Best ZK Rollup Projects in 2024

Top ZK-Rollup Projects in 2024

ZK rollup layer 2 projects are the second most popular scalability solution, after optimistic rollups. While all L2s in this category use similar technology to improve the Ethereum blockchain, there are differences between them in the additional decentralized finance (DeFi) benefits. In the following list, we have categorized the top 5 ZK rollups in 2024 based on their distinct features and supporting narratives.

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1. Linea (LXP)

Linea is the top Ethereum ZK rollup blockchain, notable for having the largest total value locked (TVL) among its competitors, amounting to $1.24 billion, despite not yet having a token. The Linea layer 2 allows developers to deploy new or existing Ethereum applications without the need for code rewriting or adaptation, making it highly accessible. Additionally, Linea plans to launch an airdrop of Voyage XP tokens (LXP) to reward its community for their active participation.

Linea's architecture is divided into three key components: the Sequencer, which executes and batches transactions; the Prover, which generates zero-knowledge proofs to validate these transactions; and the Bridge Relayer, which facilitates data transfer between Linea and other networks, including the Ethereum Mainnet. By leveraging zkEVM technology, Linea ensures fast transaction finalization, robust security, and full EVM equivalence, allowing developers to migrate their projects without difficulty.

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2. ZKsync Era (ZK)

ZKsync Era is one of the most discussed ZK rollup projects of 2024, with its recent ZK token airdrop generating controversy within the decentralized space. Despite the debates, the token now boasts a market cap of $650 million. The platform's total value locked (TVL) stands at over $1.20 billion, positioning it as a top competitor for first place. ZKsync Era hosts 117 decentralized protocols, with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) dominating the highest slots, indicating strong user interest in onchain trading.

The ZKsync protocol enhances scalability and efficiency by supporting nearly all Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-based smart contracts. Its architecture, which includes efficient smart contract handling and memory management, offers improved scalability compared to traditional Ethereum and earlier ZKsync versions. Additionally, ZKsync Era provides heightened security and a better developer experience by minimizing the need for repeated security audits.

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3. Starknet (STRK)

Starknet comes in the middle of the list as another ZK rollup project that has faced mixed reviews, especially following the decline in users after its STRK airdrop. Despite this, it maintains a substantial market cap of $749 million and a TVL of $705 million, with around 9,800 active users (a drop from its peak of 300,000). Starknet distinguishes itself with its privacy-first approach, employing a proprietary proof system called zk-STARK to ensure transaction correctness without compromising sensitive data.

Starknet's architecture includes user accounts, implemented as smart contracts for greater flexibility and improved wallet recovery mechanisms, a Sequencer to manage transaction ordering and validation, a Prover to generate cryptographic proofs of computation integrity, full nodes to maintain transaction records and system state, and a Verifier to validate proofs and record state changes. Starknet aims for secure, low-cost transactions and high performance using the STARK cryptographic proof system.

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4. Polygon zkEVM (MATIC)

Polygon zkEVM, the oldest project on the list, has been improving since its launch in 2017. It recently rebranded to position Polygon as the leading blockchain aggregator, enabling an infinitely scalable network of sovereign blockchains that function cohesively, powered by ZK technology. The network's MATIC token, set to be migrated to POL in September 2024, boasts a market cap of $4.9 billion, making it the largest layer 2 network, while also having a TVL of around $890 million.

The ZK rollups that Polygon's ecosystem has created are all very different from one another. For example, Hermez uses a 'Proof of Efficiency' system to balance ZK proof generation and transaction batching; Nightfall combines optimistic rollups with zero-knowledge cryptography for private institutional transactions; and Miden, a STARK-based rollup, executes smart contracts locally for better scalability and efficiency. This suite collectively fortifies Polygon's position as a versatile layer 2 solution.

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5. Scroll

Scroll, the final ZK rollup layer 2 project on the list, stands out with a total value locked (TVL) of $1.07 billion, making it the third largest in DeFi activity, despite not having a token yet. Scroll is particularly developer-centric, offering a wide range of 85 protocols focused on yield farming, lending, and liquid restaking. Its three-part architecture includes the Settlement Layer, which integrates with Ethereum to ensure data availability and order, verifies validity proofs and facilitates asset and message transfers.

The Sequencing Layer features an Execution Node that processes transactions and a Rollup Node that batches these transactions, posts their data to Ethereum, and submits validity proofs, ensuring transaction finality and integrity. The Proving Layer consists of a network of provers that generate zkEVM validity proofs to confirm the accuracy of L2 transactions, with a coordinator assigning proving tasks and submitting proofs to the Rollup Node for finalization on Ethereum.

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What are ZK Rollup Cryptocurrencies?

ZK-rollups are layer 2 scaling solutions that move computation and state changes off-chain while keeping transaction data on-chain, utilizing zero-knowledge proofs to validate these changes. This approach increases transaction throughput and reduces costs by only periodically posting batches of validated transactions to the main blockchain, leveraging its security for settlement.

In the table below you can read about the main differences of the top ZK rollup cryptocurrencies.

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Zk Rollups vs. Optimistic Rollups

ZK-rollups use cryptographic proofs to validate state changes off-chain before submitting them to the main blockchain, improving scalability and lowering costs. Optimistic rollups, on the other hand, use a fraud-proof mechanism in which transactions are assumed valid until challenged within a specific time frame. This can result in longer withdrawal times due to the challenge period, though liquidity providers can speed up withdrawals for a fee.

While optimistic rollups gained early traction due to their simpler implementation, ZK rollups are regarded as a more robust long-term solution due to their use of cryptographically verifiable validity proofs, providing stronger guarantees of transaction accuracy and scalability. The ZK Rollups vs Optimistic Rollups debate will probably continue beyond 2024 as there is strong support for projects on both sides.

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Bottom Line

The top 5 ZK rollup projects of 2024 are Linea, ZKsync Era, Starknet, Polygon zkEVM, and Scroll, each bringing distinct strengths to the table. Linea stands out for its large total value locked and developer-friendly approach, while ZKsync Era is prominent for its high TVL and diverse protocol support.

Starknet is noted for its privacy-focused zk-STARK technology, Polygon zkEVM is recognized for its expansive suite of ZK rollups and substantial market presence, and Scroll is distinguished by its developer-centric ecosystem and significant DeFi engagement.