Side-by-side reference

Arbitrum vs Monero

A practical, data-led comparison of how these two networks differ in architecture, throughput, execution, and cost. The numbers are a starting point; the right choice depends on the workload you need to run.

  • Arbitrum · ETH
  • Monero · XMR
  • 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
Monero1,700 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.

MetricArbitrumMonero
LayerL2L1
Native tokenETHXMR
Published max TPS4,0001,700
Block time13s120s
Average transaction fee$0.10$0.001
ConsensusOptimistic rollupPoW
ExecutionEVMLimited
Smart contractsYesNo
Staking rewards

Architecture and execution

Arbitrum is listed as a Layer 2 network and is EVM-compatible. Monero is listed as a Layer 1 network and does not list smart-contract support.

Their consensus entries also differ: Arbitrum lists Optimistic rollup, while Monero 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 lists the shorter 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

Monero lists the lower reference fee: $0.001.

Arbitrum has no staking-reward rate in this reference dataset. Monero 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.

Choose for the workload

  • Start with compatibility. Arbitrum is EVM-compatible, while Monero is not. If your tooling already assumes the EVM, that constraint can matter more than a headline capacity figure.
  • Match the workload. Compare the reference values that matter to the application: capacity, block time, and transaction fee. A lower fee is useful only if the network can serve your users reliably.
  • Check the conditions. Review each network’s documentation, security model, ecosystem, and current operating conditions before deploying capital or production software. Treat published values as a snapshot, not a promise.

Bottom line: choose the network whose trade-offs fit the job and whose risks you can explain plainly. A comparison is useful when it narrows a decision—not when it manufactures a winner.

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?

Monero has the lower reference fee in this dataset.