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Understanding Cryptocurrency: Categories and Types

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| Updated:
February 5, 2025
Types of cryptocurrency
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There are thousands of cryptocurrencies, with new ones launching every day. This makes it difficult for beginners to understand how they work. All types of cryptocurrency rely on blockchain technology, but they serve different purposes. Some act as digital cash, while others power applications or maintain a stable value. In the same way, some are even issued by governments.

Therefore, to bring order to this variety, cryptocurrencies fall into four main categories: payment cryptocurrencies, utility tokens, stablecoins, and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). In addition, each of these categories have their own unique roles in finance and technology.

In this article, we will explain these categories, discuss why they matter, and highlight their uses. We will also discuss well-known examples from each group. Consequently, by the end, you will have a clear understanding of the different types of cryptocurrency and how they fit into the financial system.

See Also: What is Cryptocurrency and How does it Work?

Categories of Cryptocurrency: Understanding the Different Types of Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrencies serve different purposes. For instance, some work as money, others power applications, and some are designed to maintain a stable value. Governments have also started creating their own digital currencies.

In order to make sense of these differences, cryptocurrencies have been divided into four main types: payment cryptocurrencies, utility tokens, stablecoins, and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Notably, they are all backed by blockchain and each has specific uses.

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See Also: Crypto for Investment: Pros and Cons You Need to Know

Payment Cryptocurrencies

These are designed for buying, selling, and transferring money without banks or payment processors. They allow people to send funds quickly, securely, and at a lower cost than traditional financial systems. Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency, introduced this concept, but many others have followed, improving on speed and transaction fees.

How Do Payment Cryptocurrencies Compare to Other Types of Cryptocurrency?

  • They process payments faster than banks, especially for international transfers.
  • They reduce transaction costs by eliminating middlemen.
  • They provide financial access to people without bank accounts.
  • Some, like Bitcoin, serve as a store of value and a hedge against inflation.

How Are They Used?

  • Everyday purchases – Some stores and online platforms accept them as payment.
  • International money transfers – Sending funds across borders is cheaper and faster with cryptocurrency.
  • Peer-to-peer payments – People can send money directly without needing a bank.
  • Investment and savings – Many hold them in the hope that their value will increase.

Examples of Payment Cryptocurrencies

  1. Bitcoin (BTC) – The first and most valuable cryptocurrency, often used as a store of value.
  2. Litecoin (LTC) – A faster and cheaper alternative to Bitcoin, often called “silver to Bitcoin’s gold.”
  3. Bitcoin Cash (BCH) – A variation of Bitcoin with larger block sizes for quicker and lower-cost transactions.

Payment cryptocurrencies continue to grow, with more businesses and individuals using them daily. While they are not yet a full replacement for traditional money, they provide a reliable alternative for digital payments.

Utility Tokens

Not all types of cryptocurrency work as money. Some provide access to services within blockchain networks. These are called utility tokens. They power applications, pay transaction fees, and enable smart contracts. Without them, many blockchain platforms would not function.

Why Are Utility Tokens an Important Type of Cryptocurrency?

  • They make blockchain applications work by enabling transactions and smart contracts.
  • They help reduce fees on cryptocurrency exchanges and other platforms.
  • Many allow users to vote on changes in blockchain networks.

How Do People Use Utility Tokens?

  • Paying transaction fees – Many blockchain platforms require utility tokens for processing transactions.
  • Accessing services – Some tokens let users pay for cloud storage, gaming, and other online services.
  • Voting on network decisions – Some projects give token holders voting rights on important updates.

Examples of Utility Tokens

  1. Ethereum (ETH) – The most popular utility token. It powers smart contracts and decentralised applications.
  2. Binance Coin (BNB) – Reduces trading fees on Binance and serves multiple functions within its ecosystem.

Utility tokens play a key role in blockchain networks. They enable users to interact with platforms, pay fees, and vote on changes. Without them, many blockchain applications would not work.

Stablecoins: A Price-Stable Type of Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency prices rise and fall quickly. As a result, this makes them risky for everyday transactions. Stablecoins solve this problem by keeping their value steady. They are linked to real-world assets like fiat currency or gold. Because of this, they offer the benefits of cryptocurrency without extreme price swings.

Why Are Stablecoins Important?

  • They provide a safe way to store value in the cryptocurrency market.
  • Businesses and individuals can use them for payments without worrying about price changes.
  • Many stablecoins help traders move money between different cryptocurrencies without converting to cash.

How Do People Use Stablecoins Compared to Other Types of Cryptocurrency?

  • People hold them to protect against cryptocurrency price drops.
  • Traders use them to move money between cryptocurrencies without leaving the market.
  • Businesses accept them as payment for goods and services.
  • Users send them across borders faster and cheaper than traditional banking methods.

Examples of Stablecoins

  1. Tether (USDT) – The most widely used stablecoin, backed by US dollars in reserve.
  2. USD Coin (USDC) – A regulated stablecoin with strong compliance and transparency.

Stablecoins combine the best of both worlds. They keep transactions fast and low-cost while maintaining price stability.

Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

Governments are now creating their own types of cryptocurrency to complement cash. These are called central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Unlike other cryptocurrencies, central banks control them. They work like regular money but exist in digital form.

Why Are CBDCs Important?

  • They give people a safe and government-backed way to make digital payments.
  • They reduce the need for physical cash and improve transaction speed.
  • Governments can use them to send financial aid directly to citizens.

How Do People Use CBDCs?

  • Consumers pay for goods and services just like they would with regular money.
  • Businesses accept them as an official form of payment.
  • Governments distribute benefits and salaries using them instead of cash or bank transfers.

Examples of CBDCs

  1. Digital Yuan (e-CNY) – China’s official CBDC, designed for everyday transactions.
  2. Digital Euro (Upcoming) – A European Central Bank project aiming to create a digital version of the euro.
  3. eNaira (Nigeria’s CBDC) – A digital currency issued by Nigeria’s central bank for secure transactions.

CBDCs provide a government-backed type of cryptocurrency that combines the convenience of digital payments with the security of traditional money.

Key Takeaways

  • Cryptocurrencies are not all the same. Some act as digital cash, others power applications, some provide price stability, and a few are issued by governments. Understanding their differences helps users make informed decisions.
  • Payment cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), and Bitcoin Cash (BCH) allow people to send and receive money without banks. They offer fast, low-cost transactions and financial access to those without traditional banking services.
  • Utility tokens like Ethereum (ETH) and Binance Coin (BNB) enable smart contracts, reduce transaction fees, and provide access to services within blockchain networks. Without them, many decentralised applications would not function.
  • Stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) maintain a fixed value by linking to fiat currency or other assets. They help traders, businesses, and individuals avoid the volatility seen in other types of cryptocurrency.
  • Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) like Digital Yuan, Digital Euro, and eNaira are government-issued cryptocurrencies designed to complement traditional money. They offer the benefits of digital transactions while maintaining state control and regulation.

As mentioned previously, each type of cryptocurrency plays a unique role in finance and technology. That is, some are ideal for payments, others power blockchain ecosystems, and some provide stability or government-backed security. Therefore, choosing the right one depends on the purpose and use case.

Conclusion

In summary, cryptocurrencies have grown far beyond their original purpose. What started with Bitcoin as a digital alternative to money has expanded into a wide range of assets, each serving a different function.

All in all, payment cryptocurrencies allow fast and low-cost transactions without banks. Utility tokens power blockchain networks and smart contracts. Stablecoins provide a secure way to store value without volatility. CBDCs combine the benefits of cryptocurrency with government backing.

Understanding these types of cryptocurrency helps users make better choices. Whether using them for payments, investments, or blockchain services, knowing their functions ensures they serve the right purpose. As the market continues to expand, these categories will shape the future of finance.

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FAQs on Types of Cryptocurrency

What is the safest type of cryptocurrency?

Stablecoins and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) experience little to no price swings. Stablecoins hold reserves in cash or assets to keep their value steady. Governments issue and regulate CBDCs, making them as secure as traditional money. However, security also depends on how users store their funds.

How do stablecoins keep their value?

Stablecoins maintain their price by holding real-world assets in reserve. For example, Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) hold US dollars in bank accounts. Some, like DAI, use smart contracts and cryptocurrency reserves instead of cash.

What makes Bitcoin different from CBDCs?

Bitcoin runs on a public blockchain that no government controls. People can send and receive it freely without restrictions. CBDCs, however, operate under central banks, just like traditional currencies. Governments regulate them and control their supply.

Can utility tokens work for payments?

Some utility tokens, like Ethereum (ETH) and Binance Coin (BNB), let users pay for services. However, they primarily power blockchain applications and smart contracts. Most businesses do not accept them as regular money.

Why do some businesses accept cryptocurrency while others do not?

Businesses that accept cryptocurrency enjoy lower transaction fees and faster payments. Because of this, some avoid it due to price swings, unclear regulations, and technical barriers. Stablecoins and CBDCs offer a middle ground by keeping prices steady and maintaining government oversight.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aminat Sanni-Kamal

Aminat Sanni-Kamal is a legal professional and content strategist with over five years of experience in content creation, writing, and editorial management. As the Associate Managing Editor at Entrepreneurs.ng, she works with the editorial team in delivering high-impact content that informs, empowers, and inspires entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts across various industries. With a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree and a Barrister at Law (B.L.) qualification, Aminat Sanni-Kamal combines a strong legal background with a passion for storytelling to produce content that is both insightful and sound. In this role, Aminat Sanni-Kamal ensures content excellence, manages editorial processes, and contributes to the platform’s growth by aligning strategic content with the needs of the entrepreneurial community. Aminat Sanni-Kamal is committed to fostering innovation and promoting entrepreneurial success stories, positioning Entrepreneurs.ng as a leading resource for actionable business knowledge and growth strategies.

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