13 Best Crypto Presales to Invest In 2025 – Full Presale List
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According to our research, the best crypto presales in 2025 are Solaxy, BTC Bull Token, Mind of Pepe, and Best Wallet Token. These projects range from the infrastructure-focused Solaxy and meme coin BTC Bull Token to the AI-driven Mind of Pepe and utility-centric BEST, catering to diverse crypto investors.
Solaxy is the top presale crypto to buy, bringing added speed and cross-chain capabilities to the Solana ecosystem. With $35M raised and +72.20% growth so far, the project is gaining momentum fast as it targets major exchange listings by the end of Q2.
This guide reviews the best presales to invest in for 2025. We also share our methodology and criteria for rating presale projects.
Best Crypto Presale Projects to Invest in Right Now
- Layer-2 scaling solution for Solana blockchain
- Faster, cheaper transactions with rollup technology
- Cross-chain compatibility with Ethereum network
Solana- ETH
- Bank Card
- Deflationary meme coin with Bitcoin rewards
- Token burns reduce supply as Bitcoin rises
- Bitcoin airdrops triggered by key price milestones
- ETH
- usdt
- bnb
- +1 more
- Autonomous AI launching new crypto projects
- AI-powered market insights for crypto traders
- Token-gated access to exclusive intelligence tools
- ETH
- usdt
- bnb
- +1 more
- Multi-chain crypto wallet with DEX integration
- Seamless trading with low transaction fees
- Presale access and rewards for token holders
- Bank Card
- bnb
- ETH
- +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
- Bank Card
- ETH
- bnb
- +1 more
- Introducing the first Bitcoin L2 solution
- Allows users to trade BTC almost instantaneously
- Enhanced transaction security with ZK-proofs
- USDC
- ETH
- usdt
- First crypto-based lending platform, allowing loans up to 75% of the total Memereum assets
- Comprehensive insurance coverage for digital coins and precious metals, including gold and silver
- High-value holders get state-of-the-art NFTs, valued over $1,500 in the open market
- bnb
- usdt
- ETH
- Crypto payment system for everyday transactions
- Merchant-friendly integration with low transaction fees
- Supports 325+ wallets for seamless payments
- bnb
- usdt
- Bank Card
- +5 more
- Play-to-earn opportunities with the Harry Hungry Hippo game
- A meme coin that combines AI with GameFi
- Lucrative staking rewards while in presale
- ETH
- usdt
- bnb
- +1 more
- New meme coin project with tiered staking system.
- Buy and stake $PEDRO tokens for up to 200% APR & 6x multiplier.
- $PEDRO is set to see huge ROIs with a public listing price of $0.5 per token.
- usdt
- ETH
- USDC
- The United Nation of Memes is bringing together the biggest meme communities in crypto
- UNOMEME takes advantage of AI-driven analytics to maximize meme coin staking income
- Multi-chain interoperability to make meme coins easier to trade than ever
- ETH
- bnb
- Solana
- +2 more
- Allows you to easily launch custom AI Agents and tokens
- Facilitates multi-chain swaps, showcasing impressive technology
- Create complex AI chatbots with a click of a button
- ETH
- usdt
- Bank Card
- +2 more
- Utility-driven meme coin aiming to revolutionize $25 billion influencer industry
- $INPEPE facilitates instantaneous transactions between influencers, agencies and investors
- Earn 5462% APY staking income during the presale phase
- ETH
- usdt
- Bank Card
Top Presale Crypto List in May 2025
Here’s a table summarizing the key metrics for the top crypto presales to consider in May 2025:
| Presale Crypto | Money Raised | Current Price | Price Increase | Staking APY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solaxy | $35M | $0.001722 | +72.20% | 115% |
| BTC Bull Token | $5.66M | $0.00251 | +402.00% | 73% |
| Mind of Pepe | $9.6M | $0.0037515 | +25.05% | 248% |
| Best Wallet Token | $12.18M | $0.025015 | +11.18% | 121% |
| SUBBD | $382,000 | $0.0554 | +0.73% | 20% |
| Bitcoin Hyper | $12,000 | $0.0115 | +0.00% | 5520% |
| Memereum | $2.09M | $0.29 | +283.60% | 183% |
| SpacePay | $1.05M | $0.003181 | +116.39% | N/A |
| Harry Hippo | $1.86M | $0.007475 | +49.50% | 601% |
| PedroCoin | $3.01M | $0.060121 | +200.61% | 60-200% |
| UNOMAI | $71,000 | $0.00325 | +18.18% | N/A |
| Cogni AI | $118,000 | $0.02 | +0.00% | 130% |
| InfluencerPepe | $137,000 | $0.0000001970 | +4.79% | 5,031% |
ℹ️ The data in this table was last updated on May 20, 2025.
Best Crypto Presales Reviewed – A Detailed Analysis
The following are in-depth reviews of our picks for the best cryptocurrency presales to buy in May 2025. Our ranking methodology is precise and data-driven. We update our list based on team strength, funding, structure, and risk.
Each factor is weighted to reflect its importance in predicting success and reliability. This ensures we recommend the best presales to our readers, providing them with legitimate and promising investment opportunities.
1. Solaxy (SOLX) – First Solana Layer 2 With Cross-Chain Support
We chose Solaxy as the best crypto presale because its team is building the first‑ever Layer 2 for Solana, not just another meme coin. By rolling transactions off‑chain, SOLX allows lightning‑fast, congestion‑free trading. It also lets presale buyers stake immediately for a 115% yield.
Recent developer updates showed a working explorer, Hyperlane bridge progress, and a realistic 10,000 transactions per second (TPS) goal, demonstrating steady execution. Still, risks remain. For example, the mainnet isn’t live yet, but if milestones keep landing, early SOLX backers could benefit from first‑mover advantage.
Solaxy Presale Funding Status
Solaxy Roadmap Overview
- Phase 1: Launch token presale with tiered pricing; offer staking rewards to early participants.
- Phase 2: Host token generation event (TGE); enable cross-chain bridging functionality.
- Phase 3: Deploy Solaxy Layer 2 for speed and scalability; launch dApps, dev tools, and upgrade ecosystem.
Pros
- First‑ever Solana Layer 2 rollout
- Bridges Ethereum liquidity seamlessly
- Aiming to hit major exchanges in early June 2025
- Developer‑friendly SVM tooling compatibility
Cons
- 120‑stage presale lengthens risk
- Very high total token supply
- Risk of the mainnet launch failing
| Presale Started | December 2024 |
| Chain | Solana and Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.001722 |
| Price Increase |  SOLX +72.20% |
| Raised So Far | $35M |
2. BTC Bull Token (BTCBULL) – Bitcoin-Themed Meme Token With Milestone Airdrops and Burns
BTC Bull Token is an Ethereum meme coin tied directly to Bitcoin’s price. We rank it among 2025’s best presales because holders receive actual BTC airdrops and see token burns every $25K milestone, turning Bitcoin’s climb into dual rewards. Meanwhile, high‑yield staking (73%) adds to the appeal.
The roadmap promises CEX listings after the presale, further increasing visibility, and Best Wallet integration for seamless BTC reward drops. The biggest risk? If Bitcoin stalls below milestones, airdrops slow and narrative cools. Nonetheless, BTCBULL is a clever, low‑entry option for investors seeking additional Bitcoin exposure.
BTC Bull Presale Funding Status
Bitcoin Bull Token Roadmap Overview
- Phase 1: Launch BTCBULL presale as BTC exceeds $100K; activate staking rewards for early participants.
- Phase 2: Burn supply at $125K BTC to fight inflation; first BTC airdrop to holders at $150K BTC.
- Phase 3: Second burn at $175K, airdrop at $200K BTC; final burn at $225K, massive rewards at $250K BTC.
Pros
- Bitcoin milestone‑triggered BTC airdrops
- Burns supply at price thresholds
- ERC‑20 accessibility, broad wallet support
- Marketing leverages Bitcoin bull narrative
Cons
- Airdrops depend on Bitcoin performance
- Supply burns contingent on milestones
- No utility beyond Bitcoin mirroring
| Presale Started | February 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.00251 |
| Price Increase |  BTCBULL +402.00% |
| Raised So Far | $5.66M |
3. Mind of Pepe (MIND) – Autonomous AI Meme Token Delivering Real-Time Market and Trading Insights
Mind of Pepe wraps meme culture around a genuinely useful product: a self-evolving AI agent that scans X, on-chain flows, and DEX volumes to surface fresh trading opportunities for holders. We like this presale because MIND gates those insights, meaning demand grows with every trader who wants that early alpha.
The team has already demoed a live RAG dashboard and is committed to weekly model upgrades; stakeholders earn a dynamic APY (now 248%) even before the full launch, which is confirmed for May 31st. The main risk is execution. Building reliable real-time AI is hard, but MIND could become crypto’s go-to intelligence subscription if it keeps hitting milestones.
Mind of Pepe Presale Funding Status
Mind of Pepe Roadmap Overview
- Phase 1: Launch presale with staking support and early marketing across social and community platforms.
- Phase 2: Distribute tokens and list MIND on DEXs and CEXs for public trading.
- Phase 3: Deploy AI agent, integrate with platforms, and push blockchain-based insights and updates.
Pros
- Token-gated AI trading intelligence
- Multi-chain sentiment flow analysis
- Weekly model upgrade cadence
- Meme-culture branding attracts traders
Cons
- Complex AI development execution risk
- Insights’ quality depends on sources
- Compliance uncertainty around data scraping
| Presale Started | January 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.0037515 |
| Price Increase |  MIND +25.05% |
| Raised So Far | $9.6M |
4. Best Wallet Token (BEST) – The Token of an Emerging Crypto Wallet Offering Early Access to New Presales
Best Wallet isn’t pitching another meme token; it’s launching a multi-chain, non-custodial super-app and backing it with the BEST token. Holders get fee discounts on on-ramp purchases, cross-chain swaps across various networks, priority access to an in-app launchpad, and an upcoming crypto cashback card. That real, day-one utility is why we rank it among 2025’s best presales.
The wallet is already live on iOS and Android with 325-wallet import support and integrations like Fireblocks MPC security. The biggest watch-out is heavy competition from established wallets, but if adoption keeps climbing, every new user strengthens BEST’s value proposition.
Best Wallet Token Presale Funding Status
Best Wallet Token Roadmap Overview
- Phase 1: Launch core wallet with multi-wallet support and top-tier security; integrate fiat onramp and Best DEX access.
- Phase 2: Integrate token launchpad, airdrops, and fiat offramp; enable cross-chain swaps and anti-fraud protection.
- Phase 3: Launch Best Card, NFT gallery, and staking aggregator; add market analytics, MEV protection, and gas-free transactions.
Pros
- Live app with growing installs
- Lifetime on-ramp fee discounts
- Cross-chain swaps across various networks
- Fireblocks MPC secures private keys
Cons
- Wallet space is fiercely competitive
- Cashback card program needs regulatory approvals
- The discount model may compress revenues
| Presale Started | November 2024 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.025015 |
| Price Increase |  BEST +11.18% |
| Raised So Far | $12.18M |
5. SUBBD (SUBBD) – Decentralized Creator Subscription Platform With Personal AI Assistants
SUBBD flips the creator-subscription model on its head. Holding or staking SUBBD doesn’t just hand you yield; it unlocks token-gated livestreams, AI-generated behind-the-scenes drops, and voting power over which influencers get onboarded next. That real utility, plus credits earned from staking that substitute for cash, puts SUBBD among 2025’s most interesting presales.
The beta platform, complete with AI personal assistants and NFT “SUBBDkeys,” is slated for release right after the token generation event (TGE), and a 250 million-follower launch network gives it built-in reach. However, executing such an ambitious all-in-one toolset is costly and could experience delays.
SUBBD Presale Funding Status
SUBBD Roadmap Overview
- Phase 1: Onboard creators, launch AI tools (voice/image), and deploy smart contracts.
- Phase 2: Start SUBBD presale, roll out beta platform, and activate global marketing and ambassador campaign.
- Phase 3: Launch token, list on DEXs/CEXs, and release HoneyHive and Creators App.
Pros
- Token-gated livestreams and exclusive drops
- Launch partners reach 250 million followers
- Multi-revenue streams via NFTs, PPV
- Holders vote on platform features
Cons
- Regulatory concerns around adult content
- High $55 million hardcap
- Crowded subscription-platform landscape
| Presale Started | April 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum (ERC-20) |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, USDC, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.0554 |
| Price Increase |  SUBBD +0.73% |
| Raised So Far | $382,000 |
6. Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER) – First SVM Bitcoin Layer 2 Enabling Fast, Cheap BTC Transactions
Bitcoin Hyper is pitching the first true Bitcoin Layer 2, batching transactions through an SVM rollup and settling back on the Bitcoin chain. That means near-instant, penny-cheap transfers while still using real BTC. Early buyers can stake HYPER from day one for a 5520% APY.
The team has already released bridge demos, a block explorer preview, and 199-token-per-block staking math, signaling real progress. The biggest caveat is that mainnet timing hinges on finalizing zero-knowledge proofs, making delays possible. If they hit milestones, though, HYPER could become the go-to highway for Bitcoin DeFi.
HYPER Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Enables a Bitcoin-native DeFi ecosystem
- First SVM-powered Bitcoin rollup
- ZK proofs bolster settlement security
- Trustless canonical bridge minting
Cons
- ZK circuit finalization pending
- Bitcoin confirmations still dictate throughput
- Bridge governance security concerns
| Presale Started | May 2025 |
| Chain | Bitcoin (BRC-20) |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, USDC, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.0115 |
| Price Increase |  HYPER +0.00% |
| Raised So Far | $12,000 |
7. Memereum (MEME) – Crypto Insurance Platform Offering Coverage, Staking, and DeFi Tools
Memereum marries DeFi with built-in insurance. The MEME token powers MemeSwap DEX, an insured launchpad, and a high-yield card, so every trade, presale, or purchase carries automatic asset protection. That extra safety net is why we listed it among this year’s top crypto presales.
Four CEX listings (BitVenus, Toobit, Azbit, and VinDAX) are already confirmed, BlockSafu has audited the smart contracts, and the roadmap extends to lending and NFT-based coverage perks. While regulatory hurdles around offering insurance could slow rollouts, Memereum could set the standard for risk-mitigated DeFi if licenses land.
Memereum Presale Funding Status
Pros Cons
| Presale Started | December 2023 |
| Chain | Binance Smart Chain (BSC); BEP-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB, SOL, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.29 |
| Price Increase |  MEME +283.60% |
| Raised So Far | $2.09M |
8. SpacePay (SPY) – Low-Fee Crypto Payment Solution for Merchants and Shoppers
SpacePay is a London-based fintech turning any retail checkout into a crypto point-of-sale. The SPY token grants fee reductions, cashback, and governance while its SDK lets 325+ wallets pay, then auto-converts to merchants’ fiat, beating Square’s 2%+ fees. That practical payments angle sets it apart.
Pilot terminals will launch this summer, and the presale has already raised over $1.05M, suggesting genuine interest. Crypto spending could finally become friction-free if SpacePay gets the required approvals. However, card networks and regulators can take time to green-light new processors.
SpacePay Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Supports 325-plus wallets natively
- The merchant fee is only 0.5%
- Multi-chain payments: ETH, BNB, MATIC, more
- Token holders steer network governance
Cons
- Regulatory approvals are still pending
- Merchant onboarding pace is uncertain
- Requires deep liquidity for conversions
| Presale Started | June 2024 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.003181 |
| Price Increase |  SPY +116.39% |
| Raised So Far | $1.05M |
9. Harry Hippo (HIPO) – Blockchain Game With Staking, NFTs, and Meme-Themed P2E Battles
Harry Hippo turns the legendary Hacienda-Nápoles hippos into a play-to-earn franchise. The presale funds Harry Hungry Hipo, an arcade-style blockchain game where AI characters, stakeable HIPO, and collectible NFTs interact. Early buyers own the in-game economy, not just a meme. That cross between gaming, AI, and DeFi earns it a spot on our list.
Prototype gameplay dropped in Q1 2025, with staking (601% APY) live during presale and top-tier CEX listing planned soon after. Partnership talks for metaverse expansion and merchandise add extra upside. The biggest risk? An ambitious timeline. Missing the game release could sap momentum before Hippo hype reaches the broader market.
Harry Hippo Presale Funding Status
Pros
- AI characters enrich the gameplay economy
- NFTs grant in-game advantages
- Metaverse and merchandise roadmap
- Early top-tier CEX listing negotiated
Cons
- Large 35% marketing allocation
- Ambitious roadmap may slip deadlines
- Uncertain sustainability of high fixed APY
| Presale Started | January 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, BNB, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.007475 |
| Price Increase |  HIPO +49.50% |
| Raised So Far | $1.86M |
PedroCoin spins the viral “Pedro Pedro” raccoon meme into a community-driven token whose price climbs 1.5% every 48 hours during the presale. Referral links pay up to 15%, purchase bonuses hit 30%, and tiered staking pools reach 60-200% APR, making early participation especially enticing.
A $1 million marketing war-chest, confirmed Uniswap launch on May 31, 2025, and plans for Gate.io, KuCoin, and Binance listings keep momentum building. Still, the project’s success hinges on sustaining that social buzz. If hype cools, those presale gains could shrink fast.
PedroCoin Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Referral rewards up to 15%
- Purchase bonuses reach 30%
- Price auto-increases every 48 hours
- Million-dollar marketing budget allocated
Cons
- No real utility
- Success depends on viral hype
- Bonus structure dilutes later entrants
| Presale Started | April 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, and USDC |
| Current Price | $0.060121 |
| Price Increase |  PEDRO +200.61% |
| Raised So Far | $3.01M |
11. UNOMAI (UNO) – Cross-Chain Meme Coin With AI, Politics, and Predictive Rewards
UNOMAI aims to become the United Nations of Memes, launching a high-speed Layer 2 that wraps DOGE, SHIB, PEPE, and BONK onto one chain. The UNO token fuels gas, staking, and AI dashboards that surface trending liquidity, so holders benefit from every coin’s activity, not just one coin.
Testnet and a cross-chain “diplomatic” bridge between Ethereum and Solana will arrive this summer, followed by official wrapped currencies and DAO governance. Still, melding AI analytics with multi-chain security is technically challenging, meaning the timelines could slip. This is the most considerable risk.
UNOMAI Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Unifies four flagship meme communities
- AI analytics spotlight cross-chain trends
- Ethereum-Solana bridge integrated
- Gas is paid in a single token
Cons
- Multifaceted roadmap heightens execution risk
- Bridge security is critical, but still untested
- Token utility hinges on network adoption
| Presale Started | April 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB, DOGE, and more |
| Current Price | $0.00325 |
| Price Increase |  UNOM +18.18% |
| Raised So Far | $71,000 |
12. Cogni AI (COGNI) – Platform for Building Custom AI Agents for Web3 Tasks and dApps
Cogni AI wants to be the Shopify of AI agents: its COGNI token unlocks a drag-and-drop generator for custom chatbots, trader bots, and even tokenized agents, all backed by built-in NLP and computer-vision APIs. That full-stack toolset makes it one of 2025’s best crypto presales.
Early stakers can earn a 130% APY, and fast-track listings on CoinMarketCap, MEXC, and Gate.io after mainnet launch. The biggest challenge is breadth; rolling out NLP, vision, multichain swaps, and agent marketplaces on time could stretch resources, so expect features to arrive in phases.
Cogni AI Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Drag-and-drop AI agent builder
- Multi-chain swaps for agent traders
- Tokenized agents share revenue streams
- Dedicated Cogni.fun developer ecosystem
Cons
- Broad roadmap risks delivery delays
- High costs of powering real-time AI
- Data privacy and compliance hurdles
| Presale Started | April 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, TRON, BNB, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.02 |
| Price Increase |  COGNI +0.00% |
| Raised So Far | $118,000 |
13. InfluencerPepe (INPEPE) – Payment Solution for the $25B Influencer Economy with Staking Rewards
InfluencerPepe facilitates payments between creators, brands, and fans through low-fee crypto transactions, meme culture, and staking utility. Early access via its presale at $0.0000001970 per token, coupled with plans for Binance listings and influencer partnerships, positions it as a top 2025 crypto presale. With over $137,000 already raised toward its $485K goal, INPEPE targets the growing influencer sector while offering tiered staking rewards to early investors.
Presale participants gain priority access to future platform features and staking APY. However, long-term viability relies on adoption: the anonymous team must secure influencer partnerships and prove INPEPE’s utility against established payment coins. Competition in meme tokens and payment platforms is intense, and the 35% token allocation to marketing risks oversaturation if user growth stalls.
InfluencerPepe Presale Funding Status
Pros
- Low presale price with excellent growth potential
- Clear utility in the $25B influencer payment market
- Credit card purchases and multi-chain support improve accessibility
Cons
- Anonymous team and unproven influencer adoption
- High marketing allocation (35%) risks token dilution
- Competition from coins like Litecoin in payment utility
| Presale Started | April 2025 |
| Chain | Ethereum; ERC-20 |
| Purchase Methods | ETH, USDT, Credit card |
| Current Price | $0.0000001970 |
| Price Increase |  INPEPE +4.79% |
| Raised So Far | $137,000 |
Top Crypto Presales: Overview of Money Raised
Below is a live scoreboard showing how much capital each featured presale has attracted so far. Treat it as a quick pulse check: the bigger the bar, the more investors have already backed the project. This is an early sign of liquidity and community interest.
The money raised by the top crypto presales data is updated bi-weekly.
What Is a Crypto Presale?
🔑 A cryptocurrency presale, otherwise known as an ICO, is an early blockchain fundraising phase where a project sells its tokens to investors before the public launch to raise capital.
Here are the main features of a crypto presale:
- Early investors get discounted prices: Projects sell tokens below future market value to incentivize early participation.
- Presales can be public or private: Private rounds are invite-only, while public presales may involve whitelisting or task-based entry.
- Smart contracts manage token distribution: These often include vesting schedules to prevent early investors from dumping tokens post-launch.
- Funds raised support project development: Money typically goes toward development, marketing, team expansion, and liquidity provisioning.
- The risk of failure is real: Projects can fail due to weak tokenomics, lack of real utility, or poor timing.
In the next sections, we’ll explore the topics listed here in more detail and explain how investors can evaluate and buy presale cryptocurrencies while spotting scams and managing risks.
Key Takeaways
- Crypto presales offer early access to tokens at a discounted rate before exchange listings.
- Pricing is often tiered, meaning early buyers get lower prices while later investors pay more.
- Presale campaigns end when the hard cap is reached or the countdown timer ends.
- Purchased tokens are typically illiquid until listed on a DEX or CEX, which can take months.
- The legal status of many presales is unclear, adding regulatory uncertainty for participants.
- There is always the risk of scams or failed projects, especially in unvetted early-stage offerings.
- As with any speculative investment, weighing the potential upside against real risks is essential.
How Do Crypto Presales Work?
Crypto presales follow a structured process of selling tokens before public exchange listings. These early sales use smart contracts, tiered pricing, and token allocation models to raise capital, bootstrap adoption, and distribute ownership.
Let’s break down how the process works from setup to launch.
Whitepaper, Tokenomics, and Roadmap Disclosure
Before launching, teams release a whitepaper detailing the project’s use case, architecture, and economic model. Tokenomics should outline total supply, presale allocation, vesting, and emission schedules. A clear roadmap with dated milestones helps assess execution feasibility.
Investors should also verify the audit status and whether the team is doxxed or anonymous. Red flags include missing token utility, centralized ownership, or ambiguous funding goals.
Presale Structure: Phases, Caps, and How Pricing Works
Presales are often divided into stages, offering different pricing and allocation rules. Early-stage buyers benefit from lower entry points. Most projects define a soft cap and hard cap, which set the minimum funding goal and maximum raise limit. Both are critical for assessing financial viability.
The most common models are tiered pricing, fixed pricing, and whitelisting, which we’ll discuss later. Some projects may also experiment with dynamic pricing, where token costs adjust based on demand.
Regardless of model, most presales include vesting schedules and lockups to manage post-launch sell pressure and protect long-term value.
Wallet Connection and On-Chain Participation
Investors join presales by connecting a crypto wallet to the project’s website, such as Best Wallet or MetaMask. Supported chains vary; Ethereum, BSC, and Solana are common. Purchases are made using accepted tokens like ETH, USDT, or BNB. Always verify contract addresses and gas fee estimates before confirming.
It is highly recommended that you create a separate crypto wallet for each crypto presale you invest in, as there is a small chance that the site contains malicious code.
After buying presale tokens, investors typically wait for the Token Generation Event (TGE); during this time, they can verify vesting terms, monitor project updates, join community channels, and assess liquidity plans ahead of the token’s public listing or unlock schedule. In a section ahead, we’ll go over how this unfolds.
How Does Pricing Work in Crypto Presales?
Crypto presales can use various pricing mechanisms, with the most common being tiered pricing, fixed price, and whitelisting with a set allocation. Below, we explore them further.
Tiered Pricing
This model increases token prices across stages. Early buyers get tokens at lower prices, rewarding them for their early support. As each stage progresses, the price per token rises, encouraging potential buyers to act quickly to benefit from lower costs. This strategy generates early funding and momentum for the project.
In the example below, Stage 1 tokens are priced at $0.01, Stage 2 at $0.013, and so on, while Stage 50 reaches $0.20. If an investor buys at Stage 1 and sells upon listing, they’d see a +1,900% gain, assuming immediate liquidity at the TGE price.
Fixed Pricing
Fixed price presales offer tokens at a single set price throughout the sale period, with a hard cap on the total number of tokens available. For example, a project may sell 100 million tokens at $0.10 each to reach a $10 million hard cap.
Once all tokens are sold or the hard cap is reached, the presale ends. This approach provides transparency and simplicity, as all participants pay the same price regardless of when they buy.
Whitelist With Set Allocation
Presales with a whitelist and set allocation require participants to qualify for the whitelist to take part. In some cases, each whitelisted participant receives a small, predetermined allocation of tokens.
You might need to complete specific tasks in a crypto launchpad or hold an NFT to join the whitelist. Once on the whitelist, you can buy a set number of tokens at a fixed price before the general public.
For example, the Posemesh (AUKI) presale was a whitelisted token sale in which eligible participants, selected based on community involvement and NFT ownership, were given set allocations ranging from $50 to $50,000.
This method ensures early supporters and loyal community members have guaranteed access to the presale, promoting fairness and rewarding active engagement.
Types of Crypto Presales
Crypto projects often raise capital in multiple rounds, each with its own structure, pricing, and investor profile. Every stage serves a different strategic purpose, from seed and private sales to public launches and exchange offerings.
The timing, access, risk, and potential upside can vary widely. Before diving into the details, here’s a quick comparison of how these token sale types differ:
| Type | Access | Lock-Up? | Stage | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seed Sale | Invite-only | Yes (long) | Idea/Pre-MVP | Foundational capital |
| Private Sale | Selective | Yes (long) | MVP/Early users | Strategic funding |
| Strategic Sale | Curated | Yes (varied) | Pre-launch | Ecosystem leverage |
| Whitelist Sale | Approved list | Yes (short) | Pre-launch | Community seeding |
| Public Sale | Open | No/Minimal | Pre-launch/Launch | Decentralized access |
| IDO | Open (DEX) | Sometimes | Launch | Instant liquidity |
| IEO | Vetted (CEX) | Sometimes | Launch | Mass exposure |
Seed Sale
A seed sale is the earliest funding round in a crypto project, often occurring before a working product or even a testnet. Tokens are typically sold at the lowest price point, with high allocation limits and long vesting schedules.
These rounds are usually reserved for insiders, early believers, or institutional backers comfortable taking on significant technical and execution risks.
👍 The advantage? Seed sales offer unmatched entry prices, sometimes a fraction of later-round valuations, giving early investors the most upside if the project gains traction.
👎 The tradeoff is uncertainty. There’s no code, users, or market traction at the seed stage. Compared to public presales, seed rounds come with minimal transparency and limited community involvement, which can raise decentralization concerns down the line.
That said, seed funding is foundational: It sets the cap table and token allocation structure and sometimes even influences the protocol’s long-term governance dynamics.
Private Sale
A private token sale is an early fundraising round where tokens are sold to a select group of investors, typically VCs, crypto funds, or strategic partners, before the public presale or exchange offering. These investors often get tokens at a steep discount, but with longer lock-up or vesting periods to ensure long-term alignment.
Unlike seed sales, which usually occur before a prototype is created, private sales happen once a working demo, user metrics, or finalized tokenomics have gained traction.
👍 One major pro is that private sales bring in capital and credibility early, helping teams build before going public. Investors may also offer strategic value, such as marketing, partnerships, or tech support.
👎 But there’s dilution risk. Public investors may hesitate if early participants hold large discounted allocations that could unlock and flood the market. It can also signal centralization if too much supply is concentrated.
Compared to public presales, private sales are less accessible but tend to set the tone for token economics and valuation expectations across future rounds. SpacePay, for example, secured $750,000 in private investment before launching its presale.
Strategic Sale
A strategic sale targets investors who bring more than just capital. They offer value through partnerships, infrastructure, marketing reach, or deep industry expertise.
These rounds follow the seed sale and precede the public presale or exchange offering. Token prices are higher than seed prices but still discounted, and they often have tailored vesting schedules.
👍 What sets strategic rounds apart is their focus on alignment. Teams handpick participants who can accelerate ecosystem growth or support technical milestones. It’s less about fundraising volume and more about leverage.
👎 However, if not disclosed transparently, strategic investors may negotiate favorable terms, like advisory tokens or board influence, that can introduce governance centralization or perceived unfairness.
Strategic rounds are more curated and less inclusive than broader presales, but they can play a critical role in shaping project momentum and credibility ahead of the public launch. When done right, they create long-term synergies beyond short-term price action.
Whitelist Sale
A whitelist sale is a limited-access presale where only pre-approved participants, often community members or early supporters, can buy tokens.
To qualify, users usually complete tasks like KYC, joining social channels, or contributing to the project’s ecosystem. Allocations are often capped per wallet to promote fairness and decentralization.
👍 This model gives retail investors a rare shot at early-stage pricing, without needing VC-level capital or insider access. It’s a community-first approach that builds loyalty and broadens token distribution from the start.
👎 On the flip side, whitelist sales can be highly competitive. Bots, Sybil attacks, and insider favoritism sometimes skew access despite the fairness narrative. Plus, demand often outpaces supply, leaving many qualified participants without allocations.
Compared to private or strategic sales, whitelist rounds feel more grassroots and inclusive. Still, they also carry higher coordination costs and require careful planning to avoid backlash or technical issues at launch. When executed well, they help seed a strong, engaged user base.
Public Presale, Fair Launch, or Community Sale
Public sales, including fair launches and community sales, are the most accessible form of token distribution. Anyone can participate, often with minimal barriers.
These rounds happen after private and strategic sales and may occur via DEXs, launchpads, or direct platform sales. Fair launches go a step further: there are no private allocations or insider discounts; everyone buys in at the same price.
👍 This structure maximizes decentralization and fosters grassroots support, making it ideal for building strong, aligned communities. Fair launches, in particular, avoid early dumping pressure from vested insiders.
👎 However, open access can lead to gas wars, bot activity, and network congestion, especially on high-demand chains like Ethereum. Public sales also tend to price higher than earlier rounds, offering less upside for investors seeking deep discounts.
Still, these launches set a strong precedent for teams prioritizing decentralization and transparency. Projects like Bitcoin and Chia (XCH) are prime examples of successful fair-launch models with zero pre-mined supply.
Are Cryptocurrency Presales Safe and Legal?
Cryptocurrency presales can be profitable, but they’re not inherently safe or universally legal. Safety depends on how well a project is vetted. Many presales are legitimate, backed by audited smart contracts, public teams, and transparent tokenomics.
But the space is also flooded with scams; rug pulls, fake websites, and phishing attempts are standard. Always verify contract addresses, audit reports, and team credentials. Look for signs of legitimacy, like multi-sig wallets, KYC-compliant teams, and partnerships with reputable crypto launchpads.
Legality is trickier and varies by jurisdiction. In the U.S., for instance, many presale tokens could be considered securities under SEC guidelines, which means offering them without proper registration could be illegal. Some countries have outright bans or strict licensing rules for token sales. Projects often restrict access to investors from certain regions to remain compliant.
To stay safe, participate only in presales hosted on credible platforms, check for region-specific restrictions, and consult a legal professional if you’re investing large amounts. While presales can offer high upside, they come with real legal and security risks that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Always do your due diligence before committing any funds.
What Happens After a Crypto Presale?
Post presale, tokens are either distributed immediately or made claimable at the Token Generation Event (TGE) via a secure frontend or token claim contract.
Here’s how it typically unfolds:
- Presale Completion: Once the hard cap is reached, the presale closes. Some projects allow selling immediately in decentralized or P2P exchanges, but this is rare.
- Token Claim: You can claim tokens during the TGE after the presale ends. The project announces this date, often weeks after the presale.
- Listing Date: Tokens become tradable when listed on centralized or decentralized exchanges. Listing dates are typically announced post-TGE.
For example, if a presale raises a $1 million hard cap on June 1, the TGE might occur on June 15, with listings on cryptocurrency exchanges on June 20.
DEX listings are quicker and cheaper, while CEX listings offer greater liquidity and user trust. Projects looking to hit major exchanges usually need to have raised significant amounts and have compelling use cases.
Price action depends on demand, circulating supply, and investor behavior. If unlocks are poorly timed, some tokens experience immediate dumps. Projects may use staking, liquidity mining, or vesting to stabilize prices. Let’s delve deeper into what happens after a crypto presale ends.
Token Claim and Vesting
Many presales impose vesting schedules, releasing tokens over time to prevent mass sell-offs. Tokens may be locked or released in tranches, affecting when and how much you can sell.
Vesting terms often follow a cliff + linear model, such as 10% at TGE and 90% over 6–18 months. This structure reduces volatility but limits liquidity. Always verify contract details and vesting terms to avoid surprises and plan accordingly.
Listings on Decentralized Exchanges (IDOs)
After a crypto presale ends, the next big milestone is usually the token listing. That starts on a decentralized exchange (DEX) for most projects. This is where things get real. A DEX listing means the token becomes tradable in a live market, often through a liquidity pool like the ones you see on Uniswap, Raydium, or PancakeSwap.
When this is the first-ever listing, it’s known as an Initial DEX Offering (IDO). Think of an IDO as the moment a token officially enters the market. Anyone with a connected wallet can trade it. There’s no centralized gatekeeper, no KYC, and no middlemen — just on-chain liquidity and smart contracts doing all the work.
IDOs are almost always the first step before a centralized exchange listing. DEX listings offer early market access and set the price through real-time supply and demand. It’s also how most price discovery happens before the token gets more mainstream exposure on platforms like Binance or Coinbase.
Listings on Centralized Exchanges (IEO)
The next major step after listing on DEXs is securing a listing on a centralized exchange (CEX) like Binance or Coinbase. This is where the big liquidity and mainstream visibility come into play.
When a token gets listed on a CEX for the first time, it’s known as an Initial Exchange Offering (IEO). Unlike permissionless IDOs, which run on smart contracts, IEOs are curated by the exchange itself. The platform handles everything: KYC/AML compliance, investor access, and even parts of the marketing.
But here’s the catch: only successful and well-funded projects make it this far. CEXs charge significant listing fees ranging from $10,000 to over $1 million, depending on the platform and market cap potential. They also require smart contract audits, team verification, and detailed compliance checks.
An IEO is a powerful credibility signal. It means the project passed the due diligence of a major platform and has a solid enough user base, tech stack, and funding to support wide-scale trading. For early investors, a CEX listing usually brings higher liquidity, better price discovery, and a chance for significant upside if the fundamentals hold.
The most coveted listings are on ‘Tier-1 exchanges,’ meaning exchanges with the most users, highest liquidity, and best reputation. These include the likes of Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken.
Realistically, a presale will aim to launch on Tier-2 exchanges to begin with due to the lower fees and less stringent listing process, which includes exchanges such as Gate.io and MEXC.
Advantages of Crypto Presales
Presale projects can offer numerous advantages compared to buying listed coins. While they are typically harder to find and interact with, there are a considerable number of benefits if you get it right:
- Early Access to Tokens: You can buy tokens before they list on exchanges, often at a lower price.
- High Upside Potential: Early buyers can see exponential returns post-launch if the project succeeds.
- Bonus Allocations: Presales frequently offer tiered bonuses or discounts to incentivize early investment.
- Insider-Grade Access: Some presales allow whitelist-only participation, giving you exposure before broader retail entry.
- Tokenomics Advantage: Early investors often benefit from favorable vesting or emission schedules.
- Strategic Networking: Participation sometimes opens doors to private investor communities or DAO governance early.
- Liquidity Planning: Knowing the presale structure helps forecast token float and potential sell pressure.
- Market Narrative Leverage: Being early positions you to capitalize on hype cycles and narrative-driven rallies.
Drawbacks and Risks of Crypto Presales
On the other hand, it has to be acknowledged that investing in crypto presales carries substantial risk due to the project’s unproven track record. Here are some of the main cons to consider:
- Extreme Risk of Failure: Most early-stage projects never reach the mainnet or sustainable adoption.
- Illiquidity Risk: Tokens are often locked or vested, limiting your ability to exit quickly.
- Lack of Regulatory Oversight: Many presales operate in legal gray zones, increasing the risk of scams or rug pulls.
- Insufficient Due Diligence Data: Technical whitepapers may be vague or overly ambitious without a working product.
- Smart Contract Vulnerabilities: Bugs in presale contracts can lead to loss of funds or exploit vectors.
- Overhyped Valuations: Initial valuations may be inflated, especially if influencers or VCs pump the narrative.
- Token Dumping: Early insiders or crypto whales might offload tokens post-launch, crashing the price.
- No Guaranteed Listing: Some tokens never reach reputable exchanges, limiting market access and exit options.
Who Are Crypto Presales Best Suited For?
Crypto presales are ideal for high-risk investors who can handle volatility and potential losses. These investors understand that most presales fail, but a few can deliver 10x–100x returns.
Ideal candidates include:
- Experienced crypto traders who are comfortable with price swings and market cycles.
- Angel investors who spot early-stage tech with low Fully Diluted Valuation (FDV) — under $50M — and strong fundamentals.
- DeFi users seeking high staking APYs (150%+) and passive income.
- Risk-tolerant speculators who invest in multiple presales, knowing some will fail.
For example, Ethereum’s 2014 presale offered ETH at $0.30, leading to 16,000x returns at its $4,800 peak, but countless others crashed to zero — portfolio diversification is key.
Essentially, if you can afford to lose 100% of your presale investment but want exposure to high-upside projects, crypto presales may be a fit.
Are Crypto Presales a Good Investment? Best Practices to Consider
As with any investment, crypto presales come with benefits and risks. Whether they’re a good investment depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and how thoroughly you evaluate each project.
For experienced investors who do their homework, presales offer early access to tokens at discounted prices, plus the potential for massive upside if the project succeeds. Here are some key considerations when evaluating whether a presale crypto is a good investment:
Rational Decision Making vs. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
A 2017 ICO study found that most presale buyers acted mainly on “fear of missing out” (FOMO), not analysis, and that FOMO investments routinely underperformed projects chosen with sober research. So, before committing funds, slow down and weigh fundamentals, such as:
- Tokenomics (supply cap, vesting, and FDV)
- Team and backers (doxxed devs and reputable VC or auditor)
- Roadmap and utility (clear milestones and real‑world use)
- Liquidity safeguards (LP lock or multi‑sig treasury)
If the only reason to buy is a ticking timer or “almost sold out” banner, walk away. A presale worth owning will still look attractive after a research deep dive.
Small Portfolio Allocation Amount
Due to the highly speculative nature of crypto presales, they should only make up a tiny part of your overall crypto portfolio to avoid excessive risk. While this will ultimately look different for each investor, allocating 5–10 % of your portfolio to presale investments is reasonable if you have done your due diligence.
We recommend splitting your investments across several presales because of their high failure rate. Even if most fail, a single success could make up for the rest of the losses and more.
The Most Successful Presales in History
The first-ever presale was in 2013 when J.R. Willet raised $500,000 worth of Bitcoin for his project MasterCoin. Since then, countless projects have launched through crypto fundraisers, some reaching extraordinary success, which can mean either how much money a project raised or how much money early backers made.
Here are some of the most successful crypto presales of all time by primary‐market proceeds:
| Project | Ticker | Year | Funds Raised | Presale Structure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EOS | EOS +2.64% | 2017-18 | ≈$4.2 billion | Year-long public ICO run by Block.one |
| TON |  TON -1.06% |
2018 | ≈$1.7 billion | SAFT-style presale open only to accredited investors |
| Filecoin |  FIL +0.46% |
2017 | ≈$233 million | Reg-qualified SAFT presale + public ICO on CoinList |
| Tezos | XTZ +8.62% | 2017 | ≈$232 million | Two-week uncapped ICO |
These projects weren’t just massive raises; they shattered records, set trends, and reshaped how future crypto funding rounds were structured:
- EOS raised more than the GDP of some small countries ($4.2B) in a year-long ICO, making it the largest in crypto history. It was also one of the first token sales to use a continuous distribution model, which meant investors could participate daily over 350+ days.
- Telegram’s TON raised $1.7B but was halted by the SEC before launch. Still, the tech lived on: a community fork brought it back to life. TON is now a top-10 blockchain and top-20 cryptocurrency, with Telegram integrating it directly into its app.
- Filecoin was the largest token sale under SEC-compliant frameworks at the time. Though its mainnet launch was delayed until 2020, it now powers a decentralized storage network with over 1 exbibyte (EiB) of user-stored data — that’s more than Dropbox once handled.
- Tezos pulled in $232M using a donation-based model that helped spark the trend of “on-chain governance.” Despite early infighting and lawsuits, it became one of the first PoS chains and now regularly ships protocol upgrades through its self-amending system.
However, if you measure success by investment returns instead of gross capital, the picture flips. Presales that raise only a few million dollars tend to generate higher returns because early tokens are cheaper and have more room to multiply in value.
| Project | Ticker | Year | Presale Price | ATH Year | ATH Price | Peak ROI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethereum |  ETH -0.09% |
2014 | $0.31 | 2021 | $4,891.70 | +1,577,868% |
| IOTA |  IOT -4.64% |
2015 | $0.00059 | 2017 | $5.69 | +964,307% |
| NEO | NEO +1.53% | 2016 | $0.03 | 2018 | $196.85 | +656,067% |
| Binance Coin |  BNB +0.31% |
2017 | $0.15 | 2024 | $793.35 | +528,800% |
| Stratis | STRAX +0.83% | 2016 | $0.007 | 2018 | $22.66 | +323,614% |
Risk-reward skews dramatically in early rounds. Most presales quietly fizzle out or never deliver a working product. Some raise only a few thousand dollars and vanish. Research has suggested that ICOs have a failure rate as high as 90% in the long term, with a retrospective study showing that 80% of the ICOs that took place in 2017 were scams.
But when a presale does succeed, the upside can be extraordinary. Ethereum’s 2014 ICO priced ETH at 31 cents; anyone holding to the 2021 peak saw their stake multiply 15,800×. Smaller raises still exploded:
- IOTA’s sub-penny tokens jumped to a 9,643× gain
- NEO reached 6,568×
- BNB delivered a 5,288× return
- Stratis peaked at 3,236×
IOTA, NEO, and Stratis grew quickly, climaxing during the 2017-18 bull mania, whereas BNB compounded steadily over 7 years as exchange utility grew. Crucially, these are ATH snapshots; real profits depend on selling near the top, and today most of these coins trade 40-100% below those peaks.
While these success stories are the exception, not the rule, they fuel demand for presales and help explain what draws investors to these high-risk, high-reward projects.
How to Pick Legit Presales and Avoid Scams
With new coins constantly launching in the crypto market, it’s easy to fall for a scam if you don’t thoroughly vet a presale. Scammers often exploit hype to trick investors, like in early 2024, when fake Solana presales used wallet-draining contracts to steal 655,000 SOL (worth $122.5M) without delivering tokens.
To avoid becoming a victim, it’s essential to investigate team credentials, assess project viability, and gauge community sentiment. These steps help you separate genuine opportunities from malicious schemes. Below, we outline the critical steps to evaluate whether a crypto presale is legitimate or a scam so you can invest more confidently and reduce risk.
Here’s a quick overview of our top tips for selecting the right presale crypto tokens:
- Research the project thoroughly
- Verify the team’s experience and credibility
- Analyze tokenomics, emissions, and allocation
- Check for a reputable smart contract audit
- Review community engagement and social sentiment
- Double-check the website URL for authenticity
- Watch out for unrealistic Return on Investment (ROI) claims
Let’s discuss each way to find the best token presales in detail.
1. Research the Project
After creating a shortlist of the best crypto presales to invest in, analyze the crypto project. Start by reading the whitepaper, which includes information such as the platform’s objectives, strategies, and plans.
Then, look at the roadmap to see the project’s different milestones. Consider the unique value proposition of the project and whether it’s a compelling investment opportunity.
2. Look Into the Development Team
The best projects have experienced team members who are knowledgeable about the respective industry. For instance, play-to-earn projects should be led by team members familiar with blockchain technology and GameFi.
If an anonymous team founded the project, look into other aspects, such as the smart contract audit, utility, and tokenomics, to ensure its legitimacy. An analysis of over 1,000 ICO projects found that over 50% of ICOs fail to provide any details on the project’s promoters, and that the names on the Whitepaper usually don’t match up with the real token issuers.
3. Review the Tokenomics and Pricing Model
A project’s tokenomics informs investors about the total token supply and how much is distributed for exchange listings, the presale, and the project team, among other things.
While many crypto presales start with a hard cap of billions of tokens, some projects burn coins after launch. This ‘deflationary’ system can reduce the supply, thus driving up the token’s value — in theory, at least.
Poorly designed or opaque tokenomics can raise red flags. For instance, Conor McGregor’s REAL token presale allocated 60 million tokens out of a 2 billion total supply. Yet, on-chain data showed that a single wallet controlled 97% of the supply.
This created serious concerns about centralization, liquidity manipulation, and rug-pull potential. Combined with a lack of detailed vesting schedules or utility incentives, the setup undermined investor trust and contributed to its failed launch.
Ultimately, investors should try to learn everything they can about a new cryptocurrency project, including the pricing model, before risking any money.
Many presales have progressive price increases, meaning the earlier you buy, the cheaper the tokens. Buying early can provide significant advantages, as you can secure tokens at the lowest possible price before their value potentially increases.
4. Look for Proof of an Audit
Audits check for vulnerabilities in the code, ensuring the project’s security. Look for audit reports on the project’s website or social media. Examples of trusted auditors include:
- CertiK
- SolidProof
- ConsenSys Diligence
Verified audits add credibility, reducing the risk of scams. Always verify the audit’s legitimacy by cross-checking with the auditor’s official site. It is a common practice for presales to add the audit badges to their site without having actually done them.
When vetting a crypto presale, social media and community engagement offer critical information about a project’s legitimacy and growth potential. Platforms like X, Reddit, Telegram, and Discord can reveal genuine user sentiment, team transparency, and market interest.
Look for an engaged community with regular team updates, meaningful discussions, and balanced reviews that mention pros and cons. Search phrases like “ProjectName review” or “ProjectName scam” to uncover red flags or recurring concerns.
Be cautious of aggressive promotions, bot-driven hype, or echo chambers filled only with praise. A real community isn’t just loud — it’s interactive, thoughtful, and transparent. Join crypto Discord channels or Telegram groups and observe how questions are answered and whether the dialogue feels authentic.
Strong social presence and genuine engagement often signal sustained interest, which is far more valuable than short-lived buzz.
6. Check the Website URL
Scammers often create fake websites with similar URLs to steal your information and funds. For example, if the official URL is “project.io,” a scam site might be “project-crypto.io” or something even more similar like “projects.io.”
Always check the URL carefully to avoid phishing attacks. Ensure the URL matches the one on the project’s official social media accounts.
7. Be Wary of Big ROI Promises
Exaggerated ROI promises often indicate a scam. Be cautious of projects claiming guaranteed high returns in short periods.
⚠️ Legitimate investments come with risks; no project can assure consistent, outsized gains. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Compare the promised ROI with industry standards and other projects. Conduct thorough research and seek independent reviews. Always prioritize due diligence over enticing promises.
Where to Find Upcoming Crypto Presales
Tracking down upcoming crypto presales can feel like a challenge — many involve smaller projects that aren’t widely advertised. But don’t worry; there are several go-to places where you can discover new opportunities before they blow up.
1. Crypto Forums and Communities
One of the best ways to stay ahead of the curve is by joining online crypto communities. Platforms like Reddit, crypto Telegram channels, or Discord servers have active groups dedicated to presales and early-stage projects.
These communities let you connect with other investors, get insider insights, and spot trends before they go mainstream. Many have dedicated sections for upcoming presales, so it’s a great way to catch projects that are starting to gain momentum.
For example, in January 2025, LayerZero (LZ) saw a 150% jump in presale participation after LunarCrush reported a surge in forum mentions. Keeping an eye on social engagement metrics can give you a serious edge.
Crypto moves fast, and social media is often where news breaks first. Follow key players like project founders, developers, and crypto influencers on X, YouTube, and TikTok — they usually share presale announcements and insider updates.
Many projects also host Ask Me Anything sessions (AMAs) where you can ask questions directly and get a feel for the team behind a presale. These are great for separating hyped-up projects from genuinely strong investments.
3. Launchpad Platforms
If you’re looking for presales with a bit more vetting, launchpad platforms are worth checking out. These sites specialize in hosting new token sales and early-stage crypto investments. Some of the top crypto launchpads for finding the best ICOs include:
- Binance Launchpad
- Polkastarter
- DuckStarter
- Best Wallet
Since launchpads screen projects before featuring them, they tend to be a safer route than random presales you might find elsewhere. Plus, members of these platforms often get perks like exclusive access and guaranteed allocations. Of course, no platform is foolproof, so always DYOR before investing.
4. Cryptocurrency News Websites
Keeping up with crypto news sites is another smart way to spot promising presales. Sites like Cryptonews, Cointelegraph, and CoinDesk frequently cover new projects and even have calendars listing upcoming presales, token launches, and key project milestones.
Some news outlets also produce YouTube videos analyzing presales and breaking down potential risks and rewards. Subscribing to these sources helps you stay updated without constantly hunting for information.
5. Token Launch Aggregator Platforms
If you want to track multiple presales in one place, check out token aggregator sites like TokenSniffer. These platforms compile essential details like sale dates, token types, and project legitimacy, helping you avoid scams and shady projects.
Aggregators also let you filter by categories, such as gaming tokens, DeFi projects, or meme coins, so you can focus on presales that match your investment strategy.
6. Whitelist Registrations
Some projects require investors to join a whitelist before participating in the presale. These whitelists usually open up before the public sale and often come with perks like:
- Early access
- Bonus tokens
- Discounted prices
- Guaranteed allocations
You’ll typically find whitelist announcements on social media, forums, and project websites. Just be careful. Since whitelist registration involves sharing wallet details and personal info, ensure the project is legit before signing up.
How to Buy Presale Tokens
Most crypto projects launch presales directly on their websites before listing on major exchanges, where visibility and liquidity increase significantly. To participate, you typically connect using a supported crypto wallet.
However, Best Wallet is the only option that allows you to track your presale token holdings through the exclusive ‘Upcoming Tokens’ tab — something other wallets don’t offer. It also makes purchasing seamless, whether directly through the project’s website or in-app, giving you a streamlined, all-in-one experience no other wallet provides.
Here’s how to do it step by step:
1️⃣ Download and Set Up Best Wallet
Get the app from the official website, App Store, or Google Play. Follow the on-screen prompts to create your wallet, set a passphrase, and enable biometric and 2FA protection.
2️⃣ Fund Your Wallet
Depending on the presale, you’ll need ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB, or fiat currency. You can buy directly in-app or connect your wallet to a presale website.
Tip: Add a bit extra ETH to cover gas fees.
3️⃣ Find the Presale
Visit the official website or Best Wallet listing of the token you want to buy. Tap the “Buy” button and select Best Wallet when prompted to connect.
4️⃣ Buy the Token
Choose your payment method (e.g., ETH or USDT), enter the amount, and confirm the transaction in Best Wallet. Your presale tokens will be locked until the launch.
5️⃣ Track in “Upcoming Tokens”
Go to Best Wallet’s “Upcoming Tokens” tab to monitor your allocation. This section shows all your presale purchases in one place, no need to use Etherscan.
What to Do After Purchasing Presale Tokens?
After purchasing presale coins, you have several options for managing them:
- Sell for a profit: If market conditions are favorable, sell your tokens immediately or hold them to sell at a higher price later.
- Hold for long-term: Store your tokens in a cold-storage hardware wallet for enhanced security.
- Provide liquidity: Contribute your tokens to a liquidity pool on a decentralized exchange to facilitate trading and potentially earn transaction fees.
- Staking or lending: New crypto projects typically offer some of the highest APY crypto staking rewards. Tokens can often be staked after launch and sometimes even during the presale.
Noteworthy Presales Gaining Momentum
The following presales have started picking up steam in the crypto market, with major funding milestones, price increases, and growing holder bases to back them up. Here’s a quick rundown of how they performed over the last week:
- BlockDAG keeps smashing records: $249 million raised and several confirmed exchange listings on the likes of MEXC, Bitmart, and XT within a month. It is currently priced at $0.002 ahead of the projected BDAG price of $0.05 at launch. A newly launched Telegram TG-Miner app and daily “Buyer Battles” giveaways are sustaining hype as the final hours of the batch tick down.
- Qubetics moved into Stage 34, pricing TICS at $0.2532 after the latest 10 % jump. Funding climbed to $17M+, with 511 million tokens sold and a community of 26,000+ holders; each seven-day stage auto-raises price by another 10%, so momentum is building fast.
- Rexas Finance surged past $49M raised, nearing the end of its presale in Stage 12 at $0.20 (up from $0.03, a 600% gain). The official launch is locked in for June 19 with a forecasted RXS price of $0.25.
- Dawgz AI climbed past $3.56M, with the DAGZ price now at $0.004; the next step to $0.00438 triggers once the hard cap of the current tranche is met. SolidProof-audited contracts and 24/7 trading-bot demos keep both meme and utility hunters engaged.
These presales are definitely worth watching before they hit public markets.
Methodology: Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Crypto Presales
Cryptonews.com’s ranking methodology for crypto presales is data-driven and scientifically grounded, ensuring a fair, accurate, and objective evaluation. By integrating Z-scores and data normalization, we maintain a level playing field for all projects, eliminating any biases that could skew the rankings.
Updated periodically, our presales list reflects the latest market trends and shifts in the crypto landscape. Each presale is evaluated on essential criteria, weighted to emphasize its significance in predicting the project’s potential for success and security. Our methodology focuses on five primary factors, which are detailed below.
1. Team Credibility and Audit History (30%)
The experience and reliability of the development team are crucial to a project’s integrity. We review team members’ backgrounds, assess their previous projects, and prioritize those with transparent, third-party audits from credible firms (e.g., CertiK, Quantstamp) to ensure impartiality and trustworthiness.
2. Funding and Strategic Partnerships (25%)
Projects with strong backing from established investors and strategic partners indicate credibility and lower risk. We evaluate each presale’s funding rounds and endorsements, prioritizing projects with solid partnerships and investor interest that signal reliability and a greater likelihood of long-term success.
3. Presale Structure (20%)
A presale’s structure can impact investment potential, from token allocation to vesting schedules. We prioritize projects with fair, transparent distribution mechanisms that balance early and long-term investor interests, as well as reasonable hard caps that encourage sustainable growth.
4. Current Market Trends (15%)
The crypto market evolves quickly, and aligning with trending sectors like AI tokens or DeFi projects can significantly influence a project’s appeal. Our analysis continually tracks the latest crypto market trends, giving higher scores to presales in high-demand sectors with strong investor interest.
5. Sellout Speed (10%)
Fast presale sellouts often reflect high demand and market confidence. We assess sellout speed alongside participant numbers to gauge the project’s popularity and appeal, viewing it as a positive indicator of investor interest.
Scoring and Fairness
To maintain fairness, each project’s criteria score is normalized using Z-scores, which adjust scores relative to the average. This approach prevents any single high or low score from dominating the overall ranking, ensuring that each project is evaluated unbiasedly.
Ongoing Refinements
Our methodology is updated quarterly to keep pace with crypto industry developments, allowing us to adapt to trends and emerging metrics. Each update is informed by expert analysis and market research, guaranteeing our rankings remain reliable and current for our readers.
Conclusion
Crypto presales can be exciting but risky since these projects are still unproven. To play it smart, always do your research, look for credible teams, and make sure the tokenomics make sense. Also, look out for projects with strong fundamentals, unique offerings, and market appeal.
Remember, the market is unpredictable, and things can go south fast. Don’t put in money you can’t afford to lose; spreading your investments around can help protect you from significant losses. Stay cautious and make decisions that fit your goals.
That said, if you’re looking for one standout pick, Solaxy is worth serious consideration. It’s the first Layer 2 on Solana, uses rollups for scalability, and supports cross-chain compatibility, giving it real infrastructure value in a high-growth ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a crypto presale last?
Are crypto presales ICOs?
When can you sell presale tokens?
Are crypto presales cheaper than regular crypto?
Can I participate in multiple crypto presales simultaneously?
How are tokens from a presale taxed once I claim or stake them?
References
- US Securities and Exchange Commission: Cryptocurrency/ICOs
- Journal of International Financial Markets, Institutions and Money: Which Digital Tokens Pose a Greater Contagion Risk?
- CoinDesk: Sale of the Century: The Inside Story of Ethereum’s 2014 Premine
- CNBC: A blockchain start-up just raised $4 billion without a live product
- Cointelegraph: Ethereum ICO participant dumps 3,000 ETH for $7.6M cash out
- Cointelegraph: Conor McGregor’s token creators to refund bidders after failed launch
- Coin Edition: Investigation Shows 655,000 Solana Valued $122.5M Sent to Scam Presales
- International Review of Financial Analysis: Challenges of the market for initial coin offerings
Why Trust Cryptonews
Best Crypto ICOs
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Solaxy (SOLX)
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BTC Bull Token (BTCBULL)
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Mind of Pepe (MIND)
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Best Wallet Token (BEST)
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SUBBD (SUBBD)
in numbers
About Cryptonews
Our goal is to offer a comprehensive and objective perspective on the cryptocurrency market, enabling our readers to make informed decisions in this ever-changing landscape.
Our editorial team of more than 70 crypto professionals works to maintain the highest standards of journalism and ethics. We follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure the integrity and credibility of our content.
Whether you’re looking for breaking news, expert opinions, or market insights, Cryptonews has been your go-to destination for everything cryptocurrency since 2017.
Eliman Dambell 
Ihssan El Medkouri