eToro vs. Coinbase - Which Crypto Platform Is Right for You?
- expertise:
- CFD Trading, Forex, Derivatives, Risk Management
- credentials:
- Chartered ACII (2018) · Trading since 2012
- tested:
- 40+ forex & CFD platforms with live accounts
- expertise:
- Platform Testing, Cryptocurrency, Retail Investing
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 50+ platforms · 200+ guides authored
- expertise:
- Broker Comparison, ISA Strategy, Portfolio Management
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 40+ brokers with funded accounts
- expertise:
- CFD Trading, Forex, Derivatives, Risk Management
- credentials:
- Chartered ACII (2018) · Trading since 2012
- tested:
- 40+ forex & CFD platforms with live accounts
- expertise:
- Platform Testing, Cryptocurrency, Retail Investing
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 50+ platforms · 200+ guides authored
- expertise:
- Broker Comparison, ISA Strategy, Portfolio Management
- credentials:
- Active investor since 2013 · 11+ years experience
- tested:
- 40+ brokers with funded accounts
How We Test
Real accounts. Real money. Real trades. No demo accounts or press releases.
What we measure:
- Spreads vs advertised rates
- Execution speed and slippage
- Hidden fees (overnight, withdrawal, conversion)
- Actual withdrawal times
Scoring:
Fees (25%) · Platform (20%) · Assets (15%) · Mobile (15%) · Tools (10%) · Support (10%) · Regulation (5%)
Regulatory checks:
FCA Register verification · FSCS protection
Testing team:
Adam Woodhead (investing since 2013), Thomas Drury (Chartered ACII, 2018), Dom Farnell (investing since 2013) — 50+ platforms with funded accounts
Quarterly reviews · Corrections: [email protected]
Disclaimer
Not financial advice. Educational content only. We're not FCA authorised. Consult a qualified advisor before investing.
Capital at risk. Investments can fall. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
CFD warning. 67-84% of retail accounts lose money trading CFDs. High risk due to leverage.
Contact: [email protected]
Quick Answer: Is eToro better than Coinbase?
Author’s Comment
“Both eToro and Coinbase are reputable choices, but they serve slightly different investors. eToro shines for those who want to trade more than just crypto, while Coinbase remains the go-to for serious crypto users. The better option depends entirely on your investing style and goals.” – Adam Woodhead
Quick Summary
| Category | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.4 / 5 |
| Best For | Investors deciding between crypto-only and multi-asset platforms |
| eToro Strength | Ideal for beginners, social trading, and diversified investing |
| Coinbase Strength | Excellent for crypto traders and advanced blockchain users |
| Ease of Use | eToro simpler for new investors, Coinbase more technical |
| Regulation | Both platforms fully regulated in major jurisdictions |
| Fees | Coinbase cheaper for frequent traders; eToro better for casual users |
| Security | Both highly secure with no major breaches reported |
| Final Verdict | eToro is best for mixed investing; Coinbase wins for pure crypto focus. |
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
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
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
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.
What Are the Key Differences Between eToro and Coinbase?
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?
| 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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
Trade Smarter, not Harder
- Copy Trading
- Competitive Fees
- Multi-Asset Platform
61% of retail CFD accounts lose money when trading CFD’s with this provider.
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.
