After testing 50+ crypto platforms this year, our experts identified the six best options tailored to different beginner needs, along with practical tips to help you start confidently.
We evaluated each platform the way a new trader actually uses it: how intuitive it feels, how smooth fiat funding is, and how easy it is to make a first buy or basic trade using beginner modes, one-click purchases, and practice-friendly flows. We then ranked exchanges on the factors that matter most early on, security and transparency (proof of reserves, regulation, audits/insurance), fair and clear fees, deep liquidity for clean execution, broad fiat support, strong in-app education, and support that resolves beginner issues fast. The six exchanges below scored highest in this systematic, side-by-side review.
Our evaluation of options trading platforms is based on the following key criteria:
| Exchange | Ranking | Taker/Maker | Available Crypto | Accepts Fiat | Payment Methods | KYC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kraken | 4.2 Read Review | 0.4% / 0.25% | 532 | Yes | +3 | Yes |
Paybis | No Rating Read Review | 4.5% / 4.5% | 84 | No | +6 | Optional for purchases up to 1,000 USD (mandatory in certain regions and for all Sell Crypto transactions) |
Binance | 4.8 Read Review | 0.1% / 0.1% | 440 | Yes | +1 | Yes |
Coinbase Exchange | 4.1 Read Review | 1.2% / 0.6% | 314 | Yes | +6 | Yes |
Bybit | 4.6 Read Review | 0.1% / 0.1% | 519 | Yes | +2 | Yes |
MEXC | 4.6 Read Review | 0.01% / 0% | 1767 | Yes | +3 | No |
Founded in 2011, Kraken is one of the most trusted exchanges in the industry. It is known for strong regulatory compliance (licenses from the US, UK, and EU) and robust security measures. It offers a simplified, beginner-friendly interface for crypto newbies, 24/7 customer support, and a direct connection to a customer support agent if users need any assistance.
Paybis is a popular on-ramping platform that was built with simplicity in mind, offering beginners a fast and intuitive interface to buy and sell crypto. It makes it quick and easy for beginners to buy crypto, with an integrated wallet that users can send their new coins directly to.
Founded in 2017, Binance quickly became the world’s largest exchange by trading volume. Despite being known for its advanced trading features, Binance Lite Mode and easy fiat integration make it suitable for beginners.
Coinbase is a publicly traded exchange known for its strong regulation and beginner-friendly design. Popular in the US and Europe, it offers simple onboarding and a clean, easy-to-use app.
Bybit is a popular derivatives trading exchange offering a beginner-friendly spot trading interface, a quick buy feature, and an app designed for ease of use.
Founded in 2018, MEXC is known for ultra-low fees and a massive range of supported tokens. It’s beginner-friendly, with a simple spot trading interface and no full KYC required for basic features.
When choosing an exchange as a beginner, it’s important to consider reputation, security, and ease of use:
Many exchanges offer demo accounts for practice with virtual funds. Other helpful tools include price alerts, auto-invest features, educational content, and simple buy/sell options without complex charts or order types.
Keeping small amounts on an exchange is common for active trading. For long-term or larger holdings, many users choose external wallets like Ledger, Trust Wallet, or Phantom to reduce the risk of hacks or frozen withdrawals.
Shennon Hewa is a crypto trader and crypto journalist based in London. Active in the crypto space since 2017, he specializes in scalping, derivatives day trading, and swing trading. At FXEmpire, he has reviewed dozens of crypto exchanges and has extensive knowledge of platform strengths and weaknesses.
At FXEmpire, we strive to provide unbiased, thorough, and accurate exchange reviews by industry experts to help our users make smarter financial decisions.