Side-by-side reference

Stellar vs Optimism

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

  • Stellar · XLM
  • Optimism · OP
  • Reference snapshot · July 2026

Quick comparison

Pick the metric that matters to you

Optimism lists the higher published transaction capacity.
Stellar200 TPS
Optimism4,000 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.

MetricStellarOptimism
LayerL1L2
Native tokenXLMOP
Published max TPS2004,000
Block time5s2s
Average transaction fee$0.00$0.14
ConsensusSCPOptimistic rollup
ExecutionOther VMEVM
Smart contractsYesYes
Staking rewards

Architecture and execution

Stellar is listed as a Layer 1 network and uses a non-EVM execution environment. Optimism is listed as a Layer 2 network and is EVM-compatible.

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

Capacity and confirmation cadence

Optimism lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.

Optimism lists the shorter block time: 2s.

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.

Stellar has no staking-reward rate in this reference dataset. Optimism 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: Stellar is not EVM-compatible, while Optimism 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?

Optimism lists the higher published capacity: 4,000 TPS.

Which network has the lower reference fee?

Stellar has the lower reference fee in this dataset.