Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs) are redefining how real-world infrastructure is built, managed, and monetized using blockchain technology. By enabling individuals to contribute physical resources—like storage, computing power, or network bandwidth—and earn cryptocurrency in return, DePINs create resilient, cost-efficient, and transparent systems that challenge traditional centralized models.
According to a Messari State of DePIN report, the number of DePIN projects has surged from fewer than 100 in 2022 to 1,170 in 2024, with sector revenue increasing by 33x over the same period. The report also highlights growing interest from local governments exploring DePINs as solutions for urban infrastructure challenges. With projections estimating the DePIN market could reach $3.5 trillion by 2028, it’s clear this sector is poised for explosive growth.
But which emerging DePIN crypto projects should you be tracking? Below, we explore five high-potential DePIN networks that combine innovation, strong adoption metrics, and real-world utility.
What Is DePIN in Crypto?
A Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) leverages blockchain to decentralize ownership and operation of physical hardware such as GPUs, storage devices, and wireless networking equipment. Instead of relying on centralized providers like Amazon Web Services or telecom giants, DePINs distribute control across a global network of contributors.
Participants who provide resources—such as idle hard drive space or unused GPU cycles—are rewarded in native tokens. The more you contribute, the greater your share of rewards and governance rights. This model not only incentivizes participation but also reduces costs by eliminating intermediaries and improving scalability.
Blockchain’s transparency ensures all contributions are verifiable and tamper-proof. Meanwhile, decentralized architecture removes single points of failure, enhancing security and resilience.
Notable examples include:
- Filecoin: A peer-to-peer data storage network.
- Helium: A decentralized wireless network powered by user-installed hotspots.
As demand for scalable, affordable, and sustainable infrastructure grows—especially in AI, cloud computing, and edge networks—DePINs are becoming increasingly critical to the future of tech infrastructure.
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5 DePIN Projects to Watch in 2025
1. NodeOps Network – The Scalable DePIN Orchestrator
NodeOps Network functions as a DePIN orchestrator layer, managing coordination and resource allocation across blockchains. Its flagship offerings include:
- Node-as-a-Service (NaaS) via the NodeOps Console
- A DePIN marketplace (Cloud Marketplace) for buying and selling computing resources
Developers can easily deploy nodes for dApps across 80+ blockchains, including Solana, Arbitrum, Avail, and KIP. This cross-chain versatility makes NodeOps a powerful tool for building decentralized applications without vendor lock-in.
The project evolved from the Atlas Network testnet, which attracted over 300,000 verified users and 3.44 million registered wallets. In early 2025, NodeOps ranked 4th on DePIN.Ninja’s revenue leaderboard, outperforming many established competitors—despite not yet launching its mainnet or token.
This revenue traction proves NodeOps has built a viable business model independent of token speculation—a rare feat in crypto.
Why NodeOps Stands Out
- Already generating significant revenue pre-token launch
- Supports an extensive range of blockchains
- Uses Autonomous Verifiable Services (AVS) for enhanced security
- High user engagement during testnet phase
With a token generation event on the horizon, NodeOps could see accelerated growth as incentives align with existing demand.
2. Render Network – Powering Decentralized GPU Rendering
The Render Network connects artists and studios with a distributed network of GPU providers to render high-quality visual effects and 3D animations at a fraction of traditional costs.
Users can either:
- Rent GPU power to render projects quickly
- Contribute idle GPUs and earn $RNDR tokens
Seamless integration with industry-standard tools like Blender and Cinema 4D allows creators to submit rendering jobs without leaving their workflow. Pricing is competitive:
- Priority tier: €0.50 per 200 OBH (equivalent to one hour on an RTX 2070)
- Economy tier: Just €0.25 per 200 OBH
Recent updates include differential uploads—allowing changes to lighting or materials without re-uploading entire assets—boosting efficiency for iterative creative work.
The network has rendered over 46 million frames, equivalent to 200–400 hours of video content. With RenderCon 2025 set for April 15th, expect new integrations or product expansions that could further boost adoption.
Why Render Is a Strong Contender
- Proven use case in creative industries
- Consistent product improvements
- Growing demand from AI and animation sectors
- Upcoming event likely to unveil new features
As AI-generated content explodes, Render’s decentralized rendering solution becomes even more valuable.
3. Akash Network – The Open Cloud Marketplace
Akash Network is a decentralized cloud computing marketplace where users can buy and sell unused server capacity globally. It enables trustless deployment of applications through its Akash Console, offering an alternative to AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure.
Key advantages:
- Average cost savings of 30% compared to traditional cloud providers
- No single point of failure due to decentralized architecture
- Transparent pricing with real-time comparisons
In late 2024, Akash launched support for DeepSeek R1, allowing developers to host AI models on its platform. It also underwent a major v2.0 upgrade, improving performance and scalability.
A recent Grayscale report highlighted Akash’s exponential growth in fee revenue, which has tripled since October 2024, alongside GPU lease activity.
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Why Akash Deserves Attention
- Rapid revenue growth backed by institutional research
- Active development and frequent upgrades
- Strong focus on AI and machine learning use cases
- User-friendly interface with cost-saving tools
As enterprises seek cheaper, more resilient cloud alternatives, Akash is well-positioned to capture market share.
4. Io.net – On-Demand GPU Access for AI Workloads
Built on Solana, Io.net offers decentralized access to GPU resources optimized for machine learning and AI training. Contributors earn tokens by renting out idle GPUs, while developers gain affordable compute power.
The platform features three core components:
- IO Cloud: Manages GPU allocation
- IO Worker: Enables users to rent out hardware
- IO Intelligence: Integrates AI tools into applications
Since launching, Io.net has delivered over 7.1 million compute hours in January 2025 alone—an increase from 5 million in December 2024. The project raised $30 million in 2024 to build an “internet of GPUs” and has formed partnerships with networks like Injective, Nillion, and QUAI.
With demand for AI compute skyrocketing, Io.net’s scalable, low-cost model fills a critical gap in the ecosystem.
Why Io.net Is Rising Fast
- Built on fast, low-cost Solana blockchain
- Strong growth in compute hours delivered
- Expanding partnership ecosystem (80+ collaborators)
- Focused on high-demand AI and ML applications
Its momentum suggests it could become a go-to solution for AI startups and researchers.
5. Storj – Secure, Low-Cost Decentralized Storage
Storj offers a decentralized alternative to cloud storage platforms like AWS S3. Built on Ethereum, it allows users to earn by sharing unused disk space while providing businesses with secure, scalable storage at up to 90% lower cost.
Additional benefits:
- Data encrypted and split across nodes for privacy
- Up to 83% reduction in carbon emissions
- No single point of failure enhances reliability
In 2024, Storj reported a 7x increase in annual recurring revenue, with average monthly growth of 20%. It also expanded into GPU cloud services, positioning itself beyond just storage.
Storj can function as a direct replacement for AWS S3, making migration easy for enterprises looking to cut costs and improve sustainability.
Why Storj Is Gaining Traction
- Exceptional revenue growth metrics
- Environmentally friendly infrastructure
- Dual focus on storage and GPU computing
- Enterprise-ready compatibility
As businesses prioritize ESG goals and cost efficiency, Storj’s value proposition becomes increasingly compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes DePIN different from traditional cloud services?
A: DePIN eliminates intermediaries by connecting resource providers directly with users via blockchain. This reduces costs, improves transparency, enhances security through decentralization, and rewards contributors with crypto—features typically absent in centralized models.
Q: Are DePIN projects profitable without tokens?
A: Yes—projects like NodeOps and Akash generate real revenue from service fees before launching tokens. This proves their business models are viable beyond speculation, increasing long-term sustainability.
Q: How do I participate in a DePIN network?
A: You can contribute unused hardware—such as storage space, GPUs, or bandwidth—or use the network’s services at lower costs than traditional providers. Most platforms offer simple dashboards to manage contributions or purchases.
Q: Is DePIN related to AI development?
A: Absolutely. Many DePINs like Io.net and Akash support AI model training and inference by providing affordable GPU access. As AI demands grow, DePINs offer scalable infrastructure solutions.
Q: Can DePIN replace big tech cloud providers?
A: While full replacement may take time, DePINs are already competitive in niche areas like rendering, storage, and AI compute. Their cost efficiency and resilience make them strong alternatives for specific workloads.
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Final Thoughts
The rise of DePIN crypto projects signals a fundamental shift in how digital infrastructure is built and accessed. By aligning economic incentives with real-world utility, these networks foster innovation, reduce costs, and promote sustainability.
While no single project dominates the space yet, those showing strong adoption—like NodeOps, Render Network, Akash, Io.net, and Storj—are worth monitoring closely in 2025.
Core keywords: DePIN crypto, decentralized infrastructure, GPU computing, decentralized storage, blockchain networks, AI compute, cloud marketplace, NodeOps Network
As blockchain continues bridging the digital and physical worlds, DePINs will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of scalable, user-owned tech ecosystems.