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6 Best Crypto Exchanges & Apps of January 2025
Looking to buy and sell cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? You likely want a crypto exchange. The list below includes our picks for the best crypto exchanges, online brokers and platforms.
Oct 18, 2024
Written by Guru Raccoon
CEO
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Choosing a cryptocurrency exchange is often the first step investors take when exploring the world of digital assets. While there are many ways to trade cryptocurrencies, centralized exchanges provide a relatively easy way to convert cash into coins and tokens.
There are many exchanges to choose from, some with a longer track record than others. When comparing exchanges, investors can consider fees, cryptocurrency selection, advanced trading options and customer service offerings. But it’s also important to keep in mind some caveats.
Though some stock brokers also offer crypto exchanges, crypto trading is not subject to the same investor protections you get when working with traditional investments. For example, U.S. Securities Investor Protection Corp. insurance doesn’t apply to cryptocurrency, so if your exchange fails, you could lose your investment. For this reason, some users prefer not to store assets on exchanges unless they’re actively trading. Instead, you can use your own crypto wallet in many cases to store, trade and carry out transactions using cryptocurrency.
Choosing the Right Platform Based on Cryptocurrency Availability
If you’re interested in trading a specific cryptocurrency, it’s crucial to check whether your preferred platform offers it. The range of cryptocurrencies available varies significantly across platforms—from just a few options, like Fidelity Crypto’s limited selection of two coins, to over 250 on platforms like Crypto.com.
Generally, if you want access beyond major coins like Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum, a dedicated crypto exchange is likely the better choice over a traditional brokerage. Dedicated exchanges tend to support a broader array of digital assets, as seen in the comparison below.
Crypto platform and number of cryptocurrencies available:
- Crypto.com: 350+
Coinbase: 240+
Binance: 350+
KuCoin: 700+
Bybit: 650+
Kraken: 290+
Best Crypto Exchanges & Apps
Broker
App Store Rating
Google Play Rating
Number of Users
Promotion
Learn more
Crypto.com
4.5/5
Best for overall experience
4.4/5
Best for overall experience
over 100 million users
varies by type of transaction; other fees may apply
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on Crypto.com’s website
Coinbase
4.7/5
Best for beginner crypto trading
4.6/5
Best for beginner crypto trading
over 105 million users
varies by type of transaction; other fees may apply
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on Coinbase’s website
KuCoin
4.7/5
Best for finding new crypto gems
4.4/5
Best for finding new crypto gems
over 30 million users
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on KuCoin’s website
Binance
4.7/5
Low trading fees
4.5/5
Low trading fees
over 200 million users
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on Binance’s website
Bybit
4.9/5
High-leverage trading options
4.7/5
High-leverage trading options
over 20 million users
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on Bybit’s website
Kraken
4.7/5
Low fees
4.4/5
Low fees
over 10 million users
when you sign up. Terms Apply.
on Kraken’s website
Crypto.com
KEY FACTS
- Trading fees: 0%-2.99%
- Number of cryptocurrencies offered: 350+.
- Offer their Visa card with rewards: Europe only
Best for: Crypto.com is ideal for users seeking an all-in-one platform that combines cryptocurrency trading, payments, and passive income opportunities. With support for over 250 cryptocurrencies, a user-friendly interface, and features like a Crypto.com Visa Card offering cashback, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced traders alike. It’s especially suited for those looking to spend crypto in everyday transactions or earn through staking and savings.
Why we picked it: We chose Crypto.com for its extensive ecosystem and versatility. Beyond trading, it offers innovative services like a crypto debit card, lending, staking, and savings with competitive interest rates. Its native CRO token provides additional benefits, such as reduced fees and rewards, making Crypto.com a comprehensive solution for anyone diving deeper into the crypto space.
Good to know: Crypto.com emphasizes accessibility, with a top-rated mobile app and multilingual support, catering to a global audience. Its platform prioritizes security with features like insurance coverage and multi-factor authentication.
Coinbase
KEY FACTS
- Trading fees: 0%-3.99%
- Number of cryptocurrencies offered: 240+.
- Offer their Visa card with rewards: Yes
Best for: Beginner crypto trading; hassle-free and secure crypto storage.
Why we picked it: Coinbase has been at the forefront of cryptocurrency trading since it was founded in 2012, paving the way for beginners who had previously been skeptical of decentralized wallets and how to use them. And that ethos continues to this day — Coinbase is consistently one of the most user-friendly crypto apps we review, even when using its more advanced trading features. This makes it a strong choice for beginners looking for an onramp into the world of crypto.
Good to know: Coinbase’s fee structure can sometimes be quite confusing, though you’ll see all fees displayed clearly before placing any order.
KuCoin
KEY FACTS
- Trading fees: 0%-3.99%
- Number of cryptocurrencies offered: 700+.
- Offer their Visa card with rewards: Europe only
Best for: KuCoin is ideal for altcoin enthusiasts, cost-conscious traders, and those looking for advanced tools like margin and futures trading. It’s great for earning passive income through staking and lending, and is accessible worldwide, with strong security features and an insurance fund for added protection.
Why we picked it: KuCoin is a popular choice for crypto trading due to its wide range of over 700 coins, low fees (0.1%), and user-friendly interface. It offers advanced features like margin and futures trading, plus staking and lending for passive income. With robust security and a mobile app for easy access, KuCoin caters to both beginners and experienced traders globally.
Good to know: You can earn passive income through staking and lending. The platform offers strong security measures and an insurance fund. KuCoin is accessible in more than 200 countries worldwide.
Binance
KEY FACTS
- Trading fees: 0.1% per trade
- Number of cryptocurrencies offered: 200+.
- Offer their Visa card with rewards: No.
Best for: Binance is ideal for advanced traders and investors looking for a wide range of cryptocurrencies, advanced trading tools, and low fees. With over 350 cryptocurrencies available, extensive trading options like futures and margin trading, and competitive fees, Binance suits both active traders and long-term investors. Beginners and experienced users alike will also appreciate the educational resources and analytical tools provided.
Why we picked it: We chose Binance for its unique combination of advanced features and cryptocurrency variety. The platform offers access to leveraged trading, staking, and the Launchpad for investing in new projects. With Binance Coin (BNB) reducing trading fees, Binance provides not only a comprehensive ecosystem but also a way for investors to maximize their returns.
Good to know: Binance is the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange with global availability and multilingual support, emphasizing a high level of security. It offers both mobile and desktop applications for easy account access anywhere. Users can benefit from Binance Earn and other passive income programs, but should also consider that the platform is subject to regulations in various countries, which may affect certain features or service availability.
Bybit
KEY FACTS
- Trading fees: up to 0.1% per trade
- Number of cryptocurrencies offered: 650+.
- Offer their Visa card with rewards: No.
Best for: Bybit is ideal for traders who are focused on derivatives and leverage trading, as well as those seeking competitive fees and an intuitive trading interface. Known for its strong derivatives options and easy-to-use platform, Bybit is suitable for both experienced and intermediate traders who want to explore high-risk, high-reward trading strategies. Bybit’s straightforward design and quick transaction speeds make it an attractive choice for those looking to maximize efficiency.
Why we picked it: We selected Bybit for its focus on seamless derivatives trading and its commitment to user experience. With robust tools for margin and leverage trading, Bybit stands out as one of the top exchanges for high-level crypto trading. Additionally, Bybit offers attractive bonuses for new users and ongoing promotions, enhancing the overall trading experience and providing extra value for active users.
Good to know: Bybit supports multiple trading pairs and is known for its rapid transaction processing and reliability during high volatility. The platform includes mobile and desktop applications, enabling easy access on the go. However, Bybit’s services focus heavily on derivatives, and while it has expanded into spot trading, users primarily seeking spot trading or diverse financial products may want to consider other exchanges that provide a wider range of services.
About the author
Guru Raccoon
Guru is a former writer focused on cryptocurrency and alternative investments. He has more than 8 years experience with Crypto trading.
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