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7 Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges And Apps

This year, our experts analyzed 50+ crypto exchanges to identify the seven best trading platforms, highlighting their features, pros and cons, plus practical tips.

By:
Shennon Hewa
Reviewed By:
Maria Zatler
Updated: Jun 8, 2025

List of Top Crypto Trading Platforms

500+ cryptos, low fees, deep liquidity, and a full ecosystem with $1 billion in insurance.

Regulated in the US and EU with strong security, fiat support, and 500+ coins.

User-friendly design, Quick Buy, and global regulation.

Zero maker fees, 2,000+ coins, and 500x futures leverage.

Advanced protection, real-time proof of reserves, and a $650 million insurance fund.

Advanced platform with 100x crypto and 500x forex leverage, deep liquidity, and multi-asset support.

Trade 1,000+ assets with no ID required, plus access staking, lending, and 125x leverage.

How Did FXEmpire Choose the Best Crypto Trading Exchanges?

Our evaluation of crypto exchanges is based on the following key criteria:

  • Security & Transparency: We looked for features like two-factor authentication, cold storage, withdrawal whitelists, and real-time Proof of Reserves to ensure user funds are protected.
  • Trading Features: We compared available markets like spot, margin, futures, and options. Platforms offering extra tools like bots, copy trading, P2P, and earn products ranked higher.
  • Trading Fees & Non-Trading Fees: We reviewed maker and taker fees, spreads, and funding rates. Exchanges with low or zero fees and discounts for native token holders scored better.
  • Supported Cryptos: We checked how many coins each platform lists to ensure users have access to a wide range of assets, including trending tokens and new projects through launchpads. Broader support means more trading opportunities.
  • Deposits & Withdrawals: We prioritized platforms with flexible fiat options like bank transfers, cards, Apple Pay, and P2P. Fast processing, low fees, and multi-currency support were key.
  • Trading Experience: We tested the interface across desktop and mobile. Exchanges with smooth navigation, clear layouts, and powerful tools for all experience levels ranked highest.
  • Extra Features: We looked for platforms offering full ecosystems with staking, lending, launchpads, crypto cards, and educational tools to add user value.
  • Liquidity: We compared volume and order book depth across top assets. Platforms with high liquidity and fast execution performed best, especially in volatile markets.
  • Customer Service: We tested support response times and quality to ensure users can get timely help when issues arise. Reliable support is essential for a smooth and secure trading experience.

Best Crypto Exchanges Comparison Table

ExchangeRankingTaker/MakerAvailable CryptoAccepts FiatPayment MethodsKYC
Binance
Binance
4.6
Read Review
0.1% / 0.1%
403
Yes
Payment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: CryptoPayment method: P2P
+1
Yes
Kraken
Kraken
3.9
Read Review
0.4% / 0.25%
421
Yes
Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: CryptoPayment method: E-wallets
+3
Yes
Coinbase Exchange
Coinbase Exchange
4.0
Read Review
1.2% / 0.6%
0
No
Payment method: Apple PayPayment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: Credit/Debit Card
+6
Yes
MEXC
MEXC
4.2
Read Review
0.01% / 0%
0
No
Payment method: Apple PayPayment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: Crypto
+3
No
Bitget
Bitget
4.3
Read Review
0.1% / 0.1%
697
Yes
Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: Crypto
+2
Yes
Bybit
Bybit
4.6
Read Review
0.1% / 0.1%
0
No
Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: CryptoPayment method: P2P
+2
Yes
XT.com
XT.com
4.1
Read Review
0.2% / 0.2%
0
No
Payment method: CryptoPayment method: P2PPayment method: TPPP (Third-Party Payment Processors)
No

Best Overall

  • Available Crypto
    403
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: CryptoPayment method: P2PPayment method: SEPA Transfer
  • Fees
    Low

Binance, founded in 2017, is the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume and user base. It offers an extensive range of products, from trading to staking, backed by top-tier security.

  • Deep Liquidity: Access highly liquid markets across large-cap and niche altcoins, ideal for both retail and institutional traders.
  • Available Cryptos Binance supports 500+ cryptocurrencies via spot, margin, futures, options, copy trading, bots, and P2P.
  • Robust Security: Assets held mostly in cold storage, with AI fraud monitoring and a $1B insurance fund.
Pros
  • Supports 500+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin, futures & options trading
  • Low trading fees (0.1% spot)
  • Advanced security & $1bn insurance fund
  • Beginner-friendly Lite Mode
Cons
  • Limited region support
  • Lack of free deposit options

Best for US Traders

  • Available Crypto
    421
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: CryptoPayment method: E-walletsPayment method: SEPA TransferPayment method: SWIFT Transfer
    +1
  • Fees
    High

Kraken, founded in 2011, is a US-based crypto exchange known for its strong regulatory standing, top-tier security, and fiat support. It’s licensed across most US states and trusted by beginners and advanced traders.

  • Regulatory Compliance & US Licensing: Kraken is licensed in the US and regulated by FinCEN. It offers margin trading and other services often unavailable to US users.
  • Industry-Leading Security: No breaches since launch, with cold storage, regular audits, and industry certifications.
  • Fiat Support: Kraken supports fiat deposits in USD, EUR, GBP, and more, with US users able to link their bank accounts for free deposits via ACH. USD deposits can also be made via FedWire, SWIFT, CUBIX, and Etana Custody.
Pros
  • Supports 500+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin & futures trading
  • Leading security & transparency
  • Regulatory licences in the US & Europe
  • Beginner-friendly Lite platform
Cons
  • No support for Quick Buy, copy/bot trading, or P2P
  • Limited deposit and withdrawal methods outside of bank transfer

Best Beginners

  • Available Crypto
    -
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Apple PayPayment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: CryptoPayment method: E-wallets
    +4
  • Fees
    High

Coinbase is a US-based, publicly traded exchange with over 100 million users. Its clean interface, strong regulatory backing, and beginner-friendly tools make it ideal for newcomers.

  • Beginner-Friendly Interface: Coinbase offers an intuitive and simplified trading experience with its Quick Buy feature, making the exchange perfect for even total beginners. Its mobile app lets beginners explore different cryptocurrencies, with all relevant information presented in an easy-to-digest way.
  • Trust & Regulatory Compliance: The only publicly listed exchange, licensed in the US, UK, Germany, and Ireland.
  • Educational Content: Offers extensive educational resources covering everything from crypto basics to futures trading.
Pros
  • Supports 290+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin & futures trading
  • Regulatory licences in the US & Europe
  • Beginner-friendly tools
Cons
  • Fewer supported cryptos than other exchanges
  • Suffered security breaches in the past

Best for Low Fees

  • Available Crypto
    -
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Apple PayPayment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: CryptoPayment method: Google PayPayment method: SEPA Transfer
    +1
  • Fees
    Low

MEXC is known for zero trading fees and a massive selection of altcoins, making it ideal for cost-conscious and altcoin-focused traders. It supports 2,000+ cryptos with deep liquidity across spot and futures markets.

  • Industry Low Trading Fees: MEXC offers 0% maker fees on both spot and futures trading fees, with taker fees of 0.05% for spot and 0.02% for futures. Users can save a further 50% by holding the exchange’s native MX token.
  • Liquidity & Range of Coins: With over 2,000 supported cryptos, MEXC offers a diverse range of markets to trade, all with deep liquidity and high daily trading volume. A wide selection of markets caters to a wider range of traders and offers greater flexibility for traders.
  • 500x Leverage: Up to 500x leverage available on selected futures pairs for experienced traders.
Pros
  • Supports 2,000+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin & futures trading
  • 0% maker fees on all trades
  • Up to 500x leverage on futures
  • Strong security reputation
Cons
  • Not licensed in major regions
  • No Lite Mode for beginners

Best for Secure Trading

  • Available Crypto
    697
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: Credit/Debit CardPayment method: CryptoPayment method: P2PPayment method: SEPA Transfer
  • Fees
    Low

Bitget is a Singapore-based exchange offering advanced trading tools, copy trading, and strong security features. It serves both beginners and pros while prioritizing fund safety and transparency.

  • Security & Transparency: Offers real-time Proof of Reserves via Merkle Tree, wallet isolation, and AI-powered risk tools.
  • $650m Insurance Fund: Bitget maintains one of the largest self-insurance funds in the industry, currently valued at over $650m, with over 6,500 BTC allocated to offer an extra layer of protection against cybersecurity threats.
  • Regulatory Expansion: Licensed as a Virtual Asset Service Provider in the EU and preparing for MiCA compliance.

Best for Leverage Trading

  • Available Crypto
    -
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: Bank Transfer (ACH)Payment method: CryptoPayment method: P2PPayment method: SEPA TransferPayment method: TPPP (Third-Party Payment Processors)
  • Fees
    High

Bybit is a derivatives-focused exchange known for its advanced tools, deep liquidity, and high-leverage markets. It caters to experienced traders with complex strategies and global market access.

  • Pro-Level Trading Platform: Features advanced order types, AI-driven analysis, and TradingView webhook automation.
  • Range of Trading Instruments: Offers 550+ perpetual crypto markets with up to 100x leverage, plus forex, indices, stocks, and commodities with up to 500x leverage via MT5.
  • Deep Liquidity & Reliable Execution: Handles $30B+ in daily futures volume with smooth execution, even during market volatility.
Pros
  • Supports 700+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin, futures & options trading
  • Low trading fees (0.1% spot)
  • Strong security & transparency
  • Offers forex, stocks & commodities trading
Cons
  • Not available to US or UK users
  • No Lite Mode for beginners

Best Non-KYC exchange

  • Available Crypto
    -
  • Payment Methods
    Payment method: CryptoPayment method: P2PPayment method: TPPP (Third-Party Payment Processors)
  • Fees
    Low

XT.com is a non-KYC exchange offering deep liquidity, a broad product suite, and anonymous access to crypto markets. It’s suited for both beginners and advanced users who value privacy.

  • Non-KYC Trading: XT.com lets users register and start trading without mandatory submission of personal information or identity documents. This makes the exchange a perfect choice for privacy-focused traders looking to maintain anonymity without compromising on trading features.
  • Liquidity & Coin Selection: Supports over 1,000 spot tokens and 600 futures markets, with $8B daily spot volume.
  • Broad Crypto Ecosystem: Offers staking, lending, leverage tokens, and crypto debit cards alongside core trading features.
Pros
  • Supports 1,000+ cryptos
  • Offers spot, margin, leverage tokens & futures trading
  • Up to 20x leverage on margin & 125x leverage on futures
  • No personal info required to trade
  • Offers copy, bot & demo trading
Cons
  • Limited fiat deposit support
  • No Lite Mode for beginners

How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange For Trading?

What Features to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Trading Exchange?

The best exchange depends on how and what you trade. Here are the key features to consider:

  • Security & Transparency: Look for cold storage, 2FA, security certifications, and Proof of Reserves audits.
  • Listed Cryptocurrencies: Make sure the exchange supports the coins you want to trade. MEXC, Bybit, and Bitget offer a wide selection of altcoins.
  • User Interface: A clean, easy-to-use layout helps both beginners and experienced users navigate and trade smoothly.
  • Trading Tools: Beginners need simple market or limit orders, while advanced traders may want tools like TradingView, trailing stops, or OCO orders.
  • Fiat On-Ramp: Check for support for your local currency and low-cost deposit methods like bank transfers.
  • Staking & Yield: Some exchanges, like Binance and Kraken, let you earn interest on your crypto holdings.
  • Mobile App: A secure and fully featured mobile app is essential for trading on the go.
  • Customer Support: Responsive support helps resolve account or trading issues quickly.

Which Exchange Suits My Trading Style?

Different traders need different tools. Here’s how to pick an exchange that fits your strategy:

  • Beginners: Try Coinbase or Kraken for easy buying and clean interfaces.
  • Day Traders: Binance, Bybit, and Kraken Pro offer fast execution, deep liquidity, and low fees.
  • Leverage Traders: Bybit, MEXC, and Binance support margin and futures trading with high leverage.
  • HODLers & Stakers: Kraken, Binance, and Bitget provide top-tier security, staking, and passive income tools.
  • Scalpers & Algo Traders: Bybit and Binance offer robust APIs, low latency, and advanced trading instruments.

What Fees Should You Consider When Choosing an Exchange?

  • Trading Fees: Typically around 0.1% for spot trades. Maker (limit) orders are usually cheaper than taker (market) orders.
  • Spread Fees: The difference between buy and sell prices. Wider spreads can eat into your profits, especially on low-liquidity tokens.
  • Interest & Funding Fees: If you trade with leverage, you’ll pay margin interest or futures funding rates, which vary by platform.
  • Deposit Fees: Bank transfers are often free, while card deposits may cost up to 5%.
  • Withdrawal Fees: Crypto withdrawals include blockchain network fees, which depend on the token and chain used.

How to Choose a Safe Crypto Exchange?

Security should be your top priority when selecting an exchange. Look for these key features:

  • Regulation: Use exchanges registered with trusted regulators like the FCA (UK) or FinCEN (US). Some global platforms operate under overseas licenses, which may carry more risk and offer less protection.
  • Reputation: Research past security breaches, user reviews, and transparency practices.
  • Asset Custody: Choose platforms with cold storage, insurance coverage, and third-party security certifications (like ISO or SOC).
  • Proof of Reserves: Prefer exchanges that publish regular, real-time reserve audits to verify solvency.
  • Security Tools: Ensure the platform supports 2FA, biometric login, withdrawal whitelisting, and instant activity alerts.

How to Avoid Crypto Trading Scams?

Follow these tips to protect yourself from scams and unauthorized access:

  • Stick to well-known, regulated exchanges. Avoid unknown platforms that promise guaranteed profits.
  • Always double-check URLs and email addresses to avoid phishing scams. Use anti-phishing codes when available.
  • Download exchange apps only from official sources like the App Store, Google Play, or the exchange’s website.
  • Create a strong, unique password and never reuse it on other sites.
  • Enable two-factor authentication and biometric login for extra protection.
  • Set up a withdrawal whitelist to prevent unauthorized transfers.
  • For long-term storage, use a hardware wallet instead of keeping funds on an exchange.

FAQ

A crypto exchange is an online platform for buying, selling, or trading cryptocurrencies. Some offer simple buy-and-sell tools, while others provide advanced features like leverage trading, staking, and launchpads.
Some exchanges are regulated and licensed, while others operate without oversight. Regulated platforms follow financial laws and AML/KYC rules, offering stronger security and user protection.
To buy crypto, sign up with a trusted exchange, complete identity verification, deposit funds using a bank card or transfer, then place a trade or use one-click buy options to purchase your chosen cryptocurrency.
No, most exchanges offer a built-in custodial wallet for storage. For higher security, especially if holding large amounts, it is safer to use a private or hardware wallet.
Crypto gains from trading or staking are often taxed as income or capital gains. Tax rules vary by country, so it is important to keep trade records and check local laws.
Leading exchanges like Binance and Kraken offer strong security with cold storage, two-factor authentication, and insurance. Still, no platform is completely risk-free.
Reputable exchanges list licenses and regulatory details in their legal or footer sections. You can also verify this information with your local financial authority.
Platforms like Binance and Bitget have internal insurance funds, while Coinbase offers FDIC-pass-through coverage on fiat. These typically cover platform breaches, not individual account losses.
A crypto exchange app lets you buy, sell, and trade assets, while a crypto wallet is used only to store your crypto securely.

About the Author

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.

Why you can trust FX Empire

At FXEmpire, we strive to provide unbiased, thorough, and accurate exchange reviews by industry experts to help our users make smarter financial decisions.

Why you can trust FX Empire

Founded in 2011, FXEmpire has established itself as one of the pioneering forex broker review sites and has seamlessly extended its expertise to the world of cryptocurrency. You can trust FXEmpire because of our thorough and unbiased review process. With over a decade of experience, we have a team of industry experts who conduct rigorous tests to ensure our reviews are accurate and unbiased. Our reviews aim to bring clarity and confidence to your cryptocurrency selection process, relying on objective criteria and measurable data. Our editorial team, composed of trading industry professionals and seasoned financial journalists, ensures our reviews are trustworthy and objective. Additionally, our review system is based on 6 core categories and over 200 distinct variables, covering all aspects of a crypto platform before giving a final rating. With FXEmpire, you can trust that you are receiving honest and informative reviews that will help you make an informed decision on which crypto platform will best enable you to reach your financial goals.