Forget the usual picks. The best long-term cryptos in 2025 are not just Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. This cycle is being led by bold new players that are rewriting the rules and drawing attention in ways the old guard is not.

Aptos, BlockDAG (BDAG), Pudgy Penguin, and Sei are each making noise for very different reasons. From explosive presale performance to real-world asset growth, NFT-fueled brand moments, and regulatory-driven DeFi expansion, these projects are not just following trends; they are creating them.

As the market shifts from speculation to structure, these names are gaining real traction. They are not just part of the conversation; they are helping define it. Here is how they are standing out in 2025.

1. BlockDAG (BDAG): Expands Global Reach While Presale Hits Record Heights

BlockDAG is rewriting the playbook on crypto launches. With over $350 million raised and 24.2 billion coins sold, it now holds the title for the biggest presale in crypto history. Add in more than 18,600 miners already in circulation, and the momentum becomes impossible to ignore. But it is the global expansion strategy that is truly setting BlockDAG apart.

Recent partnerships with Inter Milan, HackerEarth, and now the Seattle Seawolves and Orcas have expanded BlockDAG’s visibility across both tech and sports. These collaborations are not just branding moves; they are part of a broader push to bring Web3 tools into real-world spaces. Another US-based partnership is reportedly on the way, signaling that BlockDAG is not slowing down.

With the BDAG price currently locked at $0.0016 until August 11 and a launch target of $0.05, early participants are looking at a 3,025% gain. With over 2 million users already mining through the X1 app and 200,000 holders onboard, BlockDAG is cementing its place among the best long-term cryptos in the market today.

2. Aptos (APT): Expands RWA Reach with Government Support

Aptos is quickly rising in the world of real-world assets, securing its position as one of the best long-term cryptos to monitor. With over $538 million locked across tokenized U.S. Treasuries, private credit, and institutional-grade funds, it now ranks third in RWA total value locked, following only Ethereum and zkSync.

Its mission to bridge DeFi with traditional finance is gaining real traction. Recent ecosystem upgrades and key partnerships are helping drive adoption. The state of Wyoming’s selection of Aptos to host its WYST stablecoin is a major confidence boost. Rather than chasing headlines, Aptos is building the kind of foundation that supports sustainable long-term value.

3. Pudgy Penguin: Crosses Over from NFTs to Institutional Buzz

Pudgy Penguin is moving beyond NFT circles and into the broader spotlight, becoming one of the best long-term cryptos with a strong narrative. The spark came when Coinbase changed its social profile to a Pudgy NFT, which triggered a 60% surge in PENGU’s price and drove its floor price to 11.5 ETH.

Momentum continued with the SEC acknowledging an ETF filing from Canary Capital and Coinbase, bringing in NFT influencer AlexOnChain. Pudgy Penguin is blending internet culture, financial relevance, and brand recognition in a way that stands out, especially in a meme-heavy market. Its growing reach is drawing attention from both collectors and institutions.

4. Sei: Gains Ground with Regulatory Approval and DeFi Expansion

Sei has seen massive growth in just a few months, jumping from $60 million to over $626 million in total value locked. With full regulatory approval in Japan and a focus on developer-first upgrades, Sei is now one of the best long-term cryptos for those watching real infrastructure take shape.

The network’s move to an EVM-only structure is designed to support faster deployment and wider compatibility. A U.S.-backed stablecoin pilot is already live, adding further legitimacy. While SEI’s price remains modest, rising activity and adoption levels suggest that the groundwork is being laid for a meaningful breakout in the next cycle.

Key Insights

From presale milestones to regulatory approval and breakout brand moves, these four projects are not just riding waves; they are building lasting impact. BlockDAG, Aptos, Pudgy Penguin, and Sei each bring something different to the table, and all are entering the next phase of the market with serious momentum.

Still, BlockDAG continues to stand out. Its unmatched presale numbers, expanding global partnerships, and growing user base reflect a strategy built for sustainability. Among the best long-term cryptos, BlockDAG is proving it has both the vision and traction to lead well into 2025 and beyond.