Last Updated: March 2026
Sui is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain built by former Meta (Facebook) engineers using the Move programming language. Designed for speed and developer experience, Sui has rapidly grown into one of the most promising new L1s.
History and Founders
Built by Mysten Labs, founded by former Meta engineers who worked on the Diem (Libra) blockchain project. Key founders include Evan Cheng, Sam Blackshear, and Adeniyi Abiodun. Mainnet launched in May 2023. Backed by a16z, Jump Crypto, and other top VCs.
How Sui Works
Sui uses an object-oriented architecture (unique in crypto) where assets are objects that can be processed in parallel. This enables significantly higher throughput than traditional blockchains. Uses the Move programming language (originally developed at Meta) for safer smart contracts. See smart contract guide.
Tokenomics
Supply: 10B SUI total. Staking: Delegated PoS. See staking guide. See tokenomics guide.
Use Cases
- Gaming: Object model is ideal for gaming assets
- DeFi: Growing ecosystem with DEXs and lending. See DeFi guide
- Consumer apps: zkLogin enables social login without seed phrases
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Ex-Meta engineering talent
- Pro: Object-oriented architecture enables parallelization
- Pro: Move language prevents common smart contract bugs
- Con: Young ecosystem, less battle-tested
- Con: Competes with Solana and Ethereum L2s. See ETH vs SOL
- Con: VC-heavy token distribution
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sui better than Aptos?
Both use Move language. Sui’s object model enables better parallelization. Neither has clearly won.
What is zkLogin?
zkLogin lets users create Sui accounts using social login — no seed phrases needed.
Is SUI a good investment?
Strong tech and VC backing. Risk: heavy VC allocation and competition from Solana.
