As market momentum builds, investors are shifting focus from the usual giants to a mix of reliable altcoins and high-potential newcomers

While Bitcoin holds its dominance, it's the top altcoins and early-stage tokens that are catching analysts' attention.

As market momentum builds toward what many anticipate to be the next crypto bull cycle, investors are shifting their attention away from the usual suspects and toward a mix of reliable altcoins and high-potential newcomers.

While Bitcoin maintains its dominance, it's the top altcoins and early-stage tokens that are really catching the attention of analysts who are looking for 10x or more gains in the coming year.

From Ethereum and Solana to a new token launching below $0.01 that's already gaining serious traction, here are the best cryptos to buy this week if you're aiming for long-term upside in 2025.

Ethereum (ETH) - Still the Backbone of Web3

Despite recent price volatility, Ethereum remains a cornerstone of the crypto ecosystem. With the majority of NFTs, DeFi, and Layer 2 protocols still relying on Ethereum’s smart contract infrastructure, ETH continues to enjoy network effects unmatched by other chains.

Recent upgrades have improved scalability and reduced gas fees, reinforcing its role as a foundational platform. However, with ETH trading around the $1,600 mark, many analysts believe the biggest gains are now more likely to come from smaller-cap projects, making Ethereum a solid hold rather than a moonshot play.

Solana (SOL) - Rising Fastest Among Ethereum’s Competitors

Solana has rebounded impressively after last year’s technical challenges, with its speed, low fees, and growing developer activity making it a serious contender.

It’s now powering some of the most vibrant NFT ecosystems, with meme coins and DeFi apps launching daily. Currently hovering near $140, SOL has become a favorite among traders and institutional players seeking scalability without Ethereum’s costs.

As new projects continue to choose Solana for its performance and throughput, the bullish case for SOL in 2025 remains strong.

Dogecoin (DOGE) - The Meme Coin That Refuses to Fade

Dogecoin has outlasted most of its meme coin competitors and remains a household name in the crypto world. Its simplicity, widespread recognition, and loyal community continue to keep it relevant, especially when the broader market turns bullish.

DOGE is currently trading just above $0.17, with analysts eyeing the $0.21 level as a major breakout point. While its fundamentals are limited, speculative power and cultural relevance make it a token that could see renewed hype in the coming months.

XRP (XRP) - Regulatory Clarity Opens the Door for Breakout

XRP’s long battle with the SEC has finally reached a tidy conclusion, removing a major barrier to institutional adoption. With Ripple continuing to forge partnerships with banks and payment providers, many believe XRP is entering a new phase of growth.

Though still trading below its all-time highs, XRP’s recent technical setup suggests a possible retest of the $2.20-$2.60 range if momentum returns. For those betting on real-world adoption in the payments sector, XRP remains a top contender.

The Last Dwarfs (TLD) - De-Fi Meets Gaming

The Last Dwarfs ($TLD) is quickly rising as one of the most promising new altcoins, combining Web3 gaming with DeFi through a unique Play-to-Invest model.

$TLD already boasts over 330,000 active users on its live Telegram-integrated platform, where players can mine resources, battle enemies, and unlock early access to emerging crypto projects via the Gamified Launchpad.

Currently in Stage 2 of its presale, $TLD is available for just $0.00852. With staking rewards up to 300% APY and a 15% bonus through its Ref2Earn system, early participants can secure major upside before its listing. The project recently launched a 1 million token giveaway to reward the growing community and boost engagement.

Final Thoughts - Which Coin Deserves A Spot In Your Portfolio?

Ethereum and Solana continue to prove their value as foundational chains, while DOGE and XRP offer speculative and utility-driven upside.

Yet among them all, The Last Dwarfs ($TLD) combines a novel concept, a close-knit community, and early entry opportunity—making it arguably one of the top altcoins to watch now.

As the market prepares for its next leg up, TLD might just be one of the few that delivers explosive returns from the ground floor.