Sui vs Ethereum
Sui is a fast, low-fee Move layer-1; Ethereum is the original smart-contract chain with the deepest liquidity. Here is how they compare for launching a token.
Quick comparison
| Sui | Ethereum | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Move L1 (object model) | EVM L1 (account model) |
| Token standard | Coin (Move) | ERC-20 |
| Gas coin | SUI | ETH |
| Typical fee | A few cents | $2 – $15+ |
| Finality | Sub-second | ~15 s+ |
| Reach & liquidity | Growing | Largest |
Speed & fees
The biggest difference is cost and speed. Sui confirms in under a second and costs a few cents to transact or publish a token. Ethereum mainnet is slower and can cost several dollars (sometimes much more) at busy times. For affordable, fast launches Sui wins clearly.
Token models: Coin vs ERC-20
Ethereum tokens follow the universal ERC-20 standard — supported by virtually every exchange, wallet and DeFi protocol. Sui tokens are Move Coins: each is its own published module and you own a TreasuryCap to mint, burn or lock. ERC-20 has the widest compatibility; Move Coins are safer-by-design and far cheaper to create.
Reach & liquidity
Ethereum has the largest liquidity and the most integrations of any chain — the safe default for serious, high-value projects that want maximum reach. Sui is newer with a fast-growing ecosystem, ideal when low fees and speed matter more than Ethereum-scale liquidity.
Which should you choose?
Choose Ethereum for maximum reach, liquidity and ERC-20 ubiquity (budget for higher gas). Choose Sui for sub-second speed and cents-level fees. Launch on either: create on Sui or create on Ethereum. On a budget? An Ethereum layer-2 like Base is a cheaper middle ground.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sui cheaper than Ethereum?
Yes — dramatically. Sui transactions and token creation cost a few cents, while Ethereum mainnet often costs several dollars in gas.
Does Sui use ERC-20?
No. Sui tokens are Move Coins, not ERC-20. Each Sui token is its own published Move module. Ethereum uses the ERC-20 standard.
When should I still pick Ethereum?
When you need maximum liquidity, the widest exchange and DeFi support, and ERC-20 ubiquity — and can accept higher fees. Otherwise Sui or an L2 is cheaper.
Ready to create your Sui token?
Publish your own Coin on Sui — no code, low fees, sub-second finality, in minutes.
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