Ethereum is an innovation network providing its own blockchain with its cryptocurrency (Ether or ETH). This blockchain hosts decentralized applications (DApps) that were first introduced by Ethereum. Another innovation of this platform is the implementation of smart contracts which has changed the perception of the possible use of the blockchain, revealing the potential of the technology to its fullest.
Monero is the most significant privacy-focused cryptocurrency on the market. It was created in 2014. The main feature of Monero is mixing of transactions in the blockchain. Third parties can't see amounts of money sent in transactions and addresses participating in operations, so all payments are untraceable. The developers are keeping it ASIC-resistant. It saves this network from centralization and gives an opportunity for GPU owners to earn something from mining Monero.
Despite its lack of serious marketing campaign Monero has gained a strong following on different forums and social media platforms. In 2016 the price of Monero began to grow. Nowadays this currency is one of the top 15 cryptocurrencies by its market cap.