8 Best Utility Tokens to Invest in December 2025

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Utility tokens, such as Bitcoin Hyper, PEPENODE, and SUBBD, are coins with real-world use cases that provide access to specific services or functionalities within their respective ecosystems (a key difference in the utility vs. security tokens debate).

Bitcoin Hyper and PEPENODE stand out as the best altcoins with utility, each offering unique advantages to their holders: Bitcoin Hyper enhances Bitcoin transactions with scalable solutions. In contrast, PEPENODE offers a gamified meme coin mining experience through its Mine-to-Earn protocol.

This guide offers an in-depth analysis of the best utility tokens to invest in now, including insights into their features and potential.

Best Utility Tokens in December 2025

  • Introducing the first Bitcoin L2 solution
  • Allows users to trade BTC almost instantaneously
  • Enhanced transaction security with ZK-proofs
Launch
May 2025
Meta
Bitcoin L2, Meme
Purchase Methods
  • USDC
    USDC
  • ETH
    ETH
  • usdt
    usdt
  • Gamifies mining of meme coins
  • Add nodes to your server to increase mining ability
  • Pay outs and bonuses in other top meme coins
Launch
August 2025
Meta
Mining
Purchase Methods
  • ETH
    ETH
  • USDC
    USDC
  • usdt
    usdt
  • Bank Card
    Bank Card
  • +1 more
  • Next-gen platform merging live content, AI tools, staking, crypto payments and more
  • SUBBD holders get access to AI-optimized content and experiences
  • Loyalty is rewarded with staking bonuses, XP boosts, and daily creator drops
Launch
April 2025
Meta
AI, Payments, Content
Purchase Methods
  • Bank Card
    Bank Card
  • ETH
    ETH
  • bnb
    bnb
  • usdt
    usdt
  • +1 more
  • EVM-compatible L2 blockchain engineered for speed, security, and ultra-low fees
  • Meme coin made to support other meme coins
  • The project offers $777,000 giveaway to 10 lucky winners
Launch
June 2025
Meta
Layer 2 Chain, Meme Coin
Purchase Methods
  • ETH
    ETH
  • usdt
    usdt
  • Bank Card
    Bank Card

The Best Crypto Utility Tokens Reviewed

Utility tokens usually have specific purposes, such as paying transaction fees, accessing exclusive services, or voting on key decisions within a platform’s ecosystem. Being a holder of a utility token allows you to gain value beyond simple ownership as they are more sustainable and useful than other cryptos.

1. Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER) – Layer 2 Solution for Bitcoin for Quick Transactions

Bitcoin Hyper hyper logoHYPER +16.83% transforms Bitcoin into a versatile payment method and smart contract blockchain. Mainly having been used as a storage of wealth in recent years, Bitcoin’s utility for payments hasn’t been at the forefront of its advantages. Bitcoin Hyper’s layer 2 aims to change that.

The innovation lies in Bitcoin Hyper Layer 2’s infrastructure, which removes block size and time limits. This enables instant settlements with near-zero fees and supports smart contracts, paving the way for advanced dApps and DeFi. Strong investor interest is also driven by 39% staking rewards for long-term holders.

Pros

  • Improves Bitcoin transaction speed and reduces fees.
  • Huge implications through enabling smart contracts.
  • Strong early presale traction, having raised over $29.55M.

Cons

  • No proof of development this early on the roadmap.
  • Challenges the status quo of Bitcoin as a store of wealth.

Presale Started May 2025
Chain Ethereum, Solana
Current Price $0.013435
Amount Raised $29.55M
Primary Utility Layer-2 scaling solution for Bitcoin
Learn more about Bitcoin Hyper
Visit Bitcoin Hyper

2. PEPENODE (PEPENODE) – New Mine-to-Earn Meme Coin Ecosystem

PEPENODE pepenode logoPEPENODE +19.20% is an Ethereum-based utility token that powers the first Mine-to-Earn meme coin platform, where users engage in gamified crypto mining and win digital asset rewards. The decentralized app opens up digital mining to all, eliminating the need for advanced hardware to get started.

PEPENODE presale

Moreover, PEPENODE allows users to build virtual mining rigs by using PEPENODE tokens on “Miner Nodes” to improve their mining power. The ongoing presale has already raised over $2.36M. Once finished, players will be allowed to compete on leaderboards, earning bonuses in meme coins like FARTCOIN and PEPE.

Pros

  • Growing presale interest, reaching $2.36M in investments.
  • Multi-utility token, offering staking, mining, and referral rewards.
  • Built-in deflationary token burning mechanism to stabilize the long-term price.

Cons

  • The Mine-to-Earn core features are still under development.
  • Deflationary tokenomics relies on platform adoption.

Presale Started August 2025
Chain Ethereum
Current Price $0.0011968
Amount Raised $2.36M
Primary Utility Mine-to-Earn meme coin protocol
Visit PEPENODE

3. SUBBD (SUBBD) – An AI-Powered Content Platform Designed for Creators and Fans

Next on our list is SUBBD subbd logoSUBBD +4.00%. It’s the first AI-powered subscription platform set up to redefine the $85 billion creator-fan economy. SUBBD will offer AI-powered content creation and fan engagement tools under one roof, freeing creators from the power of traditional intermediaries that often charge high fees.

SUBBD Utility token

Holders of SUBBD can access exclusive influencer content and benefit from a fixed 20% staking APY, along with other perks such as discounted content upon launch. Even though the presale is raising serious amounts, it’s still in very early stages and faces great competition from other content platforms.

Pros

  • Combines AI tools with creator monetization.
  • Offers perks like discounted content access.
  • Fixed APY rewards during presale.

Cons

  • Competing with big creator platforms.
  • Success depends on creator adoption.

Presale Started April 2025
Chain Ethereum
Current Price $0.0572
Amount Raised $1.4M
Primary Utility AI-powered content platform
Learn more about SUBBD

Visit SUBBD

4. Ethereum (ETH) – Utility Token Backing Thousands of ERC-20 Standard Projects

Ethereum eth logoETH 0.05% will always be the original utility token as it supports thousands of projects on its blockchain. By using the ERC-20 standard, these projects have to pay transaction fees, known as gas, in ETH, creating increasing demand for the token.

Ethereum (ETH)
24h7d30d1yAll time

Ethereum is also needed for creating and deploying smart contracts, which form the foundation for major metaverse tokens like MANA and ApeCoin. This utility reinstates the need for ETH tokens. With the upcoming Fusaka upgrade, Ethereum will see improved scalability, gas efficiency, and network resilience.

Pros

  • Powers thousands of dApps and tokens.
  • Required for smart contracts and gas fees.
  • Strong developer community and upgrades.

Cons

  • Gas fees can still get expensive.
  • Value is closely tied to the overall crypto market.

Presale Started July 2015
Chain Ethereum
Current Price $2,927.11
Market Cap $351.93B
Primary Utility Smart contract platform

5. XRP (XRP) – Bridge Currency for Cross-Border Payments

Although the US Securities and Exchange Commission disagreed, we believe that XRP xrp logoXRP +1.74% is one of the best utility tokens to explore. After all, XRP sits at the heart of the Ripple interbank payments network, enabling financial institutions to transact across borders cheaply and fast.

Xrp (XRP)
24h7d30d1yAll time

XRP acts as a liquidity bridge for cross-currency transactions, eliminating the need for slow correspondent banks. Ripple primarily targets financial institutions rather than consumers. The recent launch of an EVM-compatible sidechain now enables developers to use Ethereum tools on the XRP Ledger for smart contracts.

Pros

  • Designed for fast, low-cost global payments.
  • Used by financial institutions via RippleNet.
  • Gained momentum after a partial win over the SEC.

Cons

  • Limited use outside of the banking sector.
  • Centralization concerns in the community.

Presale Started July 2012
Chain XRP Ledger
Current Price $1.91
Market Cap $190.99B
Primary Utility Cross-border payments
Learn more about XRP

6. Binance Coin (BNB) – Best for Fast and Low-Cost dApps and Smart Contracts

Binary Finance, or Binance for short, aims to revolutionize traditional finance through the application of decentralized technologies. BNB bnb logoBNB +0.55% is the utility token at the heart of the Binance ecosystem, which hosts thousands of NFTs, protocols, and tokens.

Bnb (BNB)
24h7d30d1yAll time

BNB is required for all Binance Smart Chain transactions and trading pairs. It also provides users with reduced trading fees on the Binance exchange. Recently, Binance conducted a token burn, removing 1.944 billion BNB as part of its plan to reduce the total supply to 100 million tokens.

Pros

  • Fuels Binance Smart Chain transactions.
  • Offers fee discounts on Binance exchange.
  • Backed by the world’s largest crypto exchange.

Cons

  • Binance’s legal issues can impact price.
  • Heavily tied to one ecosystem.

Presale Started July 2017
Chain BNB Chain
Current Price $864.25
Market Cap $120.29B
Primary Utility Paying fees, staking, and utility token for Binance Smart Chain’s dApps

7. Cardano (ADA) – Native Ecosystem Coin to Secure Ecosystem Through Staking

Conceived by Ethereum co-founder Charles Hoskinson, Cardano ada logoADA 0.64% is a Proof of Stake blockchain designed to create a more secure, transparent, and fair society. Its native token, ADA, allows holders to participate in governance by voting on software development, reflecting the project’s core commitment to democratic principles.

Cardano (ADA)
24h7d30d1yAll time

Cardano allows developers to build dApps and smart contracts on its blockchain, making it a serious competitor against Layer 1 protocols like Solana and Ripple. The 2025 roadmap is focusing on key upgrades for the network, as well as improved governance to enhance its Hydra L2 and consensus protocols.

Pros

  • Runs on a secure Proof of Stake model.
  • Offers governance rights to token holders.
  • Focuses on real-world use cases.

Cons

  • Slow rollout of updates and features.
  • Lower developer activity than Ethereum.

Presale Started September 2017
Chain Cardano
Current Price $0.37
Market Cap $17.03B
Primary Utility Proof-of-Stake smart contracts
Learn more about Cardano

8. Chainlink (LINK) – Decentralised Data Oracle for Real-World Integration

Designed as a bridge between blockchains and off-chain environments, Chainlink link logoLINK 0.97% was founded in 2017 by Sergey Nazarov and Steve Ellis. Built on Ethereum, Chainlink was created to facilitate the transfer of ‘tamper-proof data’ from the real world into Smart Contracts.

Chainlink bridges the real and digital worlds, preventing a future of isolated “walled gardens.” The pivotal 2025 development is its Chainlink Runtime Environment (CRE), which will enable more developers and institutions to build directly on its infrastructure.

Pros

  • Brings real-world data into smart contracts.
  • Strong partnerships in DeFi and beyond.
  • First-mover advantage in the Oracle space.

Cons

  • Faces growing competition from other oracle projects.
  • LINK has struggled to hold momentum post-2021.
Presale Started September 2017
Chain Ethereum
Current Price $12.69
Market Cap $12.69B
Primary Utility Decentralized oracle network
Learn more about Chainlink

Top Utility Tokens List

The list below highlights the top utility cryptocurrencies that we identified during the research process.

  1. Bitcoin Hyper – L2 solution for Bitcoin enabling quick transactions and smart contracts
  2. PEPENODE – Mine-to-Earn and staking rewards
  3. SUBBD – A promising new AI-powered content platform for creators and fans
  4. Ethereum – The world’s 2nd largest crypto and the go-to place for Smart Contract development
  5. XRP – Veteran cross-border payment solution looking to revolutionize overseas remittance
  6. BNB – Native token of the Binance Smart Chain.
  7. Cardano – Decentralised Proof of Stake blockchain with a focus on social justice and network efficiency
  8. Chainlink – Decentralised Oracle network converting external information into blockchain-ready data

What Are Utility Tokens in Crypto and How Do They Work?

Utility tokens are digital assets designed for specific uses within a blockchain ecosystem. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are primarily used as digital money, utility tokens provide holders with access to services or benefits. For example, a token might allow users to vote on decisions within a platform, pay for services, or execute smart contracts.

A well-known utility token is Ether, used to pay for transactions and services on the Ethereum network. Unlike meme coins, such as dogwifhat, which often gain popularity and value based on social media trends and community support rather than functional use, utility tokens have practical applications that support their value. They are integral to the operation of their respective platforms.

5 Examples of Crypto Utility

To help you understand what utility tokens are and what they’re used for, here are five examples of crypto utility and how users benefit from it.

1. Access Utility

These tokens grant holders access to specific products, services, or features within a blockchain platform. Functioning like “keys,” they unlock premium content, software features, or platform services, and are often required to interact with dApps or decentralized platforms.

They are most used when:

  • Unlocking premium digital content.
  • Activating software features.
  • Accessing tiered platform services.
  • Enabling dApp interaction.
  • Gating membership perks.

Here are some examples:

  • Filecoin fil logoFIL +1.51%: Used to access decentralized file storage services.
  • Chainlink link logoLINK 0.97%: Required for accessing oracle services on the Chainlink network.

Filecoin access utility

2. Payment Utility

Payment utility tokens function as a medium of exchange within a specific blockchain ecosystem, enabling users to pay for goods, services, or transaction fees. They are primarily used to cover network costs, execute smart contracts, and facilitate in-app purchases, sometimes overlapping with access token functionality.

This can come in handy when:

  • Paying for network transactions.
  • Facilitating smart contract execution.
  • Completing in-app/in-platform purchases.
  • Enabling peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers.

Some examples are:

  • Ethereum eth logoETH 0.05%: Pays gas fees for transactions and smart contract operations on Ethereum.
  • BNB bnb logoBNB +0.55%: Used for transaction fees, trading discounts, and payments on Binance Smart Chain.

Ethereum payment utility

3. Governance Utility

Governance utility tokens empower holders to participate in the decision-making processes of a blockchain ecosystem, such as voting on protocol upgrades, treasury fund allocations, or key parameter changes. They are fundamental for decentralized governance in DAOs and DeFi protocols and may sometimes incorporate access rights or staking rewards.

You can use this for:

  • Voting on proposals.
  • Influencing treasury spending.
  • Shaping protocol parameters.
  • Participating in DAO governance.
  • Electing committees and delegates.

Here are some examples:

  • Uniswap uni logoUNI +0.30%: Allows voting on Uniswap protocol changes and fee structures.
  • Aave aave logoAAVE 0.78%: Used for voting on risk parameters and upgrades in the Aave lending protocol.

DeFi governance utility

4. Staking Utility

Staking utility tokens enable holders to lock their assets within a protocol to earn rewards, contribute to network security (particularly in proof-of-stake blockchains), and potentially gain additional rights like governance power or boosted benefits. Staking incentivizes participation and helps secure the ecosystem.

This can be helpful for:

  • Earning passive yield.
  • Securing blockchain networks.
  • Gaining governance rights.
  • Boosting reward rates.
  • Incentivizing liquidity provision.

Some examples are:

  • Polygon matic logoMATIC +0.15%: Staked for network security and to earn transaction fees.
  • Axie Infinity axs logoAXS 1.70%: Staked for in-game rewards and governance participation

Web3 staking utility

5. Incentive Utility

Incentive utility tokens allow holders to benefit from a range of rewards for actively participating in network activities, such as providing liquidity, staking assets, or contributing to ecosystem growth. This incentive drives engagement and helps expand the platform. These rewards often include yield, fee discounts, or access to exclusive features.

This can be useful when:

  • Encouraging liquidity provision.
  • Promoting staking participation.
  • Boosting user engagement.
  • Offering fee discounts.
  • Unlocking exclusive rewards.

Here are some examples:

  • SushiSwap sushi logoSUSHI +1.05%: Rewards liquidity providers and participants in governance.
  • Balancer bal logoBAL +0.81%: Distributed as rewards for providing liquidity and participating in governance.

AMM Incentive utility

Are Utility Tokens a Good Investment?

Utility tokens can be a good investment depending on their practical applications and purpose, as some tokens offer access to specific functionalities, including:

  • Accessing and playing crypto games (e.g., Axie Infinity)
  • Using specific blockchain software (e.g., Ethereum for smart contracts)
  • Being part of the metaverse and participating in it (e.g., Decentraland)

Their value is often driven by the demand for the services they enable, which can grow as the platform expands and attracts more users. However, while utility tokens offer unique opportunities for gains, especially in growing blockchain ecosystems, they also carry high risks related to market, technological, and regulatory changes. Investors should perform thorough research and consider their risk tolerance before investing.

What are the Risks of Utility Tokens?

Utility tokens carry significant risks that you should understand before investing. Their value depends entirely on the success of the underlying platform. If the project fails to attract users or deliver its promised service, the token could lose its utility and become worthless.

One more thing to look out for is regulatory compliance. Most countries are still trying to figure out how to classify these assets, with rules changing overnight. New rules could suddenly restrict their use or even deem them illegal.

There’s also the risk of market volatility as some coins face major price swings that are based solely on speculation instead of value.
Some projects also face low liquidity on smaller exchanges and potential smart contract vulnerabilities that hackers can easily use to steal funds and private user information..

It’s important that you always research the team’s credibility and the token’s real-world use case carefully before you make any decision. Remember, these tokens represent access to a service; they aren’t ownership stakes, and their usefulness can disappear overnight if a better project emerges.

To stay safe when buying utility tokens:

  • Always do your own research.
  • Verify if the project has a functional product or working demo.
  • Research the team, tokenomics, and whether any audits support it.
  • Don’t rely solely on hype or influencer promotion.
  • Use trusted platforms and avoid tokens that only sell through obscure websites.

Just because a token is labeled as “utility” doesn’t mean it’s low-risk. Approach it the same way you would any high-risk investment.

Methodology: How We Picked the Best Utility Tokens

While curating this list, we went through over 30 utility coins, each with its own features and specs. To narrow it down, we scored each token based on these criteria:

Real-World Utility (30%)

We looked at how essential the token is to its ecosystem, including powering dApps, enabling transactions, accessing services, or providing governance rights. Tokens like ETH and BNB scored highly for their foundational roles in major networks.

Innovation and Use Case (25%)

Projects offering a fresh or advanced application of blockchain tech stood out. This includes coins that innovate or improve existing blockchain technologies.

Community and Ecosystem Growth (20%)

A strong, active community and expanding ecosystem often signal long-term sustainability. We gave higher marks to projects showing steady growth in user adoption or developer activity.

Tokenomics and Staking Rewards (15%)

We considered whether the token has healthy supply dynamics, deflationary features, or high-yield staking options. This helped us highlight projects like Bitcoin Hyper and PEPENODE, which offer strong APY incentives.

Market Presence and Accessibility (10%)

Lastly, we assessed how accessible the token is on major exchanges and how it’s performing when it comes to liquidity and trading volume.

Conclusion

This market insight has explored the best utility coins to consider buying today. While crypto assets in general are high-risk financial instruments, there are still a number of attractive entry points for both new and experienced investors. Most of the largest and most successful cryptocurrencies have tokens that are integral to the operation of the network.

Understanding how utility tokens solve real problems helps you invest smarter. Bitcoin Hyper stands out as a top utility token, promising high-speed BTC transactions with its upcoming L2 mechanism. HYPER token holders can also stake their holdings to generate an annual yield of up to 39%.

Visit Bitcoin Hyper

FAQs

Which coins have the most utility?

What are examples of successful utility tokens?

Is XLM a utility token?

Which meme coin has the best utility?

Is Shiba Inu a utility token?

Are utility tokens safer to invest in than meme coins?

What are the benefits of utility tokens?

How do utility tokens increase in value?

Are utility tokens fungible?

References

Disclaimer: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You could lose all of your capital.

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