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eToro vs. Coinbase - Which Crypto Platform Is Right for You?

Authored by: Adam. W

Reviewed by: Dom. F

Aug 4, 2025

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Quick Answer: Is eToro better than Coinbase?

eToro is better for users seeking multi-asset investing, social trading, and a beginner-friendly experience. Coinbase is ideal for crypto-only investors who want advanced tools and deeper asset selection. Your choice depends on whether you value broad investing features or a pure crypto environment.

At a Glance Table Comparison

Feature	eToro	Coinbase
Platform Type	Multi-asset broker	Crypto exchange
Asset Support	Crypto, stocks, ETFs, commodities	Cryptocurrencies only
Crypto Assets	~70	250+
Stock & ETF Trading	Yes	No
Social Trading (CopyTrader)	Yes	No
Staking / Interest	Up to 4.3% on cash (Club members)	Staking on select coins
NFT / DeFi Access	Not supported	Available via Coinbase Wallet
Trading Fees	Fixed crypto fees; spreads apply	0% with Coinbase One; varies otherwise
Deposit/Withdrawal Fees	May apply depending on method	Varies by method
User Interface	Beginner-friendly	Beginner and advanced modes
Advanced Trading Tools	Basic	Available via Coinbase Advanced & Prime
Mobile App	Yes (iOS & Android)	Yes (iOS & Android)
Geographic Availability	100+ countries	Global (regional restrictions apply)
Regulation & Licensing	FCA, CySEC, ASIC, ADGM, FSAS	FinCEN, state-level US licenses, international
Best For	New investors, social traders, multi-asset users	Crypto-focused users, advanced traders

eToro Overview

What Do Our Experts Say?

eToro is a strong choice for users who want more than crypto. Its social trading, multi-asset access, and regulated environment make it appealing for diversified investors. While it’s less suited to technical traders, it excels in simplicity, accessibility, and passive investing features.

Pros & Cons

Supports crypto, stocks, ETFs, and commodities
Social trading via CopyTrader
Regulated in multiple major jurisdictions

Limited advanced charting tools
Crypto selection smaller than Coinbase
Withdrawal and currency conversion fees may apply

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.

Coinbase Overview

What Do Our Experts Say?

Coinbase is built for crypto enthusiasts. With hundreds of supported coins, powerful trading tools, and strong institutional products, it caters to active users. It lacks multi-asset support but stands out in DeFi, NFTs, and beginner-to-pro trader workflows.

Pros & Cons

Wide range of supported cryptocurrencies
Advanced tools through Coinbase Advanced and Prime
NFT and DeFi wallet integration

No stock or ETF support
Higher fees without Coinbase One subscription
Some regional limitations for full features

What Are the Key Differences Between eToro and Coinbase?

How do eToro and Coinbase differ in terms of supported assets?

eToro supports around 70 cryptocurrencies plus stocks, ETFs, and commodities. Coinbase focuses solely on crypto, offering over 250 coins. Users wanting a broad portfolio across asset classes may prefer eToro. Crypto-only users benefit from Coinbase’s deeper token coverage and blockchain-native focus.

Which platform offers more trading features and tools?

Coinbase provides powerful trading features such as advanced charting, order books, and liquidity tools via Coinbase Advanced and Prime. eToro includes basic charting and social features. Advanced traders favor Coinbase for control and tools, while beginners appreciate eToro’s guided, simplified experience.

Does either platform support stock or multi-asset trading?

Only eToro supports multi-asset trading. It lets users invest in crypto, global stocks, ETFs, and commodities within a single account. Coinbase is focused entirely on crypto, offering no access to traditional markets. For a diversified portfolio, eToro is the more flexible option.

Who Offers Lower Fees & Better Costs?

Fees Table Comparison

Fee Type	eToro	Coinbase
Trading Fees	Fixed spread (~1%)	0% with Coinbase One, otherwise variable
Deposit Fees	Varies by method, may include conversion fees	Varies, free for bank transfers in many regions
Withdrawal Fees	$5 or equivalent; FX fees may apply	Varies by method; no fee for some local options
Currency Conversion	Yes, for non-USD deposits/withdrawals	Yes, based on spot rate
Staking Fees	Percentage of yield retained	Percentage of staking rewards taken
Inactivity Fees	No	No
Hidden Costs	Spread-based pricing	Spread + fee unless on Coinbase One

How Do Trading & Withdrawal Fees Compare?

eToro uses spread-based pricing and charges a $5 withdrawal fee. Coinbase charges variable fees, which can be high unless using Coinbase One. Overall, Coinbase is cheaper for high-frequency traders, while eToro may be more cost-effective for occasional users making fewer withdrawals.

Are There Any Hidden Charges to Watch For?

Yes. eToro includes costs in its fixed spreads and applies FX fees on non-USD activity. Coinbase may bundle spread margins into prices and adds transaction fees unless you’re a Coinbase One member. Both are transparent overall, but users should read fee schedules closely.

What are the deposit and withdrawal fees on both platforms?

eToro charges withdrawal and conversion fees, particularly for non-USD deposits. Coinbase fees vary by payment method—some are free, while others involve service charges. Coinbase’s fee structure is more flexible; eToro’s is more predictable but may be more expensive for frequent fiat movements.

How do trading fees compare for casual vs. frequent users?

Coinbase One offers 0% fees, making it ideal for active traders. Without it, Coinbase fees can be high. eToro uses fixed spreads that benefit casual users but add up for frequent traders. For low-volume users, eToro may be cheaper; for high-volume, Coinbase wins.

Is eToro or Coinbase Safer to Use?

Which platform is more regulated and transparent?

eToro is regulated in the UK (FCA), Europe (CySEC), Australia (ASIC), UAE (ADGM), and Seychelles. Coinbase is U.S.-regulated under FinCEN with state licenses. Both platforms follow strict compliance, but eToro holds more direct international regulatory coverage outside the United States.

How is user data and crypto stored securely?

Coinbase stores most user crypto in offline cold storage, with multi-layer encryption and security. eToro protects client funds in top-tier banks and uses strong cybersecurity measures. Both platforms prioritize safety, though Coinbase leans more toward secure crypto custody specifically.

Have either of these platforms experienced hacks?

Neither platform has reported major breaches compromising customer funds. Coinbase has faced phishing attempts, but infrastructure remained secure. eToro maintains a clean record. Both are widely trusted in the industry, though users must still use two-factor authentication and best practices.

Which Is More Beginner-Friendly: eToro or Coinbase?

How intuitive is the interface for a first-time user?

eToro’s platform is designed with new investors in mind, featuring a clean dashboard and social elements. Coinbase is also beginner-friendly but can appear more complex when advanced options are enabled. Both platforms are accessible, though eToro is slightly easier for total newcomers.

Does either platform offer educational tools or demos?

eToro features the eToro Academy and a virtual demo account to practice trading. Coinbase offers interactive learning modules and tutorials with rewards. Both platforms emphasize education, but eToro’s demo trading functionality makes it easier to learn without financial risk.

What is the onboarding experience like?

eToro has a fast onboarding process with optional demo access before depositing. Coinbase requires full ID verification before any trading. Both offer intuitive sign-up flows, but eToro gives users an earlier taste of the platform through its virtual portfolio.

Where Is eToro vs. Coinbase Available?

Can I use eToro or Coinbase in my country?

eToro is available in over 100 countries, including the UK, EU, Australia, and selected Asian and African markets. Coinbase also operates globally, but some features like staking or advanced tools are restricted in certain regions. Always check country-specific access before registering.

Are there regional restrictions or regulatory differences?

Yes. eToro limits features like leverage in certain jurisdictions based on regulation. Coinbase restricts services like staking, advanced trading, or crypto card access in regions with legal constraints. Your country of residence will affect feature availability on both platforms.

Which Platform Is Better for Long-Term Investors?

Does either offer staking, interest, or savings features?

Coinbase supports staking for Ethereum and other proof-of-stake coins. eToro offers up to 4.3% interest on uninvested balances for Club members. While Coinbase focuses on crypto yield, eToro provides passive income on cash, making both suitable for different types of long-term investors.

How do the platforms handle custody and asset ownership?

eToro is a custodial platform—users don’t control their crypto keys. Coinbase offers custodial and non-custodial options through Coinbase Wallet. If direct ownership is a priority, Coinbase is better. For hands-off investing and managed custody, eToro is more aligned.

Is Social Trading Available on Coinbase or eToro?

What is eToro’s social trading and CopyTrader feature?

eToro’s CopyTrader allows users to automatically replicate trades from successful investors. It creates a passive investment option and fosters community-driven strategies. It’s ideal for beginners or anyone who prefers following experienced traders instead of managing every trade themselves.

Does Coinbase offer anything similar?

Coinbase does not currently offer social or copy trading features. Users trade independently with no automated replication of others’ portfolios. While Coinbase focuses on self-directed investing, those interested in social finance will find eToro’s model more interactive and collaborative.

How Do eToro and Coinbase Handle Tax Reporting?

Do they provide transaction history and tax reports?

Yes. eToro provides downloadable tax reports and trade history files for filing. Coinbase offers detailed reports, including staking income, making it more robust. Both support tax compliance, but Coinbase’s reporting tools are more extensive and tailored to active crypto users.

Are they integrated with popular crypto tax software?

Coinbase integrates with tax software like Koinly and CoinTracker. eToro allows CSV exports compatible with most tools but lacks native integrations. Users seeking automated crypto tax filing may prefer Coinbase’s streamlined setup, while eToro users may need more manual setup.

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FAQs

What is the downside to eToro?

eToro offers fewer cryptocurrencies, limited DeFi tools, and no NFT support. Its withdrawal and currency conversion fees can be costly. Active crypto traders may also find its lack of technical analysis tools restrictive compared to platforms like Coinbase or Binance.

Is Coinbase ok to use in the UK?

Yes. Coinbase operates in the UK and complies with local financial laws. However, certain services like staking and crypto rewards may have limitations due to FCA regulations. It remains a popular and regulated option for UK-based crypto traders.

Is eToro good to use in the UK?

Yes. eToro is FCA-regulated in the UK and provides access to crypto, stocks, ETFs, and social trading. It is widely trusted among UK investors and offers tax reporting tools and GBP-based accounts for local convenience and compliance.

What is better than Coinbase?

Kraken provides strong security. eToro is better for those wanting multi-asset investing. Which is “better” depends on user needs—Coinbase remains strong for ease of use, regulation, and crypto infrastructure.

Who is better than eToro?

For pure crypto traders, Coinbase or Kraken offer more tokens and tools. For traditional stock investors, Interactive Brokers or Fidelity provide broader market access. eToro’s edge lies in combining social trading with multi-asset support for hybrid investors.