Transaction speed determines how quickly your USDT or tokens arrive. The difference between ERC20 and TRC20 is substantial — and matters most for time-sensitive transfers.
Speed is one of the most tangible differences between ERC20 and TRC20. When you send USDT, knowing how long it will take to arrive can be critical for trading, business payments, or exchanges.
TRC20 Speed: 3–5 Minutes Average
The TRON network was built with speed as a core design priority. With block times of just 3 seconds and a throughput of over 2,000 transactions per second, TRC20 transfers typically confirm within 3–5 minutes. During peak usage, this remains stable because the network rarely experiences congestion at current demand levels.
ERC20 Speed: Up to 15 Minutes
Ethereum processes approximately 15 transactions per second. Under normal conditions, ERC20 transfers confirm in around 15 minutes. During high demand periods — when DeFi protocols or NFT drops cause surges — confirmation times can extend significantly longer. Paying higher gas fees can prioritize your transaction, but this adds to the cost.
Transactions Per Second: The Core Difference
TRON handles 2,000+ TPS versus Ethereum's 15 TPS. This 133x difference in throughput explains why TRC20 maintains consistent speeds while ERC20 experiences unpredictable delays during busy periods.
When Speed Matters Most
For day traders who need to move USDT between exchanges quickly, TRC20 speed is a significant advantage. For long-term holders making occasional large transfers, the extra time ERC20 takes is usually acceptable in exchange for the security of the Ethereum network.
Time-sensitive business payments and international remittances also benefit from TRC20's consistent fast confirmation times. When someone is waiting to receive funds before releasing goods or services, a 3-minute confirmation is far more practical than a potentially 15+ minute wait.
April 16, 2026
