
Arbitrum (ARB)
layer-2Arbitrum is the largest Ethereum Layer 2 by TVL, using optimistic rollup technology to deliver fast, low-cost transactions with full EVM compatibility.
About Arbitrum
Arbitrum (ARB) is an Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution developed by Offchain Labs. It uses optimistic rollup technology to batch transactions off-chain and submit compressed data to Ethereum, achieving significant cost savings while inheriting Ethereum's security. Launched in 2021, Arbitrum has consistently maintained the largest total value locked (TVL) among all Layer 2 networks. The ecosystem includes Arbitrum One (the main rollup chain), Arbitrum Nova (an AnyTrust chain optimized for gaming and social), and Arbitrum Orbit (a framework for building Layer 3 chains). Arbitrum is home to major DeFi protocols including GMX, Camelot, Radiant Capital, and Pendle. The ARB token is used for governance of the Arbitrum DAO, which controls a significant treasury.
Technical Specifications
4,000+
TPS
~0.25 seconds
Block Time
$0.01–$0.20
Gas Fees
Optimistic Rollup (inherits Ethereum security)
Consensus
Staking
5–8%
APY
No minimum
Min Stake
Variable
Lock Period
Use Cases
Pros
- Largest Layer 2 by TVL with the deepest DeFi liquidity
- Full EVM compatibility with lower fees than Ethereum mainnet
- Sub-second block times via Arbitrum Nitro for near-instant transactions
- Orbit framework enables building custom Layer 3 chains
- Active DAO governance with a large community treasury
Cons
- 7-day withdrawal challenge period when bridging back to Ethereum
- ARB token has limited utility beyond governance
- Centralized sequencer operated by Offchain Labs (decentralization planned)
- Faces growing competition from Base, Optimism, and zkRollups
Where to Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk.
Quick Info
- Symbol
- ARB
- Category
- layer-2
- Launched
- 2021
- Smart Contracts
- Yes
- EVM Compatible
- Yes
- Staking APY
- 5–8%
Last updated: 2026-04-01
Binance
Coinbase
Kraken
Bybit
OKX
KuCoin
Crypto.com
Gate.io