Is free money in the crypto world real? The answer is both yes and no. This article is entirely dedicated to airdrops. We’ll start by explaining what an airdrop is, guide you on how to participate, explore the top airdrops of 2025, and finally, review some of the biggest airdrops in history that transformed many lives.
What is an Airdrop?
An airdrop refers to the distribution of free cryptocurrency tokens to users of a specific project. Projects use airdrops for several purposes, such as promoting fairness in token distribution or increasing awareness about their platform.
In simple terms:
Crypto projects distribute their tokens for free to users’ wallets to achieve specific goals, such as:
- Marketing and Awareness: Airdrops attract attention and help projects reach a wider audience.
- Increasing Token Holders: Free tokens encourage people to become holders, which benefits the project.
- Incentivizing Participation: Airdrops often reward users who engage with the project, like completing tasks, making transactions, or promoting the project on social media.
- Fairer Token Distribution: Airdrops help decentralize and distribute tokens more equitably.
Who Gets Airdrops?
Each crypto project sets unique eligibility criteria for airdrop participants. Common requirements include:
- Wallets that have interacted with a specific blockchain network.
- Users who complete specific tasks (e.g., transactions, promotions).
- Social media followers and active community members.
- Token holders or buyers of the project’s token.
- Participants in marketing campaigns or random user selections.
For example, the Arbitrum airdrop, a Layer-2 scaling solution on the Ethereum network, is considered one of the largest airdrops in the history of cryptocurrencies. In 2023, this network distributed its airdrop to over 625,000 wallets.
In this airdrop, each eligible user received approximately $1,000 worth of ARB tokens, while more active users managed to earn amounts exceeding $10,000.
Arbitrum’s primary criterion for selecting wallets eligible for the airdrop was the level of user activity on the Arbitrum network. These criteria mainly focused on user activity on Arbitrum One and, to a lesser extent, on Arbitrum Nova.
The key eligibility criteria for the Arbitrum airdrop were as follows:
- Depositing funds into the Arbitrum One network.
- Depositing funds into the Arbitrum Nova network.
- Conducting transactions across various months.
- Number of transactions or interactions with smart contracts.
- The value (volume) of transactions conducted.
Therefore, it’s important to note that the eligibility criteria for each project may vary depending on the nature and purpose of the project.
How to Participate in Airdrops?
Steps to Join Cryptocurrency Airdrops:
Step 1: Preparing the Necessary Tools and Equipment
Participating in cryptocurrency airdrops, like any other task, requires specific tools. The essential equipment needed to join airdrop campaigns includes:
- A suitable wallet (e.g., MetaMask).
- A smartphone or personal computer (preferably a computer or laptop for ease of use).
- A small amount of capital you can afford to spare (usually in the form of Ethereum).
- Active X and Discord accounts.
1. A Suitable Wallet:
Your primary tool for interacting with all cryptocurrency projects is your wallet. Therefore, depending on the blockchain network you intend to engage with, you must choose an appropriate wallet.
However, since most prominent projects in recent years have been developed on Ethereum (or networks compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine – EVM), the best option for an Ethereum-compatible wallet is likely MetaMask.
MetaMask is available both for smartphones on Android and iOS operating systems and as a browser extension.
If you are active on other networks, you will need different wallets. For instance, on the Solana network, the best wallet is Phantom.
2. Personal Computer (Laptop or PC)
Using various cryptocurrency-related platforms is often cumbersome on smartphones or even tablets with large screens. Therefore, it’s recommended to use a personal computer for your activities.
The main software tools you’ll need include a popular browser like Google Chrome and essential extensions such as the MetaMask wallet for Ethereum-based projects.
3. A Small Amount of Spare Funds (Usually Ethereum)
As previously mentioned, participating in projects with airdrop potential incurs costs, including transaction fees on the blockchain.
To start, you need to allocate a small amount of capital that you are certain you won’t need in the near future. If you lose this capital, it shouldn’t disrupt your financial stability. Using life savings or borrowing money to participate in airdrops is extremely risky and entirely illogical, as it can have serious consequences for individuals who take such risks.
The amount you allocate depends on your personal strategy.
The cryptocurrency you need will vary depending on the project’s host network. However, for Ethereum-based projects, Ether (ETH) is typically the most practical asset, as it is the native currency of the Ethereum blockchain and can be easily transferred and converted across different protocols.
4. X and Discord Accounts
X and Discord are two essential social platforms for engaging with cryptocurrency projects. Most major announcements, special programs, and updates occur on these platforms. Therefore, it’s necessary to not only have accounts on X and Discord but also actively follow project pages and communities.
Sometimes, a project may offer special benefits to its Discord server members, such as exclusive NFT collections. Additionally, there are interactive platforms like Galxe, which projects use to attract users and set specific tasks.
These platforms often require you to connect your X and Discord accounts or complete tasks involving these platforms. Examples include:
- Joining a project’s Discord server.
- Retweeting a specific post on X.
By actively participating on these platforms, you can increase your chances of qualifying for airdrop rewards.
Step 2: Finding High-Potential Airdrop Projects
Identifying valuable projects with a high likelihood of an airdrop is the primary task of an airdrop hunter. To spot these projects, you can use several key criteria:
- Funding and Investment Levels: Projects that have attracted significant funding from investors often possess high potential, making them more likely to conduct an airdrop.
- Social Media Popularity: Projects with a strong following on social platforms like X and Discord, where active discussions and hype are prevalent, can be prime candidates for airdrops.
- No Existing Token: Projects that have not yet launched their token but demonstrate strong features and potential are excellent candidates for future airdrops.
Step 3: Engaging with the Project to Qualify for the Airdrop
After identifying valuable projects with airdrop potential, the next step is completing the required tasks to become eligible for the airdrop. These tasks can vary depending on the project and its network. Below are some common examples of activities:
- Conducting Transactions on the Network: In cases like the Arbitrum airdrop, users were required to deposit funds into the project’s network and increase their transaction volume by actively interacting and performing transactions.
- Staking: Some projects may require users to stake tokens, such as ETH or other cryptocurrencies, to qualify for the airdrop.
- Completing Tasks on Specific Platforms: Occasionally, projects list their tasks on platforms like Galxe, where users must complete predefined tasks to become eligible for the airdrop.
How to Stay Updated on Airdrop Participation:
To learn how to participate in each project’s airdrop, the best approach is to follow:
- Official websites
- Social media channels
- X accounts that provide tutorials and updates about these platforms.
Additionally, performing a Google search using the project’s name can also provide helpful information and guides.
How to Find High-Quality and Profitab Airdrops?
Discovering profitable and reliable airdrops is one of the most critical skills for an airdrop hunter. To succeed in this field, you need to stay updated and rely on diverse, trustworthy resources.
Below are some of the best methods and sources for finding high-quality airdrops:
- X: Following experienced airdrop hunters on X can be an invaluable source of up-to-date and accurate information. To get started, you can follow lists of prominent airdrop hunters.
- Airdrop Listing Websites: These websites specialize in listing active and upcoming airdrops. One of the best platforms defillama.com and airdrops.io, which provide a comprehensive and regularly updated list.
- Discord: On Discord, you can find numerous groups and channels dedicated to airdrop discussions and updates. Engaging in these communities can help you stay informed.
- Telegram Groups and Channels: Related Telegram groups and channels are also great resources for finding and discussing airdrops.
- YouTube: Many YouTube channels focus on introducing and analyzing various airdrops. Subscribing to these channels can provide valuable insights and tutorials.
- Community-Driven Platforms: Actively participating in community-driven platforms related to cryptocurrency can open up new opportunities to discover high-quality airdrops. Engaging with these communities often leads to insider tips and early access to projects. Some of the most helpful platforms are Reddit and Medium.
Top Airdrop Projects of 2025 (list will be updated)
The number of projects with airdrop potential is vast, but here we highlight some of the most valuable projects that stand out from the rest. These projects offer significant opportunities for airdrop hunters to generate substantial income.
Blast (BLST)
Blast is a Layer 2 network on Ethereum that has recently gained attention due to its unique airdrop approach. The standout feature of Blast is its development team, which has successfully delivered previous projects like Blur (BLUR).
The Blast airdrop campaign involves earning points by depositing Ethereum into the network and engaging with active projects on the platform. These points will ultimately be converted into tokens at the end of May (mid-June).
Linea
Linea is a Layer 2 Ethereum project backed by ConsenSys, the team behind MetaMask and many other prominent Ethereum-based projects. Linea aims to enhance the scalability of the Ethereum network.
To participate in the Linea airdrop, similar to other Layer 2 networks, the first step is depositing Ethereum into the Linea network and actively engaging with it. Unlike many other Layer 2 solutions, Linea runs regular campaigns, allowing participants to earn points called LXP, which will eventually be converted into tokens.
Scroll
Scroll is another Layer 2 solution for Ethereum, designed to enhance the scalability of the main Ethereum network, similar to Blast and Linea.
To qualify for the Scroll airdrop, the process is similar to other Layer 2 projects: the first step is depositing Ethereum into the Scroll network, followed by engaging in activities and performing transactions on the network.
MintBlockchain
MintBlockchain is a Layer 2 project specifically designed with a focus on the NFT industry.
Participating in the MintForest campaign and holding NFTs such as Mint Genesis or MintPass are key activities for engaging with the MintBlockchain ecosystem and potentially qualifying for future opportunities.
Berachain (BERA$)
Berachain is an independent blockchain compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), similar to Polygon. Its impressive fundraising of over $100 million has drawn significant attention from airdrop hunters. Currently, the project operates on a testnet.
To participate in the testnet and potentially qualify for the future BERA$ token airdrop, users need to obtain test tokens, interact with active applications on the network such as Bera Dex and Honey, and contribute to liquidity pools.
Berachain (BERA$)
Berachain is an independent blockchain compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), similar to Polygon. Its impressive fundraising of over $100 million has drawn significant attention from airdrop hunters. Currently, the project operates on a testnet.
To participate in the testnet and potentially qualify for the future BERA$ token airdrop, users need to obtain test tokens, interact with active applications on the network such as Bera Dex and Honey, and contribute to liquidity pools.
Polygon zkEVM
The Polygon zkEVM network is yet another prominent Layer 2 solution for Ethereum. Since this network is directly connected to Polygon, and its airdrop has already been confirmed, it is expected to be one of the most lucrative airdrops of 2024.
Similar to other Layer 2 networks, the best strategy to qualify for this airdrop is to actively interact with dApps and perform transactions on projects within the network.
Magic Eden (MagicEden)
Magic Eden is currently the largest NFT marketplace on the Solana blockchain and one of the leading marketplaces across other major networks.
The project has confirmed its native token, $NFT, which will be distributed through an airdrop. Users can earn eligibility for the airdrop by collecting diamonds, which are awarded for trading NFTs on the Magic Eden platform.
Magic Eden (MagicEden)
Magic Eden is currently the largest NFT marketplace on the Solana blockchain and one of the leading marketplaces across other major networks.
The project has confirmed its native token, $NFT, which will be distributed through an airdrop. Users can earn eligibility for the airdrop by collecting diamonds, which are awarded for trading NFTs on the Magic Eden platform.
By searching for any of the names mentioned above on X or Google, you can find complete guides and tutorials for each of them.
The Biggest Airdrops in History
Let’s review a few of the biggest airdrops in history—airdrops that have made many people rich overnight:
Uniswap (UNI)
The new wave of airdrops by Ethereum projects, which has recently reached its peak, began with the governance token airdrop of Uniswap, UNI.
In the summer of 2020, later dubbed “DeFi Summer,” Uniswap introduced its governance token and announced that anyone who had used the decentralized exchange even once in the past would be eligible for the airdrop.
Each user received a minimum of 400 UNI tokens, which, at the time, were valued at around $3.50 per token, making the total value approximately $1,400. However, this was the minimum amount, and some addresses received up to 250,000 UNI tokens in the airdrop. The total amount of UNI tokens airdropped was 150 million.
Ethereum Name Service (ENS)
The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) project, which had gained significant attention with its blockchain-based domain service (eth.), made headlines again in the fall of 2021 with one of the largest airdrops in history.
The ENS tokens were distributed to users who had previously purchased an eth. domain. The total value of this airdrop was estimated to exceed $500 million, with many users receiving amounts over $20,000.
ApeCoin (APE)
ApeCoin is another governance token associated with the Yuga Labs team and the famous Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) NFT collection. In the winter of 2022, Yuga Labs distributed the APE token to holders of BAYC NFTs or other related collections. The total value of this airdrop was estimated to be over $1 billion.
Optimism (OP)
The Layer 2 protocol Optimism distributed approximately 200 million OP governance tokens to its first active users in the spring of 2022. The total value of this airdrop was estimated at around $600 million. Additionally, in early 2023, another airdrop took place, distributing 11 million OP tokens among users of the network.
Arbitrum (ARB)
Arbitrum is the latest highly anticipated airdrop in the cryptocurrency market. Known for its growth without a token for years, Arbitrum finally introduced its governance token, ARB, in the winter of 2023 and officially announced its airdrop.
The total value of this airdrop is estimated to be around $1.5 billion, with eligible addresses receiving an average of 1,859 ARB tokens, valued at approximately $2,500 at the time of the airdrop.
Risks of Airdrops
While airdrops can present an opportunity to earn free tokens and generate income, they can also lead to significant losses if not managed properly. The main risks associated with airdrops include:
The Airdrop May Not Exist
Sometimes, rumors about specific airdrops circulate, but in the end, the airdrop may not actually take place. This can result in a waste of time and energy for participants.
Platform Hacks
Platforms hosting airdrops are often targeted by hackers. If these platforms are compromised, users’ personal information and digital assets may be at risk.
Transaction Fees
Some airdrops require users to pay fees to participate. These fees can sometimes be significant, and if the airdrop reward is not substantial, the value of the received tokens may be less than the fees paid.
Airdrop Scams
Unfortunately, some airdrops are designed solely to scam users. These fake airdrops can steal personal information or digital assets from participants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Does Airdrop Mean?
An airdrop in the cryptocurrency world refers to the free distribution of tokens from a project to users. The goal of an airdrop is to raise awareness about the project, attract new users, and incentivize participation in its ecosystem.
How Can I Get Airdrops?
To receive airdrops, stay updated on new airdrop announcements, review the eligibility requirements, complete necessary steps such as joining the project’s communication channels and submitting your wallet address, and finally, claim the airdrop tokens.
What is the Best Airdrop Right Now?
Given that the world of airdrops and cryptocurrency projects is highly dynamic and constantly changing, determining the best airdrop at any given moment can be challenging. Top and popular airdrops change quickly, depending on timing, project popularity, and market conditions.