10 Best Crypto Exchanges and Apps

Editor’s Take

Kraken is one of the oldest U.S.-based crypto exchanges, founded in 2011, and is known for its competitive trading fees. It supports trading for over 400 coins, offering one of the largest selections in the market, and its maker-taker fee structure appeals to high-volume traders looking for low costs. The platform is also intuitive, making it accessible even if you are new to crypto trading.

That said, Kraken isn’t available to residents of Maine, New York, or Washington, and staking is restricted in states like California, Maryland, New Jersey, and Wisconsin. In 2024, a security incident saw hackers attempt to extort nearly $3 million from Kraken’s treasury, though no customer assets were affected.

Kraken is best suited for those who want a broad range of coins, low fees, and advanced trading features. It earns top marks for being an all-around strong choice for active traders who value both affordability and security.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supports 230+ cryptocurrencies
• Strong security record with no major hacks
• Offers margin trading and futures for advanced users
• Staking options for earning passive income
• Transparent fee structure with lower costs for high-volume traders

Cons

• Interface can be difficult for beginners
• Customer support response times are inconsistent
• Limited educational resources compared to some competitors
• Certain features restricted in specific regions
• Mobile app less intuitive than desktop platform

Details

Kraken is one of the longest-standing crypto exchanges and continues to serve millions of users worldwide. It offers both a beginner-friendly platform and Kraken Pro, which supports charting, indicators, and margin trading for advanced traders. Its competitive maker-taker fee model, starting at 0.25% for makers and 0.40% for takers, becomes even more cost-effective at higher trading volumes.

The platform also stands out for staking, supporting 25 different coins, more than many competitors. With its Auto Earn feature, you can earn rewards on your holdings while still maintaining access to your funds. Security remains a priority with features like cold storage, two-factor authentication, and regular audits.

Kraken provides 24/7 customer support via chat, email, and phone, plus beginner-friendly crypto guides through its blog. While the SEC filed a lawsuit against Kraken in late 2023, the case was dropped in March 2025, allowing the company to move forward without penalties.

Editor’s Take

Uphold is one of the few exchanges with a flat fee structure, letting you trade more than 250 currencies while also offering staking for at least 19 coins. Its platform is user-friendly and supported by video resources for beginner, intermediate, and advanced traders, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Beyond crypto, Uphold also supports trading in stocks and precious metals, allowing you to diversify within one account. It is not available to New York residents, and customer support is limited to email, with no chat or phone options.

Uphold works best if you want a straightforward way to trade multiple asset classes in one place. Its balance of simplicity, transparent fees, and broad asset selection makes it appealing to beginners and casual investors alike.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Supports crypto, fiat, and precious metals in one account
• Transparent fee display before each trade
• Easy-to-use interface for beginners
• Instant transfers between Uphold users
• Offers recurring buys for dollar-cost averaging

Cons

• Higher fees compared to some exchanges
• Limited advanced trading features
• Smaller selection of cryptocurrencies than top competitors
• Customer support response times can be slow
• Not ideal for high-volume or professional traders

Details

Uphold charges flat fees for trades, with stablecoin transactions in the U.S. costing around 0.2%, while Bitcoin and Ether carry fees between 1.4% and 1.6%, and altcoins range from 2.5% to 2.95%. The platform supports staking for 19 types of assets, with rewards reaching up to 16.80%, making it appealing for those who want to earn passive income alongside trading.

The exchange is designed for simplicity, allowing users to trade crypto in just one step. It also provides video courses to help traders of all levels, though customer service is limited to email only, with no phone or chat support available.

In terms of security, Uphold has not reported any hacks as of mid-2025, though it did experience a 2022 breach where email addresses were exposed; fortunately, no funds were stolen. This, combined with two-factor authentication and regulatory compliance, provides users with a reasonable level of trust and protection.

Editor’s Take

Crypto.com is one of the biggest names in the crypto space, supporting over 400 currencies and allowing users to stake 20+ coins. It’s known for relatively low trading fees, a user-friendly app, and the added utility of its token Cronos (CRO), which can be used to pay fees and unlock rewards. You can also earn interest on your assets, making it appealing for users who want both trading and earning opportunities.

On the downside, Crypto.com experienced a 2022 hack that resulted in the theft of about $34 million in assets, raising concerns despite its security measures. The platform also has many features—staking, rewards, and lending—that may feel overwhelming for beginners, and some fees for services can be higher than competitors.

Overall, Crypto.com works best for users seeking a one-stop shop for trading, staking, and even spending crypto through its debit card. If you value convenience and a wide selection of assets, it’s a strong choice, though beginners may need time to adjust to its many offerings.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Supports 250+ cryptocurrencies
• Crypto Visa debit card with cashback rewards
• Strong security with insurance coverage on assets
• Easy-to-use mobile app with advanced trading options
• Staking and earning programs for passive income

Cons:

• Higher fees for credit/debit card purchases
• Complex platform for beginners
• Some features restricted by region
• Customer support can be slow at peak times
• Rewards and perks tied to holding CRO (Crypto.com’s token)

Details

Crypto.com lets you trade hundreds of coins and earn rewards by staking 20+ tokens and stablecoins. The platform also offers a Visa prepaid debit card that gives you cashback rewards when spending your crypto, making it one of the few exchanges bridging trading with real-world purchases.

However, availability is limited; if you live in New York, you won’t be able to trade on Crypto.com. In addition, staking is not supported in California, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, or Wisconsin, which restricts one of its key earning features.

Despite these limitations, Crypto.com remains a strong option for users who want a platform that combines trading, staking, and spending in one place. Its broad selection of coins and built-in reward system makes it especially appealing to those who want both convenience and utility.

Editor’s Take

Gemini stands out for its strong U.S. regulatory compliance and availability in all 50 states, something few crypto exchanges can match. Its beginner-friendly platform is easy to navigate, while ActiveTrader offers advanced tools for experienced users.

The main drawback is Gemini’s fee structure, which can be costly. Standard web and mobile orders include a 1% convenience fee plus a 1.49% transaction fee, making it more expensive than many competitors.

Overall, Gemini is best for U.S. users who value security, regulatory oversight, and ease of use. It’s a trusted option for both beginners seeking simplicity and institutional investors looking for a reliable, compliant platform.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Strong security record with no major breaches
• Available in all 50 U.S. states
• Beginner-friendly interface
• Staking options for certain cryptocurrencies
• Insurance coverage on digital assets stored in hot wallets

Cons:

• Higher fees compared to many exchanges
• Smaller selection of supported coins
• Limited advanced trading features outside ActiveTrader
• Customer support response times can be slow

Details

Gemini, founded in 2014 and regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, supports over 70 cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins. It offers access through a mobile app, website, or the more advanced ActiveTrader platform, which includes features such as chart customization and dual-market monitoring.

The exchange also provides a built-in insured wallet and lets users earn rewards through programs like Gemini Earn and staking options for assets such as Solana, Ethereum, and Polygon. Additionally, Gemini offers a credit card that lets you earn Bitcoin on purchases, adding another layer of utility.

Editor’s Take

Coinbase gives you access to more than 290 cryptocurrencies and supports rewards on over 130 coins, making it one of the most versatile platforms. Its intuitive interface makes buying, selling, and setting up recurring transactions simple, while still offering advanced trading tools for experienced users.

On the downside, Coinbase is not available in all 50 states and has faced at least three major hacks since 2021, raising concerns despite its insurance protections. Fees are also higher than many competitors, especially for frequent traders.

Overall, Coinbase is best for beginners who want a clean, user-friendly experience. It’s also a strong option for long-term investors who value regulatory compliance and ease of use over the lowest trading costs.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Easy-to-use platform for beginners
• Supports over 200 cryptocurrencies
• Strong security measures, including insurance on custodial assets
• Advanced trading features on Coinbase Advanced
• Offers staking on select coins

Cons:

• Higher fees than many competitors
• Customer support can be inconsistent
• Limited availability of some advanced products outside the U.S.
• Fewer trading pairs compared to global exchanges like Binance
• Withdrawal fees may apply depending on method

Details

Coinbase made history in May 2025 as the first crypto exchange to join the S&P 500 index, reinforcing its position as a mainstream financial player. While the SEC filed a lawsuit in 2023 for operating as an unregistered broker-dealer, the case was dropped in February 2025, easing regulatory concerns.

The platform caters to both beginners and advanced users, with its standard interface and the more sophisticated Coinbase Advanced for pro traders. It supports hundreds of coins, including rarer altcoins, and offers staking on eight coins plus rewards on more than 130 assets.

Although its fees are higher than many competitors, Coinbase stands out for its accessibility and educational content. You can reach customer support via chat, email, or phone, and explore guides and resources to build your crypto knowledge.

Editor’s Take

Binance.US is one of the largest staking platforms in the U.S., allowing users to stake 22 coins while also providing access to educational resources. Its wide staking options make it appealing if you want to earn rewards directly on the platform.

However, the exchange has faced scrutiny due to past security breaches, and its trading fees are higher than some competitors. It’s also not available in nearly a dozen U.S. states, which limits accessibility.

Binance.US is best suited for users seeking low fees on certain trades, a broad selection of crypto, and strong staking opportunities. For coin staking in particular, it remains a top choice despite its drawbacks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Low trading fees compared to many U.S. exchanges
• Wide selection of cryptocurrencies
• Advanced trading tools and features
• Staking options for earning rewards
• High liquidity for major coins

Cons

• Not available in all U.S. states
• Customer support can be slow
• Limited educational resources for beginners
• Fewer fiat funding options compared to global Binance
• Regulatory uncertainty around operations

Details

Binance.US supports trading in over 160 coins, along with staking for 20-plus coins, making it one of the stronger platforms for earning staking rewards. However, availability is limited, as it cannot be used in states such as Alaska, New York, Texas, and several others.

The platform offers competitive staking options but falls behind some larger exchanges in overall coin variety. Still, it appeals to users who prioritize earning rewards over sheer trading selection.

Binance.US has also faced regulatory challenges. In 2023, the company and its then-CEO paid more than $4 billion in fines after an SEC investigation, and the SEC filed 13 charges alleging issues such as inflating trading volumes. These legal concerns were resolved when the case was dropped in May 2025.

Editor’s Take

Interactive Brokers may not offer features like staking and supports only a limited number of coins, but it stands out for its low fees and integration with traditional asset trading. This makes it appealing if you want crypto exposure alongside stocks and other investments.

Its fee structure is among the simplest, charging between 0.12% and 0.18% per trade, while its platforms are known for being highly customizable and professional-grade. However, with access to only about 10 coins and no staking or rewards, its crypto selection is the smallest among major exchanges.

IBKR works best for those who value security, transparency, and institutional-level tools over variety. If your priority is trading safety and low costs, it’s a strong option, but it may not satisfy users seeking a wide range of coins or passive income opportunities.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Trade crypto, stocks, ETFs, and more in one account
• Low fees compared to many crypto-focused exchanges
• Advanced charting, research, and order types
• Strong security and regulated broker
• Global access to multiple markets

Cons

• Complex interface for beginners
• Limited crypto selection compared to dedicated exchanges
• Mobile app less user-friendly than competitors
• Funding and withdrawals may take longer than on crypto-only apps

Details

Interactive Brokers is best known for its suite of advanced trading platforms, which appeals to experienced traders who want access to powerful tools. It also lets you trade both crypto and traditional assets like stocks and options from the same account, making it a convenient all-in-one platform.

That said, IBKR does not offer staking or interest-earning features, so it may not be suitable if your goal is to generate passive income on crypto holdings. Its focus is primarily on trading rather than yield opportunities.

Support is available through chat, email, and phone, alongside a library of educational resources for traders. These extras make it a strong choice for users who prioritize professional-grade trading features and reliable support.

Editor’s Take

Bitstamp is one of the longest-running crypto exchanges, with more than 14 years of experience and global availability across the EU, UK, Asia, and most U.S. states (except Nevada and Hawaii). In June 2025, it was acquired by Robinhood for $200 million, but it continues to operate independently while expanding its licenses and infrastructure.

The platform is best suited for trading major cryptocurrencies, offering a straightforward and secure experience without overwhelming features. However, its staking options are limited to just two coins, Ethereum and Cardano, and customer support does not include live chat.

Overall, Bitstamp is a reliable choice if you want a simple, regulated exchange to trade top coins. It works especially well for users who prefer stability and a clean interface over a wide selection of advanced tools.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Long track record as one of the oldest crypto exchanges
• Strong regulatory compliance in Europe and the U.S.
• Robinhood ownership adds retail-friendly features
• Offers staking and advanced trading tools
• Access to perpetual futures for certain regions

Cons:

• Limited institutional support compared to larger exchanges
• Fees may be higher than some competitors
• Smaller selection of coins than Binance or Coinbase
• U.S. features may lag behind European offerings
• No built-in ecosystem like some larger platforms

Details

Bitstamp is designed with simplicity in mind, making it a good option for beginner traders who want an easy-to-use platform. For more advanced users, Bitstamp Pro offers deeper tools such as advanced charts, multiple order types, and detailed analytics.

The exchange also provides a wide range of educational resources, including tutorials, guides, and articles covering crypto fundamentals and strategies. To support learning further, Bitstamp even offers a free e-book called “Crypto Categories Unveiled.”

This mix of user-friendliness and advanced tools makes Bitstamp versatile, catering to both newcomers and experienced traders who want accessible education alongside professional-grade trading features.

Editor’s Take

BitFlyer is known for its strict compliance measures, making it a strong option for beginners and those who prioritize security. Founded by a former Goldman Sachs trader, it is licensed in Japan, the U.S., and the EU, which adds credibility to its role as a crypto broker. The platform also keeps funds in cold storage, offering a high level of protection.

In addition to security, BitFlyer is appealing for its relatively low fees on a select number of major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, the exchange has a limited coin selection and a fee schedule that isn’t as transparent as some competitors. It focuses mainly on “blue chip” cryptos rather than newer options like Solana or Polygon.

BitFlyer is best suited for users who want a straightforward platform with strong safeguards and don’t mind trading only a handful of well-established cryptocurrencies.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Licensed in Japan, U.S., and EU
• Strong focus on compliance and security
• Simple interface that is easy for beginners
• Supports both crypto-to-crypto and fiat-to-crypto trades
• Low minimum deposit requirements

Cons

• Limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to global leaders
• Fewer advanced trading features
• Lower liquidity outside of major coins
• Customer support can be slow at times
• Not ideal for high-frequency or professional traders

Details

Headquartered in Japan, BitFlyer has grown to serve more than 2.5 million customers worldwide. It’s designed to be beginner-friendly, making it a good option if you’re mainly interested in trading a small number of major cryptocurrencies.

That said, the platform does have limitations. Its coin selection is relatively small, and users may face higher spreads on instant trades compared to some competitors.

Another drawback is the lack of live customer support, which could be frustrating if you encounter urgent issues. Still, BitFlyer remains a solid choice for those who prioritize simplicity and security over a wide range of trading options.

Editor’s Take

eToro is a beginner-friendly platform with a clean interface that makes it easy to start trading crypto. It supports 19 tradable coins, along with access to stocks and ETFs. A standout feature is its social trading option, which lets you copy the strategies of more experienced investors.

On the downside, eToro’s fees can be higher than some competitors, and advanced users may find its charting tools limited. Crypto trading is also restricted in New York, Nevada, and Hawaii, which limits availability.

Overall, eToro works best for newcomers who want a simple way to invest in both crypto and traditional markets. Its mix of educational resources and social trading features adds extra appeal for casual investors learning the ropes.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Easy-to-use platform suitable for beginners
• Supports 30+ cryptocurrencies
• Offers stocks, ETFs, and crypto in one account
• Social trading allows copying experienced investors
• Regulated in multiple countries

Cons:

• Higher fees compared to some exchanges
• Limited advanced trading features
• Fewer crypto assets than top global exchanges
• Withdrawal fees can reduce profits
• Not available in every U.S. state

Details

eToro is a beginner-friendly platform with a $10 minimum deposit, making it easy for new investors to get started. It supports nearly 20 tradable cryptocurrencies in the U.S., along with stocks and ETFs, and offers a social trading feature that lets you copy strategies from experienced investors.

The platform includes the eToro Money crypto wallet, which allows you to securely store and transfer your digital assets. While fees can be higher than some competitors and advanced charting tools are limited, its clean design and intuitive interface make it approachable for casual investors.

Overall, eToro is best suited for beginners and those looking for a simple way to manage both crypto and traditional investments. With its social features and low entry point, it’s a practical option if you’re learning the ropes or want a straightforward trading experience.