Trading and investing involve risk. The value of your investments can go up or down, and you may lose all or part of your capital. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved.

Our #1 Rated Platform

Home / Crypto / Best Crypto Exchanges UK

Best Crypto Exchanges In The UK June 2025

Author: A. Woodhead

Adam Woodhead

Co-Founder

Adam is a passionate investor who created The Investors Centre (TIC) to combine his professional skills with his love for investment. His goal is to offer a platform filled with valuable resources, practical advice, and effective strategies for anyone looking to make their mark in the investment world.

“Investment is about more than just numbers; it’s about strategy, research, and the willingness to adapt. At TIC, we’re here to provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed on your investment journey.”

Reviewer: T. Drury

Thomas Drury

Co-Founder

Thomas is an experienced financial trader in leverage instruments, crypto and general investing. He has over a decade experience in finance and holds Chartered Status in the financial industry, Thomas’s speciality is trading CFDs, Forex and Day Trading. His crypto portfolio is heavily weighted towards BTC and Eth, but enjoys trading low cap crypto’s with higher volatility. Thomas’s favourite trading strategy is break out Trading.

“Our commitment at The Investors Centre is unwavering. We strive to provide clear, actionable advice that empowers you to achieve financial success. Our vision is a future where anyone can invest confidently and wisely.”

June 8, 2025

Table of Contents

Disclaimer

How We Test

Crypto trading lets you gain exposure to digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum without relying on traditional finance. Explore our 2025 list of trusted, FCA-registered crypto exchanges—tested with real funds and available to UK traders.

Quick Answer: What's the Best Crypto Exchange in the UK?

For most UK users, eToro is the best all-around crypto exchange. It offers a user-friendly platform, strong security features, FCA regulation, and a wide range of features beyond just buying and selling crypto, like social trading. While other options might have lower fees or more cryptocurrencies, eToro excels in overall ease of use and beginner-friendliness for UK investors.

Featured Exchange – eToro

eToro stands out as a leading crypto exchange in the UK, offering a beginner-friendly platform that combines real crypto asset ownership with social trading features. Users can buy, sell, and hold popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, alongside traditional assets like stocks and ETFs—all in one place. Its clean interface, strong regulatory standing, and built-in CopyTrader™ functionality make it especially appealing to new and casual investors exploring crypto for the first time.

Table of Contents

What are the best UK crypto exchanges Ranked?

RankExchangeFoundedBeginner-FriendlyFeesGBP Deposit Methods
1eToro2007Yes1% + market spreadBank transfer, debit card, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money
2Coinbase2012Yes1% + 0.5% spread feeBank transfer, debit card, PayPal
3MoonPay2018No1.50%Debit/credit card, Apple Pay
4Uphold2024Yes1% trading + 1% spreadBank transfer, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay
5Cryptomus2022No0.90%Crypto only
6OKX2015Yes0.50%Bank transfer, debit card, crypto, Apple Pay

Here are the Top 6 Best Crypto Platforms in the UK:

  1. eToro – Social Trading, Easy to Use, Rated Highest
  2. Coinbase – Beginner-Friendly, Secure, Most Crypto
  3. Uphold – Multi-Asset, Low Minimums, Fewer Features
  4. Cryptomus – Low Fees, High Liquidity, Wide Functionality
  5. OKX – Low Fees, Advanced Features, Less Regulated
  6. MoonPay – Streamlined, Transparent, and Secure

eToro - Social Trading, Easy to Use, Rated Highest

Pros & Cons

  • User-friendly interface
  • Social trading features (CopyTrader™)
  • FCA regulated
  • Wide asset range (crypto, stocks, ETFs)
  • 1% trading fee
  • Limited advanced trading tools
  • Small currency conversion fee for GBP deposits

eToro charges a 1% trading fee on crypto transactions, plus a 0.5% GBP deposit fee. There’s also a $5 withdrawal fee and a $10 inactivity fee if the account is idle for 12 months. No hidden fees are applied beyond these.

eToro offers access to over 120 cryptocurrencies, including major coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. While not as extensive as some other exchanges, it covers all the major assets most UK investors are likely to trade.

eToro is considered highly secure. It uses cold storage for the majority of crypto assets and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user accounts. It’s also regulated by the FCA, adding an extra layer of trust for UK investors.

eToro is best for beginners and casual investors who want an easy way to buy crypto and learn from others. Its social trading feature allows users to copy experienced investors, making it perfect for those new to the crypto market.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

Coinbase- Beginner-Friendly, Secure, Trusted Brand

Pros & Cons

  • Beginner-friendly interface
  • Strong security measures
  • FCA-registered
  • Supports over 390 cryptocurrencies
  • Higher fees compared to competitors
  • Limited advanced trading features unless using Coinbase Advanced
  • Slower customer support response times

Coinbase charges around 1% per trade, plus a spread fee of 0.5%. Debit card deposits incur a 3.99% fee. Advanced traders using Coinbase Advanced enjoy lower maker-taker fees starting at 0.5% and decreasing with higher volumes.

Coinbase offers over 390 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and many altcoins. It’s one of the widest selections available among FCA-registered platforms, catering to both casual buyers and those exploring newer tokens.

Coinbase is highly secure, storing 98% of customer assets in cold storage. It enforces two-factor authentication and has a strong reputation for protecting user funds. Its compliance with UK regulations adds an extra layer of investor protection.

Coinbase is best for beginners who prioritize ease of use and security. Its simple platform design and clear buying process make it perfect for those new to cryptocurrency who want a safe place to start without technical complexity.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

Uphold - Multi-Asset, Low Minimums, Fewer Features

Pros & Cons

  • Multi-asset trading (crypto, stocks, metals)
  • Easy account setup
  • FCA-registered
  • Transparent reserve reporting
  • Higher spreads on low-volume assets
  • Limited advanced trading features
  • Debit card deposit fees are high

Uphold charges a 1% trading fee plus a spread, which varies by asset. Debit card deposits have a 3.99% fee in the UK. There are no withdrawal fees to UK bank accounts via Faster Payments.

Uphold supports over 60 cryptocurrencies, including popular coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP. While the selection is smaller than competitors like Coinbase, it covers most of what casual investors are looking for.

Uphold maintains a 100% reserve model, ensuring user funds are fully backed. It uses two-factor authentication and undergoes third-party audits, providing a strong layer of transparency and security for UK users.

Uphold is best for casual investors who want to diversify across crypto, equities, and commodities within a single platform. It’s particularly useful for beginners who prefer simplicity over complex trading tools.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

Cryptomus - Low Fees, High Liquidity, Wide Functionality

Pros & Cons

  • Very low trading fees
  • High liquidity for major coins
  • Wide functionality including P2P and payment processing
  • No fiat deposit options
  • No demo account for beginners
  • Limited customer support compared to larger exchanges

Cryptomus charges 0.04% to 0.08% for makers and 0.07% to 0.1% for takers on spot trading. P2P trading is free for makers and 0.1% for takers. Crypto withdrawals only incur standard network fees.

Cryptomus supports over 18 cryptocurrencies, focused primarily on high-liquidity assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Tether (USDT). It’s designed for efficiency rather than offering a wide selection of altcoins.

Cryptomus emphasizes security with two-factor authentication, cold wallet storage, and KYC verification for P2P transactions. However, being a newer platform, it may not offer the same institutional safeguards as more established exchanges.

Cryptomus is ideal for crypto-savvy users looking for low fees, high liquidity, and peer-to-peer (P2P) trading. It’s less suited for beginners, as it lacks a traditional fiat on-ramp and is crypto-only for deposits and withdrawals.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

OKX - Low Fees, Advanced Features, Less Regulated

Pros & Cons

  • Very low spot trading fees
  • Advanced trading features (futures, margin)
  • High liquidity for major cryptocurrencies
  • Not FCA-regulated
  • Limited fiat on-ramp options
  • Interface can be complex for beginners

OKX charges 0.08% maker and 0.1% taker fees on spot trades, with lower rates for high-volume traders. Futures trading fees start at 0.02% maker and 0.05% taker. Crypto deposits are free, but withdrawal fees vary by asset.

OKX offers access to over 200 cryptocurrencies, including major coins and a wide selection of altcoins. It’s a strong choice for users who want more trading options beyond just Bitcoin and Ethereum.

OKX uses cold storage for most customer funds and supports two-factor authentication. However, because it’s not FCA-regulated, UK users don’t get the same local protections as with FCA-registered platforms.

OKX is best for experienced traders who want access to advanced features like margin and futures trading. It’s ideal for users who prioritize low fees and deep liquidity over beginner-friendly design or local regulation.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

MoonPay – Streamlined, Transparent, and Secure

Pros & Cons

  • Fast and easy crypto purchases
  • Transparent pricing
  • High security standards
  • Higher fees for instant buys
  • Limited cryptocurrency selection
  • No trading or advanced features

MoonPay typically charges around 4.5% for card purchases. Crypto-to-crypto conversions have variable but generally lower fees. Network fees apply separately depending on the blockchain and transaction type.

MoonPay offers around 80 cryptocurrencies, covering major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. It’s enough for typical buyers but lacks the broader altcoin range seen on larger exchanges.

MoonPay is considered secure, using bank-grade encryption and two-factor authentication to protect user transactions and data. While not a full exchange, its simple buying process minimizes exposure to platform risks.

MoonPay is best for investors who want a fast, no-frills way to purchase crypto directly with a card. It’s a good fit for beginners looking for a straightforward buying experience without the need for trading features.

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.

What is a Crypto Exchange?

A crypto exchange is a platform that allows users to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. It acts as a marketplace where buyers and sellers meet, facilitating the exchange of digital assets using order books or direct purchase methods.

What Are the Different Types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges?

Cryptocurrency exchanges fall into three main types: custodial, non-custodial, and decentralized (DEXs). Each type offers a different balance of control, security, and ease of use, catering to different investor preferences and experience levels.

What Is a Custodial Exchange?

A custodial exchange manages and stores your crypto assets on your behalf. It offers convenience and liquidity but requires you to trust the platform’s security measures to protect your funds.

Examples: Coinbase and Binance

What Is a Non-Custodial Exchange?

Non-custodial exchanges let users trade crypto directly from their wallets, without handing over control to a third party. They offer greater security and privacy but can be less user-friendly and have lower liquidity.

Examples: ShapeShift and Changelly

What Is a Decentralized Exchange (DEX)?

A decentralized exchange (DEX) operates without intermediaries, using smart contracts to enable peer-to-peer trading. DEXs promote privacy and censorship resistance but often have lower liquidity and can be complex for beginners.

Examples: Uniswap and SushiSwap

Advantages and Disadvantages at a Glance

Exchange TypeAdvantagesDisadvantages
Custodial Exchanges- Easy to use- Higher security risks
- High liquidity- Less personal control
Non-Custodial Exchanges- Enhanced security- Less intuitive
- Full control of assets- Slower transactions
Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs)- Strong decentralization- Lower liquidity
- Minimal censorship risk- Challenging for new users

Custodial exchanges are easy to use but require trust. Non-custodial exchanges give you full control but are less convenient. DEXs offer strong privacy but can be harder to navigate. Choosing the right type depends on your priorities for security and usability.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Right Platform?

Choosing the right crypto platform depends on several factors, including security, regulation, fees, user experience, market variety, and customer support. Balancing these elements ensures a safer, smoother investing experience that matches your trading goals and comfort level with risk.

How Important Is Security?

Security is crucial. Without strong protections like two-factor authentication and cold storage, your crypto assets are vulnerable to hacks and theft. Always choose platforms with robust security protocols and a proven track record of safeguarding customer funds.

Why Does Regulation Matter?

Regulation ensures that an exchange operates under legal standards, offering greater investor protection. FCA-registered platforms follow strict anti-money laundering and customer protection rules, giving UK investors more security and peace of mind compared to unregulated alternatives.

What Fees Should You Look Out For?

Look for trading fees, deposit fees, withdrawal charges, and hidden spreads. High fees can quickly erode profits, especially for active traders. Transparent, competitive pricing is key to maximizing your returns over time.

How Does User Experience Affect Your Choice?

A smooth, intuitive platform makes buying and selling crypto easier and less stressful. Especially for beginners, a clean interface, clear instructions, and fast transaction processing can make a huge difference in your overall investing experience.

Why Is Market Variety Important?

A broad selection of cryptocurrencies allows you to diversify your portfolio and access emerging opportunities. Platforms with more trading pairs give you the flexibility to invest beyond major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

How Critical Is Good Customer Support?

Reliable customer support matters when things go wrong. Whether it’s account access issues or transaction delays, fast and helpful service can prevent small problems from becoming major headaches. Look for 24/7 live chat or strong support reputations.

What Else Should UK Investors Keep in Mind?

UK investors should consider how crypto is regulated, the tax obligations they face, and how to stay compliant with HMRC. Understanding these areas helps protect your investments and ensures you meet all legal responsibilities when trading or holding crypto assets.

How Are Cryptocurrencies Regulated?

In the UK, cryptocurrencies are regulated mainly for anti-money laundering purposes. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) oversees registered crypto firms, but crypto investments are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, so investor protections are limited.

Do You Need to Pay Tax on Crypto in the UK?

Yes, crypto transactions are taxable in the UK. HMRC treats cryptocurrency as property, meaning you may owe Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when selling or exchanging crypto. Some activities, like mining or staking, can also trigger Income Tax.

What Taxes Apply When You Receive Cryptoassets?

Receiving crypto through mining, staking, or as payment is usually treated as income by HMRC. This means you may need to pay Income Tax and National Insurance contributions based on the fair market value at the time you receive it.

What Happens Tax-Wise When You Sell Crypto?

When you sell, swap, or spend crypto, you may be liable for Capital Gains Tax if your gains exceed the annual allowance. It’s important to track all transactions carefully to calculate gains accurately and report them to HMRC.

How Can You Avoid Getting Fined by HMRC?

To avoid penalties, keep detailed records of all crypto transactions, including dates, amounts, and GBP values. File accurate tax returns on time, and consider consulting a tax advisor if your crypto activity is significant or complex.

Conclusion

Consider security, regulation, fees, user experience, market diversity, and customer support. Each platform, from eToro’s user-friendly interface to Kraken’s vast market variety, offers unique benefits tailored to different user needs. It’s crucial to assess these features in light of your own trading habits and security requirements.

Start your crypto journey with the best exchange for YOU in the UK! Conduct thorough research, compare the top contenders, and consult reputable resources for up-to-date information. Websites like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and leading cryptocurrency news outlets are valuable sources to help you make an informed decision. Remember, the right exchange can significantly enhance your trading experience and investment success.

FAQs

How can I find a crypto exchange with a wide range of crypto assets?

To find a crypto exchange in the UK offering a wide range of crypto assets, consider platforms like Binance or MEXC. These exchanges are known for their extensive selection of cryptocurrencies, catering to both novice and experienced traders looking for diversity in their investments.

Are there any decentralised exchanges operating in the UK?

Yes, there are decentralised exchanges (DEXs) available to UK users, offering an alternative to centralised platforms by enabling direct peer-to-peer transactions without the need google pay for an intermediary. Popular DEXs include Uniswap and SushiSwap, which support a variety of crypto assets but often you cannot fund your account via bank transfers!

What should I look for in crypto trading platforms regulated in the UK?

When searching for crypto trading platforms regulated in the UK, prioritize those that comply with local financial regulations, offer robust security measures, provide transparent fee structures, and support a wide range of cryptocurrencies. Regulated platforms like eToro and Coinbase ensure a safer trading environment for UK investors.

How do I ensure my digital assets are safe with crypto exchanges?

To ensure your digital assets are safe with crypto exchanges, choose platforms that implement strong security protocols such as two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for the majority of funds, and regular security audits. Additionally, consider exchanges that offer insurance policies or are part of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) for added protection.

How do you buy cryptocurrency?

To buy cryptocurrency, you need to create an account with a cryptocurrency exchange where you can trade traditional currency, like dollars or euros, for digital coins.

References