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EVM chains refer to blockchain networks compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) that can run Ethereum smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps).

What is EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine)

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is a core component of the Ethereum network, a decentralized computing environment used to execute smart contract code.

Core Features of EVM

EVM is Turing complete, meaning it can execute any algorithm or computational task as long as there is sufficient Gas fee support. This enables developers to create complex decentralized applications.
The same input in EVM always produces the same output, ensuring consistent smart contract execution results across all nodes, maintaining network consensus.
Smart contracts run in EVM’s sandboxed environment, isolated from the host system, ensuring security and preventing malicious code from affecting the network.
Limits computational resource usage through the Gas mechanism, preventing infinite loops and resource abuse, ensuring stable network operation.

Advantages of EVM Compatible Chains

Choosing EVM compatible chains brings many benefits to developers and users:

Developer Friendly

Seamless Migration

Existing Ethereum smart contracts can be directly deployed on EVM compatible chains without code modifications, greatly reducing migration costs.

Rich Tooling

Can use mature programming languages like Solidity and Vyper, as well as development tools like Hardhat, Truffle, and Remix.

Large Community

Benefit from Ethereum’s large developer community, access to abundant documentation, tutorials, and open-source project references.

Unified Standards

Follow standards like ERC-20, ERC-721, ERC-1155, ensuring interoperability of tokens and NFTs.

Enhanced User Experience

  • Lower Transaction Fees: Compared to Ethereum mainnet, EVM compatible chains typically offer lower Gas fees
  • Faster Transaction Speed: Shorter block times and higher throughput provide smoother user experience
  • Familiar Wallets: Can use familiar Ethereum wallets like MetaMask and Trust Wallet
  • Cross-Chain Interoperability: Can easily transfer assets between different EVM chains through cross-chain bridges

Introduction to Major EVM Compatible Chains

Following are the main EVM compatible chains currently in the market:

Layer 1 Public Chains

BNB Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain BSC) is a high-performance blockchain launched by Binance.Features:
  • 3 second block time
  • Low transaction fees (typically < $0.1)
  • Active DeFi ecosystem
  • Deep integration with Binance exchange
Use Cases: DeFi applications, GameFi, NFT trading

Layer 2 Scaling Solutions

Arbitrum is an Optimistic Rollup Layer 2 solution for Ethereum.Features:
  • Inherits Ethereum security
  • 90%+ reduction in transaction fees
  • Full EVM compatibility
  • Mainstream DeFi protocol support
Use Cases: DeFi, NFT, GameFi

EVM Chain Comparison

The following table compares key metrics of major EVM compatible chains:
Chain NameTypeBlock TimeAvg Gas FeeTPSTVL (Total Value Locked)
EthereumLayer 112s$5-5015-30Highest
BNB ChainLayer 13s$0.1-0.5160High
PolygonSidechain2s$0.01-0.17,000High
ArbitrumLayer 20.25s$0.1-14,000High
OptimismLayer 22s$0.1-12,000Medium-High
BaseLayer 22s$0.05-0.52,000+Medium
AvalancheLayer 12s$0.1-24,500Medium
The above data varies with network usage and market conditions, for reference only.

Monitor EVM Chains on AlertDog

AlertDog supports comprehensive EVM chain monitoring features to help you track on-chain activities in real-time:

FAQ

No, direct transfers are not possible. You need to use bridge services to transfer assets between different EVM chains.
Yes, you can use the same wallet address (such as MetaMask address) on all EVM chains. However, it’s recommended to use different wallet addresses for different purposes to improve security of fund management.
In wallets like MetaMask, go to “Settings” → “Networks” → “Add Network”, fill in the target EVM chain’s RPC URL, chain ID, block explorer URL and other information. Most major EVM chains provide one-click add functionality.
Each EVM chain has its own native token for paying Gas fees:
  • Ethereum: ETH
  • BNB Chain: BNB
  • Polygon: MATIC
  • Arbitrum: ETH
  • Optimism: ETH
  • Base: ETH
  • Avalanche: AVAX
  • Fantom: FTM