zkSync and StarkNet are emerging Layer 2 Scaling solutions, but they use different technical means:
zkSync: It adopts Zero-Knowledge Rollups technology, compresses transaction data using zero-knowledge proofs, and only submits proofs to the main chain, which can greatly improve transaction throughput and reduce gas fees.
StarkNet: It also uses Zero-Knowledge Proofs technology, but uses programmable random functions to generate proofs in a more efficient way, which can support more complex smart contracts and have stronger transaction performance and scalability.
In terms of the technical potential of the two solutions, it can be judged as follows:
- Security. Both zkSync and StarkNet rely on zero-knowledge proofs to ensure the privacy and security of transaction data, but StarkNet's technical means are more advanced and have higher security, which provides important guarantees for its development.
- Scalability. StarkNet can generate more compact proofs through programmable random functions, so under the same computing resources, it has stronger transaction throughput and scalability. This also makes it more capable of supporting large-scale applications.
- Cross-chain compatibility. StarkNet's technical design has stronger abstract properties, theoretically making it easier to be compatible with different main chains, which makes its scope of application wider. zkSync, on the other hand, is limited by specific main chains and has poor cross-chain compatibility.
- Smart contract support. StarkNet's technical means are more advanced and can support more complex and flexible smart contracts, enabling dApps and DeFi applications to implement richer functionality on it, which increases its practicality. zkSync is relatively lacking in this aspect.
- Standardization potential. StarkNet is more versatile in its technical design, which allows it to potentially become an industry standard and be more widely adopted. zkSync's technical attributes are more personalized, with less potential for standardization.
In summary, in terms of security, scalability, cross-chain compatibility, smart contract support, and standardization potential, StarkNet's technology is more advanced and promising. This may give it a greater advantage in future applications and development. zkSync, on the other hand, is unlikely to generate significant differences and competitive advantages in technology. Therefore, overall, StarkNet has greater technological potential and is worth long-term attention. However, zkSync will not give up, and the competition will continue.