Overview
What is HyperEVM?
HyperEVM is a general-purpose Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) chain implementation integrated directly into the Hyperliquid Layer 1 blockchain, allowing for smart contract programmability while leveraging the high-performance infrastructure. It combines the familiarity of EVM-compatible development with Hyperliquid’s HyperBFT consensus mechanism for security, sub-second transaction finality, and low fees, using HYPE as the native gas token.
Unlike standalone EVM chains, HyperEVM is not a separate network but is built as part of Hyperliquid’s execution layer, enabling seamless interaction between DeFi applications, perpetual trading (via HyperCore), and general-purpose smart contracts. HyperEVM was launched on mainnet on February 18, 2025, aiming to create a unified ecosystem for all finance by bringing EVM capabilities to Hyperliquid’s performant L1. The ecosystem includes DeFi protocols, DEXs, lending platforms, and more, with growing adoption and a low number of active addresses (around 50,000 active per week), presenting opportunities for early participants.