Choice of Blockchain for ERC20 Tokens | Base Gains Ground in 2026
Edited By
Linda Wang
A notable shift is occurring in the token creation landscape as people explore blockchain options for launching ERC20 tokens. Data shows BNB Smart Chain and Ethereum have traditionally dominated, but recent trends suggest new contenders like Base are rising.
Current Trends in Token Launches
Since last year, token generation has evolved. In recent years, users launched:
BNB Smart Chain: 38.1%
Ethereum: 31.2%
Polygon: 13.2%
Base: 8.8%
Avalanche: 7.8%
In 2025, Base surged to lead with 31.8%, pushing BNB Smart Chain to 27.3% and Ethereum to 22.9%. This marks a significant shift, indicating BNB's previous lead was influenced heavily by activity in 2021 and 2022.
Diverging Opinions on Token Launch Strategy
People are weighing their options carefully. One user emphasized the importance of the launch's purpose, saying, "If it’s a serious governance asset, I’d lean toward Ethereum. But for casual trading, Base seems smarter now." There’s a clear divide in strategy based on project goals.
Many agree that a token launch is no longer straightforward. There's a mix between speculative tokens, governance assets, and payment solutions, each with unique demands.
Factors Influencing Choice
A user noted the significance of several factors:
Security
Liquidity
User distribution
Gas costs
Tooling
Decentralization
Curiously, the choice of blockchain can heavily dictate these elements, affecting the end-user experience.
Key Insights
38.1% of token launches in 2023 were on BNB Smart Chain, down from 48.3% historically.
Base is gaining traction as significant for new launches, largely attributed to lower gas fees and faster transactions.
Users' project goals shape their blockchain preferences.
"Launching a token is no longer a single category anymore."
Despite the shifts, Ethereum maintains a stable presence due to established trust and infrastructure. As blockchain preferences evolve, the choices people make may significantly impact the crypto world.
What’s Next?
As 2026 unfolds, will Base continue its upward trajectory, or will traditional players like Ethereum and BNB Smart Chain reclaim their dominance? With each launch, the unfolding story of blockchain innovation continues.
Predictions for Blockchain Dynamics Ahead
As we move deeper into 2026, it’s likely Base will maintain its growth momentum, especially given its appeal through lower fees and quicker transactions. Experts estimate there’s a 60% chance Base may further increase its market share, particularly among new projects seeking efficiency. Meanwhile, BNB Smart Chain and Ethereum will likely adapt by improving their platforms to retain existing users, leaving a fair assumption that their combined market presence might stabilize around 50-60%. This scenario indicates a competitive balance, where each blockchain refines its value proposition according to user needs. As this ecosystem evolves, demands for innovative security measures and decentralized finance (DeFi) options will continue shaping preferences.
Uncommon Threads in Innovation History
A striking parallel can be drawn between today’s shifting blockchain preferences and the evolution of early internet browsers in the late '90s. Just as Netscape surged ahead of Microsoft Internet Explorer due to its speed and ease of use, Base might mirror that initial rise in user preference. Yet, as we saw with IE’s eventual decision to integrate advanced functionalities and tools, established players often evolve swiftly to reclaim their influence. This suggests that the current landscape in token launches is not merely a race of technology but one of adaptability, where innovation today reflects lessons learned from the past. In both instances, user experience remains a crucial element—and as history shows, the lead can shift suddenly when perceived benefits align closely with user demands.