With more and more people leaning towards cryptocurrency, there are now plenty of websites called cryptocurrency exchanges for you to buy, sell, or exchange cryptocurrency with other digital currencies or even traditional currencies such as the US dollar or Euro.
Those looking to trade their crypto professionally will need a crypto exchange that requires you to verify your ID and open an account to gain access to several fancy trading tools. However, there are also several cryptocurrency exchange platforms that do not require an account for traders who prefer a more occasional, straightforward trade.
A few years back, we’ve came up with a top 5 crypto exchanges guide. We thought that it was time for a massive revamp. In today’s guide, we will be going through some of the best cryptocurrency exchanges available. But before we go into that, let’s spend some time talking about the types of crypto exchanges and what to look out for before joining a crypto exchange.
Types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges
Below are a few types of cryptocurrency exchanges available online
Trading Platforms – These are crypto exchange websites that connect buyers directly to sellers and take a small fee per transaction.
Direct Trading – These cryptocurrency exchanges offer direct person-to-person trading where even individuals from various countries can exchange their local currency through their bank account. However, direct trading cryptocurrency exchanges do not have a fixed market price, instead, each seller gets to fix their own exchange rate.
Brokers – These cryptocurrency exchanges can be visited by anyone looking to buy cryptocurrencies at a price set by the broker. Cryptocurrency brokers operate similar to foreign exchange dealers.
Factors to Look out for Before Joining Crypto Exchanges
Before you jump onto the wagon and start trading, it is important for you to do a little homework first. So, here are a few things that you should take note of before making your first trade:
Reputation – You need to make sure that the cryptocurrency exchanges you’re using have a good reputation and the best way to find out about the crypto exchange is by searching through reviews from individual users and well-known industry websites. You can also ask questions on popular forums like BitcoinTalk or Reddit.
Trading Fees – Most crypto exchanges display fee-related information on their websites. Before joining, do make sure that you first understand their policy on deposit, transaction, and withdrawal fees. These fees can differ substantially depending on the crypto exchange you use.
Payment Methods – Another point to consider is the type of payment methods available on the crypto exchange. Do they accept credit cards? Debit card? Wire transfer through your local bank account? PayPal? Subscribing to the best cryptocurrency exchanges with limited payment options might make it less convenient for you to use it.
However, you should also keep in mind that purchasing cryptocurrencies with a credit card will require identity verification and often come with a premium price and higher transaction/processing fee as there is a higher risk of fraud.
On the other hand, purchasing crypto via wire transfer will take a significantly longer time as the banks will require more time to process the transfer.
Verification Requirements – Vast majority of Bitcoin trading exchanges both in the US and UK will require ID verification in order to make deposits and withdrawals. However, there are a number of crypto exchanges that let you remain anonymous. Although the verification process which may take up to a few days feels like a pain to most, it offers extra protection against all kinds of scams and money laundering.
Geographical Restrictions – Certain specific user functions offered by crypto exchanges may only be accessible from certain countries. So, do make sure to check that the cryptocurrency exchange you plan to join offers full access to all platform tools and functions in your country.
Exchange Rate – Different crypto exchanges have different rates and you may just be surprised to find out how much you can save if you shop around. It is often not uncommon for rates to fluctuate up to 10% and even higher for some instances.
What Are The Best Crypto Exchanges for 2023?
A simple search online will reveal a large host of cryptocurrency trading platforms to choose from, but you need to keep in mind that not all crypto exchanges are created equal.
Our list today on the best crypto exchanges is based on user reviews plus other criteria such as user-friendliness, accessibility, fees, and security. Without further ado, here are the top best crypto exchanges available.
1. Bitbuy.ca
Bitbuy.ca is a digital currency platform that is owned and operated in Canada. This cryptocurrency trading was initially founded as InstaBT in 2013 with a mission to provide crypto enthusiasts a more convenient, dependable, and secure access to various digital currencies.
Some of the main pillars to make this platform a popular choice among many include their excellent customer service, ease of use, and quick turnaround times for deposits and withdrawals.
As one of Canada’s quickest growing buy/sell platforms, its easy-to-use interface makes them a suitable choice for beginners and experienced traders. Bitbuy.ca also makes a great choice for users looking to buy and hold cryptocurrencies or users who need a reliable on-ramp to turn their fiat currency into crypto quickly and easily.
You would like this if:
- You require great customer service.
- You want a crypto platform with fast registration and verification processes.
- You want quick processing of CAD deposits and withdrawals.
- You want low fees.
You might not like this if:
- You want to trade cryptocurrencies other than BTC, ETH, LTC, and BCH.
- You live outside of Canada as this platform is only available to Canadians.
2. ChangeNOW
If you’re looking for a registration-free instant cryptocurrency exchange platform for an unlimited number of crypto conversions, then you should definitely consider ChangeNOW. This cryptocurrency exchange has been on the market for more than a year now and has earned a reputation among users for its reliable service and great rates.
The transaction timing remains rather short and depending on the transaction volume, the processing speed can take as little as only 2 minutes.
A plus point for this cryptocurrency platform is that it does not require account creation and offers fast processing transactions for more than 170 cryptocurrencies, as well as fiat-to-crypto purchases. Other than that, ChangeNOW also provides honest and transparent operation with its customers as they collect no hidden or inflated fees.
You would like this if:
- You want to start trading cryptocurrencies without registration or an account.
- You want to trade more than 170 crypto coins and tokens listed. ChangeNOW offers more than 36,000 trading pairs.
- You want unlimited trading amounts.
- You require 2 cryptocurrency exchange flows: standard and fixed-rate.
- You want to purchase the cryptocurrencies with a credit card.
- You require 24/7 support.
You might not like this if:
- You want to leverage trading on cryptocurrencies.
3. CoinJar
The CoinJar was established in 2013 and offers one of the easiest ways for users to buy, sell, store, and spend crypto. The crypto platform also offers an iOS and Android mobile application for users to trade cryptocurrencies on the go.
On the other hand, CoinJar Exchange and CoinJar OTC Trading Desk is great for professional traders, as well as individuals and institutions who want to make larger transactions.
You would like this if:
- You want to rely on iOS and Android apps to trade cryptocurrencies.
- You want free and fast bank transfers.
- You require great customer service.
You might not like this if:
- You want to leverage trading on cryptocurrencies.
- You don’t want to use ID verification in order to trade different cryptocurrencies.
4. OKEx
OKEx.com is a cryptocurrency exchange that allows users to buy and sell as well as to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, plus other cryptos safely and easily. This intuitive platform offers a sleek-interface that’s user-friendly enough to do market buys, check crypto prices and more.
This cryptocurrency exchange not only focuses on spot and margin trading, but it also provides advanced features for derivatives such as futures, perpetual swaps, and options. This Malta-based cryptocurrency exchange operates in more than 100 countries around the world providing convenient crypto liquidity and market buying options. The company also supports hundreds of different trading pairs.
You would like this:
- You want free registration and an easy-to-use user interface.
- You want a platform that offers more than 400 trading pairs with high liquidity.
- You want 24/7 customer support.
You might not like this if:
- You travel often as this is not available in some countries.
- You’re a beginner and not familiar with some of their more advanced features.
- You want a fiat on-ramp.
5. Xcoins
This is a European-based cryptocurrency platform that was launched in 2016. Xcoins.com is an easy-to-use platform that has served more than 250,000 satisfied customers worldwide. Offering 24/7 live support, Xcoins.com has been providing users with a quick and secure solution to purchase crypto.
With their sleek user interface, the crypto exchange platform caters to both beginners and crypto-veterans with support in more than 167 countries. Considering the exceptional customer service and quick transaction processes, it is no surprise to see the Xcoins grow exponentially since its inception.
No matter your level of experience with global digital asset exchange or where you are in the world, Xcoins.com is one of the best crypto exchange platforms available for safe and reliable trading.
You would like this if:
- You require 24/7 live support with low fees.
- You prefer a platform that offers simple & secure registration and verification.
- You want quick processing and transaction processes.
- You travel often as the crypto exchange platform is available worldwide.
You might not like this if:
- You want to trade crypto other than BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP, and BTC Cash.
6. Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the most popular and best crypto exchanges in the world that’s backed by trusted investors and millions of users globally. The Coinbase crypto exchange platform makes digital currency trading and secure.
Customers can buy, use, store, and trade bitcoins, Ether, and now Litecoin from Coinbase through a convenient Coinbase digital wallet that’s available on both Android and iPhone as well as through trading with other users on the company’s Global Digital Asset Exchange (GDAX) subsidiary.
With Coinbase, users can easily sell their crypto and even receive money directly into their bank account. The GDAX operates in the United States, Europe, UK, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. Other than that, the Coinbase GDAX also does not currently charge users any transfer fees for moving funds across the Coinbase account and GDAX account.
However, the selection of tradable currencies will depend on the country you live in, so it’s better to check out the Coinbase and GDAX FAQ.
You would like this if:
- You want an exchange with a good reputation for security and reasonable fees.
- You’re a beginner or a novice that’s easy for users to trade and buy different cryptocurrencies via fiat currency trading.
- You frequently conduct high trading volume.
You might not like this if:
- You prefer a crypto exchange platform that offers a variety of payment methods.
- You travel often as this cryptocurrency exchange is not available in some countries.
7. Kraken
Kraken is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in euro volume and high liquidity since its establishment in 2011. In fact, the company is a partner in the first crypto bank. Kraken lets its customers buy and sell bitcoins and even trade between bitcoins and euros, US Dollars, Canadian Dollars, British Pounds, or Japanese Yen.
The company also makes it possible for users to trade digital currencies other than Bitcoin such as Ethereum, Monero, Ethereum Classic, Augur REP tokens, ICONOMI, ZCash, Litevoin, Dogecoin, Ripple, and Stellar/Lumens. More experienced users will be happy to know that Kraken offers margin trading on top of a host of other trading features, making it a great choice for advanced traders.
Although the crypto exchange is based out in San Francisco, USA, the Kraken is one of the largest Euro-to-crypto markets in the world. The crypto trading company is also available for traders living in the US, Canada, Japan, and various European nations. However, the company currently does not accept deposits via credit or debit card, PayPal, or similar services.
Nonetheless, Kraken became the number one exchange in the world in 2014 when it comes to Euro trade volume. The platform also pioneered as the first verifiable cryptographic proof of reserves audit system and was listed on the Bloomberg Terminal in the same year. All-in-all, Kraken is a solid crypto platform that may, unfortunately, be less beginner-friendly.
You would like this if:
- You want the best cryptocurrency exchange with a good reputation for security, high liquidity, and reasonable fees.
- You want great user-support that can be used worldwide.
- You want a platform with decent exchange rates, low transaction fees, and minimal deposit fees.
You might not like this if:
- You prefer a platform that offers more payment methods.
- You’re a beginner who is looking to get started with trading as it has an unintuitive user interface.
8. Cex.io
If you need one of the best crypto exchanges that provide multiple payment options for using bitcoin and other cryptos then you should consider Cez.io. This platform lets users trade fiat money with cryptocurrencies easily and vice versa.
So, if you’re a beginner looking for the best crypto exchange to get started on, then this may also be the one for you. The Cex.io is also a great platform for professional traders to have a more personalized and user-friendly dashboard and margin trading.
Alternatively, this best crypto exchange has a brokerage service that’s extremely simple for novice traders to buy bitcoin at prices more or less in line with the market rate. The Cex.io website is both secure and intuitive for users to safely store their crypto in cold storage.
You would like this if:
- You want a crypto trading platform that has a good reputation.
- You need a good mobile product that also supports credit cards.
- You’re a beginner looking for a user-friendly crypto exchange with a decent exchange rate.
You might not like this if:
- You don’t want to have to deal with strict verification rules.
- You don’t want to have to go through varying fees according to different payment methods.
9. Swapzone
Swapzone is the best cryptocurrency exchange aggregator that provides users with a platform to make an informed choice before exchanging crypto assets. To make this possible, the company gathers information on the service providers, aggregates, and sorts out deals according to the user’s parameter selection for comparison.
Swapzone aims to make the swap space a more transparent, understandable, and unified experience for users.
Though it may sound complicated, Swapzone has successfully created a common user flow for non-custodial exchange services by uniting different interfaces into one. Swapzone essentially acts as a bridge connecting the crypto exchanges to the user.
You would like this if:
- You want a non-custodial crypto platform.
- You want to buy, sell and trade a wide range of coins and tokens.
- You prefer multiple exchange partners with the possibility to choose among service providers.
- You like to check out exchange offers sorted according to the best rate, time, and service rating.
You might not like this if:
- You want a more beginner-friendly platform as Swapzone is geared towards advanced users.
10. ShapeShift
ShapeShift is yet another leading cryptocurrency exchange that supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero, Zcash, Dash, Dogecoin, and many others. This is a great choice for those looking to make instant straightforward trades without having to sign up for an account or relying on a platform to help hold their funds.
However, you need to take note that ShapeShift does not allow users to purchase cryptos with debit cards, credit cards, or any other payment system. In fact, this platform has a no fiat policy and only allows exchange between bitcoins and other supported cryptocurrencies.
You would like this if:
- You want a digital asset exchange that has a good reputation.
- You want a platform that offers dozens of Cryptos available for exchange.
- You need the best crypto exchange that offers fast and reasonable prices that lets beginners get started with trading.
You might not like this if:
- You want to trade crypto via fiat currencies. ShapeShift offers a limited payment method and tools.
11. Poloniex
Poloniex was founded in 2014 and is also one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges. This platform offers customers a secure trading environment with more than 100 different crypto pairings and tools that advanced traders can take advantage of for data analysis.
As one of the most popular trading platforms, Poloniex provides one of the highest trading volumes for users to close a trade position most of the time. The digital asset trading company employs a volume-tiered, maker-taker fee schedule for all trades, meaning the trading fees are dependent on whether you’re the maker or taker.
Makers will have trading fees range from 0 to 0.15% while the taker’s fees range from 0.10 to 0.25%.
However, there are no withdrawal fees beyond the transaction fee as required by the network. One unique feature that Poloniex has that makes it stand out from the rest is the chatbox that contains all kinds of user help for a smooth experience. Although it may sometimes be difficult to distinguish between good and bad advice, the Chat Box is still a great tool to keep users engaged.
You would like this if:
- You want the best crypto exchange that offers fast account creation and is feature-rich.
- You want a crypto trading platform with high trading volumes, a user-friendly interface, and low fees.
You might not like this if:
- You require constant support as there are some complaints that they have slower customer service.
- You want to buy crypto via the fiat payment method.
12. Bitstamp
Based out of Europe, Bitstamp was founded in 2011 and is the best first-generation bitcoin mercantile exchange that has successfully built up a loyal customer base. This company is well-known and trusted within the community as a safe platform.
Bitstamp offers advanced security features such as two-step authentication, multi-sig technology for its wallet, and fully insured cold storage. On top of that, Bitstamp also provides users with 24/7 customer support and a multilingual user interface for everyone to get started easily. Users can instantly start trading once they open a free account and make a deposit.
You would like this if:
- You want the best crypto exchange that has a good reputation and high-level security.
- You want a robust trading platform with high trading volume and worldwide availability.
- You make large transactions and want low transaction fees.
You might not like this if:
- You’re a first-time trader as this cryptocurrency exchange is not beginner-friendly with limited payment methods.
13. CoinMama
CoinMama is the ultimate veteran crypto exchange platform for anyone to buy bitcoin or Ether via their credit card or cash through MoneyGram. CoinMama is also a great option for users who want to make instant purchases of digital currency with their own local currency.
Although CoinMama is available worldwide, you need to keep in mind that several countries may not provide all the functions of the site. The cryptocurrency exchange is also a multilingual platform that offers English, German, French, Italian, and Russian.
However, CoinMama does not come with in-built BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH, ETC, XRP, QTUM, ADA wallet. So, if you want to trade in the best cryptocurrency exchange, then you’re going to need to have your own wallet for each available crypto. This may either be a good or bad thing for certain individuals. While it does encourage users to make their own wallet, which is a more secure route, it certainly is not the most convenient option.
You would like this if:
- You want the best crypto platform that has a good reputation with a novice-friendly interface.
- You prefer a good range of payment options that’s available worldwide with fast transaction time.
You might not like this if:
- You don’t want a trading platform with high exchange rates and premium fees for credit cards.
- You want to sell Bitcoins.
14. Bitsquare
Searching for a peer-to-peer exchange platform that lets you buy, sell and trade bitcoins in exchange for fiat currencies or cryptocurrencies easily, then you definitely need to give Bitsquare a try. Bitsquare markets are a truly decentralized platform that is instantly accessible without the need for registration or reliance on a central authority.
Bitsquare never holds user funds and does not require an exchange of personal data except for trading partners. The crypto platform also offers great security with multisig addresses, security deposits, and a purpose-built arbitrator system in the event of trade disputes. Bitsquare is the perfect platform for traders who want to remain anonymous.
You would like this if:
- You want a peer-to-peer platform with a good reputation that is secure and private.
- You want to trade a vast amount of cryptocurrencies without needing to sign up.
- You need a platform that is available worldwide and is good for advanced traders.
You might not like this if:
- You want more payment options.
- You’re a beginner just starting out with crypto trading.
15. LocalBitcoin
This is a P2P exchange platform where buyers and sellers across thousands of cities around the world can trade their digital crypto assets. With LocalBitcoins, you can easily meet people in your local area and buy or sell bitcoins in cash, send money through PayPal, Skrill, Dwolla, or even arrange a cash deposit at a bank branch.
In terms of fees, LocalBitcoins will only take a 1% commission from sellers who set their own exchange rates. The company also takes a number of precautions to ensure secure trading. As a start, the platform rates each trader with a reputation rank and publicly displays their past activities.
Once a trade is requested, the money will be held on LocalBitcoins’ escrow service before finally releasing the funds once the seller has confirmed the trade.
In the case where something does go wrong, LocalBitcoins provide the necessary customer support and conflict resolution team to resolve any conflicts between buyers and sellers. For added security, the cryptocurrency exchange uses 2-factor authentication or 2FA to prevent account hacks. However, this feature is not activated by default and needs to be done manually by the user.
The company also keeps a record of the IP address which was used for account creation on top of a record of the browser that’s constantly used for logging into the account. If the platform detects a new IP address is used, a verification process will need to be conducted via email to confirm identity.
All transactions done between parties on the platform use LBC as an escrow to store funds which will only be released once the transaction is confirmed.
You would like this if:
- You don’t want to provide an ID during registration.
- You need good customer support.
- You want a beginner-friendly platform that offers instant transfers and available worldwide.
You might not like this if:
- You want an easier method to buy large amounts of bitcoin.
- You don’t want to have to pay high exchange rates.
16. LinkCoin
This is an Over-The-Counter (OTC) cryptocurrency exchange that was developed by Yesbit Ltd together with Bibox and is based out in Toronto, Canada. The company offers autonomous exchange process transactions via smart contracts.
Additionally, they even have a fully functional website and Android / iOS mobile app with all the necessary technological infrastructure for users to meet all of their investment needs.
LinkCoin even provides 7 different cryptocurrencies available such as BTC, ETH, BCH, ETC, LTC, LKN, BIX for purchase with some of the industries’ lowest transaction fees offering zero buyer fees and 0.6% seller fees only. LinkCoin makes buying and selling cryptocurrencies as affordable as possible.
The best part is that accessibility is also something LinkCoin values which is why they provide transactions via e-Transfer, Bank Wire, AliPay, and WeChat Pay. Customers can also choose to buy cryptocurrency with Canadian Dollars, US dollars, Chinese Yuan, Japanese Yen, or Hong Kong Dollars.
You would like this if:
- You don’t want to provide an ID during registration.
- You want a platform that ensures high privacy and security with lots of payment options.
You might not like this if:
- You want to trade altcoins.
- You are a beginner and need a novice-friendly crypto exchange.
17. Binance
Binance is one of the best cryptocurrency exchanges for conducting crypto-to-crypto trading. Ranked as one of the most popular crypto exchanges, Binance provides an impressive list of offerings along with a low trading fee.
Although Binance is a young entrance into the market, it has rapidly grown with a huge selection of altcoins such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether pairings in its platform.
Binance even offers its own coin known as BNB (Binance coin). As a centralized exchange, Binance even offers decent discounts while conducting trade using their token. Binance also offers a standard trading fee of 0.1% only. This trading fee can even be reduced further if payment is made with BNB.
You would like this if:
- You need a ubiquitous platform that has its own token.
- You want a platform that’s cheap to transact and available worldwide.
You might not like this if:
- You want to trade with fiat currency as this company offers limited payment options.
18. Huobi
Operated by HBUS Holdco, Inc (“HBUS”), is a partnership between a United States company and Huobi Global, one of the world’s best cryptocurrency exchanges. Headquartered in San Francisco, Huobi also has offices in Hong Kong, Korea, and Japan.
Though Huobi is only available to Chinese and US residents (excluding those living in Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana, New York, North Carolina, Hawaii, Vermont, Washington, and all U.S. Territories). Huobi also offers a plethora of trading token options with over 50 different pairings.
Knowing that crypto does not sleep, Huobi provides 24/8 free customer support to ensure a smooth transaction at all times. The company also has a trading fee of 0.1% for both maker and taker with all crypto-to-crypto trade fees being 0.05%.
Huobi also supports a large number of cryptocurrencies and ICO tokens such as BTC, bitcoin cash (BCH), BTG, DASH, EOS, Ethereum (ETH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), Lisk (LSK), ICON (UCX), Litecoin (LTC), NEO, NEM, QTUM, Ripple (XRP), Tether (USDT), Zcash (ZEC), Tron (TRX), etc. on top of more than 100 altcoin trading pairs and offers trading by BTC, ETH, and USDT.
You would like this if:
- You need a platform that offers one of the best customer support.
- You want high-quality analytics, high liquidity, and an easy-to-use platform.
You might not like this if:
- You live in places outside of China and certain US areas.
Conclusion
We understand that picking the best crypto exchange for your specific needs may require a lot of research and due diligence, which could be a difficult and time-consuming process. As you’re on your search, do remember to pay close attention to the fees, reputation, security, verification processes, and geographical services the crypto exchanges have to offer.
With a large number of crypto available on the internet, you should remember to get the best exchanges that will let you trade comfortably across a number of virtual currencies. Hopefully, the information provided in our guide today has assisted you in deciding which are the best exchanges to buy cryptocurrency.
With over 10 years of experience working as a financial analyst, Eric is highly aware of the potential of cryptocurrency, particularly Bitcoin, and the impact it will bring towards the global economy. He is committed to share everything he knows about crypto here at Crypto Digest News.