Top 5 Altcoins Under $1 - Best Cryptocurrencies to Buy Now!

As we move through August 2025, many investors are on the lookout for altcoins with high growth potential but affordable prices. 

Some altcoins under $1 are gaining significant attention due to their unique technology, partnerships, and market positioning.

Whether you're new to the crypto space or looking to diversify your portfolio, these altcoins present some of the best opportunities for cryptocurrency investment.

In this article, we’ll dive into the top 5 altcoins under $1 that are making waves in the crypto market right now. 

From blockchain pioneers like Cardano to meme coin favourites like Pudgy Penguins, there’s something for every investor. Let’s get straight into it.

READ ALSO: What is Altcoin Season and How to Get Profit on It?

1. Cardano (ADA) - $0.92

Market Cap: $32.8 billion | Rank: #10

Cardano (ADA) has long been a leader among sub-dollar altcoins. Holding its position in the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market cap, Cardano has consistently delivered strong performance. 

As of August 2025, the project is gaining even more momentum with major updates and innovations.

Key Catalysts for Growth:

• Midnight Glacier Airdrop: Cardano’s partnership with multiple blockchain networks for the NIGHT token airdrop is expected to drive up its adoption and market presence.
   
• Chang Upgrade Implementation: This upgrade has bolstered Cardano's governance and secured $71 million in funding, pushing forward its ambitious 12-month roadmap.
   
• Price Prediction: Analysts predict ADA could reach $0.96 by the end of August 2025, offering a modest return.

Cardano’s solid fundamentals and growing ecosystem make it an excellent choice for conservative investors looking to get into altcoins under $1.

2. Hedera (HBAR) - $0.25

Market Cap: $10.5 billion | Rank: #16

Hedera stands apart due to its unique hashgraph technology. Unlike traditional blockchains, Hedera’s consensus mechanism offers greater scalability and energy efficiency. 

These features make it an attractive option for businesses and enterprises looking to integrate blockchain technology.

Why Hedera is a Strong Contender:

• Enterprise Partnerships: Hedera’s governing council includes major corporations such as Google, IBM, and Dell, signaling strong institutional interest.
   
• Fixed Transaction Costs: Hedera provides predictable transaction fees, making it easier for businesses to integrate.
   
• Energy Efficiency: More energy-efficient than Bitcoin and Visa, making it a more sustainable choice for large-scale operations.
   
• Price Outlook: Hedera could see a modest rise to $0.28 by August 2025.

The network’s real-world applications and high-profile partnerships make Hedera a solid investment in the altcoin market.

Read Also: Delaware Added Grayscale Cardano Trust ETF and Hedera Trust ETF: Here's The Update!

3. Stellar (XLM) - $0.41

Market Cap: $12.7 billion | Rank: #12

Stellar (XML) has remained one of the most underrated cryptocurrencies, despite its powerful position in the top 15 by market cap. Its focus on global payments, especially for underbanked populations, positions it well for long-term success.

Stellar’s Competitive Edge:

• ISO 20022 Compliance: Stellar is one of the few blockchain networks that meet universal financial standards, making it a trusted solution for financial institutions.
   
• Major Partnerships: Partnerships with PayPal and MoneyGram have made Stellar a go-to option for cross-border payments.
   
• Remittance Growth: The project saw over $1.5 billion in remittances during Q1 2025, especially in Latin America and Africa.
   
• Price Forecast: Analysts expect XLM to reach $0.42 by the end of August 2025, offering steady but sustainable growth.

Stellar’s blend of financial inclusion and cutting-edge blockchain technology makes it an excellent pick for crypto investors seeking reliable growth.

READ ALSO: Next Big Meme Coins to Explode in 2025

4. Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) - $0.031

Market Cap: $2.7 billion | Rank: #55

Pudgy Penguins is a meme coin that has evolved into a serious contender in the altcoin market. The project blends viral digital culture with physical merchandise, gaining attention from the broader crypto community.

Why Pudgy Penguins Is Gaining Popularity:

• Physical Merchandise: Pudgy Penguins products are now available in major retailers such as Walmart and Target, expanding its brand recognition.
   
• Viral Marketing: The project has accumulated millions of likes on TikTok and billions of views on social platforms, cementing its position in the meme coin world.
   
• Blue Chip Status: Pudgy Penguins has outpaced other notable meme coin projects like Board Ape Yacht Club in terms of social media engagement.
   
• Price Target: Projected to reach $0.04, Pudgy Penguins could see impressive returns of up to 29% in the near term.

With its viral appeal and growing mainstream presence, Pudgy Penguins represents a fun yet lucrative speculative investment.

5. Ethena (ENA) - $0.68

Market Cap: $5.1 billion | Rank: #31

Ethena (ENA) has emerged as a key player in the stablecoin sector, particularly with its USDE stablecoin. The project is gaining momentum with its compliance with the Genius Act and its strong DeFi integrations.

Ethena’s Growth Drivers:

• USDE Stablecoin: As the third-largest stablecoin by market cap, Ethena is gaining significant traction in the DeFi space.
   
• Regulatory Compliance: Ethena was one of the first projects to comply with the Genius Act, offering a high level of trust among investors.
   
• DeFi Partnerships: Strong collaborations with platforms like Curve Finance and Uniswap support its growth.
   
• Price Prediction: Ethena could reach $0.75 by the end of August 2025, offering consistent returns.

Ethena’s stablecoin technology and increasing presence in the DeFi sector make it a standout choice for those looking to invest in stable, growth-oriented projects.

Conclusion: Why These Altcoins Matter

The altcoin market is full of opportunities, and investing in altcoins under $1 can offer impressive returns. 

Whether you're looking for stable, long-term growth (like Cardano and Hedera) or seeking high-risk, high-reward opportunities (like Pudgy Penguins and Ethena), these five altcoins show the diverse possibilities in the crypto world.

As the market continues to mature, these altcoins are well-positioned for growth, thanks to their strong fundamentals and innovation.

Ready to trade these altcoins or explore more about cryptocurrency? Check out Bitrue Exchange for your next trade or read up on the latest crypto news at Bitrue Blogs.

FAQ

What are the best altcoins under $1 to buy right now?

Top altcoins under $1 include Cardano (ADA), Hedera (HBAR), Stellar (XLM), Pudgy Penguins (PENGU), and Ethena (ENA). Each has unique growth potential and solid fundamentals.

Why is Cardano a good investment?

Cardano is known for its strong fundamentals, including a peer-reviewed approach to blockchain development and major ecosystem upgrades. It’s a top choice for conservative investors.

What makes Hedera stand out?

Hedera’s unique hashgraph technology offers better scalability and energy efficiency compared to traditional blockchains, making it a favorite for enterprise solutions.

Is Pudgy Penguins just a meme coin?

Pudgy Penguins combines meme coin culture with tangible real-world merchandise and high engagement across social platforms, making it a compelling speculative investment.

How does Ethena’s stablecoin differ from others?

Ethena’s USDE stablecoin is known for its regulatory compliance and strong DeFi integrations, providing stability and growth in the decentralized finance ecosystem.