Ethereum (ETH){:target="_blank" rel="dofollow"} has fully transitioned to Proof of Stake (PoS) from Proof of Work (PoW) following the Merge. Staking ETH remains one of the simplest and secure ways of getting passive crypto returns up to 2025. But for new users, it also has too many questions like how to stake ETH, or even is staking ETH worth it in 2025? In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you'd want to know about staking Ethereum in 2025 - from the basics to the best method, platforms, and FAQs.What is Staking ETHStaking Ethereum is "locking up" your ETH in a smart contract to help secure the Ethereum network. The reward for this is that you get ETH rewards in the future. This process is the foundation of Ethereum's PoS consensus mechanism. Staking is different from mining in the old Ethereum system as it is not only eco-friendly, but also doesn't require expensive hardware. You just require ETH, a good wallet or platform, and time.How Does Ethereum Staking Work?Following the Ethereum Merge (which happened in September 2022), Ethereum's consensus was fully moved to Proof of Stake. Rather than miners, validators now affirm transactions and create new blocks.To be a validator, you need to stake some ETH as collateral - i.e., your tokens are locked up as a promise of good behavior. If an evil or offline validator is, then they can have some of their staked ETH slashed (taken away).Validators are randomly selected to build proposals for new blocks and validate transactions. As reward, they receive staking rewards, typically paid out in ETH.How Many ETH Do You Stake?If you want to be a full validator on Ethereum, you are going to require 32 ETH. This is the stake in order to run your own validator node. However, you do not have to have that many anymore in order to participate in staking.Most people in 2025 find it convenient to stake in staking pools or crypto exchanges, where you can stake as little as 0.01 ETH and still get rewards.The breakdown is:Solo staking: Technical know-how and a minimum of 32 ETH.Staking pools: No ETH minimum required, rewards are distributed proportionally.Centralized exchanges (like Coinbase or Binance): Minimums are variable, usually between 0.1--1 ETH.So if you are thinking about how many ETH do you need to stake, it really depends on what you like to do. How many ETH to stake is open if you are not interested in running your own node.How to Stake ETH for BeginnersIf you are a staking beginner and are not sure where to begin, follow this low-key-start plan:Step 1: Select Your Staking MethodCentralized exchanges (e.g., Coinbase, Kraken, Binance): Best option, good for beginners.Staking-as-a-Service platforms (Lido, Rocket Pool): Flexible, non-custodial.Solo staking: Most complex, technical setup and 32 ETH required.Step 2: Send ETH to the Chosen PlatformMake sure you have ETH on your wallet or exchange account. Then send your ETH to your preferred staking platform.Step 3: Stake Your ETHEach platform will have a "Stake" or "Start Earning" button. Confirm how much you want to stake and follow the instructions.Step 4: Monitor Your RewardsAs you stake, you will start getting ETH rewards. You can monitor performance in your wallet or on the platform dashboard.How to Stake ETH After MergeAfter Ethereum's Merge and Shanghai upgrades, staking ETH is more accessible and open. The most important changes are:Withdrawals enabled: You can withdraw your staked ETH and rewards (which were not accessible until the 2023 Shanghai upgrade).More validators: Easier access to decentralized staking pools.Less danger: With slashing mechanisms extensively tested and decentralized options improving, staking is safer than ever.So if you're asking how to stake ETH after the Merge, rest assured - the process is easier, safer, and more profitable today than it was in the past.Is Staking ETH Worth It in 2025?Staking Ethereum can be very profitable passive investing, but once more, it depends on your goals.Benefits:Get rewarded: Reward rates between 3% to 5% annualized depending on how much the network is used and staking mode.Assist in supporting the network: Help towards a decentralized future for Ethereum.Less obstacles: No miner hardware needed.Risks:Slashing (if incorrectly operating a validator node).Price volatility of ETH: Your rewards will be made in ETH, which will fluctuate.Custodial risk: Buying and selling on central exchanges means trusting someone else.In the end, staking ETH is worthwhile to most long-term holders who believe in Ethereum and wish to receive passive rewards.Best Platforms to Stake ETH in 2025A few of the best platforms to stake ETH today are:| Platform | Type | Min. ETH | Estimated APR | Features || ----------- | -------------------- | -------- | ------------- | ------------------------------ || Lido | Decentralized Pool | None | 3.5%–4.5% | Non-custodial, liquid staking || Rocket Pool | Decentralized Pool | 0.01 ETH | 3%–4% | Decentralized, earn RPL tokens || Coinbase | Centralized Exchange | 0.1 ETH | ~3.5% | Easy to use, high liquidity || Kraken | Centralized Exchange | 0.1 ETH | 4%–6% | Trusted brand, high security || Binance | Centralized Exchange | 0.1 ETH | 3.5%–5% | Great UI, lots of options |