Types of Cryptocurrencies

Explore the different categories and use cases of crypto

⏱️ 18 min📝 2 quiz questions

Types of Cryptocurrencies

There are thousands of cryptocurrencies, but they generally fall into a few categories based on their purpose.

Payment Cryptocurrencies

Designed to be digital money for transactions.

Bitcoin (BTC): The original cryptocurrency. Digital gold, store of value.

Litecoin (LTC): Faster version of Bitcoin for everyday payments.

Smart Contract Platforms

Blockchains that can run programs (smart contracts).

Ethereum (ETH): The leading platform for DeFi, NFTs, and dApps.

Solana (SOL): High-speed, low-cost alternative to Ethereum.

Avalanche (AVAX): Fast finality, EVM compatible.

Stablecoins

Cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like USD.

USDC: Backed 1:1 by US dollars, fully audited.

USDT (Tether): Largest stablecoin by market cap.

DAI: Decentralized stablecoin backed by crypto collateral.

DeFi Tokens

Governance and utility tokens for decentralized finance.

UNI: Uniswap's governance token

AAVE: Lending protocol governance

LINK: Chainlink oracle network

Meme Coins

Started as jokes but gained real communities.

DOGE: The original meme coin

SHIB: Ethereum-based meme token

Warning Signs

Be cautious of coins that: promise guaranteed returns, have anonymous teams, lack clear use cases, or pressure you to buy quickly.

📝 Knowledge Check

1. What type of cryptocurrency is designed to maintain a stable value?

2. Which is NOT a warning sign for a cryptocurrency?