NFTs vs. cryptocurrency vs. digital currency: What’s the difference?

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3 min readJun 14, 2022

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The difference between NFTs and crypto/digital currencies will be highlighted. The rise of NFTs worldwide and the belief that they are truly unique are undoubtedly the driving forces that will ultimately lead to mass adoption.

It’s also worth noting that there are many similarities between the two, such as the ability to store digital currency and cryptocurrency in digital wallets. Let’s look at them closely and figure out those differences.

The Nature of Currencies and NFTs: Centralized and Decentralized

First off, NFTs are not interchangeable with digital currency or cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that can only be purchased in encrypted form. Although blockchain technology is used to verify transactions, the process is not the same as what banks use.

Digital currencies are centralized, which means that the state of the network’s transactions is controlled by computers and a small group of people. Cryptocurrencies and NFTs, on the other hand, are decentralized, with their respective communities setting the majority of the rules.

The following are examples of digital currency systems:

  • Digital currency backed by a central bank
  • Stablecoins are price-stabilized cryptocurrencies.
  • Bitcoin and other non-stabilized cryptocurrencies

Unlike cryptocurrencies and digital currencies, NFTs could not be traded or exchanged. Each NFT is distinct from fungible tokens, such as digital currency and cryptocurrency, which can be sold or exchanged without losing value. However, the main distinction is indicated in the name. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency. It is fungible and has only economic value, just like any other currency.

Furthermore, no one can choose the wallet’s address or view each money transfer because this information is completely confidential. On the other hand, cryptocurrencies and NFTs are transparent, allowing anyone to see any transaction. Digital wallets, which are software-based programs that securely store credit card information, are another factor.

Similarities Between Tokenization and Peer-To-Peer Systems

The use of NFTs and cryptocurrencies has the potential to eliminate the need for a middleman in the transaction process. NFTs, for example, enable all types of artists to sell directly to their fans, effectively turning them into patrons. NFTs may pave the way for a return to a more traditional art community, in which people support the artists they enjoy.

Anyone can send and receive crypto and digital currency payments using the peer-to-peer system based on blockchain technology. A public ledger keeps track of individual cryptocurrency transactions.

Many companies have developed cryptocurrencies, also known as tokens, allowing customers to exchange money for a specific product or service. To buy a product or service, one must exchange real money for cryptocurrency.

To summarize, investors are paying renewed attention to something they may have dismissed as a techie-geek trend in the past, with NFTs, cryptocurrencies, and other blockchain applications regularly capturing headlines.

Learn more about cryptocurrency by clicking here.

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