Cryptocurrencies Comparison - the best coins in a big comparison

Whether beginner or advanced: Anyone who wants to trade cryptocurrencies is spoilt for choice. As of the end of 2020, there were over 7300 cryptocurrencies - and the number is rising. In addition to the long-established coins, there are new cryptocurrencies coming onto the market every day. Especially in times of pandemic, trading with cryptos is booming - understandable, most of it is done online these days.

In our big cryptocurrencies comparison we will ask ourselves the following questions: Which cryptocurrencies are worthwhile? Which ones have potential? What is the best cryptocurrency? We present the most popular and best cryptocurrencies and explain them in detail. In addition, we will give you a few insider tips on cryptocurrencies that you should not miss as an investor.

Cryptocurrencies comparison

Cryptocurrencies comparison in detail

Of course, we can't go into all cryptocurrencies - but we have picked out the 16 most popular and best cryptocurrencies for you for our cryptocurrency comparison. In our cryptocurrency comparison you can see all the details you need to find the right cryptocurrency for you. By the way, all cryptocurrencies are available at our test winner, the crypto broker eToro.

Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency created by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009. To date, Bitcoin is the largest cryptocurrency and is undisputedly in first place.

The goal of Bitcoin was to secure payment processes and transactions via a peer-to-peer network. The aim was to democratise the financial and monetary system and ensure that any transactions could be carried out anonymously.

Bitcoin is probably the best-known cryptocurrency on the market. Moreover, it is completely secure; so far, no unauthorised person has been able to gain access to it.

Bitcoin (BTC)

Ethereum (ETH)

For many, Ethereum is the number 2 cryptocurrency. Similar to Bitcoin, Ethereum also uses the blockchain and a decentralised network. Ethereum is about so-called smart contracts. Ethereum is supported by experienced founders such as Vitalik Buterin.

A big advantage over Bitcoin is that Ethereum is still highly undervalued. However, the price of the coin has risen since its market launch. Another advantage is that the cryptocurrency is used beyond the Ethereum network and also ensures very fast transaction speeds.

Ethereum (ETH)s

Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

Bitcoin Cash was launched in 2017 as a faster and more secure blockchain technology. This makes Bitcoin Cash a digital currency in its own right. More transactions can be carried out with Bitcoin Cash than with Bitcoin. A comparison shows this quite well: while the maximum block size for Bitcoin Cash is 8MB, this is only 1MB for Bitcoin.

In theory, Bitcoin Cash could soon replace Bitcoin as a means of payment. The fast transaction speeds convince investors. However, special equipment is needed for mining.

Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

Ripple (XRP)

Ripple was created as an alternative payment system with the aim of transforming and facilitating cross-border payments. As such, Ripple has been adopted by more than 100 financial institutions. In 2020, the Ripple blockchain expanded to more than 300 providers in 40 countries.

So Ripple wants to help banks reduce transaction costs with blockchain technology. The biggest advantage of Ripple is therefore that it has a lot of cooperation with financial service providers. However, Ripple is not yet a decentralised cryptocurrency.

Dash (DSH)

Dash is an open-source cryptocurrency that was launched in 2014. It offers user-friendly and scalable solutions for online transactions. Like Bitcoin, Dash is based on blockchain technology,

In terms of transaction speed, Dash is far superior to Bitcoin. While a Bitcoin transaction can take up to 10 minutes, a Dash transaction takes just a few seconds.

Dash (DSH)

Litecoin (LTC)

The cryptocurrency Litecoin (LTC) is confusingly similar to Bitcoin: Litecoin also wants to establish itself as a means of payment, manages all transactions via a peer-to-peer network and uses blockchain technology.

Like Bitcoin, Litecoin can be exchanged for real money on a number of crypto exchanges. Thanks to the early integration of SegWit and the Lightening Network, Litecoin is technically on the cutting edge.

Litecoin (LTC)

Ethereum Classic (ETC)

Ethereum Classic is also a platform based on open-source blockchain technology. Ethereum Classic is also the original Ethereum blockchain. In June 2016, Ethereum and Ethereum Classic separated.

Since the split, there was initially little acceptance in the community as well, but this grew over time. Led by decentralisation, ETC is growing steadily. In general, Ethereum Classic has set itself the goal of becoming a highly scalable payment network that supports smart contracts and decentralised apps (dApps).

Ethereum Classic (ETC)

Cardano (ADA)

Cardano is also a blockchain platform used to execute smart contracts. Cardano is backed by a non-profit organisation of academics and experts who are always working on the Cardano protocol.

Cardano is one of the most promising competitors to Ethereum. It is a relatively new project that was launched in 2017 and quickly rose to the top 10 cryptocurrencies. It is also the first cryptocurrency based on scientific work.

Cardano (ADA)

IOTA (MIOTA)

Iota has been a real success story in the recent past and the increasing interest of traders has led to a value of over 700 billion euros in 2020.Thus, the Iota Coin has been able to moult into one of the most popular crypto currencies ever.

What to note about IOTA is that unlike others, it is not based on blockchain technology, but on a proprietary technology developed by IOTA. This is called Tangle. Here, there are no costs for transactions and decentralisation was achieved with Tangle. Each transaction is also confirmed by other senders.

However, IOTA still has a few bugs and network failures. However, work is constantly being done to improve the network.

IOTA (MIOTA)

Stellar (XLM)

Stellar has been a real success story in the recent past and the increasing interest of traders led to a value of over 1.7 billion euros in 2020.

Thus, Stellar is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies around. In the hit list of the most popular cryptocurrencies, Stellar occupies 14th place.

Stellar is both a payment system and a blockchain operating system for smart contracts and decentralised apps. The Stellar code is based on the code of Ripple. This is not surprising, after all, the Stellar founder was once a team member at Ripple.

In general, Stellar offers very fast and cheap transactions. Unlike Ripple, it is decentralised, open-source and non-profit.

Stellar (XLM)

EOS (EOS)

EOS has been around since mid-2017 and has already had to experience ups and downs in that short time. However, EOS has remained stable since the explosion of the crypto bubble in 2018. Moreover, an upward trend can be seen recently.

EOS is a blockchain platform that aims to replicate the functions of a PC's hardware and operating system.

There are certain tools and services for this. In addition, EOS offers fast transaction speeds, but is subject to the risk of inflation.

EOS (EOS)

NEO (NEO)

NEO is a blockchain technology and cryptocurrency that is often referred to as the Chinese Ethereum. NEO is referred to as a direct competitor to Ethereum and also other cryptocurrencies. NEO offers an operating system for blockchain software and was developed in China. NEO supports the JAVA programming language and also enables easier blockchain programming.

NEO are traded on the network of the same name, but only a few cryptocurrencies build on the platform.

NEO (NEO)

TRON (TRON)

TRON initially ran on the Ethereum platform, but then got its own blockchain in 2018. As a result, Tron has also risen to the top 10 largest cryptocurrencies in the world, as it is a major competitor to other cryptocurrencies.

Decentralised applications and smart contracts are written and executed on TRON's blockchain, similar to Ethereum. The advantages of Tron are its high market capitalisation and distribution as well as an energy-saving delegated proof of stake procedure. On the other hand, Tron is relatively volatile.

ZCash (ZEC)

Zcash is a decentralised, blockchain-based cryptocurrency that, as a privacy coin, focuses on data security and the anonymity of its users. Thus, Zcash aims to offer its users greater data security than Bitcoin.

Zcash is also the second most popular cryptocurrency after Monero when it comes to anonymity. Among others, Zcash was also recommended by Edward Snowden, who rated the currency and technology as very secure.

ZCash (ZEC)

Binance Coin (BNB)

The Binance Coin is the in-house cryptocurrency of the Chinese platform Binance.

There are now 200 million Binance Coin tokens. They can be bought on the in-house platform or exchanged for other cryptocurrencies.

The advantage is therefore clearly in the trading costs. According to the information provided by the crypto exchange Binance, there is a price reduction of 50 percent in the first year, 25 percent in the second year and 12.5 percent in the third year.

Binance Coin (BNB)

Tezos (XTZ)

Since October 2017, there is a new star in the crypto sky: Tezos. The special feature: Tezos offers companies (and private individuals) a transaction environment in which they can realise business models based on tokens. And that without having to develop a blockchain.

Moreover, Tezos is another competitor of Ethereum with an innovative governance system that allows Tezos owners to make decisions together.

Tezos (XTZ)

Our recommendation: Buy cryptos with eToro

    Incl. wallet
    Buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly in the wallet
    Paypal, credit card and instant bank transfer
    Regulated provider
    Real cryptos or CFD trades

Cryptocurrencies comparison - insider tips

Polkadot

Polkadot LogoPolkadot is a next generation blockchain protocol. Polkadot allows different blockchains to be connected. The idea behind Polkadot is to create a better and safer internet for people to have more control over.

Polkadot acts as a relay chain, enabling a simpler, faster and resource-efficient launch of its own blockchain system.

In the ICO, Polkadott was able to raise 144 million dollars and is now really getting going.

Polkadotdd

Chainlink (LINK)

Chainlink LogoChainLink is a cryptocurrency platform that aims to promote the use of smart contracts. Smart contracts in the blockchain refer to a technology that helps users exchange money or other valuable assets without intermediaries. The purpose of ChainLink is to facilitate the connection of smart contracts with external resources across different networks. ChainLink works with both Ethereum and Bitcoin.

Chainlink is a good recommendation for new and unknown cryptocurrencies, measured by market capitalisation. To improve the smooth operation of its platform, ChainLink partnered with SWIFT, a global interbank data and payments system used by 11,000 banks worldwide. During 2019, Chainlink went from $0.41 to $2.28, a total increase of more than 550%!

Chainlink (LINK)

COSMOS (ATOM)

Cosmos is a decentralised network of independent parallel blockchains. Cosmos provides technology that enables direct payments between different blockchain networks without the involvement of cryptocurrency exchanges.

This makes Cosmos itself a decentralised exchange platform.

COSMOS (ATOM)

Nano (NANO)

Formerly known as Raiblock, Nano is a cryptocurrency known for its highly efficient architecture.

Unlike other crypto projects, which focus on scalability, price and speed from the start, Nano aims to perform instant transactions at no additional cost. Moreover, it is infinitely scalable.

This means that it doesn't matter how many people use the network, it won't break down.

Nano (NANO)

Buy cryptocurrencies - the best brokers in comparison


Trade real cryptos and crypto CFDs
Licensed broker with deposit protection
Integrated wallet

Broker fully regulated
Numerous awards
Libertex experience for more than twenty years

User-friendly platform
0% commissions
Deposit from 20€

Many tradable assets
Excellent trading platform
European license

Huge selection of coins
Fair fees
Solid support

How to buy cryptocurrencies? Our guide in 4 steps

Step 1: Find the right broker

First of all, you choose a suitable provider. This decision should be based on your own preferences and trading ideas. If you are not interested in setting up a wallet and possibly do not intend to make any real use of the tokens, you can get everything you need from providers like eToro.

However, if you are an experienced crypto investor who is only too happy to equip your portfolio with the coins, you will hardly be able to avoid a real crypto exchange.

A comparison of the different providers can help you find the best offer. In fact, the choice of the right platform is very important and should not be underestimated.

User-friendliness and usability may therefore have a direct impact on personal trading results. Those who pay the necessary attention here will be able to capitalise on this in the end. Based on our cryptocurrencies comparison, we recommend our test winner eToro, as it offers the best conditions.

Step 2: Registration

Registration with eToro is usually completed quickly.  At eToro you have several registration options. In addition to the option of creating a user account yourself, there is also the option of registering via a Facebook or Google account, which simplifies the process even more. On the homepage, you will find a link to the form where you enter your name and e-mail address.

The exact information requested at this point depends on the crypto exchange in question. However, you will also have to choose a password and then confirm your email address.

With reputable brokers, not only a correct email address must be entered, but also a mobile phone number to verify the account.

    E-mail address
    Address
    Date of birth
    Telephone number

Step 3: Deposit money into the customer account

It depends on the respective Bitcoin broker which payment methods are accepted. As a rule, however, you should be supported by your provider when making a deposit. There is usually a corresponding menu item or button that leads you to the transaction.

The cryptocurrency market is highly risky. Therefore, you should really only invest money that you have "left over". A total loss of the deposit can occur at any time.

    How much money is available for the investment?
    Do Bitcoin fees have to be paid to the provider?
    Is there a minimum deposit amount?
    Possible deposit methods, e.g. Paypal, Skrill, Neteller, credit card, Klarna, Instant bank transfer, Giropay, bank transfer, etc.

Our test winner eToro offers the following deposit options:

Payment option    

possible?

Buy cryptocurrencies with credit card

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with PayPal

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with SOFORT Bank Transfer

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with Skrill

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with Bank Transfer

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with Neteller

ok

Buy cryptocurrencies with UnionPay

ok

Step 4: Trade cryptocurrencies

Now the account at the crypto exchange is finally set up and equipped with credit. Now it's time to choose the assets. How should you invest in cryptocurrencies? Which crypto coins are worthwhile? Currently you can trade in over 16 cryptocurrencies on eToro. The offer is constantly being expanded, so if new cryptocurrencies are added, you will certainly find what you are looking for here. Thus, eToro was able to convince us in all points in our cryptocurrency comparison.

A big advantage of eToro is the demo version of the platform. It is certainly worthwhile to become active here first in order to get to know the offer. But then you will have to decide between different currency pairs.

You can also search for specific coins using the search fields. In the end, you will then place your buy or sell order.

    Real cryptocurrencies
    Cryptos as assets for CFDs with long and short positions
    Novel crypto products
    Bitcoin shares


Our recommendation: Buy cryptos with eToro

    Incl. wallet
    Buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly in the wallet
    Paypal, credit card and instant bank transfer
    Regulated provider
    Real cryptos or CFD trades

Is it worth investing in cryptocurrencies?

Pros

  •    Excellent alternative to shares & co.
  •     Digital currencies are currently on the rise
  •     In the long term, cryptocurrencies are gaining in popularity
  •     Cryptocurrencies are now offered in many different areas

Cons

  •    High volatility
  •     You have to invest at the right time

Since the introduction of the Bitcoin in 2009, there has been a real boom in digital currencies. While in the first few years bitcoin was only popular among insiders, more and more investors are now deciding to enter the crypto market. The reason is simple: cryptocurrencies are currently in high demand. Due to the Corona crisis, many also decided to invest their capital in coins last year, because the forecasts currently look very good.

If you take Bitcoin as an example, the price of 1 BTC in 2016 was around 400 euros. As it stands now (15.01.2021), the price of 1 BTC is a whopping 31,242.21 euros. An unbelievable increase in value that is causing a lot of interest among many investors. But other cryptocurrencies are also following suit at the moment. The prices are currently at record levels. Further price increases are also forecast for the current year.

Moreover, cryptocurrencies play an important role in our financial system. While a few years ago only a few people traded payments with cryptos, cryptocurrencies are now a frequently used system for making transactions. Not least because of the fast and anonymous settlements.

However, one must also bear in mind that cryptocurrencies are highly volatile. This means that they are subject to strong price fluctuations. This has also been seen with Bitcoin in the past: While there were record highs, bitcoin also crashed several times. Accordingly, you have to be aware of the risk with cryptocurrencies. It is important to buy at the right time, but also to sell at the right time.

Cryptocurrencies Comparison 2020 & Promising Cryptocurrencies for 2021

While many companies suffered from the Corona crisis, there was a real upswing in digital currencies in 2020. Bitcoin & Co. gained quite a bit and seem to be unstoppable at the moment. Cryptocurrencies are currently not only interesting for speculators and traders, they are also becoming increasingly popular as a means of payment. It is therefore all the less surprising that the well-known cryptocurrencies will also shine in our cryptocurrency comparison in 2021:


Cryptocurrency

Description

Bitcoin Logo

Bitcoin (BTC)    

Even when new cryptocurrencies come onto the market, Bitcoin never goes out of fashion. Last year, Bitcoin boomed and reached an all-time high. As of the end of November 2020, Bitcoin has seen a 177% increase. Analysts unanimously share strong views on Bitcoin's future and some set incredible price targets of up to USD 318,000 for BTC.

Ethereum Logo

Ethereum (ETH)    

Ethereum also put in a stellar performance in 2020 and will continue to rise strongly, according to experts. The second largest cryptocurrency started 2020 with a value of around 125 USD for ETH and rose to around 600 USD for ETH by the end of the year. 2021 could also look very good for Ethereum, as it is the preferred network for decentralised applications.

Ripple Logo

Ripple (XRP)

Ripple was created as an alternative payment system with the aim of transforming and facilitating cross-border payments. As such, Ripple has been adopted by more than 100 financial institutions. In 2020, the Ripple blockchain expanded to more than 300 providers in 40 countries.

Litecoin Logo

Litecoin (LTC)

Currently, the price of Litecoin fluctuates, which makes the digital currency affordable. However, the cryptocurrency boasts one of the lowest mining times and high rewards of 25 LTC. According to analysts, 2021 will tend to increase the price of Litecoin.

Bitcoin Cash Logo

Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

Bitcoin Cash was launched in 2017 as a faster and more secure blockchain technology. More transactions can be made with Bitcoin Cash than with Bitcoin. In theory, Bitcoin Cash could soon replace Bitcoin as a means of payment.

Cardano Logo

Cardano (ADA)

Cardano has the potential to reach USD 1.50 by the end of 2021. The growth depends on the release of Hydra - a solution to help Cardano perform over 1 million transactions per second.

Cryptocurrencies comparison: Our conclusion

Even though the cryptocurrency market is still relatively young, it is definitely worth investing in. The last year 2020 has shown us how strong digital currencies can be during a crisis. Most cryptocurrencies gained during the Corona pandemic. Accordingly, many companies are now working to bring new cryptocurrencies to the market.

As investors, cryptocurrencies have long been a very good alternative to shares, CFDs or other assets. Especially for short-term traders, cryptocurrencies are interesting because they are subject to strong price fluctuations.

Although Bitcoin is still the number 1 of all cryptocurrencies, there is definitely competition that can be seen in the meantime. As our cryptocurrency comparison shows: new cryptocurrencies are also becoming more and more important.

If you are an investor interested in trading cryptocurrencies, we recommend our test winner eToro. The big advantage eToro has over other crypto exchanges is that you can trade real coins or CFDs here. In addition, there is a large selection of cryptos that is constantly being expanded. In addition, there is a dedicated wallet with which you can send, receive and convert cryptocurrencies.

Cryptoscene

Our recommendation: Buy cryptos with eToro

    Incl. wallet
    Buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly in the wallet
    Paypal, credit card and instant bank transfer
    Regulated provider
    Real cryptos or CFD trades

FAQ

What is the best cryptocurrency?

Bitcoin is still the undisputed number one. Bitcoin was also the first cryptocurrency to be introduced back in 2009.

How many cryptocurrencies are there?

As of October 2020, there were over 7300 cryptocurrencies. However, the number is rising sharply, and more cryptocurrencies are expected in 2021.

Which cryptocurrencies should I invest in?

In this article we have presented very good cryptocurrencies and also given a few insider tips. Which cryptocurrency you want to buy or sell is up to you.

How can I buy cryptocurrencies?

We recommend buying cryptocurrencies via eToro. The provider offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies. In addition, it has its own wallet with which you can send, receive and convert cryptocurrencies.

About the author

Hi there, my name is Zalman Weinberg. I'm enthusiast with over 7 years of experience in cryptocurrencies and blockchain. Professional Trader providing Blockchain solutions to Startups and Enterprises. Expert in all cryptocurrency exchange APIs (BitMEX, Bittrex, Binance, Bitfinex, Kraken, Poloniex, Gdax etc.). I have also worked with multiple Forex broker APIs.

This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site.