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Network Comparisons
Base vs Arbitrum
Compare Base and Arbitrum as Ethereum Layer 2 networks from a wallet, bridge, fee, and user-safety perspective.
Network map
What this means
Base and Arbitrum are both Ethereum Layer 2 networks, but they have separate ecosystems, bridges, apps, explorers, and token contracts.
Core ideas
What to understand first
- Both networks are EVM-compatible.
- Both commonly use ETH for gas.
- Base and Arbitrum assets are separate from each other.
- Apps and liquidity can differ between the two networks.
User checklist
What to check before moving assets
- Confirm whether a token is on Base or Arbitrum.
- Use the correct explorer.
- Check bridge direction before moving funds.
- Keep ETH available on the network you are using.
Risk note
Common mistakes to avoid
- Users often confuse L2 networks because addresses look the same.
- Wrong-network deposits can require support intervention.
- Fake bridges can imitate both ecosystems.