20 Most Popular Cryptocurrency in 2024 – Detailed Info10 min read

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that joined our lives less than 15 years ago under the name of Bitcoin (BTC) by an anonymous person or group. Within years, we have witnessed various other currencies called altcoins join the cryptocurrency market, each having different advantages and potentials. 

As these new coins are digital, and not physical, they have been effective to ease transactions, payments, and crypto trading through an online system while also increasing accessibility and investors’ control. These currencies are internationally accessible so it also eliminates the geographical and political advantages or disadvantages of users. 

Use of these digital currencies, cryptos, have started a new era in finance by minimizing the central authorities and governmental regulations. Enabling fast and cheap transactions are also another reason why this relatively new technology is preferred.

What are the Top 20 Cryptocurrencies in the World? 

There are different categories of cryptocurrencies based on technology, intention, usage, and so on.  Among these categories; there are mining-based coins, stablecoins, security tokens, smart contract platforms, privacy coins, exchange tokens, utility tokens, interoperability tokens, decentralized finance (DeFi) tokens, non-fungible tokens and even so called memecoins. 

Of these thousands of online currencies in circulation, we could observe some coins having much more value.  Bitcoin (BTC), being the first cryptocurrency, has the largest funding and its value continues to increase. 

Most popular and valuable currencies include: 

• Bitcoin (BTC) 
• Ethereum (ETH),  
• Tether (USDT),  
• Binance Coin (BNB),  
• XRP (XRP),  
• Solana (SOL),  
• Cardano (ADA), 
• Dogecoin (DOGE), 
• TRON (TRX), 
• Chainlink (LINK) 
• USD Coin (USDC),  
• Polkadot (DOT) 
• Shiba Inu (SHIB) 
• Polygon (MATIC) 
• Avalanche (AVAX) 
• Litecoin (LTC) 
• Stellar (XLM) 
• Bitcoin Cash (BCH) 
• Dai (DAI) 
• UNUS SED LEO (LEO)

What Cryptocurrency is the Most Popular?

Bitcoin (BTC) is the original and the first cryptocurrency and since 2009, it has escalated its value and popularity in a steady manner. Being the first coin of the cryptocurrency market, it has gained recognition within some aspects of daily life payments and purchases. 

From online shopping to money transfers, Bitcoin (BTC) seems to be accepted by some banks and brands. Also, in some countries we can encounter Bitcoin (BTC) ATMs where users can convert their digital tokens to physical money, or vice versa.

Naturally, the most popular cryptos are the ones that have got the most acceptance over the years within the market. Surprisingly, some currencies are popular and preferred even though their initial aim of creation was different from others. 

As an example, Dogecoin (DOGE) joined the cryptocurrency market as a parody coin inspired by an internet meme, and then went notably viral.

Which Crypto to Buy in 2024? 

Choosing the right crypto to buy might be challenging as the cryptocurrency markets fluctuate in a similar way to traditional currencies. As this market is comparatively much newer than traditional types of physical finance, not much is known by common people. 

Not many people have enough information about whether investing money in such an unknown currency is a good idea or not. Therefore, doing extensive research, learning the tips, and carefully observing the ups and downs is essential before investing in crypto. 

Considering the growth of Bitcoin (BTC) from the beginning of 2023 towards the end, we can see the fact that it has added over 130% to its value. This situation may seem promising, yet it also means that the current price of one Bitcoin (BTC) has gone up significantly. While one was able to buy one Bitcoin (BTC) for around $500 in 2016, currently one single Bitcoin (BTC) costs over $37,000. 

Since it is difficult to know and define the best cryptocurrency, you might choose to ask professional financial consultants for advice. The popularity and the recent progress do not directly mean the optimal investment opportunity.

Best Cryptocurrency to Invest Today

There is not one top or best cryptocurrency that everyone should buy as each currency has its own risks, potentials, systems and areas of use. 

In addition, every potential investor has their own plans, aims, financial strength and opportunity to overcome any possible value loss. Also, it is important to keep in mind that cryptocurrencies can be unstable throughout a specific time period. One of the mandatory steps before investing in crypto might be consulting financial professionals and evaluating the overall situation of the investor.

Most Famous Cryptocurrencies

There are several systems that each crypto use. As an example; Bitcoin (BTC) is a mining-based coin, while Tether (USDT) falls under the stablecoins category.  There are also security tokens and even meme coins, such as Dogecoin (DOGE) that joined the crypto market jocularly and has increased its value and popularity nevertheless.

Today, Bitcoin (BTC), being the first of its kind, might have the most recognition even among traditional banking users. However, newer platforms and currencies such as Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), or Polkadot (DOT) are widely used and preferred as well. In the future, it is not crystal clear if certain cryptocurrencies will get ahead of the others.

Apart from all of these already recognized digital currencies, some banks have created their own cryptocurrencies in order to have a safe and transparent experience, it relies on the integration of blockchain technology. This kind of currency might be considered as an alternative as well.

Best Cryptocurrency to Buy Online

When it comes to making investments, it is not convenient to consider one currency as the best, whether the currency is digital or physical. Investment always involves various risks as finance is dynamic and fluctuant in general. 

One way of deciding which crypto to buy might be making research about the most popular and known currencies and deciding according to the potential of the platform, currency, and you as the investor. 

This way is safe to some extent as several currencies are more established than others. On the other hand, the most popular ones are also relatively more expensive because they are in high demand.

Another way to decide which cryptocurrency to buy is consulting professionals who could better analyze the situation and the potential that a new investor is in. 

A consultant may better guide a fund holder to invest more smartly. The Guardian Bank would gladly assist and advise anyone that might be in need.