What is the Difference between NFTs and Crypto?

Jakarta, Pintu News – In the ever-evolving digital world, terms such as NFTs and cryptocurrencies are heard more and more frequently, especially among investors, artists, and tech enthusiasts.

While both are based on blockchain technology, NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) or Ethereum (ETH) have fundamental differences in their functions, properties, and uses. This article will fully discuss what differentiates NFTs from crypto, so that you can understand the role of each in today’s digital ecosystem.

What is Cryptocurrency (Crypto)?

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency. The term “crypto” comes from the technology used to secure these currencies, which is cryptography. Cryptography ensures that cryptocurrencies are highly protected and almost impossible to counterfeit ordouble-spend. For this reason, cryptocurrencies are often referred to as highly secure digital tokens.

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Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, cryptocurrencies do not rely on government authorities or financial institutions for their creation or use. Cryptocurrencies are usually stored in digital wallets (crypto wallets) and allow anyone to send and receive payments.

Every time someone makes a transaction with cryptocurrency, the transaction data will be recorded in a distributed ledger that is immutable.

A number of organizations have issued their own cryptocurrencies-often referred to as tokens-toallow people to exchange them specifically for the products or services they offer. To be able to purchase such products or services, one needs to exchange real currency for the corresponding cryptocurrency.

Here are some examples of popular cryptocurrencies:

• Bitcoin (BTC): The first cryptocurrency created in 2009. Bitcoin can be bought and sold using various currencies through platforms called bitcoin exchanges.
• Ether (ETH): This is the cryptocurrency of Ethereum, a blockchain-based platform that allows developers to createsmart contracts and decentralized applications.
• Tether (USDT): A stablecoin whose value is directly linked to fiat currencies such as the US dollar, euro or yen. The price of Tether tends to be more stable compared to Bitcoin or Ether, which experience sharp fluctuations.

What is NFT?

NFT stands for non-fungible token. Just like cryptocurrencies, NFTs are also digital tokens or digital assets. However, unlike cryptocurrencies that are fungible (interchangeable), NFTs are unique and cannot be confused with one another. However, both are based on blockchain technology and are listed as cryptographic assets.

The easiest comparison to understand is between physical money and collectibles that are valuable for their uniqueness. Cryptocurrencies are fungible-for example, a certain amount of ETH in one person’s digital wallet has the exact same value and function as the same amount of ETH in another person’s wallet.

Now, imagine a physical object that you own and is special because there is only one of it. It could be a painting, a collectible like a baseball card or a rare stamp, or a first edition book signed by the author. These objects are non-fungible.

If someone asked you to trade your signed first edition book for an unsigned fifth edition print, you would definitely refuse. Although the content of the text is the same, they are not of equal value and uniqueness. Therefore, they are not interchangeable.

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What are the Similarities Between NFTs and Crypto?

NFTs and crypto have a number of similarities, among them:

• Digital assets: Both are forms of digital assets that can be owned, bought, and sold.
• Part of Web 30: NFTs and cryptocurrencies belong to the Web 3.0 ecosystem, which is touted as the next generation of the internet by its proponents.
• Blockchain-based: Both NFTs and cryptocurrencies are built on blockchain technology, which provides a decentralized and transparent system for validating and recording transactions. This technology also ensures data security and authenticity.
• Decentralization: The management of cryptocurrencies and NFTs does not rely on a central authority, but rather is governed by their respective communities.
• Tokenization: Central to the use of cryptocurrencies and NFTs is the process of tokenization. Cryptocurrencies serve as tokens that represent a certain value on the blockchain, while NFTs are tokens that represent ownership of a unique digital asset.
• Ownership and transferability: Individuals can own, buy, and sell both NFTs and cryptocurrencies through the blockchain.

These two technologies also support each other. For example, one can buy or sell NFTs for an agreed amount of cryptocurrency.

Difference between NFT and Crypto

As with any other form of asset, crypto and NFTs have advantages and disadvantages for their users.

Cryptocurrency is a secure and decentralized form of digital payment, allowing users to send and receive money without third-party intervention. Transactions with crypto are cross-border and can be done quickly and easily, making them particularly useful for overseas remittances or payment for goods and services. In addition, cryptocurrencies are often not subject to the same regulations and taxes as fiat currencies, which is attractive to many users.

However, the main drawback lies in the high market volatility. The price of crypto assets can change drastically in a short period of time as it is affected by unstable market conditions.

Meanwhile, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are unique, indivisible digital assets that can represent both physical and digital goods. NFTs can be bought, sold, or exchanged using crypto tokens. Another advantage is that NFTs are immutable-that is, the ownership and data recorded in them cannot be changed or manipulated.

However, the downside of NFTs is that they are still relatively new technology, which can be confusing for beginners. Also, since they are digital, NFTs are vulnerable to cyberattacks and hacking, which can lead to loss of value or even the asset itself.

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*Disclaimer

This content aims to enrich readers’ information. Pintu collects this information from various relevant sources and is not influenced by outside parties. Note that an asset’s past performance does not determine its projected future performance. Crypto trading activities are subject to high risk and volatility, always do your own research and use cold hard cash before investing. All activities of buying and selling Bitcoin and other crypto asset investments are the responsibility of the reader.

Reference:

• CoinDCX. NFT vs Crypto: Key Differences Explained. Accessed on January 30, 2026
• NFTNow. Cryptocurrencies and NFTs: What’s the Difference? Accessed on January 30, 2026
• TechTarget. NFTs vs. cryptocurrencies: Key differences and how they work. Accessed on January 30, 2026