Thadeus Geodfrey and finance are inseparable. He is a versatile expert with a strong cryptocurrency and market analysis background. Thadeus provides a unique blend of technical and strategic insights as a seasoned financial writer. His overarching probe and attention to detail inspire the InvestingGuide community. He guides you through the continuously evolving market landscape to build solid investments or make successful trades.
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Cryptocurrencies are gaining traction in the UK lately, but for many people, getting started is the hardest part. I discovered that most individuals just don’t know the best way to buy crypto. I’ve been there too, scrolling through endless options, not sure what’s legit and what’s not. But through experience, using an exchange or broker has proven to be efficient.
Below, I have put together a list of the best crypto websites that met my specifications during research. I spent weeks testing hundreds of options, confirming whether they are reliable and secure. Besides making recommendations, I will share a few tips beginners need to kickstart their ventures.
Here are the top cryptocurrency websites that I handpicked after conducting multiple tests and comparisons.
List of Crypto Trading Platforms
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{etoroCFDrisk}% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
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Risk WarningSome crypto products and markets are unregulated, and you may not be protected by government compensation and/or regulatory protection schemes. The unpredictable nature of the cryptoasset markets can lead to loss of funds. Tax may be payable on any return and/or on any increase in the value of your cryptoassets and you should seek independent advice on your taxation position.
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Risk WarningExodus is a software platform ONLY and does not conduct any independent diligence on or substantive review of any blockchain asset, digital currency, cryptocurrency or associated funds.
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Risk Warning
We are not an investment advisor. Please do your own research before making any investment decisions.
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In This Guide
Compare Exchanges Table
According to CoinMarketCap data, cryptocurrency’s total global market capitalisation is around $2.67 trillion.
The UK market hosts hundreds of regulated and unregulated crypto exchanges. So, how did I sift out deplorable entities and isolate the best service providers in the UK? Well, the process wasn’t easy, and I will walk you through it later in this guide. First, here is my comparison table, which highlights the essential elements that make my top cryptocurrency exchanges stand out.
| Crypto Exchange | Exchange Type | Support Service | Payment Methods | Supported Coins | Digital Wallet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | Centralised | 24/5 | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, e-wallet | 100+ | Yes |
| Kraken | Centralised | 24/7 | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, e-wallet | 200+ | Yes |
| Exodus | Decentralised | 24/7 | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, e-wallet | 300+ | Yes |
| Crypto.com | Centralised | 24/7 | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, Crypto.com Pay | 350+ | Yes |
Fees & Commissions
Before kicking off your cryptocurrency venture, it is crucial to have a budget, as this will help you select the best UK crypto exchange that you can afford. You do not want to end up overspending and getting frustrated once you are fully committed.
To ensure you identify an affordable crypto trading platform in the UK, I have prepared a table below summarising some of the costs you will incur. Understand that while some exchanges do not charge transaction costs, you may incur network or gas fees to the blockchain to facilitate transactions.
| Crypto Exchange | Commissions/Spreads | Transaction Costs | Minimum Deposit | Inactivity Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | 1% buy/sell, 0.1% trade | £5 fiat withdrawal | £100 | £10 monthly |
| Kraken | From 0.0% – 0.4% maker/taker fees | Withdrawal fee varies, depending on the asset. | £10 | None |
| Exodus | No fees | None | None | None |
| Crypto.com | From 0.0%/ 0.1% maker/taker fees | Withdrawal fee varies, depending on the asset. | None | None |
Exchanges Reviews
Over the years, I’ve gained a solid understanding of what makes a crypto exchange stand out. I’ve personally tested and compared hundreds of platforms, looking at security, ease of use, fees, asset availability, and more.
The best cryptocurrency brokers in the UK listed below aren’t just random picks but have met all my specifications. However, not all will fit your crypto trading requirements. That’s why I share their mini reviews below so you can easily identify what fits you best.
1. eToro – Best Overall
After exploring numerous trading platforms, I found eToro to be the overall best site to buy crypto. What stood out to me first was how simple and intuitive it is. Whether using the official website or its mobile app, the experience is seamless even for beginners looking to invest in crypto for the first time. Note that this crypto platform in the UK has a low minimum deposit requirement of £50 with free deposits.
eToro offers over 100 digital assets, including Ethereum, Litecoin, and more. It also allows you to purchase, sell, and trade Bitcoin. I also like that it comes with its own eToro Money crypto wallet. This feature eliminates the need for third-party wallets and the security risks that come with them. It makes storing and transferring crypto much easier.
Another reason I recommend eToro is its staking feature. Users can buy and stake supported assets, earning passive rewards while holding their investments. On top of that, eToro isn’t just about crypto. It also offers additional securities, including forex, shares, commodities, indices, CFDs on ETFs, and more. I find it reliable when it comes to managing a diversified portfolio.
eToro
✔5000+ financial instruments
✔Cost-free deposits
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- User-friendly web interface and mobile app
- Offers a vibrant crypto community to copy traders
- Safeguards client assets with military-grade offline storage infrastructure
- Allows newbies to upgrade their skills from the eToro Academy
- Virtual portfolios are available
Cons
- Fewer crypto assets than other exceptional exchanges
- Higher coin transfer fees than its peers
If there’s anything that can eat away at your profit margins, it’s unnecessary costs. Thankfully, eToro fees UK are reasonable and pocket-friendly. We acquired a new account without paying a single cent, which was quite a relief. We also noticed that you can enjoy free deposits by using USD. That said, eToro supports many other currencies, including GBP, EUR, and RMB.
You will incur conversion fees if you use any currency other than USD. And if you use any currency that eToro doesn’t support, you must pay conversion fees to your payment provider. The exact conversion fees you may incur at any moment will depend on various factors, including your preferred currency and payment method.
Please note that eToro subjects each withdrawal request to a £5 fee. The platform uses this money to pay expenses arising from international money transfers. Most importantly, you can’t withdraw less than £30 from the eToro trading platform.
While depositing money into our account, we noticed that eToro has strict minimum deposit requirements. Britons using this platform have to deposit at least £100 the first time. Afterwards, you can fund your account with as little as £10, depending on your preferred payment method.
Commission-wise, eToro is very friendly to people who trade ETFs or invest in real stocks since the broker charges 0% for these assets. On the other hand, if you buy or sell crypto on this platform, expect to pay a 1% fee. CFD trading also attracts variable spreads depending on the involved instruments. For instance, the spreads for currencies and commodities start from 1 pip and 2 pips, respectively.
Not to forget, eToro charges a £10 monthly inactivity fee that kicks in after 12 months of dormancy.
2. Kraken – Best UK Exchange for Advanced Crypto Traders
From my experience, Kraken is the best place to buy crypto in the UK if you are an advanced or experienced investor. With over 200 digital assets available, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Solana, Cardano, and more, it offers plenty of options to diversify your portfolio.
What stands out to me is Kraken’s powerful trading platform. It integrates with TradingView, giving users access to advanced charting and technical analysis tools. The ability to customise charts to match specific strategies makes a huge difference when trading. On top of that, the platform’s API allows for seamless integration with third-party tools like trading bots and portfolio management services.
Another reason I find Kraken to be the best place to buy cryptocurrency in the UK is its strong security measures. Users get to protect their accounts and assets using strong passwords, Face ID, and two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, the exchange is highly encrypted, ensuring no unauthorised access to your account.
For those who prefer trading on the go, Kraken’s mobile app makes placing advanced orders simple and efficient, anytime, anywhere.
Kraken
✔Registered with the FCA
✔24/7 customer support
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- Protect client funds and assets with industry-leading security
- Allows users to maximise returns with deep liquidity and minimum slippage
- Premium users can execute orders exceeding £10,000 with Kraken OTC
- Supports flexible funding options, including crypto, cash, and cards
- Highly customisable trading modules are available
Cons
- Fewer crypto assets than other industry leaders
- Higher fees for low-volume traders
Opening a Kraken account won’t cost you anything. The Kraken wallet is also free to acquire and use. That said, while trading with this review, you will be required to cover maker/trader fees starting from 0.00%/0.10%. But, to enjoy such low costs, you must have a high 30-day trading volume. Otherwise, if your 30-day trading volume is low, you may be subjected to higher maker/trader fees of up to 0.25%/0.40%.
With that in mind, many of the crypto assets supported by Kraken come with zero address setup and deposit fees. However, they have minimum deposit requirements. You should pay close attention to the latter since any deposits below the stipulated minimum are lost forever.
Also, note that Kraken allows users to trade with leverage. However, this optional and advanced feature can increase overall costs with additional rollover and margin opening fees. You will be exposed to higher charges if you purchase, sell, or convert your assets with the Instant Buy/Sell feature.
Finally, Kraken charges zero account maintenance, inactivity, and storage fees.
3. Exodus – Best Platform for Beginners
Exodus has proven to be the best crypto trading platform for beginners in the UK for various reasons. While testing it, I noticed that it has a straightforward account opening process that any beginner will not struggle with. Plus, every feature is easily accessible, whether using a desktop or mobile device.
Another element worth mentioning at Exodus is the ability to provide a trading/investing platform, along with a digital wallet. With it, you won’t have to deal with two different platforms. Moreover, this exchange has one of the most reliable and responsive support services. When I sent out a message to the team, the response was prompt, and I was able to get relevant solutions that helped elevate my experience.
When it comes to crypto asset offerings, this exchange hosts more than 300 options, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Solana, and more. It features a knowledge base section with comprehensive learning materials to help newcomers understand the exchange’s functionality and crypto investments before making a commitment. Besides having a portfolio tracker, users can connect Exodus with a Trezor hardware wallet, thus securing their digital tokens offline.
Exodus
✔Zero additional transactional fees
✔Good customer support
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- Simplified, stylish, and beginner-friendly user interface
- Combines a secure exchange with a top-tier wallet
- Over 300 cryptos are available, including BTC and ETH
- A wide range of helpful educational resources
- Zero fees on trading crypto
Cons
- Users can’t optimise security with 2FA
- Limited functionalities compared to its peers
The best thing about Exodus is the wallet is free. You can get it today without incurring any expenses. Moreover, despite having exceptional features and top-notch security, it has zero storage fees.
Lastly, Exodus users don’t have to pay additional charges to receive or send supported crypto assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The only fees you’ll incur while using this wallet are network fees, which go straight to the concerned network, not Exodus’ coffers.
Visit the company’s website for more information about Exodus wallet fees.
4. Crypto.com – Best All-in-One UK Crypto Exchange
If you are a trader looking for the best crypto trading platform in the UK with an extensive ecosystem, then you should try Crypto.com. While exploring it, I discovered over 300 popular pairs, from ALGO/BTC to BTC/USD. Crypto.com exchange users can also increase their potential returns with up to 10x leverage.
Another standout feature I was impressed with at Crypto.com is its non-custodial wallet. This makes it easier for users to access various DeFi services. For instance, you can use this wallet to hold stakeable assets and earn rewards. You can also use it to explore a broad range of popular DApps. Moreover, the wallet allows users to view NFTs, discover their rare traits, and share them on social media.
When it comes to transactions, this is the best platform to trade crypto; it accepts cryptocurrency and fiat deposits. Not to mention, the company supports numerous popular payment methods, including Visa, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. Besides spots, Crypto.com supports derivatives trading with 100+ perpetual and futures contracts.
Crypto.com
✔24/7 live support
✔User-friendly interface
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
- Users can trade over 350 crypto assets
- Excellent customer support services
- Up to 5% cash back on metal Visa cards
- Traders can use Crypto.com Pay to make crypto payments
- Reasonable staking rewards
Cons
- High trading fees for low-volume traders
- Beginners might have a hard time navigating the platform
Ungodly costs undermine your capital and returns. For that reason, we analysed Crypto.com fees UK. Luckily, this exchange has affordable charges and commissions. The first thing we noticed is that this service provider allows new users to register and set up their Crypto.com wallet for free.
Moreover, Crypto.com has zero limits and fees for depositing crypto to the exchange. To make things even better, this service provider supports free GBP deposits. However, you must use a supported payment method like Faster Payments Service (FPS) to enjoy the latter.
That aside, Crypto.com users must cover varying maker and taker fees determined by their 30-day trading volume. Anything less than £50,000 attracts a 0.15%/0.25% maker/taker fee. But the numbers drop to 0.08%/0.18% for trading volumes of up to or more than £500,000. The more you trade, the lesser your fees.
Crypto.com has a free proprietary Visa card you can use to make crypto payments. However, we discovered several fees associated with this product. For starters, if you ever decide to close your card, you’ll have to pay a £50 fee before any remaining funds get returned to you. The card also comes with a monthly free ATM limit. If you exceed it, you’ll incur a 2% withdrawal fee. Furthermore, dormant Crypto.com cards incur a £5 monthly fee that kicks in after 12 months of inactivity.
How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange
The UK crypto market is booming, with more investors jumping in. In fact, according to a recent FCA report, cryptocurrency ownership has risen from 10% to 12%! But let’s be real. Just buying crypto doesn’t guarantee profits.
From my experience, the best way to invest in crypto and succeed comes down to having a solid plan. You also need to apply solid strategies and choose the right exchange.
So, what factors should you consider when selecting an exchange for crypto investments? Here’s what I look for.
Security
Available Assets
Charges
Reputation
Support
Crypto is a hacker’s darling, so protecting your assets should be a top priority. I only trust FCA-regulated exchanges and those that impose the best security measures, like SSL encryption. I also favour websites that enable me to activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security. Remember, there are many fraudulent providers out there, so this feature should be a priority to guarantee maximum safety.
There are so many cryptocurrencies to choose from, and you do not want to be restricted in any way. Ensure you confirm the availability of assets hosted by an exchange before making a commitment. It is also preferable to choose exchanges that add new and forthcoming digital currencies on a daily basis. This guarantees more trading opportunities. Plus, numerous asset offerings will ensure you effectively diversify your portfolio.
The best place to buy cryptocurrency should be affordable, considering your budget. Remember, high charges can eat into your profit. Therefore, ensure you compare costs before making a commitment to an exchange. Check all the trading and non-trading charges, including those for transactions, minimum deposit requirements, inactivity fees, account maintenance fees, and more. A UK crypto exchange with open, competitive pricing is always a winner in my book.
If an exchange has a bad reputation, it should be a dealbreaker for you. To determine whether an exchange is reputable, sample as many user reviews as possible before signing up. See what real traders are saying on Trustpilot, Google Play, and the App Store. If you see too many complaints, especially regarding security, transparency, or withdrawals, take your business elsewhere.
The cryptocurrency market never sleeps, and neither should support. The best crypto sites should have a team that is reliable and responsive when contacted. Whether an exchange’s support operates 24/7 or five days a week, ensure its availability aligns with your trading schedule. Plus, it should support communication via multiple channels, such as live chat, email, and phone. I always feel secure knowing that I can get help at any time, especially when dealing with heavy trades.
How to Start with a Crypto Trading Platform
As mentioned earlier, the best way to buy cryptocurrency isn’t just about choosing a digital token and making a purchase. You first need to be familiar with how the cryptocurrency market works. Remember, these digital assets are highly volatile. Therefore, understanding the risks and how to analyse their values over time will help you identify the best entry and exit points.
Once you are confident in your skills and ability to strategise, choose the best platform to buy cryptocurrency in the UK from my list above and follow the steps below to get started. I used Kraken as an example.
Step 1: Visit your preferred exchange’s official site
Step 2: Create an account
Step 3: Verify your identity
Step 4: Deposit funds
Step 5: Start trading
Prior to signing up, head directly to the official website of the exchange. To prevent scams, click any of the links I share here, as certain scam websites replicate genuine sites. Upon arrival, look into the exchange’s features, promotions, fees, products, and more. And if you are looking to alternate between desktop and mobile trading, ensure you download and install the exchange’s app on your mobile device for ease of use.
Click the sign-up button, and a form will pop up for you to complete. Enter your email address and a strong password, then tick the boxes provided to agree to the exchange’s terms of service. A verification code will then be sent to your email address provided. Enter it to protect your account.
To comply with the law, top crypto exchanges request identity verification. You will start by sharing your legal name, date of birth, physical address, phone number, and occupation. Then, you’ll be required to upload a copy of a valid government-issued ID like a driver’s licence, passport, or national ID. Additionally, Kraken will require proof of address. It could be a copy of a recent utility bill, bank or tax statement, or residence certificate.
Once verification is complete and you have received an email notification, it is time to make a deposit. You can fund your account with fiat or cryptocurrency, depending on what the exchange supports. Pay close attention to minimum deposit requirements on the platform, especially with cryptocurrency. Some exchanges do not accept deposits below the minimum, and this can lead to you losing your money.
With funds in your account, it’s time to trade. Before diving in, research the market, analyse trends, and choose your assets wisely. If your exchange offers leverage, use it carefully to maximise potential returns while managing risk. To protect yourself from significant losses, take advantage of tools like price alerts and stop-loss orders.
How We Test
To ensure a thorough research procedure with unbiased results, I work with a team of professionals. We do more than simply testing and comparing exchanges. We also analyse real user reviews on legitimate platforms like Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. This helps us understand the exchanges’ strengths and weaknesses from users’ perspectives.
Once we obtain our findings, we combine them with the test results to recommend exchanges that we believe genuinely align with our readers’ needs. Note that this research process has proven efficient, as many of our readers have claimed to find reliable platforms through this website. You can visit our How we Test page for further information regarding our methodology.
FAQs
Which exchange is best for beginners?
Beginner-friendly exchanges like Coinbase and Bitstamp offer simple interfaces, clear instructions, and strong customer support—ideal for those just starting out.
Which exchange offers the widest range of cryptocurrencies?
Platforms like Binance and KuCoin list hundreds of digital assets, including major coins and emerging tokens, making them popular for traders looking for variety.
Are there UK exchanges that let you trade anonymously?
Most UK-regulated exchanges require identity verification due to anti-money laundering (AML) laws. Anonymous trading is typically not allowed on FCA-compliant platforms.
Which exchanges are best for advanced traders?
Experienced users may prefer platforms like Kraken or Binance Pro, which provide advanced charting tools, lower fees, and access to features like futures and margin trading.
Do any decentralised exchanges work in the UK?
Yes, decentralised exchanges (DEXs) such as Uniswap or dYdX are accessible to UK users. However, they operate without central oversight, so users should take extra care with security and compliance.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best crypto exchange in the UK is one step toward a secure and smooth trading experience. My recommended platforms above are bound by stringent FCA regulations, offering fair treatment and strong security protocols to protect your assets.
It is worth noting, however, that cryptocurrency trading is highly risky due to the assets’ volatile nature. Even the most well-established platforms cannot take away from market fluctuations. Therefore, to protect yourself against significant loss, trade with a clear strategy, maintain a disciplined budget, and utilise risk management tools to their fullest potential. Staying informed and being careful will confidently get you through the unpredictable crypto landscape.
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I agree, crypto can be super exciting, but it’s all about choosing the right platform. These FCA-regulated exchanges look like solid picks, but I’d still say it’s important to stay cautious and have a plan in place.
Heads up on eToro - their crypto fees are higher than traditional exchanges but the copy trading is actually pretty decent if you're lazy like me. Just don't expect to withdraw your actual coins easily, they make it a right pain.
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