Best Crypto Exchanges In The UK 2025
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.
eToro
Exchange Score: 4.7/5
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money.
Coinbase
Exchange Score: 4.5/5
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
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 is a leading UK crypto exchange, offering real crypto ownership, stocks, and ETFs on one intuitive platform. Its strong regulation, social trading, and CopyTrader™ feature make it ideal for beginners and casual investors exploring Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more.
- Minimum Deposit: $50 (via UK bank transfer)
- Trade and hold real crypto assets (not just CFDs)
- FCA regulated and compliant with UK crypto marketing rules
- User-friendly platform with social trading and mobile app support
- Ideal for beginners and casual investors entering the crypto space
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 are the best UK crypto exchanges Ranked?
| Rank | Exchange | Founded | Beginner-Friendly | Fees | GBP Deposit Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eToro | 2007 | Yes | 1% + market spread | Bank transfer, debit card, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money |
| 2 | Coinbase | 2012 | Yes | 1% + 0.5% spread fee | Bank transfer, debit card, PayPal |
| 3 | MoonPay | 2018 | No | 1.50% | Debit/credit card, Apple Pay |
| 4 | Uphold | 2024 | Yes | 1% trading + 1% spread | Bank transfer, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
| 5 | Cryptomus | 2022 | No | 0.90% | Crypto only |
| 6 | OKX | 2015 | Yes | 0.50% | Bank transfer, debit card, crypto, Apple Pay |
Here are the Top 6 Best Crypto Platforms in the UK:
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
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
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
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
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
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
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.
Bitpanda – Best for Wide Asset Selection & Low-Fee Investing
Pros & Cons
- Access to 600+ cryptocurrencies, including crypto indices
- ISO 27001 certified
- Zero deposit or withdrawal fees
- Simple, intuitive interface for all experience levels
- Hot wallet, not suitable for full cold storage
- Not fully non-custodial—Bitpanda holds custody of user assets
- Limited DeFi and Web3 interaction compared to some self-custody wallets
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
The wallet is free to use, with no fees on deposits or withdrawals of fiat or crypto. Users can start investing with just £1, and pricing includes a transparent spread on trades. Standard blockchain network fees apply when transferring crypto externally.
Bitpanda offers 600+ digital assets, including popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and a wide range of altcoins. It also provides crypto indices, allowing users to invest in bundles of coins that track different sectors of the market.
Bitpanda uses enterprise-grade security, including ISO 27001 certification, cold wallet storage, encryption, and multi-factor authentication. The platform’s infrastructure is professionally audited, with strong protocols in place to safeguard user assets.
Bitpanda delivers a clean, beginner-friendly interface across desktop and mobile apps. Users can fund accounts with GBP, set up auto-invest plans, and manage holdings without technical complexity. The experience is streamlined and efficient.
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
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
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
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What are the Fees?
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What Cryptocurrencies are Available?
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How Safe is the Exchange?
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Who Is It Best For?
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?
What Are the Different Types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges?
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 Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| 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?
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?
How Are Cryptocurrencies Regulated?
Do You Need to Pay Tax on Crypto in the UK?
What Taxes Apply When You Receive Cryptoassets?
What Happens Tax-Wise When You Sell Crypto?
How Can You Avoid Getting Fined by HMRC?
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.
Top 5 Exchanges
1
eToro
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
2
Coinbase
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
3
Uphold
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
4
Bitpanda
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
5
OKX
Investing in crypto carries a high level of risk.
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.
