Side-by-side reference

Bitcoin vs Stellar

A practical, data-led overview of how these two networks differ in architecture, throughput, and execution.

  • Bitcoin · BTC
  • Stellar · XLM
  • Reference snapshot · July 2026

Quick comparison

Pick the metric that matters to you

Stellar lists the higher published transaction capacity.
Bitcoin5 TPS
Stellar200 TPSHigher reference value

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.

MetricBitcoinStellar
LayerL1L1
Native tokenBTCXLM
Published max TPS5200
Block time600s5s
Average transaction fee$5.10$0.00
ConsensusPoWSCP
ExecutionLimitedOther VM
Smart contractsNoYes
Staking rewards0%

Architecture and execution

Bitcoin is listed as a Layer 1 network and does not list smart-contract support. Stellar is listed as a Layer 1 network and uses a non-EVM execution environment.

Their consensus entries also differ: Bitcoin lists PoW, while Stellar lists SCP. That distinction describes how each network is designed; it is not a standalone quality score.

Capacity and confirmation cadence

Stellar lists the higher published capacity: 200 TPS.

Stellar lists the shorter block time: 5s.

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

Stellar lists the lower reference fee: $0.00.

Bitcoin lists a 0% staking-reward rate in this reference dataset. Stellar 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?

Stellar lists the higher published capacity: 200 TPS.

Which network has the lower reference fee?

Stellar has the lower reference fee in this dataset.