10 Coinbase Alternatives 2024 - Best rates & fees

Zac McClure
ByZac McClure, MBAReviewed byAlex MilesUpdated on January 17, 2024 · minute read
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  • Discover cost-effective alternatives to Coinbase with lower fees and diverse offerings, empowering your cryptocurrency trading decisions.

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and unique features offered by each platform for informed decision-making.

Looking for alternatives to Coinbase with the best rates and fees? Our crypto tax experts have meticulously curated a list of the top 10 alternatives to Coinbase. Let's delve into the details, starting with our top three picks.

Binance

Best for global reach and support

eToro

Best for social trading

Gemini

Best for security and regulatory compliance

Our picks of the 10 best Coinbase alternatives

Here is our comprehensive list of the 10 best Coinbase alternatives identified and reviewed by our crypto tax professionals, with pros and cons so you can quickly identify the platform that’s right for you.

Binance

Best for global reach and support

Binance, a global giant in the cryptocurrency space, takes the lead as our top pick. Known for its extensive global reach and robust support, Binance offers a diverse range of cryptocurrencies for trading. With low fees and a variety of supported cryptocurrencies, Binance stands out as a reliable choice for users worldwide. Crypto users in the US can use Binance.us.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Low fees

  • Extensive global reach

  • Robust support

Cons

  • Limited support for some regions

  • Why we like it Binance stands out for its low fees, a wide array of supported cryptocurrencies, and its commitment to security.

-  Why our experts picked it

Binance's global dominance, low trading fees, and diverse cryptocurrency offerings make it an attractive choice for users worldwide. The platform's commitment to innovation, evident through features like margin and derivative trading, positions it as a strong contender in the cryptocurrency exchange landscape.

Bitstamp

No-fee crypto trading for those with low monthly volume

If you enjoy trading with no fees, Bitstamp deserves a closer look. Traders with under $1,000 in monthly trades don’t pay a trading fee when using the Pro trading platform. Bitstamp considers your prior 30-day trading volume to determine your fee. When your 30-day trading volume crosses the $1,000 threshold, you pay a fee — but it’s low compared to Coinbase.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 0% trading fees up to $1,000 monthly trading volume

  • Easy-to-use platform

  • Same fee structure for simple trades or advanced trades

Cons

  • Variable withdrawal fee

  • 4% fee for instant purchases

-  Why our experts picked it

Bitstamp's approach to low or no fees for traders with lower monthly volumes, combined with an easy-to-use platform, makes it an appealing alternative for those conscious of transaction costs.

eToro

Best for social trading

eToro revolutionizes crypto trading with its unique social trading features, allowing users to replicate successful traders' strategies. While it caters to both stocks and crypto, its crypto offerings are slightly limited. Despite higher fees for crypto transactions, eToro's social trading feature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to leverage the strategies of successful investors.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Social trading features

  • Beginner-friendly interface

Cons

  • Higher fees for crypto transactions

  • Why we like it eToro's social trading feature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to leverage the strategies of successful investors.

-  Why our experts picked it

eToro's emphasis on social trading adds a unique dimension to the cryptocurrency experience. By fostering a community-driven approach, it provides a platform for learning and growth. The combination of user-friendly features and advanced tools makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of traders.

Gemini

Best for security and regulatory compliance

Gemini earns its spot as one of the best exchanges globally by prioritizing security and regulatory compliance. With availability in all 50 US states, Gemini is a notably secure and compliant option for crypto enthusiasts. Despite higher fees than Coinbase and a limited variety of cryptocurrencies, Gemini's commitment to security and widespread availability in the US make it a reliable choice for users.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Security and regulatory compliance

  • Availability in all 50 US states

Cons

  • Higher fees for trades over $200

-  Why our experts picked it

Gemini's commitment to security and widespread availability in the US make it a reliable choice for users.

Gate.io

Best for comprehensive crypto trading

In the realm of cryptocurrency exchanges, Gate.io stands out for offering a comprehensive trading experience. Unlike many platforms, it doesn't limit itself to cryptocurrencies; instead, it provides an extensive range of digital assets for trading. The platform's focus on inclusivity makes it an appealing choice for traders looking to diversify their portfolios.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Wide variety of supported cryptocurrencies

  • Dedicated cold wallet storage for enhanced security

  • Active customer support

Cons

  • Relatively higher costs compared to some alternatives

  • Limited availability in certain regions

  • Faces occasional user interface issues

-  Why our experts picked it

Gate.io's commitment to providing an extensive selection of cryptocurrencies sets it apart. The platform's user-friendly interface, coupled with dedicated security measures, makes it a reliable choice for traders seeking diversity in their digital asset investments.

HitBTC

Best for advanced cryptocurrency trading

HitBTC positions itself as the most advanced cryptocurrency exchange, offering markets for trading between various cryptocurrencies. With a focus on flexibility, HitBTC caters to experienced traders who desire a wide range of trading options.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Extensive cryptocurrency markets

  • Advanced trading features

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for beginners

  • Unavailable in the US

-  Why our experts picked it

HitBTC appeals to advanced traders with its extensive markets and advanced trading features.

iTrustCapital

Best for cryptocurrency IRAs

iTrustCapital allows users to invest their retirement savings directly into cryptocurrency, including other assets like gold and silver. While it's an excellent option for crypto IRAs, it has slightly higher fees and a limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to other alternatives.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Option for crypto IRAs

  • Easy user interface for retirement account trading

  • Invest retirement savings into crypto

Cons

  • 1% fees on crypto transactions

  • Why we like it iTrustCapital is a great option for those looking to invest in cryptocurrency within a tax-advantaged retirement account.

-  Why our experts picked it

The ability to pair crypto investment and retirement savings makes iTrustCapital an interesting alternative for those who want to diversify their long-term portfolio and plan for retirement.

Kraken

Best for low trading fees

As one of the prominent cryptocurrency exchanges, Kraken earns its reputation as a comprehensive platform suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. With a focus on reliability, security, and an extensive range of supported cryptocurrencies, Kraken has secured its place as a go-to exchange.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Low trading fees, particularly on Kraken Pro

  • Diverse range of available cryptocurrencies

  • Robust security features, including two-factor authentication

  • Margin and derivative trading options

Cons

  • Lack of an equivalent to Coinbase Learn for educational purposes

  • The interface may overwhelm beginners

-  Why our experts picked it

Kraken's commitment to low fees, coupled with a broad range of supported cryptocurrencies and robust security measures, positions it as a top choice for both novice and seasoned traders. The inclusion of advanced trading options further enhances its appeal, making it a versatile platform for users with varying levels of expertise.

KuCoin

Best for global digital asset services

KuCoin stands out as a global digital asset exchange providing users with secure and convenient services for digital transactions. While aiming to integrate premium assets worldwide, KuCoin positions itself as a platform that prioritizes safety and convenience.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Offers a vast range of digital assets for trading

  • Emphasis on safety and security with measures like the KuCoin Security Center

  • User-friendly interface suitable for both beginners and experienced traders

  • Regularly adds new and promising cryptocurrencies to its list

Cons

  • May have higher trading fees compared to some alternatives

  • The platform's interface might be overwhelming for newcomers

-  Why our experts picked it

KuCoin's commitment to safety, a diverse range of tradable assets, and a user-friendly interface make it an attractive choice for those looking for a global digital asset platform. The platform's continuous efforts to expand its list of supported cryptocurrencies also contribute to its appeal.

NiceHash

Best computing power marketplace for mining

NiceHash operates on the concept of a sharing economy, connecting sellers and buyers of computing power worldwide. It provides a platform for users to engage in crypto mining without the need for extensive hardware.

-  Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Connects buyers and sellers of computing power seamlessly

  • Offers a marketplace for various hashing algorithms

  • Simplifies the mining process for individuals

  • Provides competitive pricing for hashing power

Cons

  • Involves some level of trust between buyers and sellers

  • Occasional fluctuations in mining profitability

-  Why our experts picked it

NiceHash's innovative approach to connecting those with computing power needs with those who have excess power makes it an intriguing platform. It simplifies the mining process and fosters a collaborative environment in the crypto community.

What are the benefits of Coinbase?

While considering what Coinbase competitors have to offer, it's helpful to recognize the benefits that Coinbase offers.

  • Beginner-friendly: Coinbase's user-friendly interface makes it ideal for new investors. Features like Coinbase Learn provide an excellent introduction to the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

  • Reputation: Coinbase has built a stellar reputation for trust and security, collaborating with regulators worldwide to ensure compliance with cryptocurrency laws.

  • Insurance: Certain assets on Coinbase are fully insured, providing added security for users' holdings.

What to look for in a Coinbase alternative?

When searching for a Coinbase alternative, consider the following features:

  1. Low fees: Look for an exchange with lower transaction fees than Coinbase to maximize your returns.

  2. Advanced transaction types: If you're an experienced trader, choose an exchange that supports margin and derivative trading.

  3. Reputation: Research the platform's reputation, considering user reviews and industry insights to ensure a reliable and secure trading experience.

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Coinbase alternatives FAQs

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about Coinbase alternatives, including Coinbase vs eToro, Coinbase vs Gemini, and Coinbase competitors.

How to buy crypto without Coinbase?

To buy crypto without Coinbase, explore other exchanges like Binance, eToro, or Gemini, offering diverse options for cryptocurrency trading. These platforms provide alternative avenues for purchasing and trading various cryptocurrencies.

Coinbase vs eToro - What is better?

The choice between Coinbase and eToro depends on your preferences. Coinbase's user-friendly interface makes it suitable for beginners, while eToro excels in social trading features, allowing users to replicate the strategies of proven, successful traders. Ultimately the winner of Coinbase vs eToro will depend on our individual preferences and financial goals.

Coinbase vs Gemini - What is better?

Gemini is known for its security and availability, making it a reliable choice for users seeking a secure trading environment. Coinbase, on the other hand, stands out for its user-friendly interface. The choice of Coinbase vs Gemini will depend largely on how you prioritize security and ease of use.

What is the best alternative to Coinbase?

Determining the best alternative to Coinbase depends on individual needs and preferences. Binance, eToro, and Gemini are among the top contenders, with each platform offering unique features catering to different trading styles and goals.

What is safer than Coinbase?

Gemini is considered safer than Coinbase because it emphasizes security and regulatory compliance. Both exchanges prioritize security, but Gemini's commitment to regulatory standards adds a layer of safety for users.

Who has lower fees than Coinbase?

Binance stands out for lower fees than Coinbase, providing a cost-effective option for traders. If minimizing transaction costs is a priority, Binance offers competitive fee structures.

Is there an app like Coinbase?

Yes, several apps offer similar functionalities to Coinbase for on-the-go trading. Platforms like Binance, eToro, and Gemini provide mobile applications, allowing users to trade cryptocurrencies conveniently from their smartphones.

Does Coinbase have competitors?

Coinbase competitors include Binance, eToro, Gemini, and others. Each platform caters to various regions as well as specific needs and preferences, offering users alternatives for their crypto goals, experience level, and risk tolerance.

To stay up to date on the latest, follow TokenTax on Twitter @tokentax.

Zac McClure
Zac McClureCo-Founder & CEO at TokenTax
Zac co-founded TokenTax after his career in international finance and accounting at JPMorgan, Imprint Capital and Bain. He has worked in more than half-dozen countries and received his MBA from the UPenn Wharton School.
Alex Miles
Reviewed byAlex MilesCo-Founder at TokenTax
Prior to TokenTax, Alex worked as a Product Designer at Dropbox and before that Readmill (acquired by Dropbox). He holds a BS in Digital Information Design - Interactive Media from Winthrop University.

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