Block Time

Learn more about Block Time

Here are general guidelines for selecting a block time based on common use cases. For reference, Arbitrum Orbit chains typically use a 250ms block time, while OP Stack chains commonly use 2 seconds.

Block TimeEffects & TradeoffsBest ForConsiderations
250ms – 500msNear-instant confirmations, high network demandsMost use casesRequires high-performance hardware and low-latency network connections. Monitor for chain reorganizations.
500ms – 1sBalanced responsiveness and stabilityNFT marketplaces, social platformsIdeal balance of speed and reliability. Test thoroughly to ensure block time meets user expectations.
1s – 2sLower node demands, reasonable confirmation speedsGovernance, data archivingWorks well with less powerful hardware. Perfect for cost-conscious deployments without real-time needs. (Common block time for many rollups outside of the Arbitrum ecosystem)

Factors to Consider

When choosing a block time, consider the following:

  • Application Type: Does your dApp need rapid transaction confirmations (like gaming and trading) or can it handle longer delays (like governance and record-keeping)?
  • Transaction Volume: High-throughput dApps work better with shorter block times for quick processing, while low-volume apps can function well with longer intervals.
  • Node Infrastructure: Your validators need adequate hardware and network bandwidth to handle your chosen block time, particularly at the minimum of 250 ms.
  • User Experience: While faster block times create a more responsive dApp, overly short intervals can cause reorganizations or network congestion.

Best Practices

  • Start Conservative: If uncertain, begin with a 1-second block time—it provides a good balance for most dApps. You can fine-tune this based on performance testing.
  • Test Thoroughly: Deploy your appchain on a testnet first to assess how your chosen block time affects transaction latency, node performance, and user experience.
  • Monitor Node Health: Shorter block times (particularly 250 ms) demand robust infrastructure. Keep track of CPU, memory, and network usage to ensure validators perform optimally.
  • Consider Finality: While block time influences confirmation speed, transaction finality depends on your consensus mechanism. Consult Syndicate's consensus documentation for specifics.
  • Plan for Scalability: Your dApp's transaction volume will likely grow. Pick a block time that can handle future demand, or be prepared to optimize your chain's configuration accordingly.

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