How to Buy Bitcoin on eToro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer – How Do I Buy Bitcoin on eToro?
- Sign up and verify your account
- Deposit GBP via bank or card
- Search for Bitcoin (BTC)
- Enter your investment amount
- Confirm and buy
Your BTC appears instantly in your portfolio.
eToro Broker Snapshot
- Minimum Deposit: $50 (via UK bank transfer)
- Copy top-performing traders across a wide range of assets
- FCA regulated and compliant with UK crypto marketing rules
- User-friendly platform with social trading and mobile app support
- Perfect for beginners and casual investors looking to follow expert strategies with ease
Donʼt invest unless youʼre 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.
eToro offers UK investors an easy, FCA-regulated way to buy Bitcoin. With instant deposits, user-friendly tools, and strong transparency, it’s ideal for beginners and casual traders alike. This guide shows you exactly how to buy BTC on eToro safely, efficiently, and at minimal cost.
How to Buy Bitcoin on eToro: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Open an eToro Account
The first step is to create an account on eToro. I remember being pleasantly surprised by how simple the registration process was. Here’s how you can get started:
- Go to eToro’s Website: Head over to eToro and click the “Sign Up” button.
- Fill Out the Form: Provide basic details like your name, email address, and password. Alternatively, you can sign up using your Google or Facebook account for convenience.
- Verify Your Account: To comply with regulations, eToro requires you to verify your identity. Upload a photo of a valid ID (passport or driver’s license) and a proof of address (like a utility bill).
- Complete Your Profile: eToro will ask you a few questions about your trading experience, financial situation, and investment goals. Be honest—this helps the platform tailor your experience.
Key Tip: Make sure your documents are clear and readable to avoid delays during verification. My verification was approved within 24 hours.
Step 2: Fund Your Account
Once your account is set up, the next step is to deposit funds. Here’s what you need to know:
- Minimum Deposit: The minimum deposit for eToro is $50 (approximately £40), making it accessible for beginners.
- Choose a Deposit Method: eToro supports various payment methods, including:
- Debit/credit cards
- Bank transfers
- E-wallets like PayPal and Skrill
- Secure Your Deposit: Select your preferred method, enter the amount, and follow the instructions. For example, I used PayPal for its convenience, and my funds appeared instantly in my account.
Key Tip: If you’re funding with a debit or credit card, ensure it matches the name on your eToro account to avoid issues.
Step 3: Search for Bitcoin (BTC)
Now that your account is funded, it’s time to find Bitcoin on the platform. This part is super simple:
- Use the Search Bar: At the top of the eToro dashboard, type “Bitcoin” or “BTC” into the search bar.
- Select Bitcoin: Click on Bitcoin from the dropdown results. This will take you to Bitcoin’s dedicated page, showing its price chart, market stats, and other details.
Key Tip: Spend a few minutes exploring this page. I found it helpful to review Bitcoin’s recent price trends before placing my first trade.
Step 4: Place Your Order
Once you’ve located Bitcoin, you’re ready to buy! This is the exciting part.
- Click “Trade”: On Bitcoin’s page, hit the “Trade” button to open the order window.
- Set Your Amount: Enter the amount you’d like to invest. With eToro, you can buy fractional Bitcoin, meaning you don’t need to purchase a whole BTC. For example, I started with just $100.
- Choose Order Type:
- Market Order: Buy Bitcoin instantly at the current price.
- Limit Order: Set a specific price at which you want to buy. Your order will execute only when Bitcoin reaches that price.
- Confirm the Trade: Once everything looks good, click “Open Trade” to complete your purchase.
Key Tip: If you’re unsure how much to invest, start small. Bitcoin’s price can be volatile, so it’s best to get comfortable with smaller amounts first.
Step 5: Monitor and Manage Your Investment
After purchasing Bitcoin, managing your investment is just as important as buying it. Here’s how you can stay on top of your Bitcoin:
- Track Performance: Go to your eToro Portfolio, where you’ll see all your open positions. Here, you can monitor Bitcoin’s value in real time.
- Set Price Alerts: One feature I love on eToro is the ability to set price alerts. You’ll get notified if Bitcoin’s price hits a specific level, helping you decide when to buy more or sell.
- Sell When Ready: If you decide to cash out, simply go to your portfolio, click on Bitcoin, and choose “Close Trade.”
Optional: Transfer to an External Wallet
If you’re buying Bitcoin as a long-term investment, you may want to transfer it to an external wallet for extra security. While eToro does offer a built-in wallet, I prefer using a dedicated crypto wallet for better control.
- Download eToro Money Wallet: eToro has a wallet app that allows you to transfer and store Bitcoin securely.
- Transfer Your Bitcoin: Follow the instructions in the wallet app to move your Bitcoin from your trading account to your wallet.
Note: Transfers may incur a small fee, so check eToro’s wallet terms before proceeding.
Can I Buy Other Cryptos on eToro Too?
Yes. eToro supports over 70 cryptocurrencies including Ethereum, XRP, Cardano, Solana, and Dogecoin. You can trade crypto-to-crypto pairs or diversify your portfolio with other asset classes like stocks, ETFs, or commodities — all in the same interface.
Is the Process Any Different on Mobile vs Desktop?
No, the steps are nearly identical. On both mobile and desktop, you can sign up, verify your ID, search for Bitcoin, place trades, and monitor your portfolio. The mobile app is optimised for quick navigation and real-time alerts, while desktop offers a wider chart view.
Pros and Cons of Buying Bitcoin on eToro
3 Things We Like
FCA Regulation – eToro is licensed and compliant in the UK
User-Friendly Interface – Ideal for beginners with guided trading steps
Multiple Payment Methods – Includes PayPal, cards, and bank transfer
3 Things That Could Be Improved
$5 Withdrawal Fee – Flat fee applies to all fiat withdrawals
Limited Advanced Charting – Fewer tools than pro trading platforms
Crypto Custody Only via Wallet App – No direct private key access
eToro Overview
What Is eToro and How Does It Work?
eToro is a multi-asset investment platform that lets users buy crypto, stocks, ETFs, and more. It offers commission-free trading, a simple user interface, and unique tools like CopyTrader™. eToro is regulated in the UK and ideal for beginners seeking one platform for multiple asset classes.
Is eToro FCA Regulated and Legal in the UK?
Yes. eToro (UK) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under reference number 583263. UK users can trade Bitcoin legally and confidently on eToro, knowing their account operates under strict UK financial rules.
What Makes eToro Different from Other Crypto Platforms?
eToro combines crypto trading with access to stocks, ETFs, and commodities. It supports CopyTrader, scheduled buys, and beginner-friendly social features. Users can track market sentiment, follow top investors, and use one wallet for all holdings, unlike many single-purpose crypto apps.
Is eToro Good for Beginners?
Yes. eToro’s clean interface, demo account, and £50 minimum deposit make it ideal for new traders. Real-time pricing, market charts, and guided buy options simplify the process. Regulated status, built-in safety features, and 24/7 support add to its beginner appeal.
Funding Your eToro Account
What Deposit Methods Does eToro Support in the UK?
UK users can fund accounts via Faster Payments, debit card, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and bank wire. Card and PayPal options provide instant deposits. Crypto deposits are not supported for fiat funding but can be transferred separately into eToro’s crypto wallet.
Are There Deposit Fees for GBP?
No. eToro does not charge a fee for GBP deposits via Faster Payments or debit cards. Deposits made in other currencies (e.g., USD or EUR) incur a conversion fee. Be sure to deposit in GBP to avoid unnecessary forex costs.
Can I Fund eToro Using Crypto?
You cannot fund your eToro trading account with crypto directly. However, if you use the eToro Money Wallet app, you can receive and send supported cryptocurrencies. From there, crypto can be withdrawn off-platform or used for on-chain transfers.
How to Add Funds Step-by-Step
Log in to your eToro account, click “Deposit Funds,” choose GBP, select your preferred payment method, enter the amount, and confirm. For UK users, Faster Payments is recommended for fee-free, same-day transfers. Funds appear in your balance immediately or within hours.
Withdrawing or Sending Crypto from eToro
Can I Transfer Crypto from eToro to Another Wallet?
Yes. You can send supported cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to an external wallet using the eToro Money Wallet. First, transfer your crypto to the wallet app, then withdraw to a personal address. Not all tokens are supported for withdrawal.
Are There Crypto Withdrawal Fees?
Yes. eToro charges a network fee when withdrawing crypto. The amount depends on blockchain congestion and asset type. There’s also a $5 flat fee for withdrawing fiat from your eToro account to a UK bank. Minimum withdrawal is $30 (about £24).
Does eToro Offer a Custodial Wallet?
Yes. eToro uses a custodial model where it holds your crypto securely. It also offers the eToro Money Wallet app, which allows select assets to be sent on-chain. Private keys are not user-controlled, making eToro less suited for self-custody users.
What Are the Fees and Costs for Buying Bitcoin on eToro?
| Action | Fee |
|---|---|
| GBP Deposit (Faster Pay) | Free |
| Debit Card Deposit | Free |
| FX Conversion Fee | ~0.5% |
| Crypto Spread (BTC) | ~1% |
| Withdrawal (fiat) | $5 flat fee |
| Crypto Transfer to Wallet | Network fee only |
| Inactivity (after 12 mos) | $10/month (until reactivated) |
How Does eToro’s Pricing Structure Work for Crypto?
eToro uses a spread-based pricing model for crypto trades. Instead of charging a fixed trading fee, the platform adds a small margin (typically around 1% for Bitcoin) between the buy and sell prices. This spread covers trading costs and is visible before you confirm any order.
How Does eToro Make Their Money?
eToro earns revenue from crypto spreads, withdrawal fees, currency conversion charges, and overnight fees on leveraged positions. Unlike exchanges with trading commissions, eToro’s primary income from crypto trading comes from the spread — the difference between buy and sell prices on each trade.
Are There Hidden Costs to Watch Out For?
No hidden costs, but users should watch for:
Spread markups during volatile markets
FX fees when converting GBP to USD
$5 withdrawal fee
Inactive accounts (12+ months) incur a $10 monthly fee until logged in again. All charges are visible before confirmation.
Safety and Security on eToro
Is It Safe to Buy Crypto on eToro?
Yes. eToro uses bank-level encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, and regulated infrastructure. It complies with FCA guidelines and is considered one of the safest crypto platforms for UK residents. Your data and funds are well protected under UK law.
How Is Bitcoin Stored on the Platform?
Bitcoin is stored in cold wallets by secure third-party custodians. For added flexibility, users can transfer BTC to the eToro Money Wallet, which allows on-chain transactions. Most user assets are held in segregated, offline accounts to prevent theft or hacks.
What Security Measures Does eToro Use?
eToro employs 2FA, device verification, secure socket layer encryption, DDoS protection, and internal monitoring. All withdrawals are screened. As a regulated broker, eToro meets strict financial conduct standards, helping protect both user data and customer funds.
Risk Management Tools Available to UK Users
eToro offers stop-loss orders, take-profit settings, price alerts, and a demo trading account to help manage risk. These tools are especially useful for volatile assets like Bitcoin. Users can test strategies or copy seasoned traders to lower exposure.
Tips for Buying Bitcoin on eToro
Set Price Alerts and Use Demo Mode
Enable price alerts for Bitcoin to buy at optimal levels. Use eToro’s demo mode to test trades with virtual money before risking real funds. It’s free and accessible from your dashboard, helping you understand platform features without financial risk.
Use Stop Loss or Take Profit Options
Always set a stop-loss to limit potential downside. Use take-profit to automatically close positions at target levels. These tools reduce emotional trading and protect gains. eToro lets you define both when placing a trade, ideal for hands-off management.
Avoid Buying at Market Peaks
Before buying, check recent price action. Avoid panic-buying after sharp rallies. Use eToro’s charts, news feed, and CopyTrader™ sentiment to gauge market timing. Buying gradually or using scheduled buys can help avoid overpaying during hype-driven spikes.
Final Thoughts
eToro is one of the easiest, safest platforms to buy Bitcoin in the UK. With FCA regulation, clear fees, and strong user tools, it’s beginner-friendly without being basic. Spreads are fair, funding is fast, and security is robust. Great for long-term holders or casual traders alike.
Donʼt invest unless youʼre 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.
Trade Smarter, not Harder
- Copy Trading
- Competitive Fees
- Multi-Asset Platform
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FAQs
Is eToro Good for Buying Bitcoin?
Yes. eToro is beginner-friendly, FCA-regulated, and supports GBP deposits. It charges a transparent spread instead of complex fees and offers helpful tools like demo mode and CopyTrader. Its Bitcoin purchase process is simple, secure, and ideal for new UK users.
How Does eToro Compare to Coinbase or Kraken?
eToro is more beginner-friendly and includes multi-asset tools. Coinbase charges higher instant-buy fees but offers faster withdrawals. Kraken has lower fees but is more complex. eToro strikes a balance between usability, safety, and reasonable spreads for everyday crypto investors.
What’s the minimum amount of Bitcoin I can buy on eToro?
You can buy as little as $10 worth of Bitcoin on eToro, which makes it accessible for beginners with smaller budgets.
Can I transfer Bitcoin from eToro to my personal wallet?
Yes, you can transfer your Bitcoin to an external wallet using the eToro Money Wallet app, although transfer fees may apply.
What are the fees for buying Bitcoin on eToro?
eToro charges a spread fee for buying Bitcoin. The exact fee varies but is typically competitive with other major platforms.
