Are you looking to invest in cryptocurrencies but do not know where to start? There are various types of crypto coins, and each has its optimal use, from buying online to gaining control of a coin. Among the most popular are altcoins, stablecoins, and, at the very top, Bitcoin.
Below, we have listed the top cryptocurrencies and how they help you narrow your options and choose the best ones. Understanding these various crypto coins will help you make better decisions and ensure your investment is worthwhile.
Let us get started.
3 Types of Crypto Coins
Not all crypto coins are the same. They serve different purposes, and knowing the difference can help you understand the crypto world better. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
1. Payment Crypto Coins – The Everyday Crypto
These are the digital currencies you can use to buy things, just like regular money. They’re fungible, meaning one coin is equal to another of the same type. Within this category, you’ll find:
- Stablecoins – These stay tied to a fiat currency (like USD), so their value doesn’t swing wildly.
- Meme Coins – Coins that started as jokes or internet trends (think Dogecoin).
- Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) – Government-backed digital money, like a digital version of your country’s currency.
2. Altcoins – The Bitcoin Alternatives
Altcoins are any cryptocurrencies that aren’t Bitcoin but are built on similar principles. Many have a limited supply, which can make them more valuable over time. Examples include Ethereum, Litecoin, and Solana.
3. Tokens – More Than Just Money
Tokens are digital assets that go beyond payments. Instead of being just another currency, they have specific uses, such as:
- Representing ownership in a blockchain project or company.
- Powering apps and smart contracts.
- Giving users voting rights in decentralized organizations.
Top 10 Types of Crypto Coins
The popularity of cryptocurrencies takes into account their user base and their market[M.A3] capitalisation which is the number of coins in circulation times their price. By balancing these factors, we have created the following list of the most popular coins:
1. Bitcoin (BTC)
Bitcoin is the most imposing and the most well-known utility cryptocurrency. Although it first operated on Ethereum, Bitcoin operates on its own blockchain and can be used to make payments on the Binance platform.
Although new Bitcoin coins are constantly being mined, there is a maximum cap of 21 million, and periodically reduces the number of coins available for purchase. At the start of 2025, Bitcoin market capitalisation peaked at above ($2,000 billion) according to reports.
2. Ether (ETH)
Another popular digital asset is Ether, which runs on the Ethereum blockchain. This is an uncapped token, meaning that its number could infinitely grow.
It allows you to make off-chain payments and speculative investments. Its validation method has been updated to make it more efficient.
3. Binance Coin (BNB)
In the past year, Binance Coin has become one of the most popular due to its low transfer fees when transferring funds on the Binance platform. Similar to Bitcoin, Binance Coin limits its supply, helping maintain price stability.
4. Tether (USDT)
Due to its stability, Tether has become a popular coin among cautious investors. This coin falls under the payment and stablecoin types of crypto coin.
Therefore, you can use it for transactions with the assurance that its value will remain the same as the USD fiat currency. This is because the currency is backed by dollars using unsecured debt.
5. Solana (SOL)
With its high speed, the Solana coin became a popular option for traders. If you aim to trade in crypto and take advantage of rapid changes in price, this coin has an advantage over other coins. This coin runs on the Solana platform and supports decentralised applications.
6. Cardano (ADA)
When looking for fast transactions, the Cardano coin is a competitive choice. It runs on its own blockchain. Moreover, it uses a novel transaction system that allows it to increase transfer speeds
7. USD Coin (USDC)
Since the USD Coin has a clear source of funding, it is one of the most trusted stablecoins. This regulated coin has clear auditing processes that ensure you can exchange your coins and receive the same quantity in dollars whenever you want.
8. XRP (XRP)
XRP, created by Ripple, is a well-known crypto token. Unlike other cryptocurrencies, it works within the traditional financial system. Banks and financial institutions use it to make payments faster and cheaper.
Sending money across borders usually takes days. Fees are high, and the process is slow. XRP fixes that. It allows you to exchange currencies at a much lower cost in seconds, not days. Instead of using energy-heavy mining like Bitcoin, XRP relies on a ledger system that validates transactions quickly and securely.
9. Dogecoin (DOGE)
Dogecoin is currently the most popular meme coin you can use to pay and transfer money. It is based on the doge meme and uses Shiba Inu as its image. Although it was first created as a joke, it has become one of the most valuable and fluctuating coins.
10. Tron (TRX)
Lastly, the Tron token is on the list of most popular coins. With this token, you can transact and pay on the Tron blockchain.
Additionally, this token allows you to create new blocks of chain, validate transactions, and earn money.
Optimise Your Cryptocurrency Portfolio with CryptoCracker
With CryptoCracker, managing your crypto investments has never been easier. Whether you’re into Bitcoin, altcoins, stablecoins, or tokens, our platform gives you the tools to track, analyze, and optimize your portfolio.
We provide clear, easy-to-understand market breakdowns to help you make smarter trading decisions. No more guesswork—just data-driven insights to keep you ahead of the market.
In particular, we offer the following tools and services:
Start using CryptoCracker today and take control of your crypto portfolio with confidence!
Summary
As we discussed, there are different types of crypto coins—payment coins, altcoins, stablecoins, meme coins, and tokens. Some of the most popular ones include Bitcoin, Ether, and Binance Coin.
If you’re looking for alternatives, XRP, Dogecoin, and Tron each offer unique features. For traders who prioritize speed, Solana and Cardano are great options. On the other hand, if stability is your main concern, Tether (USDT) and USDC are among the top stablecoins to consider.
To manage your crypto easily, use a single platform like CryptoCraker. Our market data analysis and recommendation tool helps you find the best investment opportunities in seconds. Stay informed and make smarter crypto decisions with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the next big altcoin?
There is no definitive way to discover which altcoin will be the next big altcoin. However, you can use the past performance of a coin to examine its trend. From there, you can judge which is more likely to gain value. However, other external factors, such as new technology, may influence its value.
What is the oldest crypto coin?
The oldest crypto coin is Bitcoin. This is the original cryptocurrency and dates back to 2009. Created by Satoshi Nakamoto, this coin took nearly a decade to become known outside of its niche.
Which coin is best to invest in?
The best coin to invest in depends on your trading technique and the state of the market. A coin with a relatively stable value that increases over time may be a better long-term investment. Meanwhile, a coin with large fluctuations in a short time could be an excellent investment for rapid trade.