Is Cardano the Top Competitor to Ethereum?

Cardano is one of the most exciting blockchain networks in the cryptocurrency space. But can it overtake Ethereum?

cryptocurrency, crypto, blockchain

Image source: Getty Images

Lately, there have been several high-potential cryptocurrencies and blockchain networks making waves in the industry, one of which is Cardano (CRYPTO:ADA).

Cardano is a blockchain network with smart contract functionality. It’s similar in many ways to the much more popular Ethereum. Its native token ADA is used to pay for transactions on the blockchain, much like Ether does on Ethereum’s blockchain.

Ethereum is one of the most significant innovations to come from the cryptocurrency industry and a significant step up from blockchain networks like Bitcoin.

But while the ideas behind Ethereum have been revolutionary, much like Bitcoin, because it was the first blockchain network of its kind, it has some pretty significant drawbacks, which is what’s allowed many competitors, including Cardano, to threaten Ethereum’s dominance.

Why is Cardano seemingly that much better than Ethereum today?

One of the biggest issues with Ethereum is that while its technology is great when it was first created, it wasn’t very scalable. And because it’s been the most actively used blockchain for years, the fact that it could only process 15 transactions per second is what made transactions so expensive.

Cardano, however, from the outset, was created to be a lot more scalable. In fact, two of its founders were actually co-founders of Ethereum. Cardano’s network has the potential to be much faster because it uses two layers. By implementing a settlement layer and a computational layer, Cardano ensures unlimited scalability and quick transactions. 

This ultimately leads to many more transactions per second and, therefore, cheaper transaction fees, which is why investors think Cardano has so much potential to continue skyrocketing.

Is Cardano a no-brainer buy today?

While Cardano certainly looks like it offers potential, there are still some significant downsides to Cardano though, too. One of the most significant drawbacks is how long it’s taken to develop the blockchain.

When Cardano was first announced, and it was reported to be a multi-chain network that was a significant development. By now, though, several competitors have multiple chains, and Cardano continues to face stiff competition.

Plus, because it’s still in development, you risk gaining exposure to a blockchain that, while promising, has to develop quicker and more significantly than many other competitors while also trying to take over the top spot from Ethereum.

Another issue that Cardano could face is attracting enough developers. The best way to grow a blockchain’s ecosystem is to have as many developers as possible building projects on your blockchain, because that’s how you attract users.

So, not only will Cardano have to attract more developers as it continues to roll out upgrades to its network, but it’s competing with Ethereum, which has a massive ecosystem of developers building on it or other compatible chains.

Bottom line

Cardano is certainly one of the highest-potential cryptocurrency investments you can make today. However, it isn’t the only competitor vying to take the top spot from Ethereum. With that being said, though, if you’re looking to make a long-term investment, Cardano is certainly worth consideration.

Just like investing in stocks, it’s worth it to diversify and own different investments. So, if you’re wondering whether you should buy Cardano, it’s certainly worth an investment. But personally, I’d still have more exposure to Ether.

Fool contributor Daniel Da Costa owns Ethereum. The Motley Fool owns and recommends Bitcoin and Ethereum.

More on Investing

Business success of growth metaverse finance and investment profit graph concept or development analysis progress chart on financial market achievement strategy background with increase hand diagram
Dividend Stocks

1 Impressively Awesome Canadian Dividend Stock Down 38% to Hold for Decades

Fiera Capital’s pullback may be a chance to lock in a big dividend from a fee-driven asset manager reshaping for…

Read more »

Yellow caution tape attached to traffic cone
Dividend Stocks

The CRA Is Watching TFSA Holders: Here Are Some Red Flags to Avoid

In your TFSA, consider long‑term investments, track your contribution room and withdrawals, and avoid leverage, rapid trading, and non‑qualified assets.

Read more »

is telus stock a buy for its dividend yield
Tech Stocks

9% Yield: Is Telus’s Dividend Safe?

Telus announced a major change in its dividend strategy: It is stopping regular increases in its dividend while maintaining the…

Read more »

woman checks off all the boxes
Investing

My 2 Favourite Stocks to Buy Right Now

Given their solid underlying businesses and robust growth prospects, these two Canadian stocks can deliver superior returns in the long…

Read more »

diversification and asset allocation are crucial investing concepts
Dividend Stocks

Canadian Dividend Stars to Add to Your 2026 Portfolio

These Canadian dividend stars have consistently paid and increased their dividends for decades, making them reliable income stocks.

Read more »

tsx today
Stock Market

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Monday, December 8

After Friday’s pullback, the TSX benchmark could face a cautious start to the week today amid central bank uncertainty and…

Read more »

monthly calendar with clock
Dividend Stocks

This 7.3% Dividend Stock Could Pay Me Every Month Like Clockwork

This Walmart‑anchored REIT pays monthly and is building for growth. See why SRU.UN can power tax‑free TFSA income today and…

Read more »

open vault at bank
Bank Stocks

Canadian Bank Stocks Appear Unstoppable: Here’s the One I’d Buy Right Here

TD Bank (TSX:TD) and other Big Six banks blew reported good results for their latest quarters.

Read more »