What is the key difference between Arbitrum One and Arbitrum Nova?

Arbitrum One is an optimistic rollup where all transaction data is posted on Ethereum, thus ensuring full Ethereum-level security. Arbitrum Nova uses the AnyTrust model, storing data off-chain with a Data Availability Committee (DAC) for lower fees and higher scalability. Nova falls back to rollup mode if the DAC fails, preserving security but reducing efficiency.

Arbitrum One vs. Arbitrum Nova: Which is better for DeFi and financial applications?

Arbitrum One is the preferred choice for DeFi because it inherits Ethereum’s security and censorship resistance without relying on additional trust assumptions. Most DeFi liquidity and major protocols like Uniswap, Aave, and Sushiswap are on Arbitrum One due to its strong security guarantees. Nova is not widely used for DeFi because it introduces a trusted DAC model, which makes it less ideal for high-value financial transactions. However, it remains suitable for niche cases like small-value experimental trades, casual social finance apps, or microtransactions.

Arbitrum One vs. Arbitrum Nova: Which is better for gaming and social apps?

Nova offers ultra-low fees and high throughput, which makes it ideal for gaming, social media, and microtransactions where users cannot afford even small gas fees. The AnyTrust model allows Nova to handle millions of low-cost transactions, such as in-game actions or reward distributions. Unlike One, where fees scale with Ethereum’s gas costs, Nova keeps costs predictable and near-zero.

Can a project use both Arbitrum One and Nova?

Yes, developers can combine both networks by using Arbitrum One for high-value transactions and asset security while leveraging Nova for scalable, low-cost interactions. For instance, a marketplace can process payments and valuable NFT trades on One while handling frequent in-game transactions or social interactions on Nova. Bridges between the two allow assets to move between networks, optimizing cost and security.