Best Proof of Stake Coins to Watch in December 2025 

BNB is gaining traction within the Binance ecosystem, and Sui has seen impressive developer growth in recent months.

Proof of stake remains the go-to consensus mechanism for blockchains that want to maximize energy efficiency, decentralization, and security. Our proof-of-stake crypto offers some of the highest staking crypto yields, combined with solid fundamentals and great growth potential. Let’s take a closer look at our choices.

Proof of Stake Coins to Buy and Stake in 2025 – Editor’s Picks

If you’ve been searching for the most promising staking projects for the year, you will find our carefully selected shortlist of the top proof-of-stake crypto below. They all offer strong APYs, come with solid fundamentals, and have staking-friendly tokenomics, which makes them a perfect choice for you.

Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER)

• First Bitcoin Layer 2 enabling fast, low-cost transactions
• Fixes Bitcoin’s speed and fee limitations with near real-time performance
• Enables a Bitcoin-native DeFi ecosystem

Launch

May 2025

Meta

Meme, Bitcoin L2

Learn More

Payment methods

Ethereum

USDT

USDC

Maxi Doge (MAXI)

• Degen meme coin inspired by max-leverage trading
• A tribute to high-risk hustle — fueled by sweat and conviction
• Ethereum-born, culture-driven, aiming for multichain

Launch

July 2025

Meta

Meme, Community, Deflationary

Learn More

Payment methods

Ethereum

BNB

USDC

+2 more

USDT

Credit Card

PepeNode (PEPENODE)

• Build your own virtual meme coin mining rig.
• 100% virtual and requires no additional computing power.
• Top miners get additional bonuses in Pepe, Fartcoin, and other meme coins.

Launch

August 2025

Meta

Meme, Mine-to-Earn, Play-to-Earn

Learn More

Payment methods

Ethereum

BNB

USDT

+1 more

Credit Card

SUBBD (SUBBD)

• AI-Powered Virtual Influencers
• 20% APY Staking Rewards
• VIP perks: livestreams, BTS content, credits, and more.

Launch

April 2025

Meta

AI, Payments, Content

Learn More

Payment methods

Credit Card

Ethereum

BNB

+1 more

USDT

These picks are based on data such as projected yields, staking accessibility, and, of course, ecosystem growth. Many of the choices offer high APYs during the presale phases, making them really attractive to buy before they hit the major exchanges.

Top 10 Proof of Stake Coins Reviews and Analysis

1. Ethereum (ETH) – Leading Smart Contract PoS Blockchain

Ethereum is one of the oldest and most versatile blockchains. After its transition in 2022 (“the Merge”), Ethereum moved from energy-intensive mining to a more efficient consensus system. This change meant that, instead of miners solving puzzles, people who stake ETH now secure the network, validate transactions, and earn rewards for it.

Ethereum (ETH)

24h7d30d1yAll time

In the PoS model, people who want to help secure the network lock up (stake) ETH. If you stake enough (32 ETH), you can run your own validator node. That node helps check and approve transactions, and occasionally creates new blocks.

Staking isn’t glamorous wealth and more like a steady yield, but it does offer some incentive. As of 2025, the typical reward rate (APY) for staking ETH is around 3.5% to 4.0% network-wide.

2. Binance Coin (BNB) – Binance Ecosystem Token for Fees and Staking

BNB has grown into the backbone of BNB Chain, a network built around speed, low fees, and a streamlined way of validating transactions. Instead of thousands of anonymous validators that compete the way they do on Ethereum, BNB Chain relies on a smaller, rotating validator set.

Bnb (BNB)

24h7d30d1yAll time

They are basically chosen based on how much BNB is staked behind them, which gives the network a sort of delegated structure. This setup is called Proof of Staked Authority (PoSA).

If you’ve been thinking about staking BNB, the idea is pretty simple: you delegate your tokens to a validator, the validator earns fees for running the network, and you get a share of that. The actual rewards aren’t enormous, but they are steady. Typical annual yields for BNB staking tend to land in the ballpark of 2-8%.

3. Solana (SOL) – Fast, Low-Fee Layer 1 Blockchain

Solana is one of those blockchains that tries to give you speed + low fees + smart contract features. Most of the time, it delivers. Under the hood, it doesn’t rely on the old-school mining method. Instead, it uses a hybrid system: a timestamping trick called Proof of History (PoH). PoH timestamps events so validators don’t waste time coordinating “what happened when”, plus a more standard Proof of Stake layer that decides who gets to validate blocks (and earn rewards).

Solana (SOL)

24h7d30d1yAll time

Thanks to this design, Solana can handle a lot of transactions with small fees and pretty fast. This makes it a go-to network for DeFi protocols, NFTs, decentralized apps, and basically anywhere where speed matters.

On the staking side, if you hold SOL, you can “delegate” it to a validator instead of running your own node. This way, you help secure the network and get a slice of rewards. Most importantly, there is no big minimum at the protocol level, so you don’t need thousands of SOL to start. The approximate annual rewards are 5-7%, according to Solana.

4. TRON (TRX) – PoS Blockchain for dApps and Content

TRON is a blockchain that tries to deliver speed, low fees, and smart contract support, but without using ‘mine and compete” mining. Instead, TRON runs on a consensus called Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS). Token holders vote (by staking or “freezing” their TRX) to elect a small group of 27 validators called Super Representatives (SRs). The SRs then produce blocks and validate transactions.

Tron (TRX)

24h7d30d1yAll time

Blocks on TRON are created roughly every 3 seconds. Because of this setup, the network can handle thousands of transactions per second.

When you stake (freeze) TRX, you get voting power (called “Tron Power” or TP). You may also gain “bandwidth” or “energy” resources that allow you to transact and execute smart contracts on TRON with minimal or no fees.

As for the staking rewards, sources put the typical annual yield from staking TRX somewhere around 3%-7% if you delegate to a validator under standard conditions.

5. Cardano (ADA) – Secure, Scalable PoS Smart Contract Platform

Cardano is a smart contract blockchain that runs on a consensus mechanism called Ouroboros. This is a Proof of Stake (PoS) protocol designed with peer-reviewed security. You don’t need to mine anything. Instead, ADA holders can “delegate” their coins to a stake pool, which is a node operated by someone else. The stake pool helps validate transactions and produce new blocks. Since you never move ADA out of your wallet, you keep full control, and delegation doesn’t lock your funds.

Cardano (ADA)

24h7d30d1yAll time

Staking on Cardano is super accessible. There is effectively no high minimum, and many wallets and services let you stake even a small amount. Once you delegate, there is a short waiting period. Your stake becomes active from the next epoch (each lasts about 5 days). Rewards typically start after about 2 epochs.

After that, as long as the pool you delegated to does its job, you’ll get periodic rewards. The typical annual yield for staking ADA currently hovers around 2.5-5% per year.

6. Hyperliquid (HYPE) – Layer 1 DEX with Staking Rewards

Hyperliquid (HYPE) is the native token of Hyperliquid, a Layer 1 blockchain that powers a decentralized exchange (DEX) offering fast transactions and low fees, as well as trading features like margin trading and perpetual derivatives. It currently has far fewer validators compared to Ethereum. Still, it allows the platform to confirm transactions extremely quickly.

Hyperliquid uses a Hyper BFT consensus mechanism, which is a variation of Byzantine Fault Tolerance. It does so to achieve higher throughput, reportedly up to 200,000 transactions per second.

HYPE holders can participate in staking to earn passive income while helping verify transactions. The staking rewards are currently modest, around 2% APY, but provide a way for users to engage with the platform and secure the network.

The token also has utility for governance, gas fees, and the Hyperliquid ecosystem.

7. Avalanche (AVAX) – Secure PoS Platform with Smart Contracts

Avalanche is a popular blockchain platform with smart contract support and fast finality. Instead of using a basic Proof-of-Stake design, the network is powered by a Proof-of-Finality (PoF) system that offers staking rewards between 7-10% APY. This combines the advantages of PoS with near-instant finality, making it vastly faster than Bitcoin or Ethereum.

Avalanche (AVAX)

24h7d30d1yAll time

Because of its PoF system and the ease of porting Ethereum apps to the network, Avalanche already has a strong ecosystem of apps. It is currently one of the community’s favorites for staking in 2025, and that doesn’t seem like it will change anytime soon.

8. Sui (SUI) – Fast-Growing Layer-1 PoS Blockchain

Sui is a high-performance Layer-1 blockchain launched and supported by former Meta engineers. It is one of the most unique PoS blockchains in the industry with a new programming language, Move, and an innovative consensus mechanism.

Sui (SUI)

24h7d30d1yAll time

Unlike most consensus mechanisms, Sui’s PoS system separates simple transactions from complex ones, allowing for quick basic transfers as well as full dApp functionality. This mechanism makes Sui one of the fastest and most efficient blockchains in the market.

SUI’s competitive advantage has helped attract a deluge of developers and apps, making it a popular choice for long-term investors seeking strong potential and decent staking yields. Investors can earn about 5-7% APY by staking SUI, beating out Ethereum and many other top staking opportunities.

9. Toncoin (TON) – PoS Token with Liquid Staking

Toncoin (TON) is the native token of the TON blockchain, which uses a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus model. The network’s security and stability are maintained by validators, who stake large amounts of TON to validate transactions and produce blocks. Validators are rewarded with Toncoin for their work, and the network also distributes newly minted coins, resulting in a modest annual inflation of around 0.5%.

For users who hold smaller amounts of TON, nominator pools allow participation in network security, all while earning staking rewards. TON’s staking ecosystem is flexible. You can stake directly from wallets or use specialized platforms like Tonstakers, bemo, P2P.org, Hipo, etc.

Daily rewards vary depending on the validator and stake size, with an average validator node generating roughly 120 TON per day as of April 2023.

10. Polkadot (DOT) – Multi-Chain Interoperable PoS Network

Polkadot is a multi-chain protocol that aims to let different blockchains communicate and work together. Its native token, DOT, does more than represent value. It is central to securing the network, governance, and enabling parachains (parallel blockchains connected to Polkadot).

Polkadot uses a proof-of-stake-based model: holders can stake DOT to support the network’s security. People do this by becoming a “validator” (if they have enough DOT and technical setup) or by nominating (delegating) to validators. In return, they earn a portion of staking rewards.

If you are a smaller holder who doesn’t run a validator, nominators let you participate in staking by delegating your DOT to validators. This way, you don’t need to run complex hardware and meet high minimum-stakes thresholds.

What Is Proof of Stake and How Does It Work?

Proof of stake is a consensus mechanism that blockchains use to secure the network and validate transactions. Unlike proof of work consensus mechanisms, where miners solve complex puzzles, PoS chooses who gets to add new blocks based on how many coins they stake.

Validators lock up their coins as collateral, and the network picks validators at random, usually preferring those with larger stakes. In return for validating transactions and helping to maintain the network, validators earn staking rewards (often in the network’s native token).

The main benefits of PoS are:

• Lower energy consumption than proof of work
• Lets users earn passive income by staking their tokens
• Usually faster and cheaper transactions
• Supports liquid staking so you can keep control of your coins (selected tokens)

How Are PoS Coins Mined?

When comparing staking vs mining, the biggest difference is generally how the blockchain chooses to create the next block. In traditional mining, which is used in proof-of-work systems like Bitcoin, powerful computers solve complex puzzles. The first computer to solve it gets to add a new block and earn a reward. But this process uses huge amounts of electricity and requires expensive hardware.

With proof of stake, validators aren’t competing for the most computing power. Instead, users lock up their coins, a process known as staking, and become eligible to validate new blocks. The more coins you stake, and the longer you stake them, the better your chances of being picked as a validator.

Validators don’t necessarily operate alone. Many people join staking pools, where users combine their coins to improve their chances of earning rewards. This is because the chances of a single validator being chosen are extremely small. These rewards are then distributed among all participants in the pool based on the amount each person contributed.

Validators create new blocks, but they also help verify and approve transactions across the network. They are the key to keeping the blockchain accurate, secure, and decentralized.

This process:

• Uses far less energy than traditional mining
• Doesn’t require costly hardware
• Makes it easier for everyday users to take part and earn rewards

Let’s consider a couple of real-world examples.

After switching from proof of work to proof of stake in 2022, Ethereum now requires users to hold a minimum of 32 ETH to become a full validator. Most people don’t need to stake this much, though. Thanks to staking platforms like Lido or Rocket Pool, you can stake smaller amounts through staking pools and earn a cut of the rewards. Ethereum’s staking rewards typically range between 3% and 8% annually.

Solana is known for its high speed and low fees. To stake SOL, users delegate their tokens to a validator node rather than running one themselves. This is a simple process that requires no minimum stake. Validators on Solana are chosen based on the amount of SOL delegated to them. The APY can vary, often between 6% and 8%.

How We Picked These Proof of Stake Coins – Our Methodology

The selection process we used to determine the best proof of stake coins for this list focused around four main aspects of PoS systems. Here are the main factors we considered to make our picks:

Consensus Mechanisms (25%)

Naturally, the best proof-of-stake coins need to have strong consensus mechanisms that securely and fairly validate transactions and distribute staking rewards. The goal was to find coins that reward honest validators and have active staking pools where people can participate with ease.

Staking Rewards (25%)

Next, we checked the size of the staking rewards because earning passive income is one of the main reasons that most investors stake their tokens. We preferred projects that come with flexible terms and support liquid staking, so users don’t have to lock their coins for long if they don’t want to.

Strong Underlying Project and Team (25%)

Besides established projects like Ethereum, we favored new and promising cryptocurrency projects with strong communities and a clear roadmap. Even if a project has a perfect consensus mechanism and sky-high rewards, if its token is useless otherwise or has struggled to build adoption, it wasn’t considered for this list. This is why we didn’t just evaluate each project’s staking mechanisms and analyzed every major factor from its team to its tokenomics.

Energy Efficiency and Climate Impact (25%)

We mostly avoided the coins that use a lot of energy and instead focused on the ones with low energy consumption (especially compared to older proof-of-work systems). This is because costly, inefficient projects are quickly going out of fashion (aside from Bitcoin) in the crypto market.

Why Stake Crypto in 2025?

Staking continues to grow in popularity in 2025, thanks to several trends and real-world data:

• Ethereum’s staking momentum: Following “The Merge“, Ethereum staking now delivers around 3-4% APY, with some platforms offering nearly 6% using MEV-Boost.
• Layer 1 and Layer 2 innovations: Networks like Solana offer around 5-7% yield, while many top Layer-2 chains are delivering competitive staking rates.
• Accessibility improvements: Today, users can stake small amounts through platforms like Lido, Rocket Pool, and Staking Pools. This makes it easier than ever to earn staking rewards without investing large capital.
• Attractive APYs in emerging chains: Coins like Cardano, Avalanche, and Solana consistently offer 5-10% APY.
• Rising demand for passive income: More investors view this as a way to earn passive income while supporting blockchain security.
• Liquid staking flexibility: Tools like stETH, Lido, and Rocket Pool allow users to trade or use their assets while still earning rewards.

Where to Buy and Stake Proof of Stake Crypto

If you are ready to earn rewards through staking, the first step is choosing a reliable platform. You can stake directly through major crypto exchanges, use decentralized staking providers, or opt for self-custody with a hardware wallet.

Centralized Exchanges That Support Staking

Centralized exchanges like Binance, Kraken, and Coinbase make staking very simple. There is no need for technical setup, which makes them ideal for beginners or anyone who prefers the built-in liquidity.

Top Decentralized Staking Providers

If you want to keep control of your funds and earn rewards at the same time, decentralized providers like Lido and Rocket Pool are solid options. These platforms support liquid staking, so you can earn while still using your tokens in DeFi. They are great if you value flexibility and decentralization.

Best Hardware Wallets for Staking

For maximum control and security, you can stake from a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor. Some wallets support direct staking through their software, while others can be connected to dApps or validators. This is a more complex option but ideal for security-conscious users and long-term holders.

How to Start Staking Proof of Stake Coins

Getting started with staking can be simple, even if you are new to crypto. Let’s go through some simple steps that will allow you to start earning passive income by supporting a Proof of Stake network.

Step 1. Choose a PoS Coin to Stake

Popular options include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and Polkadot (DOT). When choosing, compare reward rates, minimum staking amounts, and network stability.

Step 2. Pick Your Staking Methods

Now you need to figure out where you want to stake your tokens. Will you use a centralized exchange? This is the simplest option for beginners. If you want more control, extra APY, and DeFi integration, a decentralized protocol like Lido might be the perfect choice for you.

Finally, if you want more control and more security, but are familiar with the technical aspects of crypto, you can use a direct validator or a hardware wallet.

Step 3. Transfer or Buy Your Chosen Crypto

Now it is time to move your assets from your crypto wallet or buy directly on the platform you plan to stake through.

Step 4: Start Staking

If you want to stake on exchanges, just click “stake” or “earn” and follow the provided steps. If you choose staking providers, you’ll need to connect your wallet and delegate. If you are using hardware, you need to follow the prompts on Ledger Live or Trezor Suite.

Step 5: Track Your Rewards

Some platforms offer flexible staking, while others have fixed lock periods. Keep tabs on your earnings and withdrawal rules.

Risks of Staking Proof of Stake Cryptocurrencies

Staking can be very rewarding, but you need to understand the risks involved before you commit your cryptocurrencies. The risks include:

Validator risk

If the validator node you delegate to behaves dishonestly or fails to validate properly, you may suffer slashing (a partial loss of your staked coins).

APY volatility

Staking rewards (APYs) fluctuate based on network conditions, total staked supply, and token inflation. High yields during presales or early phases may drop sharply after the token’s launch.

Token lock-up periods

Many PoS coins require a fixed lock-up or unbonding period during which you cannot withdraw or trade your tokens. This can range from days to months. Make sure to research whether your preferred platform has a lock-up period before diving in.

Smart contract vulnerabilities

When you’re staking through decentralized protocols or liquid staking platforms, bugs and exploits in the smart contract can put your funds at risk.

Regulatory uncertainties

Crypto regulations are still evolving globally. Changes in law could affect everything from staking services to tax obligations to even the legality of certain tokens.

Security Considerations and How to Avoid Scams

Staking your crypto can also attract scammers who are continuously searching for ways to exploit investors. Here is what you need to watch out for and how to protect yourself.

Fake validators and delegators

Some scammers pose as legitimate validators promising high returns, but vanish with your funds or fail to properly validate.

Phishing attacks

Fraudsters often send fake emails or create spoofed websites that mimic official staking platforms. If you don’t notice, they can still steal your login credentials or private keys and, with them, your crypto holdings.

Ponzi or pyramid schemes

Beware of projects promising unusually high, guaranteed APYs with vague or secretive business models. They often rely on new investors’ money and eventually collapse.

Best Practices to Protect Your Staking Funds

Now that you know what the risks are, let’s talk about some practices to safeguard your funds:

• Use hardware wallets: The safest way to keep your private keys is offline with devices like Ledger or Trezor. This adds a strong layer of protection against hacks and phishing.
• Verify platform authenticity: Always double-check URLs, look for official social media accounts, and use trusted staking providers and exchanges.
• Do your own research: Investigate validator reputation, check community reviews, and understand the project’s fundamentals before you stake your crypto.
• Avoid new and unaudited platforms: Platforms without transparent audits or limited community trust carry much higher risks.

Proof of Stake Trends to Watch in 2025

Now let’s take a look at the top trends shaping the proof-of-stake crypto space this year:

Liquid Staking and Restaking Derivatives

Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs) now allow users to stake ETH, SOL, and other tokens while remaining liquid. When you stake through a liquid staking platform, you receive a token like stETH or mSOL that represents your staked balance and can be used to get even more rewards across the DeFi ecosystem.

As of early 2025, liquid staking represents over 31% of all staked ETH. Lido alone holds approximately 27-28% market share of Ethereum staking. Restaking, where staked assets (or LSTs) secure additional protocols, is also gaining momentum on the market. Systems like EigenLayer hold over $12 billion in value.

Evolving APY Models and Capital Efficiency

Staking continues to grow, and with it, APYs are stabilizing or declining from their presale highs. Institutional operators like Figment report that the average Ethereum validator yields around 3.15%, after adjusting for uptime and slashing.

Meanwhile, newer Layer-1 chains like SUI and AVAX offer APYs up to 10-12% to bootstrap adoption, though the net real yields may be lower due to fees.

Institutional Validator Participation Is Expanded

The year 2025 marks a shift. Validator infrastructure is increasingly institution-grade. It is now largely backed by entities like Figment, Blockdaemon, and EigenLayer. These services deliver better compliance and risk-adjusted returns for the enterprise participants.

Market Snapshot for Proof of Stake Coins December 2025

PoS coins are a big focus for investors these days. This month’s snapshot covers key price changes, updated staking yields, and notable developments across leading PoS networks like Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano.

Ethereum (ETH)

• Staking has a new high: Over 36 million ETH staked as of December 2025, up from 35 million the prior month.
• The validator capacity has expanded: June’s Pectra upgrade allows validators to stake up to 2,048 ETH each.
• Yields remain steady: ETH PoS rewards mostly fluctuate within the 3-3.2% ARP range after fees.

Solana (SOL)

• High APY with institutional interest: SOL staking continues to yield around 7.75%. The demand is sparked by staking-focused ETFs like REX-Osprey’s SSK ETF.
• Strong network usage: Daily active user addresses average 3 to 6 million in H1 2025, spiking past 7 million in late May.

Should You Stake Proof of Stake Crypto?

Staking is a great way to passively earn extra money and support blockchain networks all at the same time, but it is not for everyone.

It may be suitable for you if:

• You plan to hold your crypto long-term and don’t need immediate liquidity
• You are comfortable with moderate risk in exchange for potentially higher rewards
• You want to earn passive income without actively trading
• You trust the staking platform or validator you are using

It may not be suitable for you if:

• You need quick access to your funds and can’t tolerate lock-up periods
• You are uncomfortable with risks like slashing, platform failures, and price volatility
• You prefer short-term trading or more liquid investment strategies
• You are staking through unknown or unaudited platforms
• You don’t have the time or knowledge to research validators and staking

Final Verdict – Are Proof of Stake Coins Worth It in 2025?

Staking Proof of Stake (PoS) coins in 2025 is a popular passive income strategy for good reason. It’s often one of the best ways to earn a bit of extra passive income without much added risk. As the crypto industry matures and more platforms offer lower-risk options like liquid staking, this is becoming even more appealing to traders.

Still, staking is not without its risks. Smart contract bugs, validator misbehavior, and, of course, market volatility and regulatory shifts; all these can impact your earnings and the safety of your funds.

Ultimately, whether staking is for you depends on your comfort with crypto, your willingness to put the time into research, and your trading preferences. Proceed carefully and only use reputable platforms for staking.

FAQ

Filip Stojanovic

, 34 posts

See All Articles

I’m a crypto content strategist and writer who helps Web3 projects tell their story, build trust, and grow engaged communities in an increasingly competitive space. I’ve worked with presale tokens, exchanges, blockchain startups, and crypto marketing agencies, shaping content strategies that not only explain complex concepts but also inspire confidence, attract investors, and drive adoption.

My experience spans a wide variety of formats, from whitepapers, token launch campaigns, and pitch decks to thought leadership articles, technical documentation, and in-depth guides. Before diving into Web3, I built my expertise in B2B SaaS writing. This structured, analytical approach now underpins my work in crypto, allowing me to bring clarity and credibility to projects in a space often criticized for hype and jargon.

I’m especially interested in how blockchain innovation translates into real-world utility. My recent work explores the evolving role of DeFi protocols, NFT ecosystems, and next-generation infrastructure in reshaping industries and creating new opportunities for both businesses and individuals.