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The Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK for 2024

Authored by:
Adam Woodhead
Adam Woodhead

Adam Woodhead

Co-Founder

Adam is a Co-Founder and content creator for The Investors Centre. His key areas of interest and expertise are cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

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Reviewed by:
Thomas Drury
Thomas Drury

Thomas Drury

Co-Founder

Seasoned finance professional with 10+ years' experience. Chartered status holder. Proficient in CFDs, ISAs, and crypto investing. Passionate about helping others achieve financial goals.

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Risk Warning

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. The future performance of cryptocurrencies, including the low-cap coins listed here, is inherently uncertain and subject to significant market volatility, regulatory changes, and technological developments.

Investing in cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, and you should only invest what you can afford to lose. Past performance of these coins does not guarantee future results. Conduct your own research (DYOR), consider seeking advice from a financial professional, and evaluate your risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.

Updated 08/12/2024

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.

Here are the Top 7 Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK:

  1. eToro – Social Trading, Easy to Use, Rated Highest
  2. Coinbase – Beginner-Friendly, Secure, Most Crypto
  3. Best Wallet – Best Mobile Application, Wallet Intergration
  4. Uphold – Multi-Asset, Low Minimums, Fewer Features
  5. OKX – Low Fees, Advanced Features, Less Regulated
  6. CoinJar User-Friendly, Low Fees, Limited Selection
  7. Binance – Most Crypto, High Liquidity, Complex Interface

To ensure its accuracy, this article was reviewed by Thomas Drury. Thomas is our seasoned finance and trading expert with Chartered status.

Featured Exchange

eToro

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.

How Do These Exchanges Compare?

eToro Logo
eToro
Coinbase
Best Wallet
Uphold
OKX
CoinJar
Binance
Spot Crypto
120+
390+
60+
200+
350+
60+
370+
Founded
2007
2012
2024
2015
2017
2013
2017
HQ
Israel
California
Portugal
USA
Seychelles
Australia
Caymens
Native Token
Pending
UP
OKB
BNB
Demo Image
4.1/5
3.5/5
N/A
4.2/5
3.2/5
4.2/5
2.1/5
Leverage
Non UK
Non UK
Non UK
Non UK
Non UK
Mobile App
DEFI Wallet
Beginner Friendly
4.2/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4/5
4/5
4.5/5
4/5
Demo Account
Available in UK
Review Score
4.7/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4.5/5
4.35/5
4/5
4.0/5
Please Refer to the Crypto Exchange for the most up to date information. 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.

10 Best Crypto Exchanges

Etoro Logo

eToro - Social Trading, Easy to Use, Rated Highest

Pros & Cons

  • Spreads: Crypto trades on eToro incur a spread, which is the difference between the buy and sell price.
  • Withdrawal Fees: A $5 fee applies for withdrawals, regardless of the amount.
  • Inactivity Fee: A $10 fee applies if your account remains inactive for 12 months.

At the time of writing (June 2024), eToro offers around 24 major cryptocurrencies for trading. This number is lower compared to some other large cryptocurrency exchanges.

  • Regulation: eToro is regulated by the FCA in the UK, offering some investor protection.
  • Security Features: eToro implements various security measures including two-factor authentication and secure storage of user funds.

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 Logo Blue

Coinbase- Beginner-Friendly, Secure, Trusted Brand

Pros & Cons

FeatureCoinbaseCoinbase Pro
Instant Buy/Sell FeesAround 1.49% (bank transfer); 3.99% (card)Not applicable
Maker Fee (Up to $10,000 Volume)N/A0.50%
Taker Fee (Up to $10,000 Volume)N/A0.50%
Maker Fee (Over $50,000 Volume)N/A0.25%
Taker Fee (Over $50,000 Volume)N/A0.25%
Withdrawal FeesVariable based on methodNot applicable
Spread FeesIncluded in priceNot applicable

Coinbase offers a selection of over 240 cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). Coinbase Pro provides access to a wider range of assets and trading pairs, catering to both beginners and advanced traders.

Coinbase is a secure exchange, with two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption, and 98% of customer funds held in offline cold storage. Coinbase Pro provides the same high security standards, with the added benefit of insurance coverage for digital assets held in hot wallets.

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.

Best Wallet logo

Best Wallet - Best Mobile Application, Wallet Intergration

Pros & Cons

Best Wallet boasts some of the lowest fees in the industry, with no hidden charges for basic transactions and competitive rates for advanced features like staking or swaps.

Best Wallet supports over 60 blockchains and thousands of tokens, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, ensuring users have access to a wide variety of assets.

Best Wallet implements advanced encryption, multi-signature technology, and cold storage solutions to protect user funds, making it one of the most secure wallets available.

 

Best Wallet Ecosystem interface showcasing features like buying cryptocurrency with low fees, integrated with Onramper, supporting Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more. Includes a mobile app interface and over 60 supported blockchain chains

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

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 Logo for OKX vs MEXC blog

OKX - Low Fees, Advanced Features, Less Regulated

Pros & Cons

OKX homepage image displaying advanced trading platform features and 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.

coinjar logo

CoinJar – User-Friendly, Low Fees, Limited Selection

Pros & Cons

FeatureCostNotes
Instant Buy2%
Applies to purchases made with credit/debit cards.
Recurring Buy1%
For automated purchases using debit/credit card.
Crypto-to-Crypto Conversions0-1%
Depends on the specific cryptocurrencies being converted.
Withdrawal FeesVaries
Depends on the withdrawal method and currency.
Network FeesVaries
These are fees charged by the underlying blockchain network for processing transactions.

CoinJar offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and newer ones like Solana and Cardano (60+).  You can find the full list on their website.

CoinJar is considered a relatively safe exchange due to the following security measures:

  • FCA Regulation: CoinJar is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, ensuring compliance with strict financial regulations. 
  • Security Practices: CoinJar uses industry-standard security practices, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and cold storage for most of its digital assets.   
  • Insurance: A portion of CoinJar’s assets are insured, providing additional protection to users’ funds.   

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.

Binance Logo

Binance - Most Crypto, High Liquidity, Complex Interface

Pros & Cons

What is a Crypto Exchange?

A crypto exchange is essentially a marketplace where individuals can buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrencies. This platform acts like a stock exchange, but for digital currencies, allowing users to engage with different cryptocurrencies through various trading pairs.

These exchanges utilize order books—a dynamic list of buy and sell orders that show the quantity and price at which users are willing to transact. This system facilitates the direct interaction between buyers and sellers, setting the market price for cryptocurrencies based on supply and demand.

Why Use a Crypto Exchange in the UK?

Exchanges registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) are required to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, which may result in more secure trading environment. However your investments are not covered by investor compensation schemes. 

Factors for Choosing a Crypto Exchange in the UK

Security

When selecting a crypto exchange, the security of your funds and personal information should be a top priority. Look for platforms that offer two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption, and cold storage options. It’s crucial to choose exchanges that have a strong track record of security and transparency in handling user data and funds.

Regulation

Opting for an FCA-registered exchange may enhance your trading experience. These exchanges are required to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, however your investments are not covered by investor compensation schemes. 

Fees

Understanding the fee structure of a crypto exchange is essential. Fees can vary widely between platforms and can affect the overall profitability of your trades. Look for transparent fee structures and consider how fees will impact your trading activities, especially if you plan to trade frequently or in large volumes.

User Experience

A user-friendly platform can make a significant difference, especially for beginners. Look for exchanges that offer an intuitive interface, helpful customer support, and educational resources. These features can enhance your trading experience and help you make more informed decisions.

Market Variety

Diverse market offerings allow you to trade a wide range of cryptocurrencies. This variety is particularly important for users looking to explore beyond the most common coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum. An exchange with a broad selection of coins and tokens provides more opportunities for diversification.

Customer Support

Effective customer support is crucial, especially when dealing with complex and sometimes volatile assets like cryptocurrencies. Ensure that the exchange you choose offers robust support through multiple channels such as live chat, email, and phone.

Focusing on these factors will help you select a crypto exchange that not only meets your trading needs but also ensures a safe and productive trading environment in the UK.

How Popular are the Top Crypto Exchanges?

In the UK, several leading crypto exchanges dominate the market, each with its own strengths and user base. Among the most prominent are eToro, Coinbase, Kraken, and Binance, though Binance faces certain regulatory challenges.

eToro is known for its user-friendly interface and social trading features, which allow users to copy the trades of experienced investors. This makes it particularly attractive for beginners. However, its fee structure might be higher compared to others.

Coinbase is one of the most established names in the cryptocurrency space, famed for its ease of use, making it ideal for beginners. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including a secure wallet. Coinbase is also known for its high level of regulatory compliance and strong security measures, though its fees are on the higher side, particularly for small transactions.

Kraken stands out for its wide variety of cryptocurrencies and strong security features, including two-factor authentication and rigorous data protection measures. It offers lower fees than Coinbase, making it attractive to more frequent traders. Kraken’s platform can be somewhat complex for beginners but is highly regarded by more experienced traders for its extensive features and robust security.

Binance offers a vast range of cryptocurrencies and typically lower fees, which makes it popular among a broad spectrum of traders. However, its operation in the UK is complicated by regulatory issues, as it has faced scrutiny from the FCA. This might impact its long-term availability and reliability in the UK market.

PlatformGoogle Trends (Relative Search Volume)Social Media Followers (Combined - Twitter, Facebook)Website Traffic (Similarweb - Estimated Monthly Visits)Review Platforms (Trustpilot - Average Rating)
eToroMedium7.2 MillionMedium4.2 Stars
UpholdLow300,000Low4.1 Stars
MexcMedium (Asia Focus)1.2 MillionMediumN/A
OKXMedium (Asia Focus)1.5 MillionMediumN/A
BinanceHigh15 MillionHigh2.4 Stars
CoinbaseHigh12 MillionHigh2.7 Stars
KrakenMedium4 MillionMedium4.2 Stars

Additional Considerations for UK Users

Taxes: Cryptocurrency investments in the UK are subject to capital gains tax, and the specific tax implications can vary based on individual circumstances. It is essential for users to keep detailed records of their transactions. Consulting a financial advisor for tailored advice is highly recommended to ensure compliance with UK tax laws.

Regulation: The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies in the UK is continuously evolving. The FCA is increasingly focusing on consumer protection, particularly concerning anti-money laundering standards and the overall security of crypto exchanges. This changing regulatory environment can significantly impact how exchanges operate and the level of security they can provide to their users. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for anyone involved in the UK crypto market.

Conclusion

In choosing the right crypto exchange in the UK, factors like security, regulation, fees, user experience, market variety, and customer support are essential. 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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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. 

Our #1 Recommended Crypto Wallet & Exchange Platform in the UK

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.

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