As the crypto market moves sideways and traders wait for the next big breakout, some experts are already looking ahead. A recent analysis has highlighted XRP, Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL) as top contenders to lead the next altcoin boom, which could happen as early as 2026.

**Why These Altcoins Could Surge in 2026**

Right now, Bitcoin (BTC) dominates the market, with nearly 59% market share. But history shows that when Bitcoin dominance is high and the Altcoin Season Index rises above 50 (currently at 55), a shift toward altcoins often follows. This happened in past cycles like 2016–2017 and 2020–2021.

If a similar pattern plays out in 2026, XRP, ETH, and SOL could be the biggest winners.

**XRP Price Predictions**

For XRP, there’s potential to rise above $6 or even $8. This depends on a few key factors, including steady inflows into XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs)—ideally more than $400 million per month—and continued global adoption of RippleNet in banking systems.

In a more cautious scenario, XRP might still hover between $2.50 and $3.50 if institutional interest grows gradually. But if ETF demand drops or regulatory issues pop up again, XRP could slide below $1.50.

AI models have mixed views: ChatGPT sees XRP ranging between $0.80 and $3.00, while Grok offers a more optimistic forecast of $1.50 to $6.00.

**Ethereum (ETH) Outlook**

Ethereum could hit between $12,000 and $18,000 if Layer 2 networks keep expanding and ETF interest bounces back. The growth of Layer 2 solutions like Arbitrum and Optimism can make Ethereum faster and cheaper to use, which may attract more users and developers.

If growth is steady but not explosive, ETH might settle in the $5,000 to $9,000 range—still a healthy gain from current levels. However, issues like scalability problems or tougher regulations could push ETH below $2,500.

AI predictions vary here too. ChatGPT sees Ethereum reaching anywhere from $3,000 to $9,000, while Gemini AI predicts up to $18,000, especially if tokenized assets on the Ethereum blockchain become more common.

**Solana (SOL) Forecast**

Solana also has strong upside potential. If its ultra-fast transaction speed (about 150 milliseconds) and low fees continue attracting developers and apps, SOL could climb to $500–$800.

In a moderate growth scenario, SOL might stay within the $200–$350 range—assuming developer activity and user adoption continue without major breakthroughs.

But there are risks. If Solana continues to experience network outages or faces stronger competition from other blockchains like Avalanche or Sui, its price could fall below $100.

AI tools echo these possibilities. ChatGPT expects SOL to trade between $120 and $350, while Gemini forecasts up to $800 if consumer-facing applications grow rapidly.

**Current Prices and Market Trends**

As of now, XRP is priced around $1.93, down about 2% over the last day. Ethereum is trading near $2,952, and Solana is at $128—both also down slightly in the past 24 hours.

With Bitcoin dominance still strong but signs pointing toward an upcoming shift in focus to altcoins, keeping an eye on XRP, ETH, and SOL could be a smart move for long-term crypto investors.