Side-by-side reference
Bitcoin vs 
Ethereum Classic
A practical, data-led overview of how these two networks differ in architecture, throughput, and execution.
- Bitcoin · BTC
- Ethereum Classic · ETC
- Reference snapshot · July 2026
Quick comparison
Pick the metric that matters to you
Ethereum Classic lists the higher published transaction capacity.Bitcoin5 TPSEthereum Classic15 TPSHigher reference valueThis 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 | Bitcoin | Ethereum Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Layer | L1 | L1 |
| Native token | BTC | ETC |
| Published max TPS | 5 | 15 |
| Block time | 600s | 13s |
| Average transaction fee | $5.10 | $0.0001 |
| Consensus | PoW | PoW |
| Execution | Limited | EVM |
| Smart contracts | No | Yes |
| Staking rewards | 0% | — |
Architecture and execution
Bitcoin is listed as a Layer 1 network and does not list smart-contract support. Ethereum Classic is listed as a Layer 1 network and is EVM-compatible.
Their consensus entries also differ: Bitcoin lists PoW, while Ethereum Classic lists PoW. That distinction describes how each network is designed; it is not a standalone quality score.
Capacity and confirmation cadence
Ethereum Classic lists the higher published capacity: 15 TPS.
Ethereum Classic 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
Ethereum Classic lists the lower reference fee: $0.0001.
Bitcoin lists a 0% 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: Bitcoin is not EVM-compatible, while Ethereum Classic is.
- 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?
Ethereum Classic lists the higher published capacity: 15 TPS.
Which network has the lower reference fee?
Ethereum Classic has the lower reference fee in this dataset.