The Web3 revolution is accelerating, and with it, the demand for seamless interoperability across blockchain networks has never been greater. As decentralized applications (dApps) expand across multiple chains, users increasingly need efficient ways to move assets—like cryptocurrencies and NFTs—between blockchains. This growing need has led to the rise of crypto bridges, innovative tools that enable cross-chain asset transfers without relying on centralized exchanges.
In this guide, we explore the best crypto bridges in 2024, evaluating them based on speed, security, cost, supported networks, and user experience. Whether you're transferring ETH to ZkSync, moving stablecoins to Base, or bridging assets to Solana, this breakdown will help you choose the optimal solution.
What Are Crypto Bridges?
A crypto bridge is a protocol that allows users to transfer digital assets from one blockchain to another. Unlike traditional exchanges, these platforms operate in a decentralized manner, eliminating the need for intermediaries. They are essential for accessing new ecosystems, participating in airdrops, or leveraging yield opportunities across different chains.
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Real-World Example: Why Bridges Matter
Imagine Kane, a crypto trader who wants to buy tokens on ZkSync, a Layer 2 Ethereum network. He holds ETH on the Ethereum mainnet, but the tokens he wants are only available on ZkSync. Without a bridge, Kane would need a centralized exchange that supports ZkSync—a rare and often costly option.
Instead, Kane uses a cross-chain bridge. He deposits ETH into the bridge, which then transfers it to ZkSync (minus a small fee). Once received, he can swap ETH for the desired tokens directly on ZkSync’s decentralized exchange.
This process is faster, cheaper, and more private than using a centralized platform—showcasing the true value of crypto bridges.
Top 7 Crypto Bridges in 2024
With so many options available, choosing the right bridge can be overwhelming. Below are seven of the most reliable and widely used cross-chain solutions in 2024.
1. Across Protocol
Across Protocol stands out as one of the fastest and most cost-effective bridges in 2024. As the only cross-chain intents protocol currently live, it offers seamless asset transfers with minimal fees and near-instant finality.
With over $10 billion in transaction volume across 6 million transactions, Across has proven its scalability and reliability.
Why Choose Across?
- Lowest Fees: Often cheaper than competitors, especially for Ethereum Layer 2 transfers.
- Speed: Average transfer time is under one minute.
- Security: Uses relayers instead of custodial models, reducing counterparty risk.
Limitation: Currently supports a limited number of chains, though expansion is expected soon.
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For users prioritizing efficiency and affordability, Across Protocol is the top choice for moving assets between Ethereum and its Layer 2 networks.
2. Stargate Finance
Stargate Finance is a liquidity transport protocol built on LayerZero, enabling fully composable cross-chain DeFi. It’s ideal for large transfers due to its unified liquidity pools and minimal slippage.
As of mid-2024, Stargate boasts nearly $459 million in Total Value Locked (TVL)—a testament to its growing adoption.
Key Features:
- Supports Ethereum, BSC, Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, Avalanche, and more.
- Enables native asset transfers with irrevocable finality.
- Offers 5–10% APY for liquidity providers through STG rewards.
- Cross-chain swap fees start at just 0.1%.
Stargate solves the “bridge trilemma” by delivering native assets, unified liquidity, and instant finality—a combination no other bridge offers.
If Across doesn’t support your desired chain pair, Stargate is an excellent alternative.
3. Orbiter.Finance
Orbiter.Finance specializes in fast and secure transfers between Ethereum and major Layer 2 networks. It’s particularly popular for moving funds to ZkSync, StarkNet, and other zk-rollups.
Launched in 2021, Orbiter gained early support from Vitalik Buterin (who donated 16 ETH) and investors like Tiger Global and Starkware.
How It Works:
- Uses a Maker-Sender model: Makers provide liquidity and receive fees.
- Transactions settle in seconds with low gas costs.
- Fully decentralized and non-custodial.
Orbiter supports over 15 networks, including:
- Ethereum
- zkSync
- Arbitrum
- Optimism
- Polygon
- BNB Chain
- dYdX
For users targeting ZkSync airdrop eligibility, Orbiter is a go-to bridge due to its frequent usage patterns being recognized by retroactive reward systems.
4. Allbridge
Allbridge excels at connecting EVM and non-EVM blockchains, making it ideal for transfers involving Solana, Terra, or NEAR.
It supports both native and wrapped token transfers, giving users flexibility in how they receive assets.
Highlights:
- Supports cross-chain swaps with low latency.
- Dynamic fee model: Users can reduce fees by staking on the source chain.
- Over $6.4 billion bridged since launch.
- Offers white-label solutions for enterprises (Allbridge BaaS).
If you're moving assets between Solana and Ethereum, or exploring multi-chain DeFi beyond EVM ecosystems, Allbridge is a trusted option.
5. Synapse
Synapse is more than just a bridge—it's a full cross-chain communication protocol. Developers use it to build dApps that interact across chains, enabling advanced use cases like cross-chain lending and yield aggregation.
Key Advantages:
- Supports over 16 blockchains, including Canto, Moonbeam, and Klaytn.
- Uses an optimistic verification model for secure message passing.
- Native token (SYN) used for governance, staking, and fee payments.
- Over **$39 billion in volume** processed and $259 million TVL.
Synapse stands out for its developer tools and robust security framework, making it a favorite for complex cross-chain applications.
6. Hop Bridge
Hop Bridge is designed specifically for rollup-to-rollup transfers, allowing users to move tokens between Layer 2 networks without waiting for long withdrawal periods.
It uses Bonders—decentralized liquidity providers—who front funds on the destination chain in exchange for fees.
How It Works:
- User sends tokens to Hop on the source chain.
- A Bonder instantly delivers funds on the destination chain via hTokens.
- Original transfer settles later; Bonder recovers capital after 24 hours.
This system ensures near-instant transfers while maintaining decentralization. Hop is especially useful for moving funds to emerging chains like Base, where direct bridges are limited.
7. Portal Bridge
Developed by Wormhole, Portal Bridge enables seamless transfers of tokens and NFTs across major blockchains—including Solana, Ethereum, and BSC.
Its standout feature? No double wrapping required—assets move directly between chains.
Why Use Portal?
- Ideal for transferring assets to Solana.
- Retroactive activity may qualify users for Wormhole or Solana ecosystem airdrops.
- Simple interface with strong security guarantees.
For those building positions in the Solana ecosystem ahead of potential token drops, Portal Bridge offers both utility and strategic advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are crypto bridges safe?
A: Most reputable bridges use decentralized or trust-minimized models, but risks like smart contract vulnerabilities exist. Always research a bridge’s audit history and TVL before use.
Q: Do I need to pay gas fees on both chains?
A: Typically, you pay gas on the source chain. Some bridges may require small fees on the destination chain for claiming assets.
Q: Can I bridge NFTs?
A: Yes—bridges like Portal and Synapse support NFT transfers across chains.
Q: What happens if a bridge gets hacked?
A: Custodial bridges pose higher risks. Decentralized bridges often have recovery mechanisms or insurance funds, but losses can still occur.
Q: How long do cross-chain transfers take?
A: Times vary: Across takes under a minute; others may take 10–30 minutes depending on network congestion and finality layers.
Q: Can I earn rewards by using a bridge?
A: Some protocols (like Stargate and Synapse) offer yield farming or staking rewards for liquidity providers or frequent users.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Bridge in 2024
Each bridge serves different needs:
| Bridge | Best For |
|---|---|
| Across Protocol | Fastest & cheapest transfers across major EVM chains |
| Stargate Finance | Large transfers with unified liquidity |
| Orbiter.Finance | Moving funds to ZkSync and other zk-rollups |
| Allbridge | Bridging between EVM and non-EVM chains (e.g., Solana) |
| Synapse | Developer-focused cross-chain communication |
| Hop Bridge | Rollup-to-rollup transfers (e.g., to Base) |
| Portal Bridge | Transferring assets to Solana with airdrop potential |
As blockchain ecosystems continue to fragment, cross-chain bridges will remain essential infrastructure. Choose platforms with strong security records, low fees, and active development teams.
👉 Explore secure and fast asset transfers across blockchains now.
By leveraging the right crypto bridge, you can unlock new investment opportunities, participate in emerging ecosystems, and stay ahead in the evolving world of Web3.