Validators help secure the Ethereum blockchain and are compensated with ETH staking rewards.
The rate of return, or APY, changes based on various factors.
There are 4 ways to stake ETH:
Solo staking: Full rewards but requires 32 ETH and relatively high technical knowledge.
Staking as a service: It still requires 32 ETH. Must pay a small fee.
Pooled staking: The most popular option because you don’t need to have 32 ETH. Must pay a small fee.
Centralised exchanges: Usually offers the lowest rewards. Only option with exchange risk.
Staking is not risk-free. Each of the 4 options include different types of risks. The ‘best’ option for you will depend on your skill level, goals and risk tolerance.