory compliance. It supports tools like KYC (Know Your Customer) so companies can meet legal standards and operate smoothly.

6. Hyperledger Fabric: Best for Customizable Blockchain Solutions

7. Hyperledger Fabric: Best for Customizable Blockchain Solutions

Hyperledger Fabric is a blockchain platform built for businesses that need secure and private solutions. Unlike public networks, it works on a permissioned system, where only verified users can access data, perfect for handling sensitive information.

The platform does not use a traditional built-in consensus mechanism; instead, it offers a pluggable consensus mechanism, which allows users to choose and configure the consensus algorithm that best suits their case.

Regarding security and reliability, Fabric is a private room where only trusted participants can enter. This setup keeps information safe and ensures smooth collaboration between businesses.

Another strength is its scalability. Its modular architecture lets companies customize features and grow their networks without slowing down performance. Whether handling thousands of transactions or a few, Hyperledger Fabric keeps things efficient.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Transactions are quick and cost-efficient since only authorized users validate them, avoiding unnecessary delays.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: Fabric supports smart contracts (known as “chaincode”), which help businesses automate processes and save time.

Fabric also integrates well with existing systems, making it easy for companies to add blockchain solutions without starting from scratch. For businesses needing regulatory compliance, tools like KYC (Know Your Customer) are supported to meet legal requirements.

7. Stellar: Best for Fast and Affordable Cross-Border Payments

8. Stellar: Best for Fast and Affordable Cross-Border Payments

Stellar is a blockchain platform using the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), a consensus mechanism designed to make moving money fast, easy, and affordable. Whether sending money across borders or exchanging digital assets, Stellar connects financial systems to simplify global transactions.

For security and reliability, Stellar uses a public blockchain network that verifies transactions quickly and transparently. Its lightweight design keeps the system secure and efficient without consuming unnecessary energy.

Scalability is where Stellar shines. It can handle thousands of transactions per second, ensuring payments remain fast and low-cost even during busy periods.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Stellar transactions take just a few seconds and cost almost nothing, making It perfect for frequent, real-world use.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: Stellar supports basic smart contracts that help automate payments and manage digital assets efficiently.

Stellar’s strength also lies in its community and developer support. Backed by the Stellar Development Foundation, the platform keeps improving, expanding its reach and making blockchain easier to use.

With strong interoperability, Stellar connects traditional financial systems with blockchain technology, enabling smooth transfers between currencies and platforms.

8. Avalanche: Best for Scalability and Low-Cost Transactions

9. Avalanche: Best for Scalability, and Low-Cost Transactions

Avalanche is a blockchain platform built for exceptional speed and scalability, making it ideal for high-volume transactions, digital asset public transfers, and decentralized applications (dApps).

Avalanche uses a unique consensus mechanism based on Proof of Stake (PoS) for security and reliability. This ensures near-instant transaction validations and robust protection against attacks, keeping the network secure and efficient.

Avalanche stands out because of its scalability. It can process thousands of transactions per second without congestion, making it one of the fastest networks in the blockchain space.

  • Transaction Speed and Fees: Transactions on Avalanche are confirmed in seconds, and fees are extremely low, making it cost-effective for developers and everyday users.
  • Smart Contract Functionality: Fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), Avalanche allows developers to build or migrate apps easily using tools like Solidity.

Avalanche also supports regulatory compliance, providing features that allow businesses to integrate Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols. This makes it a trusted platform for enterprises operating under legal frameworks.

With strong community and developer support, Avalanche continues to grow, attracting projects and contributors and pushing the platform forward. Finally, Avalanche’s interoperability allows it to connect seamlessly with other blockchains and systems, ensuring smooth transfers of assets and data.

9. IBM: Best Known for Easy-to-Integrate Solutions

10. IBM: Best Known for Easy-to-Integrate Solutions

The IBM Blockchain Platform is a reliable choice for businesses adopting blockchain technology. Built on Hyperledger Fabric, it’s designed to be secure, scalable, and easy to integrate into existing systems, making it a leader in the blockchain space.

The platform uses a permissioned network for security and reliability, which means only verified participants can access and share data. This makes it ideal for industries that handle sensitive information.

  • Scalability: This is a core strength of the IBM blockchain platform. It can handle large transaction volumes while maintaining performance, making it perfect for growing businesses.
  • Transaction Speed and Fees: With smart contracts, processes are automated, reducing delays and saving costs. Transactions are fast and efficient.

IBM also excels in community and developer support, offering tools, tutorials, and resources to help businesses confidently build and deploy blockchain applications.

The platform supports regulatory compliance features like KYC (Know Your Customer) and data privacy controls, helping businesses comply with legal standards.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Blockchain Platform

Choosing the right blockchain platform is about more than just speed and security. Here are a few other things that can make a big difference:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Nobody wants a system that consumes energy and leaves a giant carbon footprint. Platforms that use Proof of Stake (PoS) or similar eco-friendly systems are better for the planet and your wallet.
  2. Ease of Use: If a platform feels like it needs a PhD to understand, chances are it won’t catch on. Look for tools and interfaces that are simple, clear, and easy to use, even for developers just starting.
  3. Flexibility and Customization: Not all projects need the same features. Platforms like Hyperledger Fabric offer modular designs, so you can tweak things to fit your project needs.
  4. Network Reliability: Nobody likes downtime, especially if your business depends on it. A good platform stays up and running, no matter how busy.
  5. Community Involvement: Platforms that let users vote on updates or propose changes (like Tezos) stay fresh and grow with real-world needs. It’s like having a say in the platform’s future.
  6. Real-World Adoption: A platform trusted by big businesses or institutions is a good sign; it means it’s reliable, tested, and here to stay.

FAQ

How do open-source blockchain platforms differ from proprietary ones?

Developers can use open-source blockchain platforms, like Ethereum and Polkadot, to adapt and improve them. This makes them super flexible for building all kinds of projects.

Are there blockchain platforms designed for creating applications?

Platforms like Ethereum, Solana, and Hyperledger Fabric are ideal for creating blockchain applications. Whether it’s a simple app or a big business solution, these platforms have the tools to get you started.

How secure are public blockchain networks compared to private ones?

Public networks use decentralization to stay secure, like spreading the work across many hands. Private networks focus on keeping things exclusive, with strict access and encryption.

What makes a blockchain platform good for businesses?

Businesses need platforms that are fast, secure, and compliant with rules like KYC and AML. Platforms like Hyperledger Fabric are a great match because they offer privacy and can handle much work without slowing down.

Can blockchain work outside of finance?

Yes, healthcare uses blockchain to secure patient records, supply chains to track products, and even entertainment to prove ownership of digital art. And that’s not all the industries that blockchain activates.

Final Thoughts

As we know, blockchain platforms are changing the way we use technology. Thus, distributed ledger technology provides secure and reliable systems for many industries.

Whether you need an open-source blockchain platform or tools for creating blockchain applications, these platforms have something for everyone. They make managing data, building apps, and connecting systems easier.

As a result, blockchain is no longer just about cryptocurrency. It’s about building a future where technology works better for everyone and we hope our list of blockchain platforms helped you choosing your favorite based on your crypto needs.

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