Best Crypto to Buy Now in September 2025 – Top Crypto to Invest In

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We believe in full transparency with our readers. Some of our content includes affiliate links, and we may earn a commission through these partnerships. However, this potential compensation never influences our analysis, opinions, or reviews. Our editorial content is created independently of our marketing partnerships, and our ratings are based solely on our established evaluation criteria. Read More
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Alan is the Chief Editor of guides and reviews on Cryptonews.com. He’s responsible for ensuring all the content on the site is accurate, up-to-date, and reliable.

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The best crypto to buy right now is XRP, thanks to its fast, low-cost transactions, rising institutional use, fixed supply, and growing ETF potential. It’s also backed by real-world utility and improving U.S. regulatory clarity. Other strong contenders include Bitcoin, Solana, and Ethereum.

Several top cryptocurrencies see strong gains every week, while others experience double-digit declines. That’s why it’s crucial to research carefully — some coins skyrocket, but others can drop just as fast, making smart selection essential.

To help you pick winning tokens, we ranked the best cryptocurrencies to invest in based on a transparent, data-driven methodology. We apply a proprietary scoring system and use Z-scores to level the playing field, so we’re comparing each crypto fairly, regardless of market cap, liquidity, or age.

Best Crypto to Buy Now – Editor’s Choice

  • 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
  • Meme-powered Dogecoin derivative with the focus on 1,000x leverage trading
  • Maxi Doge will feature community contests and partner events to engage with its audience
  • The project offers high staking rewards to its early supporters
Launch
July 2025
Meta
Meme, Trading
Purchase Methods
  • ETH
    ETH
  • usdt
    usdt
  • USDC
    USDC
  • bnb
    bnb
  • Bank Card
    Bank Card
  • +2 more
  • 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
  • Meme coin inspired by Wall Street culture
  • Exclusive market tools for retail investors
  • WEPE goes multichain! Expands to Solana
Launch
December 2024
Meta
Meme, DeFi
Purchase Methods
  • ETH
    ETH
  • bnb
    bnb
  • Solana
    Solana
  • usdt
    usdt
  • Bank Card
    Bank Card
  • +2 more

Why Buy Crypto Right Now?


Current market conditions present strategic opportunities to invest in cryptocurrencies due to attractive valuations, accelerating adoption, and strong fundamentals. Here are the main reasons to buy crypto now:

  1. Undervalued assets: Quality projects trade below peak prices, offering favorable long-term entry points.
  2. Breakthrough adoption: Major tech upgrades and institutional/corporate integration drive real-world utility.
  3. Portfolio diversification: Low correlation with traditional markets provides inflation hedging during economic volatility.
  4. Regulatory progress: Clearer frameworks reduce uncertainty and legitimize the ecosystem.
  5. Explosive innovation: DeFi, Web3, and Layer-1 advancements create unique high-growth opportunities.
  6. Historical growth potential: Emerging tokens and protocols show capacity for exceptional returns during market expansions.

In the following sections, we will explore which crypto projects to invest in now, and why they might be a good addition to your portfolio.

“Interest rates are more likely to decrease than increase in the coming year, and the willingness of regulators and lawmakers to engage with crypto, rather than outright rejecting it, will significantly lower the risk of future incidents. With the market maturing and long-term holders reaching all-time highs, the traditional four-year Bitcoin cycle is giving way to a liquidity-sensitive macro environment.”

Matt Hougan, Global Head of Research at Bitwise Asset Management

What Is the Top Crypto to Buy Right Now?


The best cryptocurrency to buy today is XRP due to its growing list of institutional partnerships, increasing on-chain activity, fixed supply, and the potential for a spot ETF. Its strong fundamentals make it a solid choice for long-term investors seeking real-world utility and upside.

📊 XRP by the Numbers
  • XRP price as of September 5, 2025: $2.84
  • Market cap: $169.03B
  • All-time high: $3.92
  • 24-hour price change: xrp logoXRP -0.19%
  • 7-day price change: -1.24%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: +35.02%

So, why is XRP the top choice? Let’s break it down.

XRP and the XRP Ledger (or XRPL) were designed from the start to move money quickly, affordably, and across borders, without needing a bank. It facilitates transactions in seconds, with fees that cost less than a penny.

Think of XRPL as the digital equivalent of email traveling over the Internet, but instead of sending messages, it moves value. It’s fast, efficient, and reliable, which is why banks, remittance companies, and payment platforms are testing and using it.

While there are various XRP alternatives, what truly makes it stand out is that it’s not an experiment. You’re not betting on something unproven. XRP has been around for over a decade, has consistent uptime, and its value grows as more institutions use it to move money.

Learn More About XRP

Why Is XRP a Good Buy in 2025?

XRP is a strong pick, no doubt, but it’s not the only promising crypto out there. So why consider it now? Timing matters, and in 2025, XRP is getting renewed attention. Here’s a breakdown of the reasons why:

  • Real adoption is growing: Ripple (the company behind much of XRP’s utility) keeps adding regulated banks and fintechs (currently 300+) to its payment corridors across more than 45 countries into its network. That means actual use cases, not just trading, are increasing.
  • It’s expanding into new regions: XRP is being integrated into ATM networks in the U.S. and payment rails in the Middle East. The easier it is to access, the more likely usage and liquidity will grow.
  • Regulatory clarity is improving: After years of legal gray areas in the U.S., XRP now has more certainty than many other cryptos, with the court wrapping up paperwork on August 26. That matters — institutions usually won’t touch assets unless the rules are clear.
  • ETF buzz is heating up: If an XRP spot ETF gets approved, it could open the doors for millions of mainstream investors to buy XRP through regular brokerage accounts, potentially driving major inflows like we’ve seen with ETH and BTC ETFs. On August 22 and 23, seven major asset managers filed amended S-1s for spot XRP EFTs, signaling a coordinated move towards SEC approval.
  • More developers are building: A new EVM-compatible sidechain is in the works, allowing Ethereum-based apps to run on XRP tech. That could mean more apps, users, and use cases beyond payments alone.
  • GENIUS Act boosts stablecoin clarity: The U.S. Senate’s GENIUS Act provides legal certainty for Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin, aiding its regulated launch. This could increase XRP utility via FX swaps and settlement networks, strengthening ecosystem value.
💡 Cryptonews Tip

Keep an eye on things like court decisions, ETF updates, and new partnerships. Those are the events most likely to move the price.

XRP Risks to Consider

No investment is without risk. Here’s what to keep in mind before you jump in:

  • Legal timelines aren’t always smooth: Even with progress, appeals or new regulations could delay things.
  • Not every use case requires XRP: Some solutions built with Ripple tech may not actually use the token.
  • Supply perception: XRP was pre-mined, with large amounts released from escrow over time. That can weigh on price in slower markets.
  • It’s a competitive space: Other players like Stellar, Swift GPI, and newer fintech rails are also chasing the cross-border payments market.

These risks don’t cancel the opportunity, but they’re important to weigh as you decide if XRP fits your investment style.

Is XRP Right for You?

We’ve covered why XRP stands out, why timing matters, and the key risks involved. Now let’s bring it all together and help you decide if XRP is the right fit for your portfolio and investment strategy.

XRP could be a great fit if you’re looking for:

  • A large-cap crypto with actual real-world utility
  • Low-cost, fast transactions
  • Clear upcoming catalysts (legal clarity, adoption, ETFs)

Conversely, XRP might not be for you if you prefer:

  • Highly decentralized projects
  • “Store of value” coins like Bitcoin
  • New, experimental crypto projects
  • Low-cap cryptos with moonshot potential

If that’s the case, keep reading to learn about other top cryptos to buy today.

“Experienced investors focusing on altcoins are looking at Mutuum Finance (MUTM) and XRP this August. (…) XRP’s increasing on-chain transactions and regulatory clarity position it as a stable yet strategic alternative to Bitcoin, with rising adoption in cross-border payments.”

Mitrade Insights

Other Top Cryptos to Buy Right Now – Detailed Analysis


When deciding which crypto to buy, it’s important to consider whether you’re investing for the short or long term. As we’ve seen, XRP is the smartest choice for long-term investment due to strong fundamentals or institutional use cases. Meanwhile, short-term picks like Solana may offer quick gains based on momentum or upcoming catalysts.

To make choosing easier, we’ve broken down the best cryptocurrencies based on their suitability for different purposes, not just short or long-term gains, but low cost, potential to reach $1, and more. This helps you match your investment goals with the right opportunities.

We’ll start our in-depth reviews of the best cryptocurrencies to buy now with large-cap crypto coins that could provide the most reliable returns in the long term.

For this section, each factor in our crypto ranking methodology was weighted, reflecting its importance in predicting success and reliability. This ensures that the crypto assets with the strongest performance across all metrics make the top of the list.

1. Bitcoin (BTC)

Key Takeaways
  • Bitcoin price as of September 5, 2025: $112,608.00
  • Market cap: $2.24T
  • All-time high: $124,171.00
  • 24-hour price change: +1.62%
  • 7-day price change: +1.96%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: +20.99%

Bitcoin btc logoBTC +1.62% is the oldest and most widely adopted cryptocurrency, with a flawless 15-year track record and a market cap of over $1 trillion. It’s recognized as legal tender in countries like El Salvador and officially classified as a commodity by both the SEC and CFTC. Its decentralized proof-of-work network is unmatched in security and scale.

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With over 50% market dominance, rising institutional inflows from Bitcoin ETFs, and strong U.S. regulatory support, Bitcoin is outperforming the market. Its deep liquidity, ongoing upgrades like Taproot, and strategic reserve status make it one of the best cryptos to buy right now.

Bitcoin's Price News
  • A Trump-backed Bitcoin mining firm (American Bitcoin) is gearing up for a Nasdaq debut, holding over 2,400 BTC already.
  • U.S. Bancorp is bringing back its institutional Bitcoin custody service, helping ETFs and big players securely store their BTC.
  • Japan’s Metaplanet raised nearly $900M to buy more Bitcoin, signaling strong corporate adoption, with Eric Trump advising.
  • Meanwhile, Bitcoin price hovered near $111K, holding key support but reflecting cautious investor sentiment.

2. Solana (SOL)

Key Takeaways
  • Solana price as of September 5, 2025: $205.88
  • Market cap: $111.42B
  • All-time high: $295.40
  • 24-hour price change: -0.98%
  • 7-day price change: -1.93%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: +3.64%

Solana sol logoSOL -0.98% is the fastest major blockchain, averaging around 3,700 transactions per second as of August 6, 2025, with near-zero fees, even during heavy demand. Its unique Proof-of-History system ensures speed and scalability, making it the go-to network for DeFi, NFTs, and high-frequency trading platforms.

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That’s why Solana is a smart pick if you’re looking to get into DeFi. It supports top DEXs, lending protocols, and yield platforms, all running seamlessly thanks to its speed, low costs, and rapidly growing developer and user base.

Solana's Price News
  • Solana’s massive Alpenglow upgrade, with ~98% governance support, slashes transaction finality to 100–150 ms, unlocking near‑instant, Web2‑like speed.
  • This boost in network performance helped SOL’s price rally ~6–15% as it tests resistance near $213 and eyes a potential breakout toward $250–$300.
  • Institutional confidence is flowing in. SOL Strategies announced a $500M plan to increase SOL holdings, and Solana ETFs are moving closer to the U.S. market.
Learn more about Solana

3. Ethereum (ETH)

Key Takeaways
  • Ethereum price as of September 5, 2025: $4,402.29
  • Market cap: $531.38B
  • All-time high: $4,950.50
  • 24-hour price change: eth logo ETH +0.50%
  • 7-day price change: -0.02%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: +27.89%

Ethereum eth logoETH +0.50% is the backbone of Web3, powering most decentralized apps, NFTs, and DeFi protocols. Its Pectra upgrade has enhanced scalability and performance, reinforcing its position as the most widely used blockchain globally.

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For these reasons, Ethereum stands out. It’s not just popular, it’s deeply embedded in nearly every major crypto innovation. From Layer 2 rollups to token standards like ERC-20 and ERC-721, it’s the foundational layer developers trust to build the future of finance.

Ethereum's Price News
  • The Ethereum Foundation plans to sell 10K ETH (~$43 million) via small orders on exchanges to fund R&D, grants, and ecosystem support.
  • Whales are scooping up Ethereum — 260K ETH in just 24 hours — keeping bullish hopes alive for a push toward $5K.
  • The network is gearing up for the Fusaka upgrade, expected to boost scalability and reduce gas fees, keeping Ethereum central in DeFi innovation.
  • BlackRock’s ETH ETF drew major inflows, ranking second-highest across all crypto ETFs, reinforcing strong institutional demand.
Learn more about Ethereum

4. Bittensor (TAO)

Key Takeaways
  • TAO price as of September 3, 2025: $323.96
  • Market cap: $3.17B
  • All-time high: $776.03
  • 24-hour price change: +3.28%
  • 7-day price change: -3.44%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: -25.64%

Bittensor TAO logoTAO +3.28% is a decentralized blockchain protocol tailored for machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). It offers an open marketplace where developers and users can share, train, and even exchange AI models without requiring permissions.

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Bittensor rewards contributors with the native token TAO, encouraging them to become a collaborative intelligence economy. Moreover, Bittensor’s core architecture combines subnets, a blockchain layer, and an API that, mixed together, offer a wide range of AI services and applications.

Bittensor's Price News
  • Sweden’s Safello launched the first physically backed TAO ETP, now trading on major European exchanges.
  • Nasdaq-listed TAO Synergies boosted its Bittensor holdings to 42,111 TAO (~$15 million), signaling strong institutional interest.
  • TAO is testing a make‑or‑break technical level around $380–$388. A breakout could open the door to a rally toward $400+, while failure risks a drop toward $309.
Learn more about Bittensor

5. Hyperliquid (HYPE)

Key Takeaways
  • HYPE price as of September 3, 2025: $45.65
  • Market cap: $15.24B
  • All-time high: $51.08
  • 24-hour price change: +3.56%
  • 7-day price change: -7.33%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: +94.39%

Hyperliquid HYPE logoHYPE +3.56% is redefining crypto trading with ultra-fast, on-chain perpetual futures that rival centralized exchanges. Built on a custom Layer 1, it offers sub-second settlement while maintaining full transparency and self-custody — an ideal blend for serious traders.

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The HYPE token powers the ecosystem, offering governance rights, a share of trading fees, and a deflationary model that burns 25% of the supply annually. With billions already staked and a relatively low market cap, HYPE is gaining momentum fast. Its real utility, speed, and revenue make it one of the best cryptos to buy now.

Hyperliquid's Price News
  • Hyperliquid posted over $106 million in August revenue, fueled by nearly $400 billion in trading volume, showing its runaway growth in decentralized derivatives.
  • The platform now commands 70–80% of the decentralized perpetual futures market, outperforming rivals like Solana and Ethereum in fee generation.
  • Nearly all trading fees (>95%) are cycled into HYPE token buybacks (and burns), reinforcing a deflationary model and aligning success with holders.
Learn more about Hyperliquid

6. Hedera (HBAR)

Key Takeaways
  • HBAR price as of September 3, 2025: $0.22
  • Market cap: $7.88B
  • All-time high: $0.56
  • 24-hour price change: +2.50%
  • 7-day price change: -8.78%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: -16.83%

Hedera hbar logoHBAR +2.50% is powered by Hashgraph, not traditional blockchain, enabling thousands of fast, secure transactions per second with sub-cent fees. Its enterprise-grade tech is built for real-world use, attracting major partners like Google, IBM, and Dell for applications in tokenization and micropayments.

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With its innovative structure, Hedera is tackling problems others haven’t solved, like fair transaction ordering and sustainable scalability. Its tech is already being used in CBDCs, supply chains, and AI data validation.

Hedera's Price News
  • The Hashgraph Group introduced “TransAct,” letting enterprises build on Hedera without needing HBAR or a crypto wallet.
  • Over the past week, HBAR dropped about 8–9%, dipping to ~$0.22 from ~$0.24. It’s been testing support amid weak sentiment.
  • Institutional investors have stepped back, and traders are watching for signs of early rebound.
Learn more about Hedera Hashgraph

7. Dogecoin (DOGE)

Key Takeaways
  • Dogecoin price as of September 5, 2025: $0.21
  • Market cap: $32.68B
  • All-time high: $0.73
  • 24-hour price change: +0.58%
  • 7-day price change: +0.40%
  • Year-to-Date (YTD) return: -33.93%

Dogecoin doge logoDOGE +0.58% is the best crypto for high-volume traders because of its deep liquidity on major exchanges and consistent daily volume. Built on a Scrypt-based Proof of Work system, Dogecoin remains decentralized and accessible to everyday miners.

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Low fees and fast transactions make it ideal for tipping and micro-payments. As adoption grows and community support stays strong, DOGE is well-positioned for continued momentum through 2026, especially as more payment platforms and retailers begin to accept it as a real currency.

Dogecoin's Price News
  • Dogecoin faces resistance at $0.26, hovering near key support around $0.21 — traders are cautious without fresh catalysts.
  • SEC may speed up ETF approvals, including for Dogecoin, as regulators look to simplify the listing process later this month.
Learn more about Dogecoin

8. Tether (USDT)

Key Takeaways
  • Tether price as of September 3, 2025: $1.00
  • Market cap: $168.04B

USDT dominates as the best stablecoin, pegged 1:1 to the US dollar with a $168.04B market cap (61% stablecoin share) and $21 billion daily volume. Its unmatched liquidity enables instant trades globally wherever crypto trades.

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Recent developments like growing Stablechain adoption and aiding DOJ fraud freezes ($225 million) reinforce its centrality; $120 billion Treasury-backed reserves per attestations cement USDT’s status as crypto’s essential dollar anchor that rivals can’t match.

Tether's Price News
  • Tether canceled its plans to freeze USDT on five legacy chains (Omni Layer, Bitcoin Cash SLP, Kusama, EOS, and Algorand), now allowing transfers but no new issuance or redemption.
  • USDT is going native on Bitcoin via the RGB protocol, meaning users will soon move stablecoins directly in Bitcoin wallets with better privacy and efficiency.
  • Tether minted $1 billion in USDT on Ethereum, signaling strong institutional demand and boosting liquidity that may support BTC and ETH price action.
Learn more about Tether

What Are Cryptocurrencies?


Cryptocurrency is a type of digital or virtual money that uses cryptography for security, making it difficult to counterfeit. Unlike traditional currencies, crypto assets, such as those of a government or bank, operate without a central authority. Transactions are recorded on a digital ledger called blockchain, which is maintained by a network of computers known as crypto nodes.

Cryptocurrencies can be used for online purchases, investments, and transferring money across borders without the need for traditional banking services. The value of cryptocurrencies can vary widely due to factors like investor interest, regulation, and technological advancements.

Pros

  • Decentralized, no central authority
  • Borderless financial accessibility
  • Censorship-resistant transactions
  • Lower transaction fees than TradFi
  • Transparent and auditable ledger
  • Programmable smart contract logic

Cons

  • High price volatility risk
  • Regulatory uncertainty worldwide
  • Irreversible if funds are lost
  • Energy-intensive mining operations
  • Complex for non-technical users
  • Susceptible to scams and hacks

Is Bitcoin and Crypto the Same?

Many people use the terms “Bitcoin” and “crypto” or “cryptocurrency” interchangeably, but there is a difference:

  • Bitcoin is one of many crypto assets. Launched in 2009, it is the first and still most popular crypto.
  • Meanwhile, cryptocurrency refers to the entire asset class of digital currencies and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and thousands more.

Crypto assets other than Bitcoin are sometimes referred to as altcoins.

What Makes Crypto Worth Buying?


You need a data-driven, fundamentals-first approach to determine what makes crypto worth buying. Whether investing short-term or building a long-term portfolio, evaluating each project using a clear set of criteria is critical. In other words, finding the smartest crypto to buy means identifying projects with strong fundamentals, real-world use, and sustainable tokenomics.

Below, we break down the essential factors that separate promising cryptos from risky speculation so you can make smarter, more confident decisions.

1. It Has Long-Term Potential

When evaluating possible investments, start with the best long-term crypto projects. For example, Bitcoin remains the leading store of value, while Ethereum dominates smart contract infrastructure — both are core holdings for serious investors.

Other major players show similar promise. XRP, for example, has partnered with over 2,500 financial institutions to support cross-border payments and could play a key role as a global bridge currency. Institutional and corporate adoption is also accelerating. From finance to gaming, brands are investing heavily in Web3.

2. It Has Real-World Utility

Cryptocurrency projects offering high utility, i.e., utility tokens, will likely be more sustainable in the long run since you can use the tokens within the ecosystem. This ensures long-term value and resilience and mitigates volatility on the current best utility tokens.

To assess project utility:

  • Evaluate adoption metrics, ecosystem growth, and developer activity.
  • Ask yourself: Does the project solve a real problem or create efficiencies?
  • Assess partnerships, integration potential, and tokenomics.
  • Analyze the team’s expertise and transparency.
  • Avoid projects with vague promises or speculative hype.
  • Compare projects to understand trade-offs (e.g., Solana’s speed vs. Ethereum’s ecosystem dominance).

In essence, you should focus on projects solving real problems backed by strong fundamentals and adoption. This approach minimizes risk and increases the chances of long-term returns.

3. Its Market Cap Aligns With Your Goals and Risk Profile

Market capitalization reflects a cryptocurrency’s value and helps you gauge risk and growth potential:

➡️ Large-cap coins like Bitcoin offer stability and lower volatility but limited upside.

For example, let’s say Coin A has a market cap of $500 billion. For you to see a 2x return, the market cap must increase by another $500 billion, reaching $1 trillion. This level of growth requires massive institutional and retail investment, making it slow and less likely in the short term.

➡️ Small-cap coins present higher risk but have the potential for exponential returns.

Now, consider a small-cap token, Coin B, with a $5 million market cap. A 2x return requires only an additional $5 million investment, far more achievable with a few venture capital firms or a spike in retail interest. This is why some new meme coins produce explosive returns.

Essentially, while Coin A offers more price stability due to its size, Coin B‘s smaller market cap allows for significant returns with minimal capital inflow.

However, they also carry higher risks – it’s easier for investors to withdraw $5 million than $500 billion, making smaller caps more vulnerable to sudden price crashes.

You should also assess market cap in relation to utility, circulating supply, and adoption. High market caps without real-world use cases could signal speculative bubbles.

Lastly, compare fully diluted valuations (FDV) to understand token supply inflation risks. This way, you can use the market cap to filter projects matching your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

4. The Project is Unique and Stands Out

Always check how much competition a crypto project has. With over 14.9M tokens being tracked on CoinMarketCap and more launching daily, standing out is tough.

Take Ethereum. It’s the smart contract leader but faces constant pressure from “Ethereum Killers” like Cardano, which offers lower fees and faster speeds but hasn’t achieved the same adoption.

The same applies to meme coins. Many “Doge Killers” claim they’ll surpass Dogecoin, but few bring anything original. When one meme coin gains traction, dozens of clones usually follow.

meme coins by market cap
Dogecoin is still leading the meme coin market even with competing dog-themed coins emerging.

Another good example is the DePIN sector. Render Network gained traction by solving a real problem — decentralized GPU rendering. But RenderX tried to ride the wave without offering any real innovation and quickly faded.

💡 Cryptonews Tip

Always assess whether a project brings something new or just mimics what’s already working.

5. It Fits Current Crypto Trends and Narratives

Crypto market trends should not be discounted when deciding which crypto to buy today. Investing in top trending cryptos, sectors, or narratives could be hugely beneficial if the timing is good or disastrous if the trend is no longer popular.

trending best cryptos to buy now
Top trending cryptos in the last 24 hours as of September 3.
🚀 In 2025, AI, RWA tokenization, and specialized Layer 2s have been experiencing massive gains.

For example:

  • Virtuals Protocol virtual logoVIRTUAL +4.72% surged +11,494% since launch by integrating AI.
  • Ondo ondo logoONDO +6.88%, an RWA-focused protocol, has seen a +469% change since its launch in January 2024.
  • Aerodrome Finance AERO2 +3.38%, a DeFi project on Base Layer 2, climbed +100.38%% in the last 12 months (+260% since launch).

If you spotted these trends early, you could have positioned yourself for massive returns. According to Messari’s 2025 Crypto Theses report, RWA, AI, and DePIN projects were likely to dominate in 2025, which has proven true and is expected to continue.

So far in 2025, tokenization of real-world assets has burst past $250B, bringing Treasuries, bonds, and equities on-chain. Meanwhile, DePIN projects, such as decentralized wireless, GPU, and sensor grids, have jumped from concept to billion-dollar valuations; Messari models a $3.5T market by 2028.

AI protocols remain red-hot as developers seek cheaper inference and data-sharing on-chain. Meanwhile, Spot Bitcoin ETFs have pulled in over $6B in net inflows, cementing BTC as a mainstream portfolio asset. Ethereum is riding the same wave, showing that the crypto spotlight has swung decisively toward institutional-grade rails.

Expect the next breakout names to emerge from DePIN, regulated stablecoins, AI-crypto mash-ups, and the best real world assets (RWA) coins.

6. Its Tokenomics and Incentives Are Sustainable

A crypto project’s tokenomics can make or break its long-term viability. You want to know precisely how the token is used, who benefits from holding it, and whether the supply and reward structures are built for growth or just hype.

1️⃣ Start by checking the total supply and how tokens are distributed.
  • Is there a capped supply like Bitcoin?
  • Do developer and treasury allocations fund growth or concentrate control?
  • When and how are locked tokens set to be released into circulation?
2️⃣ Then, look at incentive alignment and inflation mechanics.
  • Are staking rewards sustainable?
  • Are early investors locked or free to dump?
  • Are there any deflationary or burn mechanisms to reduce supply?

A high APY might look great now, but if it’s funded by printing new tokens, you’re just getting diluted.

Sustainable tokenomics reward long-term holders, fuel ecosystem growth, and help prevent death spirals when hype fades. If the incentives aren’t carefully designed, the project’s value may erode, regardless of how promising it looks on paper.

7. It Prioritizes Transparency and Regulatory Compliance

No matter how innovative a project is, it’s a red flag if it operates in the dark or skirts regulations.

While many crypto tokens operate in gray areas of legal law, some actively work to align with local laws, which reduces the risk of sudden delistings or enforcement actions.

Ask yourself:

  • Is the team publicly known and accountable?
  • Are the developers active in the community?
  • Are smart contracts audited and results published?
  • Does the project comply with KYC/AML standards (if relevant)?
  • Does the project regularly publish updates, audits, or financial reports?
  • Is there a legal entity or jurisdiction behind the token?

Projects prioritizing compliance and openness in a maturing market are more likely to survive and scale, making them safer long-term investments.

The Best Type of Crypto to Buy Now


“Best” isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends entirely on your financial goals.

  • For aggressive growth seekers, “best” means tokens with explosive upside potential – often newer Layer 1 projects or utility coins.
  • For income-focused investors, “best” means cryptos offering reliable staking yields, like established proof-of-stake coins.
  • And for conservative portfolios, “best” signifies stability through blue chip cryptos like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

This year’s landscape is defined by three game-changers: Bitcoin’s surge past $124,171.00 (driven by over $14 billion in ETF inflows), clearer U.S. regulations , and institutions rushing into staking services.

These forces make staking coins (such as ETH, ADA) and infrastructure-focused Layer 1 tokens (SOL, XRP) particularly compelling. At the same time, blue chips, L1 and L2 solutions, meme coins, utility tokens, and altcoins play different roles in a portfolio. They balance real-world utility with growth potential in this maturing market.

🟦 Blue chip cryptocurrencies provide stability, trust, and long-term growth 🟦

Blue chip cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum are foundational holdings as they are the largest, most established coins with strong adoption and proven power. They don’t offer the biggest short-term gains, but anchor a portfolio by reducing volatility.

Bitcoin dominates the market with a market cap of $2.24T. This market dominance stems from ETF approvals and corporate treasury adoption, which turned BTC into a mainstream store of value.

Ethereum complements this with its staking yields and DeFi leadership, remaining the backbone of DeFi and NFTs. Since the beginning of 2025, ETH has moved by +27.89%.

🎛️ Staking coins generate passive income through yields 🎛️

Staking coins let you lock up tokens to secure the network and earn a yield, similar to earning interest. Coins like Ethereum, Cardano, and Solana can generate steady returns. For example, ETH offers 4 to 5% APY.

In 2025, institutional participation has made staking safer and more profitable, often outperforming traditional bonds. Think of this as a practical path to earning regular crypto income without active trading.

Remember to always verify the project’s lock-up periods and reward mechanics first.

🥇 Layer 1 tokens power blockchain ecosystems 🥇

Layer 1 blockchains power everything from payments to NFTs; they are the base blockchains that apps and networks operate on. Their growth ties directly to real-world adoption as more dApps and users build on them, signaling higher token demand. This category suits investors comfortable with moderate risk for infrastructure-driven upside.

For example, Solana, thanks to its speed and potential ETF status, has surged over +54.87% in the past year. Meanwhile, XRP, with its cross-border banking partnerships, is seeing renewed growth after regulatory clarity.

🤡 Meme coins offer hype-driven gains in a high-stake high-volatility environment 🤡

Meme coins like Dogecoin ride social hype, not fundamentals. They thrive on community buzz and speculation.

While some 2025 projects add staking or gaming to appear legitimate, most remain pure speculation. Make sure you allocate only disposable funds here, and assume you might lose it all because their surges are unpredictable and often short-lived.

🔨 Utility tokens hold value by unlocking real platform benefits 🔨

Utility tokens offer holder benefits beyond the usual, like lower fees, governance rights, and even service access. Some tokens earn money by powering ecosystems, like BNB or Hyperledger, which provide concrete platform benefits, such as reduced trading fees, governance rights, or service access.

Their value links directly to ecosystem usage. See, if the platform grows, utility tokens often follow. These work best if you actively use the associated networks.

🔥Altcoins in emerging sectors fuel the newest high-growth narratives 🔥

Altcoins (i.e., all cryptos beyond Bitcoin) have emerged recently, particularly in sectors like AI, Real-World-Asset (RWA) tokenization, and DePIN networks. Catching these coins in their early days can make a big difference in your portfolio.

🥈 Layer 2 scaling solutions cut costs and boost transaction speed 🥈

Layer 2 networks, like Arbitrum and Optimism, are built on top of Ethereum to help process transactions faster while keeping costs low without sacrificing security. These projects are becoming a core part of Web3, especially as DeFi and NFT activity keep growing.

Building Your 2025 Strategy

To have a balanced crypto portfolio, you need to blend stability, growth, and calculated risk. Let’s break it down.

  1. Start with 50-70% blue chips for stability: Hold BTC, ETH, and other established coins for less volatility, deep liquidity, and long-term growth.
  2. Add 20-40% in staking coins or Layer 1s for growth/yield: Add assets like ADA, SOL, or AVAX to earn staking rewards while being a part of growing ecosystems.
  3. Limit meme coins to ≤10% of your crypto holdings: Invest only what you can afford to lose in high-risk coins like presales and early-stage projects as they swing quickly.

How Much Does it Cost to Buy Cryptocurrency?


The cost of buying cryptocurrency depends on a few key factors:

  • The coin’s market price
  • Transaction fees
  • Platform spreads

First, each cryptocurrency has a real-time market price. For example, Bitcoin is trading at $112,608.00 and Ethereum at $4,402.29.

But that’s just the starting point. Most exchanges charge fees. Centralized ones like Coinbase, Binance, and MEXC charge anywhere from 0 to 1% as maker and taker spot trading fees. There’s also the spread (the difference between buy and sell prices), which subtly increases your cost.

MEXC best crypto to buy

Some platforms like Robinhood offer “zero commission” trades, but often bake the cost into unfavorable spreads. On decentralized exchanges (DEXs), like Uniswap, you’ll pay a gas fee instead, usually $1–$50+ for Ethereum, depending on network congestion.

So, buying $1,000 of crypto could cost anywhere from $1 to $50+ in fees, depending on how and where you buy. Advanced users sometimes batch transactions or use Layer 2s like Arbitrum to cut costs significantly.

Methodology: How We Rated the Best Cryptos to Buy


To curate this list of the best cryptos to buy, our crypto analysts collectively dedicated over 300 hours to research. They evaluated factors like historical performance, long-term potential for growth, current price, utility, and security. Here’s how we researched and weighted each criterion. For more information, please read our full research methodology.

Market Performance (25%)

  • We assessed the crypto’s price movement over the past week to 12 months, considering both short-term and long-term trends.
  • We examined the cryptocurrency’s overall market value, which reflects its position and significance in the market.

Utility and Use Cases (20%)

  • We examined how cryptocurrency is used in real-world scenarios, considering whether it has unique features or applications that set it apart.
  • We evaluated the underlying technology and recent innovations contributing to the cryptocurrency’s utility.

Community and Adoption (15%)

  • We analyzed the activity level on social media, forums, and community platforms, as a colorful and engaged community often indicates strong support.
  • Since higher adoption rates suggest a broader ecosystem, we examined how widely merchants, businesses, and other users accept cryptocurrency.

Development Team (15%)

  • We investigated the development team’s track record and reputation. We don’t want to put down newcomers’ crypto projects, but experience and success in previous projects enhance credibility.
  • We assessed how transparent the team is in sharing project updates, development progress, and any challenges faced. The more the community knows about what’s happening, the more confident they can feel about their crypto purchase.

Security (15%)

  • We evaluated the security features of the underlying blockchain technology, considering factors like consensus mechanism and resistance to attacks.
  • We researched historical security incidents or vulnerabilities and analyzed how well the team handled and mitigated them.

Regulatory Compliance (5%)

  • We checked whether the cryptocurrency complies with worldwide crypto regulations in its operating regions, a crucial factor for long-term sustainability.

Roadmap and Future Plans (5%)

  • A clear and well-defined roadmap can instill confidence in investors, so we also reviewed the crypto’s plans, upcoming updates, and milestones outlined in its development roadmap.

The scores provided a comprehensive view of the cryptocurrency’s strength and potential. They allowed us to assign a rating to each crypto recommended on this page.

Conclusion: Our Take on the Best Crypto to Buy Right Now


If you’re looking for the best cryptos to buy right now, our research points clearly to XRP. Other strong contenders include Bitcoin, Solana, Ethereum, Bitcoin Hyper, and Hyperliquid. XRP stands out in terms of real-world adoption, while Bitcoin remains the most reliable long-term store of value.

Match your goals and your risk appetite to the right asset, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.

Buy Crypto with Best Wallet

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


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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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