Best Tools for Analyzing Bitcoin Blockchain

What are the best tools out there to analyze the bitcoin blockchain? I heard Chainanalysis.com has a service, but not sure if they’re the best choice. Are there any open-source options?

There are definitely some blockchain explorers like Mempool.space, Blockchain.com Explorer, and BTCscan.org. If you're looking for something more advanced, check out Numisight, though it's still in alpha and a bit wonky. Honestly, I haven't tried it yet.

It really depends on what you're trying to achieve. Are you tracking down a scammer, trying to recover stolen bitcoin, or something else? Knowing your goal could lead to better tool suggestions. And why do you think Chainanalysis won't help? Is it the costs?

Exactly what joniboni said. What kind of analysis are you planning to do?

You could check out https://github.com/lontivero/Explora. Just a heads up, it needs some extra setup.

Are you looking for something that checks an address's risk score? If that’s the case, Blockchair Blockexplorer might be useful. They added that feature recently. Just keep in mind that it’s not super private since they share data with partners.

MistTrack could be a good option. For instance, it provides transaction graphs showing amounts and addresses. Best part? It's free.

Check out these links too: https://explorer.bitquery.io/bitcoin and https://github.com/Blockstream/esplora. If you run a node, there are even more options like https://github.com/janoside/btc-rpc-explorer.

Free is nice, but does it send your address data to some server? That seems like it would compromise your privacy. What's the point of checking your wallet if it can get blacklisted?

I think the OP found what they were looking for, but it’s smart to use a VPN or TOR when accessing tools. They could be analyzing a wallet that’s not even theirs, right?

What about Arkham? I’m surprised no one mentioned it yet. It’s pretty top-notch for blockchain analysis.

You mean the visualizer tool? It’s cool but requires a login, which is annoying. The info isn't as detailed as I’d like either.

Sure, Arkham’s visualizer is great for a quick look, but that login thing is a hassle. For deeper dives, I’d stick with OXT and BTC RPC Explorer if you have your own node.

Arkham’s visualizer is neat for quick checks but that login is a pain. OXT is good but I’d recommend BTC RPC explorer for detailed insights.

OXT actually shut down last year, just so you know.

I’m surprised no one mentioned GraphSense. It's open-source and pretty powerful for transaction analysis, but setting it up can be a bit intense.

I’m looking for a tool that can track specific addresses over time and maybe alert me when funds move. Open source or freemium is preferred. Anyone using something like that?