Glossary · crypto airdrops
Layer 2 (L2) and Layer 1 (L1)
L1 — base blockchain (Ethereum). L2 — overlay for cheap fast transactions (Arbitrum, Optimism, Base).
Layer 1 (L1) — base blockchain. Examples: Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, BNB Chain.
Layer 2 (L2) — overlay on L1 that makes transactions cheaper and faster. Transactions execute on L2, then "compress" into one record on L1.
Why L2
Ethereum L1: slow (15 tx/s), expensive ($1-50/tx). L2 solves:
- 1000-10000 tx/s
- $0.05-0.50 per tx
- Same security as L1 (via rollup proofs)
Popular L2s
| L2 | Tech | TVL |
|---|---|---|
| Arbitrum | Optimistic Rollup | $5-15B |
| Optimism | Optimistic Rollup | $1-5B |
| Base | Optimistic Rollup (Coinbase) | $3-10B |
| zkSync Era | ZK Rollup | $0.5-2B |
| Polygon zkEVM | ZK Rollup | $0.1-0.5B |
| Linea | ZK Rollup (Consensys) | $0.5-1B |
| Scroll | ZK Rollup | $0.1-0.3B |
| Blast | EVM L2 with native yield | $1-3B |
Why farmers love L2
- Cheap gas → many transactions possible.
- Often no token yet → retroactive drop awaits.
- New projects on L2 → their own drops.
See also
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