After analyzing 50+ crypto exchanges this year, our experts have identified the 5 best platforms that accept PayPal, highlighting their features, pros & cons. Practical tips are included.
Exchange | Ranking | Taker/Maker | Available Crypto | Accepts Fiat | Payment Methods | KYC |
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Coinbase Exchange | 4.0 Read Review | 1.2% / 0.6% | 0 | No | +6 | Yes |
Kraken | 3.9 Read Review | 0.4% / 0.25% | 409 | Yes | +3 | Yes |
Gemini | 3.2 Read Review | 0.4% / 0.2% | 81 | Yes | +3 | Yes |
Bitstamp | 3.2 Read Review | 0.3% / 0.2% | 104 | Yes | +5 | Yes |
Crypto.com | 3.8 Read Review | 0.3% / 0.15% | 0 | No | +3 | Full KYC Required |
Coinbase is a US-based, publicly traded exchange known for its strong security and regulatory compliance. It supports PayPal transactions in the US, UK, and most of the EU, offering one of the most accessible and trusted options for fiat deposits and withdrawals. PayPal transfers are typically instant, and USD balances are protected with FDIC pass-through insurance.
Kraken is a US-based exchange known for its strong security record and zero hacks. It holds licenses across the EU and from the UK’s FCA, making it one of the most trusted platforms in Europe. Kraken supports both PayPal deposits and withdrawals for EU (EUR) and UK (GBP) users, offering a safe and fully compliant option for PayPal transactions.
Gemini is a US-based exchange with strong regulatory oversight. It holds a New York Trust License and Money Transmitter Licenses in over 35 states. It offers seamless PayPal deposits with a low flat fee of 2.5%, making it a top choice for US users looking for a secure and affordable way to buy crypto.
Bitstamp is a Luxembourg-based exchange operating since 2011. It offers high PayPal purchase limits, making it ideal for high-volume users. With licenses in the US, UK, and EU, 100% reserves, and 95% cold storage, it’s a highly secure and compliant platform.
PayPal is not available in Croatia, Hungary, or Iceland.
Crypto.com is a Singapore-based exchange known for its all-in-one crypto platform and popular Visa card, which lets users spend crypto both online and in stores. It supports PayPal purchases directly within the app, offering a quick and easy way to buy crypto using your PayPal balance or linked bank card. With a 100% reserve ratio and a $750 million insurance policy, Crypto.com provides strong security and peace of mind for its users.
Limits depend on your VIP level with Crypto.com.
Yes, some crypto exchanges let you buy crypto directly with PayPal. Others may use third-party services to process the payment. Whether you can use PayPal depends on your country, currency, and the exchange you choose.
We recommend looking for the following:
Yes, you can buy crypto directly on PayPal in certain countries. It lets you buy, sell, hold, and use crypto for payments. But it only supports a few coins (BTC, ETH, SOL, LTC, BCH, LINK, PYUSD), so it’s better for beginners than active traders.
PayPal fees depend on the exchange and your location.
Yes, buying crypto with PayPal is generally safe, especially on well-regulated exchanges. However, PayPal’s buyer protection usually doesn’t cover crypto purchases, and these transactions can’t be reversed.
PYUSD is PayPal’s own stablecoin, backed 1:1 by the US dollar. It’s designed to work smoothly within PayPal for payments, transfers, and crypto trading. Like USDT and USDC, it keeps a stable value and is backed by dollar reserves.
Pros | Cons |
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PYUSD and USDT are both stablecoins pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. Below is a quick comparison of three key factors to consider when choosing between them:
Factor | PYUSD | USDT |
Trust | More transparent and compliant, backed by regulated financial institutions | Has faced criticism over reserve transparency and occasional depegging |
Adoption | Limited adoption, mainly within the PayPal ecosystem | Widely adopted across exchanges and DeFi protocols |
Uses | Designed for payments and personal fund transfers | Primarily used for trading and cross-chain liquidity |
PayPal crypto purchases usually cost more because PayPal charges higher processing fees than banks. Exchanges also add extra fees to cover the risk of chargebacks and disputes, which aren’t an issue with bank transfers.
Despite having higher fees and not offering buyer protection, there are several reasons users may choose to use PayPal to buy crypto:
Pros | Cons |
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If a chargeback is filed after buying crypto, most exchanges won’t accept it, and PayPal’s buyer protection usually doesn’t apply. This makes chargeback fraud a big risk, especially on P2P platforms. To stay safe, use trusted exchanges with proper vetting and escrow services.
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.