What are TRON network testnets?

Testnets are crucial for development on any blockchain and the TRON network is no exception.
To build the next big dApp on TRON, and deploy your smart contracts on mainnet, you first need to test everything on testnet. Mainnets and Testnets might have some differences in their logic and functioning, but the key difference, which most of you probably know about, is that the real tokens are not utilized, and can be gained on faucets!

Every blockchain has only one mainnet, which cannot be functional without a testnet. Different test networks can have different operations and purposes, some of them might even be built by the community.
TRON has 3 different testnets: Nile, Shasta, and the private network. You might be wondering what the difference is between them and which one should I use as a TRON developer? Let’s find out together with GetBlock!

What is the Nile testnet?

Built by the TRON community, the Nile test network is designed to meet all the innovative ideas, to create and test new features of TRON.
At its core, the Nile testnet is very stable, “just like the Nile river. However, it includes greater flexibility and tools. Initially, the code version was consistent with mainnet. But now, with the many new features added, it is running ahead.
The tools for working with the Nile testnet are pretty much the same as the mainnet. For example, you can deploy smart contracts on this testnet using the same methods as on the mainnet.
You can run the Nile testnet node locally or choose an easy way to connect to it with GetBlock. If node-running is not a hassle for you, you can find a config file for Nile and grab yourself a few testnet TRX here.

What is the Shasta testnet?

The Shasta testnet was developed by TRON’s RPC API provider - TronGrid. Its code version and parameters are fully compatible with the mainnet.
Unlike the Nile testnet, Shasta is focused on simplicity rather than flexibility and innovation. Shasta testnet doesn't support new nodes added to the network. So, you cannot run your own Shasta node nor use RPC providers like GetBlock. The only option to connect to Shasta is to use TronGrids API.

What is the TRON Private Chain?

If you’re a developer who never likes to go out of your local environment or have plans in mind to evolve the network; the TRON Private Chain (or a private network) is your best choice.
First of all TRON Private Chain is not really a testnet. The TRON Private Chain is a distinct private network that is completely separate from the TRON DAO. Running a private chain means you won’t just have your own private node, but a whole private network that you can customize and explore. However, it’s surely not an easy task.
To build a private network you’ll need to leverage several TRON addresses, at least one supernode run by various Super Representatives (SR) that are able to produce blocks, and several full nodes to synchronize blocks and broadcast transactions.

Which Testnet to use?

With that many different TRON testnets powered with different features, it should be easy to pick one according to your needs. But still, you might be wondering which testnet should I use?
If you’ve just started your TRON development journey, Shasta is your choice. It’s no hassle to connect, it's consistent with mainnet, and it’s perfect for testing simple smart contracts.
The Nile testnet is the next level. It’s still suitable for beginners with no hassle around running-nodes. If you connect with GetBlocks API, great stability is included. Additionally, it will handle all your innovative ideas on network improvement.
The TRON Private Chain is the option for true PROs, knowing what to do to change the game.