Layer 3 Appchains Emerge as High-Throughput Solution for Decentralized Applications

Layer 3 (L3) appchains are gaining traction in the crypto space as they offer dedicated networks for high-throughput decentralized applications (dApps). These chains settle to an existing Layer 2, providing exclusive throughput instead of competing for block space on a shared chain.

The OP Stack and Arbitrum Orbit frameworks provide mature Optimistic infrastructure, while ZK Stack and Starknet SN Stack prioritize validity proofs and faster finality. Caldera lets teams launch customized L3 appchains without building or operating their own underlying blockchain infrastructure.

OP Stack is the open-source rollup framework maintained by OP Labs, with over 50 chains running on it and handling up to 56% of all Layer 2 transaction volume as of mid-2026. Arbitrum Orbit provides a customizable framework for launching dedicated L3 chains that settle to Arbitrum One or Arbitrum Nova.

Caldera is a Rollup-as-a-Service platform that lets teams deploy production-grade L2 and L3 appchains without building or operating node infrastructure. ZK Stack enables developers to build ZK-powered L2 and L3 chains, while Starknet SN Stack offers ZK-STARK validity proofs instead of fraud proofs.