Why BNB Chain Is Launching a New Layer 2 Network: opBNB

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In the rapidly evolving blockchain ecosystem, scalability remains a critical challenge for major networks. BNB Chain, one of the most active ecosystems in Web3, has been strategically expanding its infrastructure to meet growing demands from decentralized applications (dApps), particularly in DeFi, GameFi, and social platforms. With the recent announcement of the opBNB testnet, a new Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible Layer 2 (L2) solution built on the OP Stack, BNB Chain is making a bold move to strengthen its technological foundation.

But why launch opBNB when BNB Chain already has multiple chains—such as BSC (Layer 1), zkBNB (a zk-rollup L2), and BNB Greenfield (a decentralized storage layer)? What role does opBNB play in this multi-chain vision?

👉 Discover how opBNB is reshaping scalability for Web3 developers.

This article explores the strategic rationale behind opBNB’s introduction, examines the functional roles of each component within the BNB Chain ecosystem, and analyzes how this layered architecture supports long-term growth in the MetaFi era.

The Evolution of BNB Chain: From Smart Chain to Multi-Layer Infrastructure

BNB Chain began as Binance Smart Chain (BSC) in 2020—an EVM-compatible blockchain designed to offer faster and cheaper transactions than Ethereum. Over time, it evolved into a broader ecosystem now known as BNB Chain, comprising several specialized chains that serve distinct purposes.

At its core, BSC remains the primary execution layer with approximately 2,000 TPS and an average transaction fee of $0.109. While highly performant for a Layer 1, increasing demand—especially from gaming and social dApps—has pushed BNB Chain toward scalable solutions beyond a single chain.

To address these needs, BNB Chain adopted a modular approach, introducing purpose-built layers:

Each component targets specific bottlenecks, forming a cohesive infrastructure stack designed for mass adoption.

Understanding opBNB: Speed, Affordability, and EVM Compatibility

The launch of opBNB testnet marks a significant milestone in BNB Chain’s roadmap. Built using the open-source OP Stack—the same technology powering Optimism—opBNB is an optimistic rollup that batches transactions off-chain and posts them to BSC with fraud proofs.

Key performance metrics highlight its potential:

These improvements make opBNB ideal for high-frequency applications like decentralized exchanges (DEXs), NFT marketplaces, and real-time blockchain games.

Unlike zkBNB, which uses zero-knowledge proofs and faces challenges in full EVM equivalence, opBNB offers near-perfect EVM compatibility. This means developers can seamlessly port Ethereum-based dApps to opBNB with minimal code changes—a crucial advantage in attracting existing projects and accelerating ecosystem growth.

Arnaud Bauer, Senior Solutions Architect at BNB Chain, emphasized this point in an interview with The Block:

“EVM compatibility is essential for developer adoption. opBNB allows teams to deploy their apps quickly without rearchitecting.”

👉 See how developers are leveraging EVM-compatible L2s for rapid deployment.

Comparing L2 Solutions: zkBNB vs. opBNB

While both zkBNB and opBNB are Layer 2 scaling solutions under the BNB Chain umbrella, they serve different use cases based on technical trade-offs.

zkBNB: Security-First with High Throughput

Launched in September of the previous year, zkBNB leverages zk-Rollup technology to ensure cryptographic security. It promises:

However, zk-based systems require complex circuit design and struggle with full EVM compatibility. As a result, ecosystem development on zkBNB has progressed more slowly than anticipated.

opBNB: Developer-Centric Scalability

In contrast, opBNB prioritizes developer experience. By using optimistic rollups:

This dual-L2 strategy allows BNB Chain to cater to two key audiences: security-focused institutions (via zkBNB) and agile developers (via opBNB).

Expanding Beyond Compute: BNB Greenfield for Decentralized Data

Scalability isn’t just about processing power—it also involves data availability and storage. Enter BNB Greenfield, launched on testnet in April 2025.

Greenfield functions as a decentralized data layer, enabling dApps to store files, metadata, and user content directly on-chain with fine-grained access control. Unlike traditional storage solutions like Filecoin or Arweave, Greenfield integrates natively with BSC smart contracts, allowing developers to manage permissions and monetization through code.

Ben Zhang, Co-Founder of NodeReal (lead developer of Greenfield), noted:

“We’re building the Web3 equivalent of AWS—where storage, computation, and finance converge seamlessly.”

With mainnet expected in Q3 2025, Greenfield complements opBNB by providing a complete stack: scalable compute + secure storage.

Strategic Positioning in the Broader L2 Landscape

The timing of opBNB’s release is no coincidence. As major players like Coinbase (Base) and ConsenSys (Linea) enter the L2 space, competition intensifies. According to DefiLlama, while BSC ranks third in total value locked (TVL) at $3.35 billion, it’s closing the gap with leaders like Arbitrum.

By launching opBNB, BNB Chain isn’t just reacting—it’s positioning itself as a developer-first ecosystem capable of hosting next-generation Web3 experiences. The focus on low fees, high throughput, and EVM compatibility aligns perfectly with the needs of emerging sectors like on-chain gaming and social protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is opBNB?
A: opBNB is an EVM-compatible Layer 2 scaling solution built on the OP Stack. It uses optimistic rollup technology to increase transaction speed and reduce costs on the BNB Chain network.

Q: How does opBNB differ from zkBNB?
A: opBNB uses optimistic rollups with fraud proofs and offers full EVM compatibility, making it easier for developers to migrate apps. zkBNB uses zero-knowledge proofs for stronger security but faces limitations in EVM equivalence and development speed.

Q: Is opBNB live on mainnet?
A: As of now, opBNB is available on testnet. The mainnet launch is expected in Q3 2025.

Q: Why does BNB Chain need multiple Layer 2 networks?
A: Different L2 technologies suit different use cases. Offering both zkBNB and opBNB allows BNB Chain to support diverse developer needs—from maximum security to maximum compatibility.

Q: Can I use existing Ethereum tools on opBNB?
A: Yes. Thanks to EVM equivalence, tools like MetaMask, Hardhat, and Remix work seamlessly on opBNB.

Q: What role does BNB Greenfield play?
A: BNB Greenfield provides decentralized data storage with native integration into smart contracts, solving data availability challenges for dApps in gaming, social media, and content platforms.

Final Thoughts: A Cohesive Vision for Web3 Infrastructure

The introduction of opBNB reflects a mature, forward-thinking strategy by BNB Chain. Rather than relying solely on Layer 1 improvements or a single L2 path, it embraces a multi-layered architecture that balances speed, cost, security, and developer experience.

With opBNB handling scalable computation, zkBNB offering secure rollups, Greenfield managing data storage, and BAS enabling app-specific chains, BNB Chain is building a comprehensive infrastructure stack tailored for the future of MetaFi.

As Web3 adoption accelerates, ecosystems that provide seamless tooling and scalable foundations will lead the next wave of innovation. opBNB may be just one piece—but it's a pivotal one.

👉 Explore how integrated L2 ecosystems are driving Web3’s next phase.