Skip to main content
Version: 2.2

Blockchain Data Retrieval Using the eth_call RPC Method

Don't have an API key yet?

Start using this API for your project today.

Get your free API key

In the rapidly evolving realm of Web3, blockchain data retrieval is the lifeblood of security, transparency, and control. Traditional approaches like Ethereum's eth_call are giving way to innovative solutions like Moralis.

Decentralized applications (dapps) span a wide spectrum of use cases, from decentralized exchanges (DEXs) to DeFi platforms, gaming, NFT marketplaces, and beyond. Regardless of the specific application, efficient data retrieval is a common requirement for tasks like querying on-chain information, checking token balances, and interacting with smart contracts. Not only will this article demonstrate how blockchain data retrieval works using eth_call, but also how Moralis revolutionizes Ethereum data retrieval and why it's a compelling choice for developers working on a diverse range of dapp-related projects.

In addition, this article showcases how Moralis simplifies and streamlines ETH data retrieval and blockchain interactions, making it a valuable tool for developers across the Ethereum ecosystem.

tip

You can learn how to get a block by number using the Moralis Events API by following the Get logs for contract article.

Understanding eth_call and eth_getBalance

Exploring eth_call

While exploring contract interactions and blockchain data retrieval, it is important for dapp developers to use the eth_call method to simulate and execute message calls directly in the node’s virtual machine (VM), without making any modifications and without creating a transaction to the blockchain. This read-only interaction capability is quintessential for querying smart contract functions, such as retrieving ERC-20 token balances with the balanceOf function.

Moralis offers a groundbreaking equivalent for eth_call with the getBlock RPC method, showcasing its innovative approach to data retrieval and blockchain interactions. This endpoint serves as a modern alternative, allowing developers to access extensive information about transactions, contract interactions, and more, all in a user-friendly manner.

Exploring eth_getBalance

Developers use eth_getBalance to get the ETH (ether) balance of a given address or in other words to return an account's balance of a given address. This method is a fundamental aspect for managing transactions and displaying real-time user balance information.

Moralis presents the getNativeBalance RPC method as the nearest equivalent to eth_getBalance. You can use it to obtain the native balance of an address which can be an important part in transaction management.

Traditional vs. Modern: eth_call RPC Method Review and Comparison

Historically, developers have used Ethereum's eth_call method to interact with contracts without modifying the blockchain state. Here's an example:

const Web3 = require('web3');
const web3 = new Web3('YOUR_INFURA_ENDPOINT');

const contractAddress = 'YOUR_CONTRACT_ADDRESS';
const data = 'YOUR_DATA';

web3.eth.call({
to: contractAddress,
data: data
}).then(console.log);

In comparison, Moralis introduces a revolutionary approach that streamlines data retrieval and blockchain interactions using the getBlock endpoint. In the following example, you can see how Moralis' getBlock endpoint compares to eth_call:

const Moralis = require("moralis").default;
const { EvmChain } = require("@moralisweb3/common-evm-utils");

async function runApp() {
await Moralis.start({ apiKey: "YOUR_API_KEY" });

const blockNumberOrHash = "15863321";
const chain = EvmChain.ETHEREUM;

const response = await Moralis.EvmApi.block.getBlock({
blockNumberOrHash,
chain,
});
console.log(response.toJSON());
}

runApp();

Why Developers Should Choose Moralis

Seamless user experiences are the essence of decentralized applications (dapps), and the 'eth_call' function has been instrumental in laying the foundation. However, the current landscape demands tools that combine speed with efficiency. Moralis stands as a pioneer in this regard, ushering in the next era of Ethereum development with advanced features using single lines of code, faster data retrieval, and enhanced security protocols.

Key Use Cases:

  • Retrieve Token Balance: Obtain token balances at specific points in the past or present.
  • Query Contract State: Access internal contract state data without altering it.
  • Validate Inputs: Execute validations embedded within smart contracts.
  • Price Oracles: Fetch real-world asset prices for use in decentralized applications.
  • Gas Estimation: Estimate the gas cost of transactions before execution.

ETH Blockchain Data Retrieval Using the eth_call RPC Method: Conclusion

The world of decentralized applications is rapidly evolving, and so is blockchain development. While the eth_call RPC method is quite powerful, new solutions that streamline Web3 development and outperform legacy methods like eth_call are emerging. One of these solutions is Moralis' getBlock endpoint, making ETH blockchain data retrieval a breeze!

In sum, this article compares Moralis to a more traditional solution and invites you to explore the world of Moralis and become a leader in the unfolding decentralized future. Armed with knowledge and supported by a community of like-minded developers, you can shape the future of the decentralized ecosystem with Moralis.