What is Sui (SUI)?
Sui is a layer-1 blockchain designed for high speed, low fees, and scalability. The blockchain focuses primarily on the development of next-gen Web3 apps and games. Sui is written in Move, a secure programming language originally developed by Meta for Diem (the former Facebook crypto project).
How does Sui work?
Sui has a unique approach to data storage and transaction processing. Unlike many other blockchains, Sui processes so-called
independent transactions—such as two users sending NFTs independently of each other—
in parallel rather than sequentially. This method, called
parallel execution, makes the network much more efficient and drastically reduces transaction latency.
Sui also uses an innovative transaction model in which simple operations, like transferring a token, do not require a traditional consensus mechanism. This enables
extremely low latency and very high throughput, making the network highly suitable for user-intensive applications such as gaming or social dApps.
Under the hood, Sui runs on a customised version of the Move programming language, called
Sui Move. This language uses an
object-based model, where each digital item is treated as a standalone object. This allows developers to manage assets in smart contracts with greater safety and precision—avoiding risks like double spending or race conditions.
Sui also introduces a noteworthy feature called
ZkLogin: a technology that allows users to log in with existing Web2 accounts such as Google or Apple ID, significantly lowering the barrier to entry.
In short: Sui prioritises efficiency and scalability over traditional blockchain standards. The network is particularly well-suited for interactive applications such as games, NFT platforms, DeFi, and social apps—offering speed and user-friendliness as key advantages.
Who founded Sui?
Sui was developed by Mysten Labs, a blockchain company founded by former Meta (Facebook) engineers. The founders previously worked on the Diem blockchain and the Move language.
Key figures include: Evan Cheng (CEO of Mysten Labs), Sam Blackshear (Creator of the Move language), George Danezis and Adeniyi Abiodun (former Meta tech leads). On 3 May 2023, the Sui Mainnet officially launched, supported by more than 100 validators and over 400 nodes.
What makes Sui unique?
Sui stands out in several ways:
Parallel transaction execution: reduced wait times, higher throughput.
Object-based architecture: everything on-chain is treated as an “object”, offering more flexibility.
Move language: according to developers, safer and better suited for smart contracts than Solidity.
On-chain assets with native upgrade capabilities: useful for gaming & NFT platforms.
ZkLogin: users can enter Web3 using a simple Google login, without seed phrase hassle.
What is ZkLogin?
ZkLogin is a unique feature of Sui that allows users to log in with existing Web2 accounts (such as Google or Apple ID)
without having to manage a wallet themselves.
Here‘s how it works: users authenticate via Google or Apple. Sui then uses zero-knowledge proofs to link this identity to a wallet address.
The result is a simple onboarding experience without compromising privacy. This significantly lowers the barrier to entry.
ZkLogin is essential for mainstream adoption—it makes Web3 accessible to non-tech users and is unique among layer-1 chains.
Sui vs. other cryptocurrencies
Sui focuses on high throughput, scalability, and ease of use. This puts it in a similar category to other smart contract platforms like Ethereum, Solana, and Aptos. However, Sui has introduced more innovation compared to Ethereum, particularly with the ZkLogin feature. Like Sui, Aptos also uses the Move programming language but with a different design philosophy. The table below outlines the key differences between these blockchains.
Feature |
Sui |
Ethereum |
Solana |
Aptos |
Language |
Move |
Solidity |
Rust |
Move |
Execution |
Parallel (when non-interactive) |
Sequential |
Parallel |
Parallel |
Target Audience |
Games, dApps |
General-purpose |
Games, DeFi |
dApps, NFTs |
Launch |
2023 |
2015 |
2020 |
2022 |
Is Sui suitable for NFTs?
Yes. Sui is ideal for NFT platforms thanks to its fast processing, low fees, and flexible object-based architecture. Many NFTs on Sui can be dynamically adjusted or respond to interactions.
Is Sui open-source?
Yes, both the Sui codebase and the Move programming language are open-source. Developers are free to build on the network.
What is the role of the SUI token?
The native SUI token is used for:
Transaction fees
Staking & validator rewards
Governance (in the future)
How do I buy SUI?
Want to buy Sui? SUI is available on multiple exchanges, including Coinmerce. Make sure you have a wallet that supports Sui (such as the Sui Wallet), or store the token safely in your Coinmerce account. Coinmerce allows you to buy SUI easily and quickly with iDeal.
What are the risks of Sui?
As with any new blockchain, there are risks involved:
Low adoption or slow growth
Competition from similar projects (like Aptos, Solana)
Potential bugs in Move-based smart contracts
What is the outlook for Sui?
Sui is regarded as a promising infrastructure for Web3 applications, with a strong focus on speed and user experience. If ZkLogin and its NFT services gain traction, Sui could become a serious competitor to existing L1s.