What is Optimism?
Optimism is an Ethereum layer-2 network: it runs the same ERC-20 tokens and wallets as Ethereum but settles transactions for a few cents instead of dollars.
Optimism in plain English
Optimism (OP Mainnet) is a "layer-2" that bundles transactions and posts them to Ethereum, inheriting Ethereum's security while cutting fees dramatically. It is fully EVM-compatible, so any ERC-20 token, MetaMask wallet or app works the same way — just cheaper and faster.
OP and the Superchain
Gas on Optimism is paid in ETH. OP is a separate governance token for the Optimism Collective. Optimism also powers the Superchain — a family of L2s (including Base) built on the same OP Stack.
Why people choose Optimism
- Low fees — usually a cent or two.
- Ethereum security — settles to Ethereum mainnet.
- ERC-20 + MetaMask — same tools as Ethereum.
- Strong DeFi — Velodrome, Uniswap and more.
Creating a token on Optimism
Because Optimism uses the ERC-20 standard, launching a token is the same simple process as Ethereum — only far cheaper. Our Optimism token creator deploys a verified contract in minutes with no coding. See ERC-20 explained.
Frequently asked questions
Is Optimism the same as Ethereum?
Optimism is an Ethereum layer-2. It uses the same ERC-20 standard, wallets and pays gas in ETH, but fees are far lower.
What coin does Optimism use for gas?
ETH. You need a small amount of ETH on the Optimism network to transact and deploy a token.
Is Optimism good for tokens?
Yes — it is a low-fee, Ethereum-secured L2, ideal for affordable token launches and DeFi.
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.
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