Best Crypto Exchanges and Apps

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Choosing the right crypto exchange is one of the most important decisions for anyone entering the digital asset space — whether you're a beginner taking your first steps or an experienced trader looking to maximize returns. With so many platforms available, each offering unique features, fees, and security protocols, it can be overwhelming to determine which one aligns best with your goals. This guide breaks down the top crypto exchanges and apps in 2025 based on reliability, user experience, supported assets, and specialized use cases.

We’ve evaluated platforms across key criteria including security, fees, asset variety, customer support, and accessibility to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're interested in altcoins, futures trading, social investing, or simply buying Bitcoin with a credit card, there's a platform tailored to your needs.

Top Crypto Exchanges and Apps: Overview

Here’s a quick snapshot of the best platforms based on specific trading needs:

These platforms stand out due to their unique offerings, regulatory compliance, and user-centric design.

Best Crypto Exchange for Altcoins: Gemini

Gemini is a trusted name in the cryptocurrency world, offering access to over 150 digital assets through its web and mobile platforms. Designed with both beginners and advanced traders in mind, Gemini provides robust security features, including cold storage and insurance coverage for digital assets.

New investors benefit from an intuitive interface and educational resources, while experienced traders can leverage the ActiveTrader platform for faster execution, advanced charting tools, and competitive fee structures. Gemini also supports staking for select cryptocurrencies, allowing users to earn passive income.

A notable expansion includes its integration with Nifty Gateway, enabling NFT trading directly within the ecosystem. However, potential drawbacks include relatively higher trading fees compared to some competitors and limited direct customer service options — support is primarily handled through a comprehensive help center.

👉 Discover a secure platform with strong altcoin support and advanced trading tools.

Why It Stands Out: Gemini excels in security and regulatory compliance while offering one of the broadest selections of altcoins like Ethereum, Dogecoin, Cardano, USD Coin, and Uniswap — making it ideal for diversified crypto portfolios.

Best for Trading Ideas: Public.com

Public.com partners with Bakkt Crypto to offer seamless cryptocurrency investing alongside traditional assets like stocks and ETFs. One of its standout features is automated recurring investments, allowing users to dollar-cost average into crypto using daily, weekly, biweekly, or monthly schedules.

The platform emphasizes transparency and community-driven insights, giving users access to real-time market analysis and commentary from other investors. This social layer enhances decision-making and helps newcomers learn as they invest.

It's important to note that crypto services on Public.com are powered by Bakkt Crypto — a licensed virtual currency business regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services. While Public handles traditional brokerage accounts, Bakkt manages crypto custody and trading separately.

Public.com is ideal for investors seeking a holistic investment experience that combines crypto with equities, all within a user-friendly environment.

Why It Stands Out: Public.com simplifies entry into crypto investing with automation tools and educational content, making it perfect for those who want to grow their knowledge while building a diversified portfolio.

Best for Crypto Futures Traders: Kraken

Kraken is a powerhouse in the crypto exchange space, catering to both novice and professional traders. With more than 240 cryptocurrencies available and deep liquidity across numerous fiat pairings, Kraken offers flexibility and performance.

Traders can choose between simple instant buys or advanced order types like stop-loss and limit orders. For experienced users, Kraken supports spot margin trading (up to 5x leverage) and futures contracts with up to 50x leverage — ideal for hedging strategies and high-reward opportunities.

Security is a top priority: funds are stored in cold wallets with multi-layered encryption and 24/7 monitoring. The platform also features an OTC desk for large trades, minimizing market impact.

Kraken provides 24/7 customer support — a rare feature among major exchanges — ensuring help is always accessible when needed.

👉 Access low-fee futures trading with powerful tools and institutional-grade security.

Why It Stands Out: Kraken combines advanced trading capabilities with exceptional security and responsive support, making it a go-to platform for serious futures traders.

Best Crypto Exchange for Crypto CFDs: Plus500

Plus500 specializes in contracts for difference (CFDs), allowing traders to speculate on cryptocurrency price movements without owning the underlying asset. This model appeals to experienced traders focused on short-term gains and risk management.

The platform offers CFDs on over 2,800 financial instruments — including forex, indices, commodities, ETFs, and major cryptocurrencies — with tight spreads and no commission fees. Guaranteed stop-loss orders add an extra layer of protection during volatile markets.

While U.S. residents cannot access CFDs, Plus500 launched TradeSniper as a futures-focused alternative compliant with U.S. regulations.

Regulated across multiple jurisdictions and publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange, Plus500 brings credibility and stability to its operations.

Why It Stands Out: Plus500 delivers a streamlined experience for speculative traders seeking leveraged exposure to crypto markets without asset ownership.

Best Crypto Exchange for Active Traders: PrimeXBT

PrimeXBT stands out with its copy trading feature called Covesting, where users can automatically mirror the trades of successful investors. This functionality lowers the learning curve for new traders while offering seasoned pros additional strategy options.

Though it supports only around 20 cryptocurrencies, the platform integrates traditional markets like forex, commodities, and stock indices — making it a multi-asset powerhouse.

The interface is clean and responsive, ideal for fast-paced trading environments. Regular promotions and referral incentives further enhance user engagement.

Why It Stands Out: PrimeXBT bridges crypto and traditional finance with social trading tools and cross-market access, appealing to active traders who value automation and diversification.

Best Crypto Exchange for U.S. and Canada: Coinbase

As one of the largest regulated exchanges in North America, Coinbase serves users in the U.S., Canada, and beyond. With a low entry barrier — just $2 or $5 minimum — it's highly accessible for beginners.

Coinbase offers an “earn while you learn” program featuring educational modules that reward users with free crypto after completing quizzes. It also supports staking for Ethereum and other proof-of-stake coins, generating yield on idle assets.

Security is reinforced through two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric login options, and offline cold storage. Customer support includes live phone assistance — a rarity in the industry.

Coinbase Wallet provides non-custodial storage options for those seeking full control over their private keys.

👉 Start your crypto journey on a trusted exchange with strong North American presence.

Why It Stands Out: Coinbase combines ease of use with regulatory trustworthiness, making it one of the safest gateways into crypto for users in regulated markets.

Best Crypto Exchange for Social Trading: eToro

eToro pioneered social trading by allowing users to replicate the portfolios of top-performing traders. With over 30 million users globally, it offers access to more than 6,000 financial instruments — including cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and commodities.

In the U.S., eToro currently supports only Bitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and Ether (ETH) following a 2024 settlement with the SEC. Despite this limitation, its intuitive interface and copy-trading functionality remain major draws.

Fractional share investing and portfolio automation tools make it easy to build diversified holdings regardless of budget size.

Why It Stands Out: eToro democratizes investing by blending education, community insights, and automated strategies in one accessible platform.

Best Crypto Exchange for Credit Card Users: Paybis

Paybis shines with its wide range of payment methods — particularly credit cards — making it easy to buy crypto instantly across 180+ countries. The platform supports over 40 cryptocurrencies and accepts deposits via Skrill, Neteller, Giropay, bank transfers, and AstroPay.

With a minimum purchase of just $5 or €5, Paybis is ideal for micro-investors or those testing new tokens quickly.

Regulated by FinCEN in the U.S., Paybis maintains strong compliance standards while offering multilingual support and mobile apps for iOS and Android.

Why It Stands Out: Paybis removes friction from onboarding by supporting nearly every major payment method under one roof.

Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners: Robinhood

Robinhood revolutionized retail investing by eliminating trading fees for stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies. Its sleek app design makes buying Dogecoin or Bitcoin effortless — especially appealing to younger or first-time investors.

While it lacks advanced research tools or diverse account types (like IRAs), its simplicity remains its strength. Fractional shares allow users to invest small amounts in high-priced assets.

Robinhood now offers 24-hour trading on select equities and has expanded its educational library to support investor growth.

Why It Stands Out: Robinhood lowers barriers to entry with zero-commission trades and an intuitive interface — perfect for learning by doing.

Best Crypto Exchange for Bitcoin: Cash App

Cash App provides a seamless way to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin directly from your smartphone. Launched by Block, Inc., it integrates peer-to-peer payments with investment features — setting it apart from Venmo and similar apps.

A key advantage is Bitcoin withdrawal capability: users can transfer BTC to external wallets rather than being locked into custodial storage. The app also supports the Lightning Network for near-instant, low-cost transactions.

Fees typically range from 0.75% to 3%, depending on market volatility.

Why It Stands Out: Cash App offers unmatched convenience for mobile-first Bitcoin investors who value speed and simplicity.

How to Choose the Right Crypto Exchange

When evaluating platforms, consider these core factors:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best crypto exchange overall?
While preferences vary, Kraken and Coinbase are often rated highest due to their balance of security, features, and user support.

Which exchange has the lowest fees?
Kraken offers fees as low as 0%, especially for high-volume traders. PrimeXBT also provides competitive rates with added leverage benefits.

Can I trade futures on these platforms?
Yes — Kraken and PrimeXBT offer robust futures trading with up to 50x leverage for qualified users.

Are these exchanges safe?
Top platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, and Gemini implement enterprise-grade security including cold storage, encryption, regular audits, and insurance policies.

Do any platforms offer copy trading?
eToro and PrimeXBT both feature social/copy trading functionalities that let users mirror expert traders’ moves automatically.

Is it legal to use crypto exchanges in the U.S.?
Yes — regulated platforms such as Coinbase, Kraken, eToro (limited), Paybis (in most states), and Robinhood operate legally under U.S. financial guidelines.

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