Uniswap alternative: Best decentralized exchanges to try instead

When you want to swap crypto without a middleman, Uniswap, a leading decentralized exchange on Ethereum that lets users trade tokens directly from their wallets. But it’s not the only option—and for many, it’s not the best. High gas fees, slow confirmations, and crowded liquidity pools make Uniswap frustrating for active traders. That’s why smart users are turning to OraiDEX, an AI-powered DEX on the Oraichain blockchain that offers cross-chain swaps and real-time trading insights or Astroport on Injective, a lightning-fast, near-zero-fee exchange built for serious traders who want speed without Ethereum’s congestion.

These aren’t just copycats. They solve real problems Uniswap doesn’t. OraiDEX uses AI to suggest optimal trade routes across chains, cutting slippage and saving you money. Astroport runs on Injective, a Layer 1 built for finance, with trades settling in under a second and fees under a penny. Both support spot trading, liquidity provision, and even derivatives—something Uniswap still struggles with. You don’t need to be a pro to use them, but you do need to know they exist. Many traders still stick with Uniswap out of habit, not because it’s better. Meanwhile, platforms like these are quietly offering better performance, lower costs, and more features.

What you’ll find below are real, tested alternatives—not hype-driven tokens or sketchy launchpads. We’ve dug into exchanges that actually work: some are niche but powerful, others are growing fast with real volume. You’ll see how OraiDEX handles AI-driven trades, why Astroport is becoming a favorite among DeFi power users, and why other DEXs like HiveSwap or Cryptal aren’t even in the same league. No fluff. No promises of moonshots. Just clear comparisons of what’s out there, what’s working, and who it’s for. If you’re tired of waiting 30 seconds for a swap or paying $20 in gas to trade $100, the options below might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.