Altcoins, short for “alternative coins,” are cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin. They include well-known names like Ethereum, Litecoin, and Ripple, and are often created to improve upon Bitcoin’s perceived limitations. Altcoins can offer faster transaction times, different consensus mechanisms, or enhanced privacy features. Each has its own unique technology and use cases, from smart contracts to decentralized apps. While they can be more volatile than Bitcoin, they also offer diverse opportunities for innovation and investment in the crypto space.