- Web3 dApps more than doubled their userbase in 2023 with over 42 million active users per day on average, led by Near, Klaytn, and Arbitrum.
- NFT platforms (166% growth) and DeFi apps (112% growth) powered most of the expansion. Social media dApps also contributed with 29% growth.
- Near Protocol saw massive 1,902% user growth in 2023. Klaytn grew 1,099% and Arbitrum increased 624%. Popular dApps include KAI-CHING, SuperWalk, and Uniswap V3.
Web3 applications saw explosive growth in 2023, more than doubling their userbase from the previous year. Decentralized apps, also known as dApps, attracted over 42 million active users per day on average. This growth was led by blockchain networks like Near, Klaytn, and Arbitrum.
Driving Factors Behind the Growth
Non-fungible token (NFT) platforms powered much of the expansion, with a 166% increase in users over 2022. Decentralized finance (DeFi) apps came in second, posting 112% growth. Social media dApps also contributed, rising 29% thanks to leading protocols like Friend.tech, Lens Protocol, and Galxe.
Top Performing Blockchains
Near Protocol grew users an astounding 1,902% in 2023. Klaytn saw a 1,099% surge, while Arbitrum increased 624%. Popular dApps on these networks include loyalty rewards app KAI-CHING, fitness tracker SuperWalk, and decentralized exchange Uniswap V3.
Declining Blockchain Networks
Some networks suffered declines in activity. Harmony’s users fell 96% following its June 2022 bridge exploit. Solana dipped 76%, partly due to its ties to FTX. However, Solana recovered in late 2023. Hive usage dropped 68% potentially due to financial losses. Despite declines, these networks still have active dApps, including gaming leader Splinterlands.
Confirming the Web3 Growth Trend
DappRadar’s report aligns with other signs of expanding Web3 adoption. In October, app Stars Arena briefly drove over 10,000 users to Arbitrum. November saw Ethereum collect over $543 million in fees in one week from surging transactions. The data makes clear that, despite market volatility, blockchain networks and dApps are attracting more users.
