Understanding Blockchain Networks at Shuffle
Shuffle operates a cryptocurrency-only payment system, meaning every deposit and withdrawal occurs on-chain via a supported blockchain network. Understanding the difference between networks is essential to avoid costly mistakes.
ERC-20 (Ethereum Network)
ERC-20 is a token standard on the Ethereum blockchain. Tokens like USDT and USDC can exist as ERC-20 contracts. Ethereum itself (ETH) is also native to this network. ERC-20 transactions are secured by Ethereum's proof-of-stake consensus and are highly reliable, but gas fees can be significant during periods of high network congestion.
TRC-20 (TRON Network)
TRC-20 is a token standard on the TRON blockchain. USDT on TRC-20 is extremely popular for crypto casino use because transaction fees are very low (often under $0.10) and confirmations are near-instant. TRX (the native TRON token) is also supported at Shuffle.
BEP-20 (BNB Smart Chain)
BEP-20 is the token standard for the BNB Smart Chain (formerly Binance Smart Chain). BNB is the native currency. BEP-20 transactions offer low fees and fast confirmation times, though the network is more centralised than Ethereum or Bitcoin.
Native Chains (BTC, LTC, SOL, XRP, DOGE)
Bitcoin, Litecoin, Solana, XRP and Dogecoin all operate on their own native blockchains. These require their own dedicated wallet addresses. For example, you cannot send Bitcoin to an Ethereum address — this would result in permanent loss of funds.
Which Cryptocurrency Should You Use at Shuffle?
Best for Speed: Solana (SOL), TRON (TRX), XRP
If transaction speed is your priority, Solana, TRON and XRP are the clear winners. All three networks confirm transactions in under one minute under normal conditions. XRP in particular is known for its consistent settlement speed. TRX transactions are nearly instant and nearly free, making TRC-20 USDT an excellent choice for players who want stablecoin value with fast execution.
Best for Stability: USDT, USDC
Stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) maintain a 1:1 peg with the US dollar. This eliminates the price volatility risk associated with BTC or ETH. Players who want to know exactly how much they are depositing in fiat terms should consider stablecoins. USDT on TRC-20 is the recommended network for minimal fees.
Best for Liquidity: Bitcoin (BTC)
Bitcoin remains the most liquid and universally recognised cryptocurrency. While it is slower and often more expensive to transact than alternatives, it is accepted everywhere and is the most trusted store of value. If you hold BTC in cold storage or a hardware wallet, depositing directly in BTC avoids conversion fees.
Best for DeFi Users: Ethereum (ETH)
For players who are already active in the Ethereum ecosystem — using MetaMask, DeFi protocols or NFTs — depositing in ETH or ERC-20 tokens like USDT/USDC is the most convenient option. Ethereum transactions are highly reliable but factor in current gas fees before transacting.
Deposit and Withdrawal Speeds Explained
When you initiate a cryptocurrency deposit at Shuffle, the funds are not immediately available in your account. The platform waits for a certain number of blockchain confirmations before crediting your balance. The number of confirmations required varies by cryptocurrency:
- Bitcoin: Typically requires 3–6 confirmations (~30–60 minutes)
- Ethereum: Usually 12–20 confirmations (~2–5 minutes post-merge)
- Litecoin: 6+ confirmations (~2–10 minutes)
- USDT/USDC ERC-20: Same as Ethereum above
- USDT TRC-20: 19+ confirmations (~1 minute)
- Solana: Near-instant finality (<1 minute)
- BNB BEP-20: 15 confirmations (~1–3 minutes)
- XRP: 1–2 confirmations (<1 minute)
- DOGE: 30+ confirmations (~2–10 minutes)
Network Fees and How to Minimise Them
Every blockchain transaction incurs a fee paid to the network's validators or miners. This fee is not set by Shuffle — it is a function of network activity and your transaction size. Here are strategies to minimise fees:
- Use TRC-20 for USDT:TRON fees are typically <$0.10, far cheaper than ERC-20 USDT gas fees which can reach $5–50 during congestion.
- Use Solana for micro-transactions: Solana fees are fractions of a cent, making it ideal for frequent, smaller deposits.
- Transact during off-peak hours for ETH: Ethereum gas fees drop significantly during weekends or low-activity periods (UTC early morning).
- Batch your deposits: Instead of multiple small deposits, consolidate into fewer larger transactions to reduce cumulative fee costs.