Best Restaking Protocols in 2026

The restaking landscape in 2026 is dominated by three key protocols, ranked here by total value locked (TVL) and track record. Leading the pack is EigenLayer with a staggering $12B TVL, supported by one chain, three audits, and a track record since 2023.

Symbiotic holds the second spot with $2B TVL, boasting two audits and launched in 2024. Karak rounds out the top three with $0.6B TVL but offers the widest chain support across five networks, also starting in 2024. These protocols represent the state of restaking in 2026, each with varying scale and multichain reach.

  1. #1 EigenLayer $12B TVL 1 chains · 3 audits · since 2023

    Pioneer restaking protocol. Lets ETH and LST holders restake to secure Actively Validated Services (AVSs) such as EigenDA, bridges, and oracles in exchange for rewards.

  2. #2 Symbiotic $2B TVL 1 chains · 2 audits · since 2024

    Permissionless restaking protocol. Supports any ERC-20 collateral (not just ETH/LSTs). Modular design lets networks fully customize slashing and rewards. Cyber Fund / Paradigm-back

  3. #3 Karak $0.6B TVL 5 chains · 3 audits · since 2024

    Multi-asset restaking platform supporting ETH, LSTs, LRTs, BTC derivatives, and stablecoins. K2 is a universal restaking-secured L2; Distributed Secure Services consume security.

Frequently asked questions

What is the largest restaking protocol by TVL?

EigenLayer, with $12B TVL.

What is the TVL of Symbiotic?

Symbiotic has $2B TVL.

Which restaking protocol supports the most chains?

Karak supports 5 chains, the most among the top protocols.

When was EigenLayer launched?

EigenLayer was launched in 2023.