evm chains

What Are EVM-Compatible Chains?

EVM-compatible chains are blockchain networks that can fully execute Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) bytecode natively, allowing smart contracts and development tools to run with little or no modification.

You can think of the EVM as a “runtime environment” for blockchains, similar to how a mobile operating system runs apps. Contracts written in Solidity are compiled into bytecode and executed within the EVM. EVM-compatible chains reuse the same programming language, wallet infrastructure, and developer tools (such as MetaMask and Hardhat), but may differ in consensus mechanism, block times, and transaction fees. For users, the wallet address format remains consistent—just add the new network to switch between chains. For developers, migrating contracts usually only requires minor configuration tweaks.

Why Are EVM-Compatible Chains Important?

EVM-compatible chains lower the barrier for both development and adoption, enabling the Ethereum ecosystem to support “one codebase, multiple networks.” They also provide users with lower transaction fees and faster confirmations.

During periods of high activity on Ethereum mainnet, even simple transfers can cost several dollars in gas fees. Many EVM-compatible chains reduce these costs to a few cents or a dollar per transaction (as of 2024, based on public fee trackers and mainnet congestion observations). This enables a wide range of DeFi, NFT, and blockchain gaming projects to operate in more affordable environments, while users can seamlessly switch networks within familiar wallets and interfaces.

How Do EVM-Compatible Chains Work?

EVM-compatible chains implement the same EVM instruction set, account system, and state structure as Ethereum, so bytecode compiled from Solidity executes and settles under identical rules.

Transactions enter a mempool and are processed by network nodes executing smart contract code. Each instruction consumes gas (essentially “computation fees”), with total gas used and price determining the final transaction cost. The execution layer is kept consistent with Ethereum, but the consensus layer can vary: some use proof-of-stake, others have their own validator systems. Layer 2 EVM-compatible chains (rollups) also submit state or data to Ethereum mainnet, enabling cheaper transactions while relying on Ethereum as a security anchor.

What Is the Relationship Between EVM-Compatible Chains and Ethereum?

The relationship depends on chain type: standalone EVM-compatible chains run parallel to Ethereum, while Layer 2 solutions are built atop Ethereum and inherit its security guarantees.

Standalone chains (such as BNB Chain, Polygon PoS, Avalanche C-Chain, Fantom) have their own validators and security models, often offering lower fees and faster confirmations but with independent security from Ethereum mainnet. Layer 2s (such as Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, Linea, zkSync Era) execute transactions off-chain or on sidechains, then post data or proofs back to Ethereum. Optimistic rollups use challenge periods to ensure correctness; zero-knowledge rollups rely on cryptographic proofs. With the March 2024 Dencun upgrade introducing EIP-4844, Layer 2 data costs dropped significantly, bringing typical transfer fees down to just a few cents (source: Ethereum Foundation upgrade notes, March 2024).

How to Use EVM-Compatible Chains? Wallet Setup and Gas Preparation

Using an EVM-compatible chain follows a similar process as Ethereum: add the network, prepare the required gas token, and start with small-scale testing.

Step 1: Choose your wallet and add the network. For example, with MetaMask, enter the network name, RPC URL, ChainID, and block explorer link. The address format is identical to Ethereum, but assets are recorded on separate ledgers for each network.

Step 2: Prepare your gas token. Each EVM-compatible chain uses a different gas token: BNB Chain uses BNB; Polygon uses MATIC; Avalanche C-Chain uses AVAX; Arbitrum/Optimism/Base use ETH. On Gate, select the withdrawal network corresponding to your target chain to send a small amount of gas tokens, or use official bridges for transfers.

Step 3: Perform small tests and verify transactions. Start with low-value transfers or lightweight app interactions, confirm transaction status and balances using the chain’s block explorer before increasing transaction size.

Which Projects Represent EVM-Compatible Chains?

EVM-compatible chains fall into two categories: standalone chains and Ethereum Layer 2 solutions.

Among standalone chains: BNB Chain focuses on high throughput and low fees; Polygon PoS offers a large consumer app and gaming ecosystem; Avalanche C-Chain highlights subnet scalability; Fantom is known for fast confirmations and an active DeFi scene. For Layer 2s: Arbitrum and Optimism are leading optimistic rollups, offering low fees and fast interactions; Base leverages the Coinbase ecosystem for mass-market apps; Linea and zkSync Era use zero-knowledge proofs for scalability and cryptographic security. Each chain makes tradeoffs in fees, speed, ecosystem size, and security assumptions.

How to Choose Networks and Fees on EVM-Compatible Chains?

When selecting an EVM-compatible chain, consider its source of security, fee structure and speed, supported applications, and liquidity. Transaction fees depend on gas price and complexity.

Step 1: Identify which chain your target application supports. Most apps list supported networks on their homepage or documentation—choosing the right network reduces cross-chain complexity.

Step 2: Evaluate fees and performance. Transfers and simple interactions typically cost just a few cents to several tens of cents on most Layer 2s (observation window: late 2024 post-EIP-4844). Standalone chains are also low-fee but may fluctuate under congestion. Complex contract interactions (such as large DeFi operations) consume more gas—budget accordingly.

Step 3: Verify token formats and networks. When withdrawing on Gate, note that tokens like USDT exist on multiple networks (ERC-20, BEP-20, Polygon). Selecting the wrong network may render assets unrecognizable on your destination chain.

How Does Cross-Chain Bridging Work on EVM-Compatible Chains?

Cross-chain bridging allows assets to move between different EVM-compatible chains using official or third-party bridges.

Step 1: Confirm source and destination networks. Different bridges support specific network sets—ensure compatibility before proceeding to avoid unnecessary conversions.

Step 2: Choose your bridge type and consider time costs. Optimistic rollups (e.g., Arbitrum, Optimism) may require a ~7-day challenge period when bridging back to Ethereum; zero-knowledge rollups are faster but sometimes pricier. Many standalone chains provide official bridges for quick transfers—however, evaluate risks associated with asset custody and synthetic models.

Step 3: Test with small amounts and verify contract addresses. Use block explorers to confirm bridge contract details and destination addresses—never send assets to unsupported networks or incorrect contracts. If unfamiliar with bridging, using Gate’s deposit option for your target network is usually safer and easier.

Risk note: Bridging involves complex contract logic, validation processes, and asset custody risks. Always be cautious with approvals and safeguard your private keys.

What Are the Risks of EVM-Compatible Chains?

Major risks include smart contract vulnerabilities, bridge security issues, counterfeit tokens or liquidity traps, misconfigured networks, and occasional chain instability.

First, smart contract bugs may lead to asset theft or lockup—always use audited protocols with strong reputations. Second, bridge-related risks are significant; history shows multiple bridge exploits causing losses—diversify your transfers and choose reputable official or large-scale bridges. Third, fake tokens or misleading contract addresses are common—verify all contract addresses through block explorers. Finally, selecting the wrong network (e.g., sending ERC-20 assets to a BEP-20 address) can render assets invisible or unrecoverable; some chains may experience congestion or brief outages during peak periods.

Key Takeaways for EVM-Compatible Chains

EVM-compatible chains enable Ethereum ecosystem contracts and tools to operate across multiple networks with lower costs and higher throughput. Their relationship to Ethereum varies between standalone chains (independent security assumptions) and Layer 2 solutions (security inherited from Ethereum). For safe usage: add networks carefully, prepare the right gas token, conduct small test transactions first; for cross-chain transfers prioritize official bridges or use Gate’s deposit/withdrawal features for simplicity. When evaluating options consider security sources, fees/speed, supported apps, liquidity—and always remain vigilant about contract safety, bridge reliability, and proper network selection.

FAQ

Can I Use My Ethereum Wallet Address Directly on Polygon?

Yes—you can use the same address format because all EVM-compatible chains follow the same standard. An Ethereum wallet address (starting with “0x”) works seamlessly across any EVM-compatible chain. However, assets on different chains are independent—always ensure you select the correct destination network when transferring funds to avoid loss.

Why Can’t Some Binance Smart Chain (BSC) Tokens Be Used Directly on Polygon?

Although both BSC and Polygon are EVM-compatible chains, they operate as separate blockchain networks. The same token will have different contract addresses on different chains—assets are isolated by network. To transfer tokens across chains you’ll need a bridge service (such as a cross-chain bridge) that moves assets between networks.

Why Are Gas Fees Much Lower on EVM-Compatible Chains Than Ethereum?

EVM-compatible chains often use more efficient consensus mechanisms or superior hardware setups for faster transaction processing and reduced congestion. For example, Polygon leverages a sidechain architecture to distribute load; Arbitrum compresses data using optimistic rollup technology. Faster processing means less competition for block space—so gas fees are naturally lower.

If I Want to Trade on an EVM-Compatible Chain Should I Use Polygon, Arbitrum or Optimism?

It depends on your needs: Polygon has the most mature ecosystem with a wide variety of DApps—great for beginners; Arbitrum and Optimism are official Ethereum scaling solutions inheriting its security model—ideal for users who prioritize safety. Try using Gate to test deposit/withdrawal flows across these chains—choose based on optimal fees and liquidity.

If My Assets Are Sent to the Wrong Address on an EVM-Compatible Chain Can I Recover Them?

If you sent them to another wallet address you control, you can recover assets by importing that wallet using its private key. But if they were sent to an address you do not own or a “black hole” address, recovery is virtually impossible. Transactions on EVM chains are irreversible—always triple-check address, network, and amount before transferring; new users should start with small test amounts.