ETH vs Bitcoin since 2018
70% × 525%
Updated July 1, 2026 · daily closing prices (not exportable)
Since 2018, ETH returned 70% and Bitcoin returned 525%, in U.S. dollars. Bitcoin won the period — but with different risk: the worst drop was 91% (ETH) vs 73% (Bitcoin).
Base 100 since 2018
Why compare Ethereum and Bitcoin
This is the internal contest of the crypto market: the original and largest cryptocurrency against the first smart-contract platform that runs most tokens, DeFi, and NFTs. Searchers comparing the two want to know whether ethereum's bet on network adoption paid more than simply holding the asset everyone calls digital gold. The pattern is that the two move together but not equally. Both have no cash flow and swing on speculation, and both have produced legendary multiples and drops of more than 80%. Ethereum typically carries the higher beta, amplifying bitcoin's moves in both directions, so it has often led the rallies and fallen harder in the busts. As with all crypto, the entry year has decided far more than the holding period.
Returns by window
| Window | Ethereum | Bitcoin |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | -48% | -44% |
| 5 years | -24% | 55% |
| 10 years | — | — |
| since 2018 | 70% | 525% |
The price of return: risk
| Asset | Annual volatility | Worst drop |
|---|---|---|
| ETH | 88% | -91% |
| Bitcoin | 64% | -73% |
$10,000 in each, since 2018
| Asset | Value today |
|---|---|
| ETH | $17,015 |
| Bitcoin | $62,479 |
Frequently asked questions
ETH or Bitcoin: which returned more?
Since 2018, Bitcoin returned more in U.S. dollars. Over shorter windows the lead can change — see the per-window table on the page.
Does a higher return mean a better investment?
Not on its own — risk matters. The page shows the volatility and the largest drop of each; similar returns can hide very different rides.
Are these figures in real terms?
No — these are nominal returns in U.S. dollars. To see real (inflation-adjusted) gains, compare each one against U.S. inflation (CPI).
Keep exploring
Descriptive, educational content computed from official public data. Not investment advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results.