Leading Ethereum liquid restaking protocol with non-custodial key control
Last updated: July 2026
Ether.fi is one of the leading Ethereum liquid restaking protocols, letting users stake ETH to receive eETH — a liquid token that earns both Ethereum staking rewards and additional restaking rewards via EigenLayer, all while remaining usable across DeFi. Its distinguishing feature is a non-custodial, decentralized staking design where stakers retain control of their validator keys rather than handing them to the protocol, addressing a key criticism of more centralized liquid staking. Ether.fi has grown into one of the largest restaking protocols by TVL, and it has expanded into a broader ecosystem including a cash/card product and its own token. eETH (and wrapped weETH) are widely integrated across DeFi. The trade-offs: restaking adds a layer of risk on top of staking — you're exposed to the slashing conditions of the additional services secured via EigenLayer, plus the usual smart-contract risk; restaking rewards are partly variable and points-driven; and the space is newer and more complex than plain staking. But for users who want liquid ETH staking with the extra yield of restaking — and a more decentralized, key-retaining design — Ether.fi is one of the most prominent and trusted options in the liquid restaking category.
Ether.fi offers a free plan.
Ether.fi
Free
| Feature | Ether.fi |
|---|---|
| Liquid Token | eETH / weETH |
| Minimum Stake | None |
| Reward Frequency | Continuous |
| Defi Compatible | ✓ |
| Node Operator Model | Decentralized, key-retaining |
| Governance Token | ✓ |
| Multi Chain | ✗ |
| Slashing Protection | ✗ |
| Withdrawal Enabled | ✓ |
| Insurance Fund | ✗ |
Yes, Ether.fi has a free plan.
Ether.fi is used for leading ethereum liquid restaking protocol with non-custodial key control. It's primarily used by Web3 teams in the Staking & Liquid Staking category.
See our full alternatives comparison at https://chainpick.io/alternatives/ether-fi.
Ether.fi has a rating of 4.5/5 based on 176 reviews. Key strength: Leading liquid restaking protocol by TVL. Main limitation: Restaking adds slashing exposure from extra services.
Get started for free — no credit card required.