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LooksRare vs X2Y2: Which Ethereum NFT Marketplace Is Better in 2026?
Updated: March 2026
LooksRare and X2Y2 are both Ethereum-only NFT marketplaces that launched as alternatives to OpenSea, each offering token incentives and lower fees. While both compete for the same trader base, they differ in fee structures, reward mechanisms, and additional features. This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you choose.
LooksRare vs X2Y2: Head-to-Head
| Feature | LooksRare | X2Y2 |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.1 | 3.9 |
| Marketplace Fee | 2% | 0.5% |
| Supported Chains | Ethereum only | Ethereum only |
| Collection Count | All Ethereum NFTs | All Ethereum NFTs |
| Creator Royalties | Optional | Optional |
| Trading Volume | Moderate | Low |
| Minting Tools | No | No |
| Token Rewards | LOOKS token rewards | X2Y2 token rewards |
| Auction Support | No | No |
| Mobile App | No | No |
| Unique Features | Trading rewards, LOOKS staking, community governance | NFT loans, bulk tools, lowest fee on Ethereum |
| Visit LooksRare | Visit X2Y2 |
Fee Comparison
X2Y2 has a significant fee advantage at just 0.5% per transaction compared to LooksRare's 2%. For a 10 ETH NFT sale, the marketplace fee on X2Y2 is 0.05 ETH versus 0.2 ETH on LooksRare. This makes X2Y2 one of the cheapest Ethereum marketplaces available, second only to Blur's 0% fee.
However, both platforms offset fees with token rewards. LooksRare distributes LOOKS tokens to active traders, while X2Y2 offers its native X2Y2 token rewards. The net cost of trading depends on the value of these reward tokens, which fluctuate with market conditions. When token prices are high, the effective trading cost can be negative on both platforms.
Token Economics and Rewards
LooksRare's LOOKS token provides trading rewards and staking yields. LOOKS stakers earn a portion of the platform's trading fees, creating a passive income stream. The token also enables governance participation in platform decisions. However, LOOKS has experienced significant price depreciation from its early highs.
X2Y2 offers a similar token model with trading rewards and staking. X2Y2 token holders receive a share of marketplace fees through staking. The platform also offers an NFT loan feature that lets holders borrow against their NFTs, providing utility beyond simple token rewards. Both tokens face ongoing sell pressure from traders claiming and selling rewards.
Verdict
Choose LooksRare if you value higher trading volume and liquidity, want to earn LOOKS staking rewards, or prefer a platform with a more established track record and larger community.
Choose X2Y2 if you prioritize the lowest possible marketplace fees, want access to NFT loan features, or prefer bulk listing and purchasing tools for managing large portfolios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LooksRare and X2Y2 still active?
Both platforms continue to operate, though their trading volumes have declined significantly from their peaks. The launch of Blur with zero fees captured much of the active Ethereum trading market. Both platforms maintain their token reward programs and core features.
Is wash trading a concern on these platforms?
Both LooksRare and X2Y2 experienced significant wash trading during their initial token reward phases, as traders executed fake trades to farm token rewards. Both platforms have implemented measures to reduce wash trading, including adjusted reward calculations and volume requirements.
Should I use Blur instead of either platform?
For most active Ethereum NFT traders, Blur offers superior tools and zero fees. However, LooksRare and X2Y2 may be worthwhile if you value their specific token reward programs or niche features like X2Y2's NFT loans.