Rootstock Testnet is the EVM-compatible test network for the Bitcoin-anchored Rootstock sidechain, using tRBTC for gas and value. It’s used to safely test smart contracts, wallets, and cross-chain bridge flows (e.g., PowPeg deposits/withdrawals) before mainnet, with typical performance of ~30s block times, up to ~100 TPS under load, and near-zero fees (simple transfers ~10^-6 tRBTC). Lower testnet activity versus mainnets helps rapid confirmations and reproducible benchmarks.
Rootstock Testnet is unique for its Bitcoin-merged-mined security and two-way peg (PowPeg) while retaining full Ethereum tooling and EVM compatibility, so dApps and bridges run with minimal changes. Compared with other testnets and L2s, it targets ~30s block intervals, practical throughput up to ~100 TPS, and negligible gas costs in tRBTC (~10^-6 tRBTC for a simple transfer), trading raw speed for Bitcoin-grade anchoring and predictable fees.
Rootstock Testnet uses tRBTC as the gas token for transaction fees. You can obtain tRBTC by bridging from other chains or purchasing using thirdweb Bridge, or through faucets (for testnet).
To bridge tRBTC to Rootstock Testnet, connect your wallet to thirdweb bridge, select your source chain, choose the token you want to bridge, select Rootstock Testnet as the destination, enter the amount, and confirm the transaction. The bridge will handle the cross-chain transfer instantly.
To build on Rootstock Testnet you can use thirdweb, which provides an easy way to build, monetize and scale your apps, games or agents. You can find detailed guides and documentation on https://portal.thirdweb.com to get started quickly.
To add Rootstock Testnet to your wallet, you can connect your wallet and click on [Add to Wallet] button at the top of the page. Alternatively, you can add the network manually using the RPC URL and chain details and add it to your wallet's network settings.
To send tRBTC on Rootstock Testnet, ensure your wallet is connected to the Rootstock Testnet network, enter the recipient's address, specify the amount of tRBTC to send, review the gas fee, and confirm the transaction in your wallet.