Last Updated: March 2026
Rocket Pool is the most decentralized Ethereum liquid staking protocol. Unlike Lido (which uses a curated set of node operators), Rocket Pool lets anyone run a validator with just 8 ETH — promoting true decentralization of Ethereum staking.
History
Founded by David Rugendyke in 2016 — one of the oldest Ethereum staking projects. Launched on mainnet in 2021. Rocket Pool’s permissionless minipool design means anyone can participate as a node operator, not just institutional validators. See ETH staking guide.
How It Works
- Stakers: Deposit any amount of ETH and receive rETH (liquid staking token). rETH appreciates in value as staking rewards accrue
- Node operators: Deposit 8 ETH (instead of 32) + RPL collateral to run a minipool. The remaining 24 ETH comes from the staker pool
- rETH: Unlike Lido’s stETH (rebasing), rETH’s price increases over time — simpler for DeFi and taxes
See Lido comparison and staking guide.
Tokenomics
RPL: 18M total supply. Utility: Node operators must stake RPL as collateral (10-150% of their ETH value). This creates demand tied directly to network growth. See tokenomics.
Rocket Pool vs Lido
- Rocket Pool: Permissionless (anyone can run a node), more decentralized, rETH doesn’t rebase (tax simpler)
- Lido: Curated operators, larger TVL ($15B+ vs $3B+), stETH more liquid/integrated. See Lido guide
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Most decentralized ETH liquid staking (permissionless nodes)
- Pro: RPL collateral requirement creates organic demand
- Pro: rETH is tax-simpler than stETH (no rebasing)
- Pro: Only 8 ETH to run a node (vs 32 for solo staking)
- Con: Smaller TVL and liquidity than Lido
- Con: rETH is less integrated in DeFi than stETH
- Con: Node operators need both ETH and RPL (double capital requirement)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rocket Pool safe to use?
Rocket Pool has been audited but all DeFi carries smart contract risk. Use established protocols and start with small amounts.
Is Rocket Pool a good investment?
Evaluate based on real revenue, TVL growth, and token utility. Best as a small DeFi allocation alongside BTC and ETH.
How do I use Rocket Pool?
Connect a Web3 wallet (MetaMask or Phantom) to the protocol’s website. Start with small amounts to learn the mechanics.
