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

Arbitrum lists the higher published transaction capacity.
Arbitrum4,000 TPSHigher reference value
Ethereum Classic15 TPS

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.

MetricArbitrumEthereum Classic
LayerL2L1
Native tokenETHETC
Published max TPS4,00015
Block time13s13s
Average transaction fee$0.10$0.0001
ConsensusOptimistic rollupPoW
ExecutionEVMEVM
Smart contractsYesYes
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.