![Best Crypto Exchanges and Apps [2025 Winter Edition]](https://hodlfm.com/content/images/size/w900/2025/01/KuCoin-Withdrawals-Under-Scrutiny-Amid-Criminal-Allegations.png)
Centralized exchanges and apps have become go-to platforms for easily converting cash into digital coins and tokens. Our team of writers and editors has meticulously reviewed 10 crypto exchanges, including both dedicated platforms and online brokers that offer cryptocurrency services. We evaluated them based on numerous factors such as fees, cryptocurrency selection, advanced trading options, and customer service.
After an in-depth analysis of many cryptocurrency exchanges across more than 20 weighted categories, we've identified the top contenders for this year. Our top picks—Kraken, Coinbase, and Crypto.com—excel in key areas such as security, offerings, availability, fees, financial options, features, and mobile capabilities. These platforms stand out for their comprehensive tools that enable users to research and invest in popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which recently hit new all-time highs of over $100,000, as well as other digital assets like Shiba Inu and Dogecoin.
Top-7 Crypto Exchanges and Mobile Apps for Crypto Investors and Traders
Cryptocurrency exchanges function much like traditional online brokerages, providing a secure platform to buy and sell digital currencies and tokens. Many exchanges also offer additional investment services, including staking, lending, and digital asset custody, making them versatile options for investors looking to expand their crypto portfolios. Here are our besties:
Kraken - Best for Low Fees and Experienced Traders
Known for its competitive fee structure and advanced trading features, Kraken is ideal for seasoned traders looking for a reliable platform.
Key Facts About Kraken
- Trading Fees: 0.16% - 5%
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 300+
- Staking/Rewards Program: Not available in the U.S.
- Best For: Low fees for advanced trading, large selection of cryptocurrencies, crypto-to-crypto trading pairs
Why We Picked It: Kraken stands out for its extensive selection of over 300 cryptocurrencies and around 100 crypto-to-crypto trading pairs. With Kraken Pro, traders can enjoy some of the lowest fees available, making it an ideal platform for advanced traders seeking cost-effective trading options.
Good to Know: Kraken is not available for users in New York or Washington, and it has restricted access to its staking services for U.S. users.
Pros:
- Extensive selection of supported cryptocurrencies
- Low trading fees
- Highly liquid exchange
Cons:
- Not available in all U.S. states
- Limited account funding options
Kraken's professional-grade trading platform offers advanced order types and supports margin and futures trading, making it a top choice for experienced traders looking for low fees and a comprehensive trading experience.
Coinbase - Best for Beginners
With an intuitive interface and comprehensive educational resources, Coinbase is perfect for those new to cryptocurrency investing.
Key Facts About Coinbase
- Trading Fees: 0% - 3.99%
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 240+
- Staking/Rewards Program: Yes, up to 12% APY
- Best For: Beginner crypto trading; hassle-free and secure crypto storage
Why We Picked It: Founded in 2012, Coinbase has been a trailblazer in making cryptocurrency accessible to beginners. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive educational resources make it an excellent starting point for those new to crypto. Even with its advanced trading features, Coinbase maintains simplicity and ease of use, making it a top choice for newcomers seeking a secure entry into the crypto world.
Good to Know: While Coinbase's fee structure can be somewhat complex, all fees are transparently displayed before you place an order, ensuring you know exactly what you're paying.
Pros:
- Extensive Cryptocurrency Selection: Kraken provides access to a vast array of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs, allowing for diverse investment opportunities.
- User-Friendly and Advanced Platforms: The platform caters to both beginners and seasoned traders, with easy-to-use interfaces and advanced trading features.
- High Liquidity: Kraken's high liquidity ensures swift trade execution and reduces the risk of significant price changes during transactions.
Cons:
- Not Available in All U.S. States: Residents of New York and Washington are unable to use Kraken's services.
- Limited Funding Options: Kraken offers fewer methods for depositing funds compared to some competitors.
Crypto.com - Best Mobile App
Offering a user-friendly mobile experience, Crypto.com allows users to trade, earn, and pay with crypto on the go.
Key Facts About Crypto.com
- Trading Fees: 0% - 2.99%
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 350+
- Staking/Rewards Program: Not available in the U.S.
- Best For: Overall experience and cryptocurrency selection
Why We Picked It: Crypto.com stands out for its extensive selection of digital assets, competitive fees, and a seamless user experience. The platform offers a DeFi companion app and caters to both beginners and advanced traders with features like crypto derivatives trading, customizable alerts, and watchlists. Beginners will appreciate the helpful explanations and tooltips.
Good to Know: While Crypto.com previously offered a wide range of high-earning staking and rewards options, these are no longer available to U.S. customers.
Pros:
- Supports a vast array of over 350 cryptocurrencies
- Provides a comprehensive range of cryptocurrency products and services
Cons:
- Customer support can be lacking
Crypto.com is our top choice for the best mobile crypto exchange app due to its extensive trading and investing ecosystem, easily accessible from your smartphone.
Gemini - Best for Security
Gemini prioritizes security with its robust protection measures, making it a top choice for those concerned about safeguarding their assets.
Key Facts About Gemini
- Trading Fees: 0.5% - 3.49%
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 70+
- Staking/Rewards Program: Available on Polygon (MATIC), Ether (ETH), and Solana (SOL)
- Best For: Advanced and active crypto trading; crypto-to-crypto trading
Why We Picked It: Gemini is tailored for traders of all levels, but its ActiveTrader product shines for advanced users. It offers access to crypto derivatives, boasts execution speeds in microseconds, and provides popular crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, although its selection isn't as vast as some competitors.
Good to Know: Gemini previously offered a staking and rewards program called Gemini Earn, which was frozen in November 2022 due to the FTX collapse. The current staking program is a simplified version.
Pros:
- Available to users in all 50 U.S. states
- Highly liquid exchange
- Insures funds held in hot wallets
- Strong security framework, SOC 2-certified
Cons:
- High fees on many trades
- Supports fewer cryptocurrencies than many competitor exchanges
Gemini stands out as the crypto exchange with the best security, thanks to its robust security protocols, insurance on user funds, and SOC 2 certification. Despite its high-security standards, Gemini offers a sleek and user-friendly experience for crypto traders.
BitMart - Best for Altcoins
BitMart offers a wide selection of altcoins, providing traders with diverse options beyond the major cryptocurrencies.
Key Facts About BitMart
- Transaction Fees: 0.04% to 0.10%
- Currencies Offered: 1,500+
- Minimum Deposit or Purchase: $50 for BitMart purchases
- Trade Limits: Yes
Why We Chose It: BitMart is our top choice for altcoin enthusiasts. While it supports popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, BitMart's standout feature is its extensive offering of over 1,500 cryptocurrencies, available to users in more than 160 countries.
Pros:
- Supports a vast array of cryptocurrencies
- Offers opportunities for crypto earnings
- Features a straightforward buy/sell cryptocurrency process
Cons:
- Experienced a significant hack in 2021
- Receives poor feedback from customers
BitMart excels in providing a diverse selection of altcoins, making it a go-to platform for traders looking to explore beyond mainstream cryptocurrencies. However, potential users should be aware of past security issues and customer service feedback.
Cash App - Best for Bitcoin
Cash App simplifies buying and selling Bitcoin, making it an excellent choice for users focused on Bitcoin transactions.
Key Facts About Cash App
- Transaction Fees: 0.00% to 3%
- Currencies Offered: 1 (Bitcoin)
- Minimum Deposit or Purchase: $1
- Trade Limits: Yes
Why We Chose It: Cash App is our top pick for Bitcoin-only exchanges due to its seamless and secure platform that allows users to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin directly from their smartphones.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Ability to withdraw to external wallets
- Supports the Bitcoin Lightning Network for faster transactions
Cons:
- Only supports Bitcoin
- Uses a custodial wallet
- Various limits on deposits, sales, and other transactions
Cash App is ideal for users looking for a straightforward and mobile-friendly way to manage Bitcoin, though it is limited to Bitcoin transactions and has custodial wallet restrictions.
Bisq - Best Decentralized Exchange
As a decentralized exchange, Bisq offers privacy and control over your trades, appealing to users who value decentralization.
Key Facts About Bisq
- Transaction Fees: 0.15% to 1.15%
- Currencies Offered: Not Disclosed
- Minimum Deposit or Purchase: Not Disclosed
- Trade Limits: Yes
Why We Chose It: Bisq is our top choice for the best decentralized exchange due to its ability to let users worldwide securely and privately buy and sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies without requiring ID verification.
Pros:
- Available globally
- Offers a high degree of privacy, with no ID verification required
- Supports over 50 different payment options
Cons:
- Transaction speed can be slow
- Trading volumes can be low
- Not designed for active trading
Bisq is ideal for users prioritizing privacy and decentralization, offering a secure platform for trading cryptocurrencies globally. However, it may not be suitable for those seeking rapid transactions or high trading volumes.
Read also: Best USDT Trading Platforms
Additional Noteworthy Platforms
These exchanges cater to different investor needs, whether you're just starting in the crypto world or looking to streamline your investment management by keeping all your assets under one roof.
Robinhood Crypto
- Rating: 3.9/5
- Fees: $0 per trade
- Account Minimum: $0
- Promotion: No current promotion
- Known for its commission-free trading, Robinhood Crypto is a good option for those seeking a traditional brokerage experience.
Key Facts About Robinhood Crypto
- Trading Fees: $0
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 19
- Staking/Rewards Program: Available on Solana (SOL) and Ether (ETH)
- Best For: Traditional brokers; easily buying and selling crypto with USD
Why We Picked It: Robinhood Crypto stands out for its integration of crypto trading within a user-friendly platform that also supports stock trading. Initially launched with limited features, Robinhood has enhanced its crypto offering, making it a convenient choice for users who want to manage both stocks and cryptocurrencies in one place.
Good to Know: While Robinhood's crypto services are improving, they still have limitations. For instance, users can't trade crypto-to-crypto directly within the app and will need a separate Robinhood Wallet for such transactions.
Robinhood Crypto is ideal for those who appreciate a straightforward, fee-free trading experience and want the convenience of accessing both stock and crypto markets through a single app. However, it may not meet the needs of users seeking more advanced crypto trading features.
Interactive Brokers Crypto
- Rating: 3.8/5
- Fees: Up to 1%
- Account Minimum: $0
- Promotion: No current promotion
- Offers a comprehensive trading platform with access to various financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies.
Key Facts About Interactive Brokers Crypto
- Trading Fees: Up to 1%
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 4
- Staking/Rewards Program: None
- Best For: Traditional brokers; advanced traders
Why We Picked It: Interactive Brokers is renowned for its advanced trading capabilities in equities and has extended this expertise to cryptocurrency trading. Existing users will find it convenient to access four major cryptocurrencies within the same robust platform they use for stock trading.
Good to Know: While Interactive Brokers offers a reliable platform for trading cryptocurrencies, it remains primarily focused on stock trading. Users won't have the option to trade crypto-to-crypto directly, unlike on dedicated crypto exchanges such as Coinbase, Gemini, Crypto.com, or Kraken.
Interactive Brokers Crypto is ideal for advanced traders familiar with the platform who want to add cryptocurrency exposure to their portfolios. However, those seeking comprehensive crypto trading features may need to look elsewhere.
Fidelity Crypto
- Rating: 3.8/5
- Fees: 1% spread
- Account Minimum: $0
- Promotion: No current promotion
- Provides a trusted platform for trading cryptocurrencies, backed by Fidelity's reputation in the financial industry.
Key Facts About Fidelity Crypto
- Trading Fees: 1% spread
- Cryptocurrencies Offered: 3 (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin)
- Staking/Rewards Program: None
- Best For: Investors seeking basic cryptocurrency exposure within a traditional brokerage
Why We Picked It: Fidelity Crypto is a convenient choice for investors who already use Fidelity and wish to gain exposure to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. While it lacks advanced trading features, it serves those who prefer simplicity and integration with their existing brokerage accounts.
Good to Know: Fidelity Crypto is available in only 38 states, despite being part of one of the largest brokerages in the U.S. This product is tailored for investors who value ease of access over advanced trading capabilities.
Fidelity Crypto is ideal for users who want a straightforward way to incorporate cryptocurrency into their investment portfolios without the need for complex trading tools. However, those looking for more comprehensive crypto trading options may need to explore dedicated crypto platforms.
Are Crypto Exchanges Worth It?
Yes, crypto exchanges are a great option for purchasing cryptocurrencies, especially if you're looking to invest larger amounts or buy a variety of cryptocurrencies. They provide a safe, legal, and convenient way to access the crypto markets through online platforms or mobile apps. Most exchanges offer a wide range of digital currencies, store funds in cold storage for security, and comply with KYC/AML regulations.
How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange?
- Supported Assets: Check if the exchange supports the cryptocurrencies you're interested in, beyond just Bitcoin.
- Payment Methods: Look for exchanges that offer various funding options like wire transfers, credit cards, and digital payments.
- Fees: Research trading and withdrawal fees to avoid high costs eating into your returns.
- Security: Choose exchanges with strong security measures to protect against cyber threats.
- Customer Service: Opt for exchanges with reliable customer support, especially if you're new to crypto.
- Reputation: Investigate the exchange's reputation by reading reviews and checking its history.
How to Sign Up for a Cryptocurrency Exchange Account?
- Create an Account: Provide an email and password, then confirm your email.
- Upload Personal Information: Submit your full name, address, phone number, and a government-issued ID.
- Complete Identity Verification: Some exchanges require a photo of you holding your ID.
- Fund Your Account: Use available options to deposit funds and start trading.
How Does A Crypto Exchange Work?
A cryptocurrency exchange is an online platform where you can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. Similar to online brokerages, you can deposit fiat currency to purchase crypto or trade one cryptocurrency for another. Some exchanges also offer interest on assets held in your account.
What Should You Look at When Choosing a Crypto Exchange?
Consider security, fees, and available cryptocurrencies. Decide whether you prefer a centralized exchange, which aligns with regulatory standards, or a decentralized exchange, which offers peer-to-peer transactions without a central authority. Also, ensure you understand how your crypto is stored and if you can transfer it to your own wallet.
How Do Cryptocurrency Exchanges Make Money?
Cryptocurrency exchanges generate revenue primarily through various transaction fees that investors pay to trade on their platforms. These fees can vary based on the exchange, the specific cryptocurrency being traded, and the investor's tier level.
What Are the Common Fees Charged by Crypto Exchanges?
- Tiered-Level Fees: These fees are based on the volume of cryptocurrency an investor deposits, withdraws, or trades. Typically, higher trading volumes result in lower fees, incentivizing larger transactions.
- Maker Fees: Charged when a trader places a limit order that isn't immediately executed, maker fees are generally lower and may include rebates for adding liquidity to the market.
- Taker Fees: Applied to orders executed immediately, taker fees are typically higher since they decrease market liquidity.
- Fund Transfer Fees: These fees apply to the method used to fund an account. Common methods include linking a bank account or using credit/debit cards, each with associated fees.
HODL Team
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