Aptos vs Stellar

Aptos and Stellar are two popular blockchains. In this article we'll compare them across a variety of metrics. Both blockchains have their own strengths and weaknesses, and we'll explore them below.

Table of Contents

  1. Metrics
  2. Detailed Comparison
  3. FAQs

Metrics

AptosStellar
Created byAvery ChingJed McCaleb
Native tokenAPTXLM
Consensus algorithmPoSPoS
Hashing algorithmKECCAK-256SCP
Supports EVMYesNo
TPS160000200
Block time (secs)45
Layer11
Supports smart contractsYesYes
Average transaction fee$0.0000012$8.5e-9
Staking rewards (APR)7%1%

Detailed Comparison

Network Performance and Scalability

When examining Aptos and Stellar's performance metrics, several key differences emerge:

  • Transaction Speed (TPS)
    • Aptos: 160,000 TPS
    • Stellar: 200 TPS

Aptos demonstrates significantly higher theoretical throughput capabilities, with its impressive 160,000 TPS dwarfing Stellar's 200 TPS. This massive difference in transaction processing capability makes Aptos more suitable for high-frequency applications and large-scale decentralized systems. Users requiring high-volume transaction processing would benefit more from Aptos's infrastructure.

  • Block Time
    • Aptos: 4 seconds
    • Stellar: 5 seconds

Both chains maintain competitive block times, with Aptos having a slight edge at 4 seconds compared to Stellar's 5 seconds. The one-second difference is minimal in practical applications, and both networks provide relatively quick transaction finality for users.

Technical Architecture

The fundamental technical designs of both networks reveal distinct approaches:

  • Consensus Mechanism

    • Both networks utilize Proof of Stake (PoS), though their implementations differ
    • Aptos uses a traditional PoS system
    • Stellar employs the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), a unique variant of PoS
  • Smart Contract Capability

    • Both chains support smart contracts
    • Aptos features EVM compatibility, enabling easier integration with Ethereum-based applications
    • Stellar offers smart contracts but without EVM compatibility, requiring specific development approaches

Economic Model and Incentives

The economic structures of both networks show interesting contrasts:

  • Staking Rewards
    • Aptos: 7% annual rewards
    • Stellar: 1% annual rewards

Aptos offers significantly higher staking rewards, potentially attracting more validators and stakeholders to secure the network. This higher reward structure might lead to stronger network security through increased participation.

  • Transaction Fees
    • Aptos: 0.0000012 APT
    • Stellar: 0.0000000085 XLM

Stellar maintains exceptionally low transaction fees, making it particularly suitable for micropayments and cross-border transactions. While Aptos's fees are also low, Stellar's ultra-low fee structure gives it an advantage for specific use cases like remittances.

Network Purpose and Use Cases

The networks serve different primary purposes:

  • Aptos

    • Focuses on high-performance decentralized applications
    • Emphasizes scalability and smart contract functionality
    • Better suited for complex DeFi applications and high-frequency trading
  • Stellar

    • Specializes in cross-border payments and remittances
    • Emphasizes interoperability between different currencies
    • Optimal for financial inclusion and international money transfers

Development and Community

Both networks maintain active development communities:

  • Founded By
    • Aptos: Avery Ching
    • Stellar: Jed McCaleb (co-founder of Ripple)

The founders' backgrounds influence their networks' directions. McCaleb's experience with Ripple shaped Stellar's focus on cross-border payments, while Ching's background led to Aptos's emphasis on high performance and scalability.

Token Economics

Both networks share some token economic characteristics:

  • Maximum Supply
    • Neither chain has a maximum supply cap
    • This allows for flexible monetary policy and long-term sustainability
    • Both rely on controlled inflation to support network operations

Technical Infrastructure

The underlying technical choices reveal different priorities:

  • Hashing Algorithms
    • Aptos: KECCAK-256
    • Stellar: SCP (Stellar Consensus Protocol)

Aptos's use of KECCAK-256 aligns with Ethereum's standards, supporting its EVM compatibility. Stellar's unique consensus protocol reflects its focus on fast finality and energy efficiency.

Network Maturity and Adoption

The networks are at different stages of development and adoption:

  • Stellar

    • More established ecosystem
    • Stronger presence in traditional financial partnerships
    • Proven track record in cross-border payments
  • Aptos

    • Newer to the market
    • Focus on technical innovation
    • Growing DeFi ecosystem

Integration and Accessibility

The networks offer different approaches to integration:

  • Aptos

    • EVM compatibility enables easier integration with existing Ethereum tools
    • Attracts developers familiar with Solidity
    • Better suited for complex DeFi applications
  • Stellar

    • Custom development environment
    • Focus on simplicity and accessibility
    • Strong tools for financial institution integration

FAQs

Is Aptos faster than Stellar?

Yes, Aptos can process 160000 transactions per second. Stellar only processes up to 200.

Is Aptos cheaper than Stellar?

Yes, Aptos has an average transaction fee of $0.0000012, whereas Stellar costs $8.5e-9.