An altcoin means “alternative coin” — basically any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin.
Simple Explanation:
Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency.
Every other crypto that came after it — like Ethereum, Solana, Ripple (XRP), Cardano, Dogecoin, etc. — is called an altcoin.
Why are they called altcoins?
Because they are alternatives to Bitcoin. Many altcoins try to:
Improve on Bitcoin’s technology
Add new features (like smart contracts, faster transactions, privacy, staking, etc.)
Serve specific use cases (gaming, DeFi, NFTs, payments, etc.)
Types of Altcoins:
1. Utility Tokens (e.g., ETH used for smart contracts)
2. Stablecoins (e.g., USDT, USDC)
3. DeFi Coins (e.g., UNI, AAVE)
4. Meme Coins (e.g., DOGE, SHIB)
5. Layer-1 / Layer-2 Coins (e.g., SOL, ADA, MATIC)
If you want, I can also explain:
Best altcoins right now
Difference between Bitcoin & altcoins
Altcoin investment risks
