With the next crypto bull run drawing closer, the search for the best long-term crypto is already underway. The focus has shifted from hype-driven plays to ecosystems delivering tangible products, strategic alliances, and measurable progress. BlockDAG, Cardano, Ripple, and Polkadot are each carving out their own space across infrastructure, privacy, payments, and governance.
BlockDAG is generating headlines with one of the biggest presales in years, Cardano has launched a major privacy-focused airdrop through Midnight, Ripple is moving aggressively now that its legal hurdles are behind it, and Polkadot is preparing for next-generation upgrades ahead of a possible ETF catalyst.
All four are making their case to be the best long-term crypto for the next market cycle. Here’s why they are firmly on the radar.
1. BlockDAG: $0.0016 Entry Before the Price Moves
BlockDAG continues to gain momentum, priced at just $0.0276 in its presale with a confirmed listing at $0.05, offering a clear, massive ROI for those who act before the presale closes. With $370 million raised and the BDAG holder count climbing daily, this Layer 1 project is not just another speculative play.
Its appeal lies in both technology and adoption. BlockDAG merges the scalability of DAG with the decentralization of Proof-of-Work. The ecosystem already includes 2.5 million X1 mobile mining app users and 19,100 ASIC miners sold before the mainnet launch. This is established infrastructure, not promises on paper.
2. Ripple (XRP): From Courtroom to Market Expansion
Ripple has finally ended its prolonged SEC battle, settling on August 8 with a $125 million fine. While institutional sales remain restricted, the removal of legal uncertainty has cleared the path forward. XRP quickly regained the $3 level, which now serves as its base support.
Ripple is also expanding through acquisitions, including the $200 million purchase of Rail, a stablecoin payments platform set to close in Q4. With regulatory clarity and a solid product offering, Ripple could pivot from litigation headlines to performance metrics, positioning XRP as a strong best long-term crypto candidate in the payments sector.
3. Cardano: Privacy-Driven Midnight Airdrop Boosts Momentum
Cardano is regaining attention with its “Glacier Drop” airdrop through the Midnight sidechain, a network built for privacy. The NIGHT token is being distributed across eight blockchains, including Bitcoin, Solana, and Ethereum, with 50% reserved for ADA holders. Eligibility required a $100 wallet balance captured on June 11, ensuring the drop was targeted yet widely accessible.
A vesting schedule is in place to prevent mass sell-offs, supporting long-term network use. Technically, ADA has broken out from a long-term falling wedge, with support between $0.73 and $0.745. This alignment of privacy tech, interoperability, and price structure could make Cardano a serious contender for best long-term crypto in 2025.
4. Polkadot: ETF Speculation Meets Technical Advancements
Polkadot is gaining traction through both market action and upcoming upgrades. DOT’s price recently climbed 4% on increased liquid staking interest and favorable regulatory sentiment. Currently trading at $3.59, it maintains support along an upward trendline, with potential buying interest around $3.31.
The most anticipated development is a pending Polkadot spot ETF decision, now set for November 8. Analysts place approval odds at over 90%, with potential to unlock $70 billion in institutional capital. Coupled with the Polkadot 2.0 upgrade and the launch of Snowbridge, these developments could secure its position as one of the best long-term crypto plays of 2025.
The Best Long-Term Contenders to Watch
In a market where adoption and execution matter more than hype, the next best long-term crypto will be defined by vision, delivery, and resilience. BlockDAG stands out with its low entry price, functional tech, and massive presale traction. Cardano’s privacy enhancements, Ripple’s regulatory clarity, and Polkadot’s ETF and upgrade roadmap each bring unique advantages.
This article contains information about a cryptocurrency presale. Crypto Economy is not associated with the project. As with any initiative within the crypto ecosystem, we encourage users to do their own research before participating, carefully considering both the potential and the risks involved. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
