What to look for
- A licence in your country (in the EU: a MiCA licence, listed in ESMA's register).
- Total cost: trading fees plus the spread on the price.
- Easy withdrawals to your own wallet.
- Security track record and how customer assets are kept separate.
Side-by-side comparison
| Tool | Best for | Pricing | Available in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitpanda | Europeans who want crypto, stocks and metals in one app | Pay as you go | EU, UK |
| Bitstamp | A simple, long-established exchange | Pay as you go | Global |
| Bitvavo | European investors wanting low fees in euros | Pay as you go | EU |
| Bybit | Experienced traders | Pay as you go | Global |
| Coinbase | Beginners who want a well-known exchange | Pay as you go | Global |
| Crypto.com | A crypto app with a card | Pay as you go | Global |
| Gemini | People who put security and regulation first | Pay as you go | Global |
| Kraken | A long-running exchange with low fees on its pro platform | Pay as you go | Global |
| OKX | Active traders who want many products | Pay as you go | Global |
Popular matchups
Guides on the blog
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