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Tools · Lightning vs On-Chain
1 MIN READ

Lightning vs on-chain:
when does each make sense?

Sending a small amount? Large amount? The math on when Lightning saves money vs on-chain, based on your payment size and the current fee environment.

Check current: mempool.space ↗

100 ppm = 0.01% typical. Higher for obscure routes.

ON-CHAIN
FEE (SATS)
0
FEE (USD)
$0
LIGHTNING
FEE (SATS)
0
FEE (USD)
$0
VERDICT

Lightning fees vary by route and liquidity. These are typical estimates. Large Lightning payments sometimes fail due to liquidity limits on intermediate channels.

Related

→ How It Works → Lightning Network Guide → Fee Estimator

Estimates only. Actual routing fees on Lightning vary widely.