Monad is a Layer 1 blockchain designed to be compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), while maintaining top performance, true decentralization, and robust security. It is capable of reaching up to 10,000 transactions per second (TPS), with a block time of 0.4 seconds and finality in 1 second — numbers that put it in the spotlight of the blockchain ecosystem.
- Up to 10,000 transactions per second (TPS).
- Block time of 0.4s and finality in 1s.
- Near-zero gas fees.
- Public testnet with high participation.
NOTE: Since TPS values vary across sources, I chose to use numbers already observed in real operation or approximated, instead of the theoretical maximum TPS.
Innovative Architecture
Monad goes beyond being just a “fast blockchain.” Its purpose is to be the foundation of the next generation of dApps — from decentralized finance (DeFi) to gaming and enterprise solutions — offering:
Overcoming the Trilemma
Vitalik Buterin defined the Trilemma as the challenge of balancing scalability, security, and decentralization. Monad proposes a solution to this problem:
- Security: MonadBFT with 1s finality and MEV protection.
- Decentralization: Accessible hardware (32 GB RAM) and global participation.
- Scalability: 10,000+ TPS for complex dApps.
Comparison with Other Blockchains
See how Monad compares to other Layer 1 blockchains:
| Feature | Monad | Ethereum | Solana | Avalanche | BSC | Polygon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EVM Compatibility | Full | Full | Partial | Full | Full | Full |
| Estimated TPS | 10,000+ | 15–30 | 7,000 | 4,500 | 2,222 | 7,000 |
| Block Time | 0.4 sec | ~12 sec | ~400 ms | ~1 sec | ~3 sec | ~2 sec |
| Finality | 1 sec | ~12 min | ~2.5 sec | ~2 sec | ~1 min | ~2–4 sec |
| Consensus | MonadBFT | PoS | PoH + PoS | Avalanche | PoSA | PoS |
| Decentralization | High | High | Moderate | High | Moderate | Moderate |
Impact on Web3
Monad emerges at a critical moment, where complex and fast-growing dApps demand blockchain infrastructure that doesn’t fail under pressure. Its approach solves technical problems and also:
- Attracts Ethereum developers with quick migration.
- Reduces barriers for new validators.
- Has low operational costs.
- Creates an inclusive economic environment with low operational costs.
With initiatives like Monad Madness and Mach Accelerator, Monad stimulates innovation, fostering a vibrant and rapidly expanding ecosystem.
Reach and Influence
Even in testnet phase, Monad already has impressive numbers:
- 1.3M+ followers on X
- 1000+ Dapps
- 100,000+ NFTs
- 1B+ transactions on its testnet
See below a comparison of Monad’s followers with other giant blockchains in the sector.
Now, see a comparison of the number of followers with other new blockchains (recently launched or about to be launched)
Final Considerations
Monad is a project that has been proving itself over time. In addition to a high-quality team, it also has an engaged community and huge hype, which makes it a strong candidate to become the main platform for the new generation of dApps:
However, as it is still in the testnet phase, its challenges include:
- Delivering on technical promises.
- Establishing real adoption.
- Avoiding risks of financial centralization.
I believe Monad is here to become the leading Layer 1 of web3.
This is the first chapter of this “mini course” I will be making about Monad. If you enjoyed it, leave a comment below and, if you found any mistake in the text, please let me know. I tried my best to review it, but errors can happen. See you in the next lesson :D.
