The Polygon zkEVM Bridge enables transfers to the Polygon zkEVM — a ZK-rollup Layer 2 solution that settles transactions on Ethereum using zero-knowledge cryptographic proofs. Unlike the PoS Bridge (which relies on validator consensus), the zkEVM Bridge derives its security from mathematics, making it one of the most secure bridging options available.
What is Polygon zkEVM?
Polygon zkEVM is a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine — a Layer 2 network that processes transactions off-chain and generates a ZK proof (specifically a PLONK proof) that is submitted to Ethereum for verification. This means Polygon zkEVM inherits Ethereum's full security while offering transaction throughput and cost advantages similar to other Layer 2 solutions. In July 2023, Polygon announced its "Polygon 2.0" roadmap, transitioning the ecosystem toward ZK-based scaling, with the MATIC token renamed to POL.
How the zkEVM Bridge Works
The zkEVM Bridge uses ZK-rollup infrastructure to settle transactions with cryptographic proofs. When you bridge assets from Ethereum to Polygon zkEVM, your assets are locked on Ethereum and a ZK proof is generated to mint equivalent assets on the zkEVM side. The cryptographic proof guarantees the validity of the transfer without requiring trust in any third party.
Withdrawals from zkEVM back to Ethereum are finalized once the ZK proof is verified on Ethereum — this typically takes between 15 minutes and 3 hours, which is faster than the PoS Bridge withdrawal window and eliminates the need for a 7-day challenge period.
zkEVM Bridge vs PoS Bridge
Security: zkEVM Bridge is secured by ZK cryptographic proofs — mathematically verifiable. PoS Bridge relies on validator consensus with economic incentives.
Withdrawal Speed: zkEVM: 15 minutes to 3 hours. PoS: 2–3 hours for checkpointing.
EVM Compatibility: Both bridges support all EVM-compatible tokens and smart contracts.
Use Case: zkEVM is ideal for users who prioritize maximum security and faster finality. PoS is better for high-frequency, low-value transfers.
How to Use the Polygon zkEVM Bridge
Visit the Polygon Portal and select "zkEVM Bridge" from the network selector. Connect your MetaMask wallet. Make sure your wallet is set to the Ethereum Mainnet. Select the token to bridge, enter the amount, and click Transfer. Approve the transaction in MetaMask. Your assets will arrive on Polygon zkEVM within 15 minutes to 3 hours.
Supported Tokens on zkEVM Bridge
The zkEVM Bridge supports ETH, USDC, USDT, MATIC (POL), WBTC, and other ERC-20 tokens. As the Polygon 2.0 ecosystem matures, more tokens are continuously being added to the zkEVM network. Always check the Polygon Portal for the most up-to-date token list before bridging.
Compare with the PoS Bridge to decide which option is right for you, or check our bridge fees comparison.
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