Side-by-side reference
Arbitrum vs
Ethereum Classic
A practical, data-led overview of how these two networks differ in architecture, throughput, and execution.
Arbitrum · ETH
Ethereum Classic · ETC- Reference snapshot · July 2026
Quick comparison
Pick the metric that matters to you
This is a directional comparison of the reference data below, not investment or performance advice.
Reference table
The numbers at a glance
Values are useful for orientation; they do not measure live network performance.
| Metric | ||
|---|---|---|
| Layer | L2 | L1 |
| Native token | ETH | ETC |
| Published max TPS | 4,000 | 15 |
| Block time | 13s | 13s |
| Average transaction fee | $0.10 | $0.0001 |
| Consensus | Optimistic rollup | PoW |
| Execution | EVM | EVM |
| Smart contracts | Yes | Yes |
| Staking rewards | — | — |
Architecture and execution
Arbitrum is listed as a Layer 2 network and is EVM-compatible. Ethereum Classic is listed as a Layer 1 network and is EVM-compatible.
Their consensus entries also differ: Arbitrum lists Optimistic rollup, while Ethereum Classic lists PoW. That distinction describes how each network is designed; it is not a standalone quality score.
Capacity and confirmation cadence
Arbitrum lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.
Arbitrum and Ethereum Classic list the same block time: 13s.
Published capacity and block-time figures are useful reference points, but they are not equivalent to observed throughput, finality, or application-specific performance. Evaluate the workload, settlement requirements, and tooling before drawing a conclusion.
Costs and participation
Ethereum Classic lists the lower reference fee: $0.0001.
Arbitrum has no staking-reward rate in this reference dataset. Ethereum Classic has no staking-reward rate in this reference dataset.
Fees and reward rates can change with network conditions and policy. Treat the entries here as a comparable snapshot, not as live pricing or a return forecast.
How to assess the trade-off
- Start with execution compatibility: Both networks share the same EVM compatibility status.
- Then compare the reference values that matter to the application: capacity, block time, and transaction fee.
- Finally, review each network’s documentation, security model, ecosystem, and current operating conditions before deploying capital or production software.
FAQ
Common questions
Which network has the higher published TPS?
Arbitrum lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.
Which network has the lower reference fee?
Ethereum Classic has the lower reference fee in this dataset.