Nostr Zaps Surge as Lightning Network Remains Dominant

The Nostr micropayment system, known as zaps, has been gaining traction in the decentralized social network space. According to recent data, zap volume exceeded 20 million within a two-week window in early 2025.

Nostr users on platforms like Primal and Amethyst are leveraging these tools to reward content creators. However, Damus users on iOS encounter App Store restrictions that limit post-level zaps, though they can use a script to re-enable functionality.

The Lightning Network, on the other hand, provides the infrastructure for global Bitcoin movement. Users move value through payment channels without touching the base layer for every transaction. This network supports diverse commercial use cases, including international remittances and machine-to-machine payments.