What is Ethereum?
Ethereum is the largest smart-contract blockchain — the platform that introduced programmable tokens and DeFi. Its native coin is ETH, and its ERC-20 standard is the blueprint most other token standards copied.
Ethereum in a nutshell
Ethereum is a public blockchain that runs smart contracts — programs that move value automatically. It launched the ERC-20 token standard, has the deepest liquidity in crypto, and powers most of DeFi. Its coin, ETH, pays for gas.
How Ethereum works
Ethereum uses Proof of Stake: validators stake ETH to process blocks and secure the network. Anyone can deploy a contract or token to it. Because it is so widely used, block space is in demand — which is why fees are higher than other chains.
Why Ethereum for tokens
- Maximum trust & reach — the most recognized chain.
- Deepest liquidity and the widest exchange/wallet support.
- ERC-20 — the gold-standard token format.
The trade-off is higher gas. For cheaper launches with the same ERC-20 format, consider its layer-2s, Base and Arbitrum.
Ethereum vs other chains
Ethereum offers prestige and liquidity; BNB Chain and Solana offer far lower fees. Many projects launch on a cheaper chain or an Ethereum L2 first. Compare in Ethereum vs BNB Chain and Solana vs Ethereum.
Getting started on Ethereum
- Install MetaMask or another EVM wallet.
- Fund it with ETH for gas.
- Deploy an ERC-20 token with no code.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ethereum expensive to use?
Gas fees on Ethereum mainnet can be a few dollars or more when busy. Its layer-2s (Base, Arbitrum) use the same ERC-20 format for a fraction of the cost.
What is the difference between Ethereum and Ether (ETH)?
Ethereum is the blockchain/network; Ether (ETH) is its native coin used to pay fees and secure the network.
Can I create a token on Ethereum without coding?
Yes. A no-code creator deploys a verified ERC-20 contract for you — see the Ethereum creator.
Ready to create your own token?
Launch a token on BNB Chain, Ethereum, Base, Arbitrum, Solana, Polygon, Optimism, Linea, Avalanche, Scroll, Sui, TON, Berachain, HyperEVM, Sonic, Unichain, World Chain, Soneium, Mantle or Cronos — no code, in minutes.
Create your token