Comprehensive Comparison of zkEVM Solutions: Understanding Mainstream Blockchain Scaling Technologies

zkEVM is driving Ethereum's adoption among a broader user base. With numerous options available, which solution stands out the most? This article will compare and analyze mainstream zkEVM solutions such as Polygon zkEVM (and its 2.0 version), zkSync Era, Linea, Scroll, and Taiko, providing you with a comprehensive zkEVM guide.

zkEVM Overview

zkEVM is a second-layer network solution that processes transactions and sends proofs back to the Ethereum mainnet. By combining zero-knowledge proof (ZK) technology with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, zkEVM can significantly alleviate the computational burden on the Ethereum mainnet, enhance scalability, while not compromising on security and decentralization.

However, not all zkEVMs are the same. According to the framework proposed by Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin, zkEVMs can be classified into different types, from Ethereum-equivalent (Type 1) to EVM-compatible (Type 4). This classification mainly reflects the trade-off between EVM compatibility and performance.

Comparison of Mainstream zkEVM Solutions

Polygon 2.0 (zkEVM Validium)

In June 2023, Polygon Labs proposed to upgrade Polygon PoS to zkEVM validium. Polygon PoS has a robust ecosystem, including over $2 billion in Total Value Locked (TVL), tens of thousands of decentralized applications (dApps), and approximately 2.5 million transactions per day.

Migrating PoS to zkEVM validium will retain its network effects and low costs, while not affecting the existing applications, users, and developer experience. Polygon 2.0, as zkEVM validium, will offer lower costs and higher throughput compared to Polygon zkEVM Rollup.

Polygon zkEVM

Polygon zkEVM is a Type 3 ZK-Rollup that aims to be EVM-equivalent. It retains EVM opcode compatibility, providing greater scalability when collaborating with existing Ethereum tools and clients. The mainnet of Polygon zkEVM was launched in March 2023, and the current TVL on the network is approximately 54 million USD.

Polygon 2.0 and Polygon zkEVM will coexist in the ecosystem, catering to the needs of different types of applications. Polygon zkEVM (Rollup) is suitable for applications that handle high-value transactions (such as DeFi), while Polygon 2.0 (zkEVM validium) is more suitable for applications with high transaction volumes and low fees (such as Web3 games and social platforms).

zkSync Era

zkSync Era is currently a Type 4 zkEVM developed by Matter Labs. Its mainnet was launched in March 2023, and the current TVL is approximately $450 million, with a transaction volume of 27 million in the past month. The goal of zkSync Era is not complete EVM equivalence, but to improve proof generation speed through a customized virtual machine (VM).

zkSync Era uses the LLVM compiler to convert Solidity, Vyper, and Yul code into executable code on the zkSync VM, with plans to support Rust and C++ in the future. It also features a powerful L1-L2 contract messaging system that facilitates data transfer between contracts on Ethereum and zkSync.

Linea

Linea, developed by ConsenSys, is currently a Type 3 zkEVM. Its Alpha mainnet was launched in July 2023 and has accumulated a TVL of $50 million. What makes Linea unique is its ability to execute unmodified native Ethereum bytecode directly, with the goal of offering a Type 2 zkEVM in the future, ensuring near-complete compatibility with Ethereum while maintaining scalability.

Scroll zkEVM

Scroll is a zk-Rollup on Ethereum, currently a type 3 zkEVM, with plans to transition to type 2, and the ultimate goal is to become type 1. Scroll prioritizes EVM compatibility and decentralization over rapid ZKP generation. Currently, the alpha testnet of Scroll is open to the public.

Taiko

Taiko is a universal zk-Rollup aimed at becoming a Type 1 native zkEVM. Unlike Scroll, Taiko prioritized decentralization over speed from the very beginning. Although the ZKP generation speed is slower, Taiko has committed to decentralizing its components and maximizing EVM compatibility from the outset. Taiko's Type 1 testnet is currently available.

Summary

The development and adoption of Layer 2 (L2) solutions are crucial for the future growth of Ethereum and addressing the scalability issues of blockchain. Each zkEVM solution has its unique advantages and challenges, but they all play a key role in driving the creation of a more accessible Web3 ecosystem. As these technologies continue to evolve and improve, we can expect to see more innovative applications and broader adoption of blockchain technology.