Learn · Crypto

Key Crypto Coins to Know (Top 10 by Market Cap)

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, BNB, USDC, XRP, Solana and other major coins: what each one is and what it is used for

Updated 2 Oct 2026 · Translated by AI

There are thousands of cryptocurrencies, but the top 10 together account for about 91% of the total market. Knowing the major coins therefore covers almost the entire big picture of the market.

Top 10 by Market Cap (data as of 9 Jul 2026)

RankCoinApprox. Market CapType
1Bitcoin (BTC)$1.26 trillionStore of value asset
2Ethereum (ETH)$211 billionSmart contract platform
3Tether (USDT)$184 billionStablecoin
4BNB$77 billionBinance ecosystem coin
5USD Coin (USDC)$73 billionStablecoin
6XRP$68 billionCross-border money transfers
7Solana (SOL)$45 billionHigh-speed smart contract platform
8TRON (TRX)$31 billionNetwork widely used for stablecoin transfers
9Hyperliquid (HYPE)$17 billionOn-chain derivatives trading platform
10Dogecoin (DOGE)$11 billionMeme coin

Rankings and market caps change every day. For the latest data, check CoinMarketCap or CoinGecko.

Key Coins to Understand

Bitcoin (BTC)

The first and largest coin, with a limited supply of 21 million coins. Many people see it as "digital gold." When Bitcoin rises or falls sharply, most other coins tend to move in the same direction.

Ethereum (ETH)

A platform that lets developers build apps and smart contracts on the blockchain. It is the foundation of many DeFi projects, NFTs and stablecoins. ETH is used to pay network fees (Gas).

Stablecoin (USDT, USDC)

Coins pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, used as "cash" in the crypto world. Read What is a Stablecoin

BNB, Solana, TRON

Blockchain networks that compete on speed and low fees. Each coin's price depends on usage within its own ecosystem.

XRP

Designed for cross-border money transfers between financial institutions. Its price is sensitive to legal news in the US.

Dogecoin and Meme Coins

Started as a joke, with no clear purpose of use. Prices are driven by social media trends. Very high risk

Bitcoin Dominance is the share of Bitcoin's market value relative to the entire crypto market. If this figure rises, it means money is flowing into Bitcoin more than into other coins (altcoins).

Read more: Crypto Risks and Choosing an Exchange in Thailand

For education only, not investment advice. Figures change over time, so check official sources before making decisions.