Definition
Block time is a metric that measures how long it typically takes for a blockchain network to produce the next block. It is usually expressed in seconds or minutes and reflects the average interval between one block being added and the next. Each new block contains a set of transactions and links to the previous block, forming the blockchain.
Block time is closely tied to how a blockchain’s consensus rules are designed. Different networks intentionally target different block times to balance speed, security, and network conditions. As a result, block time helps describe how quickly a blockchain processes and confirms new data.
Context and Usage
Block time is often used alongside metrics like block height and throughput to describe the state and performance of a blockchain. A lower block time generally means new blocks are added more frequently, while a higher block time means they appear less often. Actual block times can vary around the target because of network conditions and how consensus is reached.
In practice, block time influences how quickly transactions included in a block are considered recorded on the blockchain. It also provides a simple way to compare how fast different blockchains add new blocks under their respective consensus mechanisms. Over long periods, average block time helps characterize the rhythm at which a blockchain grows.