Relay vs. Chainflip
Rift Research
Last updated
TLDR: Relay is a cross-chain intents and payments protocol. Chainflip is a native cross-chain JIT AMM. Consider Relay when you need fast small-to-mid transfers and payments across many networks. Consider Chainflip when you want a direct native swap, especially mid-size Bitcoin. Confirm the live winner on rates.gg.
What each protocol is
Relay. Relay is a cross-chain intents protocol. Users deposit into a per-chain Depository; solvers fill on the destination; a dedicated settlement chain and oracle reimburse the solver. Official docs: Relay Docs. App: relay.link.
Chainflip. Chainflip is a native cross-chain AMM. Validators run a threshold-signature vault set and liquidity providers quote through a just-in-time AMM, so users swap native assets (including Bitcoin) without wrapped IOUs. Official docs: Chainflip Docs. App: chainflip.io.
Short version
| Dimension | Relay | Chainflip |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Cross-chain intents and payments protocol | Native cross-chain JIT AMM |
| Fee | Solver spread plus small protocol components, quoted per order | Protocol fee plus LP spread on the JIT AMM |
| Coverage | Networks and assets supported by the selected Relay route | Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Arbitrum, Polkadot and other connected chains |
| Settlement | Solver fronts destination liquidity; protocol settles after proof | Native assets via threshold-signature vaults |
| Trust model | Non-upgradable Depository contracts; Allocator-authorised withdrawals; audited settlement stack | Validator-controlled threshold-signature vaults; verify the current validator and upgrade configuration |
| Good fit for | Fast small-to-mid transfers and payments across many networks | Direct native swaps, especially mid-size Bitcoin |
| Docs | Relay Docs | Chainflip Docs |
Where each fits
Relay may fit when:
- Speed on a small or mid-size transfer matters most
- You need a long list of networks from one integration
- The job is a payment or simple transfer, not a multi-step DeFi action
Chainflip may fit when:
- The pair is a native asset Chainflip prices well (BTC, ETH, SOL, USDC)
- You want native settlement, not a wrapped representation
- You prefer going direct to the AMM rather than through a meta-aggregator
Key differences
Relay and Chainflip should be compared on the job you need to complete: the input asset, destination asset and chain, trade size, execution method and custody assumptions. They may overlap on some routes and complement each other on others. A broader chain list or faster advertised fill does not establish a better net rate. Compare executable quotes in the same window, including gas and every underlying step.
When to use which
- Use Relay when you need fast small-to-mid transfers and payments across many networks.
- Use Chainflip when you want a direct native swap, especially mid-size Bitcoin.
- If both can quote the same route, take the better net output after fees, time and settlement type. Check that print on rates.gg.
FAQ
Which is cheaper, Relay or Chainflip?
Neither has a universal price advantage. Relay: Solver spread plus small protocol components, quoted per order. Chainflip: Protocol fee plus LP spread on the JIT AMM. Compare executable quotes for the same size, destination and time window, including gas, underlying venue costs and any extra transfer. Expected output and minimum received are different figures; compare like with like.
Is Relay a substitute for Chainflip?
Only on overlapping pairs and chains. When both can quote the same route, take the better net output after fees and time. When only one supports the asset or chain, that one is the only option.
Where are the official Relay and Chainflip docs?
Relay: Relay Docs. Chainflip: Chainflip Docs. Live rate comparison: rates.gg.
Official sources
- Relay docs: Relay Docs
- Relay app: relay.link
- Relay — How Relay works: docs.relay.link/how-relay-works
- Relay — Protocol design: docs.relay.link/references/protocol/how-it-works
- Relay — Security and audits: docs.relay.link/references/protocol/security
- Chainflip docs: Chainflip Docs
- Chainflip app: chainflip.io
- Chainflip — Protocol overview: docs.chainflip.io/protocol
- Chainflip — JIT AMM / LP model: docs.chainflip.io/lp/how-liquidity-provisioning-works
Get the Best of Both With Rift
Rift is a strong alternative to choosing between Relay and Chainflip. It brings routes from both together with additional venues on supported pairs, comparing available quotes to find the best net execution for your order. You get the strengths of both through one API.
Rift adds no router fee and uses secure hardware enclaves to enforce noncustodial execution. Underlying venue fees, spreads and network costs still apply, and availability depends on the asset, chain and order size. The live quote shows the route and expected output.