XRP vs Ethereum: Which Crypto Will Reach Its ATH First?

XRP and Ethereum are on a quest to reclaim their respective all-time highs. XRP trades around $1.50, roughly 61% below its January 2018 ATH of $3.84. Meanwhile, Ethereum is priced at $2,460, about 50% below its August 2025 ATH of $4,953.

To get back to their all-time highs, XRP needs a 156% gain, while Ethereum requires a 101% rally.

The U.S. and Iran conflicts in January led to a collapse in risk appetite for crypto assets. XRP fell by 10.6% and another 16.2% in February. In contrast, Ethereum dropped by 17.7% and 19.6% over the same period.

The Glamsterdam upgrade is seen as a major catalyst for Ethereum's rally towards its ATH. The upgrade aims to increase block gas limit, lower fees, and improve network capacity. However, the exact Q4 mainnet launch date remains unknown, which has prevented the market from pricing it in appropriately.