What Is a Launchpool? A Beginner's Guide to Crypto Token Farming
Learn what a crypto launchpool is, how it works, and how to find current launchpool opportunities in one place.
Crypto launchpools are one of the easiest and most popular ways to earn free tokens during the early phase of a new project launch. In this guide, you'll learn what a launchpool is, how it works, and how to find current launchpool opportunities in one place.
What Is a Launchpool?
A launchpool is a promotional event run by centralized exchanges (CEXs) to help new crypto projects distribute their tokens to users. Instead of selling tokens directly, the project allocates a portion of its total supply to be farmed or claimed by users who lock (stake) their assets for a fixed period.
The concept is simple:
- You lock a supported token (like USDT, BNB, or KCS) on the exchange.
- In return, you earn free tokens from a new project.
- There is no risk of losing your capital, because your staked assets are returned after the farming period ends.
Why Do Projects Use Launchpools?
For new crypto projects, a launchpool is a way to:
- Gain immediate exposure to a large user base
- Build community interest before listing
- Distribute tokens fairly and transparently
- Encourage liquidity and trading volume on launch day
For users, launchpools are a low-risk way to:
- Discover new projects early
- Earn rewards passively
- Support promising startups without direct investment
Launchpool vs Launchpad
Don't confuse launchpool with launchpad:
- Launchpool: You stake existing assets to farm free tokens. No money spent.
- Launchpad: You invest to buy tokens, often through lottery or early sales.
Launchpools are ideal for passive users who want rewards with minimal effort.
Different Names on Different Exchanges
While the concept is the same, each exchange brands its launchpool program differently:
| Exchange | Name Used |
|---|---|
| Binance | Launchpool |
| KuCoin | GemPool |
| Bitget | Launchpool |
| Gate.io | Startup Airdrops |
| MEXC | Kickstarter |
Despite the names, they all work similarly: stake your tokens, earn rewards.
How Long Does a Launchpool Last?
Most launchpools run for 7 to 30 days, depending on the exchange and project. Rewards are distributed either daily or at the end of the farming period.
During this time, your locked tokens usually:
- Cannot be traded or withdrawn
- Continue to earn staking yield (on some platforms)
After the period ends, your original assets are unlocked and returned.
Where to Find Active Launchpools
You can manually check every exchange, or you can use Stakinator.
👉 Visit stakinator.io/launchpools to see an aggregated list of current launchpool opportunities from top exchanges like Binance, KuCoin, Bitget, and more.
We monitor the top CEX platforms and update the page as soon as new offers go live — so you don't miss early farming opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Launchpools are one of the most beginner-friendly ways to participate in new token launches. With no capital risk, flexible terms, and daily rewards, they are a great way to put your idle crypto to work.
Whether you're looking to farm new altcoins or just support innovative projects, launchpools are worth exploring.
Related Guides:
Always DYOR (Do Your Own Research) before participating in any promotion.
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