Best Free Layer 2 Protocols of 2025

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.

Meter serves as a highly efficient infrastructure designed to enable smart contracts to scale and navigate effortlessly across diverse blockchain networks. Functioning as both a Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchain protocol, Meter is built around two primary tokens: MTRG, which acts as the governance token (with eMTRG representing its ERC20 version), and MTR, designed to be a stable currency token. To facilitate the unrestricted movement of financial assets between blockchains, Meter employs a HotStuff-based consensus mechanism that supports thousands of validator nodes, positioning it as the most decentralized Layer 2 solution for Ethereum. With the capacity to process thousands of transactions every second, transactions on Meter are confirmed in nearly real time. Additionally, Meter Passport enables assets and smart contracts to traverse and interact across various blockchains, optimizing for price, liquidity, and yield. Meter stands out as an Ethereum-compatible platform enhanced with distinctive features. In contrast to other Layer 2 solutions, decentralized exchanges (DEXes) built on Meter are resistant to front running and miner extractable value (MEV) issues, ensuring they are both swift and censorship-resistant. This combination of capabilities makes Meter a formidable player in the blockchain ecosystem.

A community focused on open-source development is dedicated to enhancing Bitcoin's scalability, particularly its proof-of-work security, to accommodate global demands and new applications, while striving to remain true to Bitcoin's foundational principles. With a decade of advancements since its mainnet launch, Syscoin has positioned itself as a leader in offering a robust network and protocol tailored for projects seeking to implement Bitcoin L2 solutions. As a Bitcoin L2 operating on the mainnet, Syscoin introduces a data availability protocol that enables the realization of EVM and AltVM rollups on the Bitcoin blockchain. By being merge-mined by a significant portion of Bitcoin's hash rate, Syscoin effectively anchors these rollups to the integrity of Bitcoin's proof-of-work mechanism, seamlessly integrating with the existing sequencer architectures of these rollups. Additionally, Syscoin delivers a scalable data availability layer for Bitcoin, essential for rollups and other EVM or AltVM layers, allowing them to connect to Bitcoin’s network securely and efficiently. This innovative approach not only enhances Bitcoin’s utility but also strengthens its position in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

Polkadot is an innovative blockchain network designed to support Web 3.0, which aims to create a decentralized and equitable internet where individuals have control over their data, fostering thriving markets through enhanced network efficiency and security. Established in 2016 by Gavin Wood, who previously served as the Co-Founder and CTO of Ethereum, Polkadot addresses key challenges that have hindered the widespread adoption of blockchain technology in recent years. The platform's development toolkit, known as Substrate, was created by Parity Technologies and simplifies the process for developers to create tailored blockchains suited to their specific needs. Additionally, Polkadot facilitates interoperability between various blockchains, making upgrades seamless, and introduces a model of “shared security” that allows developers to prioritize their technological innovations rather than expend resources on assembling a team of operators to manage a new blockchain. This approach not only streamlines the development process but also enhances the overall robustness of the blockchain ecosystem.

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.

COMBO stands out as a premier provider of scaling solutions tailored for the development of Web3 games. Utilizing the most advanced game engine available, COMBO is creating an open-source, decentralized protocol focused on gaming that is designed for universal accessibility. Its mission is to unlock the full potential of Web3 gaming by seamlessly connecting developers with the broader ecosystem in a manner that is efficient, cost-effective, and secure. To support this initiative, COMBO has established robust partnerships with top-tier Web3 infrastructure projects, offering a suite of development tools and integrated game engines. These sophisticated resources enable game creators to enter the Web3 landscape with ease while streamlining and speeding up their development processes. Through the implementation of optimistic rollup technology, the platform can achieve over 5,000 transactions per second, all while maintaining extremely low gas fees of just 0.000000008 Gwei. Additionally, COMBO’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its ongoing efforts to enhance the gaming experience within the decentralized landscape.