Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK

Quick Answer: what is the best crypto exchange in the UK?

For most UK investors, eToro stands out as the leading crypto exchange. It combines a user-friendly interface with robust security measures and is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Beyond standard crypto trading, eToro offers social trading features, allowing users to mirror the strategies of seasoned investors. While some platforms may offer lower fees or a broader range of cryptocurrencies, eToro’s ease of use and comprehensive features make it particularly appealing for beginners.

Top 8 Crypto Exchanges in the UK

1. eToro – User-Friendly, Social Trading, FCA Regulated
2. Coinbase – Beginner-Friendly, High Security, Wide Crypto Selection
3. Best Wallet – Mobile-Focused, Integrated Wallet Features
4. Uphold – Multi-Asset Platform, Low Entry Barrier
5. Cryptomus – Low Fees, High Liquidity, Business Solutions
6. OKX – Advanced Trading Tools, Competitive Fees
7. MoonPay – Streamlined Transactions, Transparent Fees
8. Binance – Extensive Crypto Range, High Liquidity

Top 8 crypto exchanges in the UK – April 2025

Rank	Exchange	Crypto Assets	Founded	Beginner Friendly	Demo Account
1	eToro	120+	2007	Yes	Yes
2	Coinbase	390+	2012	Yes	Yes
3	Best Wallet	60+	2024	Yes	No
4	MoonPay	80+	2018	Yes	No
5	Uphold	250+	2014	Yes	Yes
6	Cryptomus	18+	2022	Yes	No
7	OKX	350+	2015	Yes	Yes
8	Binance	370+	2017	Yes (existing users only)	Yes

Best cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK reviewed

1. eToro – best for beginners and social trading

Overview: eToro is ideal for beginners looking for a secure and user-friendly way to start investing in crypto. With FCA regulation, social trading tools, and fractional investing, it lowers the barrier for entry. You can buy popular coins, copy professional traders, and view clear dashboards without needing technical skills. The platform also includes a demo account to practice before risking real funds.

Features: Offers over 120 assets, including BTC, ETH, and ADA. Users can invest fractionally, copy other investors, and manage a portfolio that includes stocks and ETFs too. You can also set price alerts, create watchlists, and follow market news directly on the platform.

Security: FCA-regulated in the UK. Uses 2FA, cold wallet storage, and strong account protection.

Pros

• FCA-regulated for peace of mind
• Copy trading from top-performing users
• Fractional investing from just £10
• Beginner-friendly mobile and web apps

Cons

• Fewer cryptocurrencies than rivals
• No staking or margin trading
• Crypto trading fees are baked into spreads

Best for: First-time crypto investors and social trading enthusiasts.

2. Coinbase – best for ease of use and high asset count

Overview: Coinbase is one of the most trusted global crypto brands. It offers a clean and simple layout perfect for beginners. While fees can be higher on its standard platform, its security, fiat support, and asset range are hard to match. With learning rewards, it even pays users small amounts of crypto for completing tutorials.

Features: Supports over 390 cryptocurrencies, including all major coins and many altcoins. Also allows GBP deposits, recurring buys, and access to Coinbase Pro for lower fees and more control. Coinbase regularly adds new tokens and provides useful education content.

Security: 2FA, encrypted storage, insurance for hot wallets, and 98% of funds held in offline cold wallets.

Pros

• Very easy to use for beginners
• Huge range of crypto assets
• High security and insurance coverage
• Option to upgrade to Coinbase Pro

Cons

• High fees on the standard platform
• Limited tools unless you use Coinbase Pro

Best for: Beginners and intermediate users who want an easy way to buy, sell, and store crypto.

3. Best Wallet – best for mobile crypto management

Overview: Best Wallet is designed for mobile-first users who want a secure, all-in-one crypto solution. It supports thousands of tokens, offers fast access to your assets, and includes extra features like staking and token swaps. You can track your portfolio, manage multiple wallets, and perform swaps without leaving the app.

Features: Works across 60+ blockchains. Supports staking, swaps, and portfolio tracking. Easy to use via mobile app with a focus on speed and simplicity. It also allows integration with dApps and Web3 services.

Security: Uses encryption, cold storage, and multi-signature protection. However, it’s not regulated by the FCA, which may concern some users.

Pros

• Excellent mobile app interface
• Advanced features like staking and swaps
• Supports thousands of tokens
• Extremely low or no transaction fees

Cons

• Not FCA-regulated
• Limited fiat support in some regions
• No live customer support

Best for: Users looking to manage a wide crypto portfolio from their mobile device.

4. MoonPay – best for simple crypto purchases

Overview: MoonPay offers a streamlined way to buy crypto using a debit or credit card. It’s focused on simplicity and safety, making it a solid pick for newcomers who want to buy and hold popular coins. It integrates directly with wallets like Trust Wallet, Ledger, and MetaMask for easy transfers.

Features: Instant purchases, support for 80+ tokens, and integrations with many other crypto wallets and apps. Clear fee breakdowns and no hidden charges.

Security: Uses 2FA, cold storage, encryption, and regulatory compliance where required.

Pros

• Fast card purchases of crypto
• Easy to use for beginners
• Clear fee structure with no hidden costs
• Integrates with external wallets

Cons

• Fees are higher than average
• Limited selection of coins
• No advanced trading features

Best for: New users looking for a quick, no-frills way to buy crypto.

5. Uphold – best for asset variety

Overview: Uphold is a unique multi-asset platform that supports crypto, stocks, metals, and fiat currencies. It’s a good choice for users who want to manage different asset classes in one place. With a simple interface and real-time asset conversion, it’s ideal for long-term portfolio management.

Features: Over 250 cryptos, real-time trading between asset types, instant funding, and a beginner-friendly setup. You can move between assets like BTC to gold or ETH to GBP in just a few clicks.

Security: Cold wallet storage, 2FA, and regulatory compliance. Supports fast and free UK withdrawals.

Pros

• Supports crypto, stocks, metals, and fiat
• Real-time trading across asset types
• Simple and fast account setup
• Free UK withdrawals

Cons

• Spreads are higher than average
• Few advanced trading tools
• Support response times can vary

Best for: Users who want exposure to both crypto and traditional assets.

6. Cryptomus – best for payments and low fees

Overview: Cryptomus is built for low-cost crypto transactions and business payments. It’s an all-in-one platform with wallets, spot trading, and P2P support. Its focus on payment processing makes it ideal for freelancers, merchants, and startups accepting crypto.

Features: Offers staking, wallets, business tools, and spot trading. Maker and taker fees are very competitive. Also supports crypto invoices and payment gateways. Transfers between Cryptomus wallets are free.

Security: CertiK-audited, uses AML/KYC, 2FA, and SSL encryption.

Pros

• Very low trading and transaction fees
• Supports staking and business payments
• Intuitive interface with quick setup
• No fees on internal transfers

Cons

• Doesn’t support fiat currency
• Limited range of crypto assets
• No demo trading account

Best for: Small businesses and individuals looking for a low-fee crypto payment solution.

7. OKX – best for low fees and pro features

Overview: OKX is one of the lowest-cost exchanges in the market, offering extensive trading tools for advanced users. It supports a wide range of digital assets and investment products. With a tiered fee structure and deep liquidity, it’s well-suited for frequent traders.

Features: Spot, futures, margin trading, and staking. Loyalty program reduces trading fees. Supports BTC Lightning Network. Also includes an integrated Web3 wallet and access to decentralised applications.

Security: Cold storage, 2FA, and regular proof-of-reserves reports.

Pros

• Extremely low fees, especially for VIP users
• Wide range of trading products (futures, margin, staking)
• BTC Lightning Network support
• Regular proof-of-reserves and transparency

Cons

• Not ideal for total beginners
• Limited fiat payment options
• Some users report slow support responses

Best for: Experienced traders looking for deep tools and low fees.

8. Binance – best for crypto selection and liquidity

Overview: Binance offers the widest range of crypto assets and deep liquidity. It supports everything from spot trading to staking and NFTs. While new UK accounts are currently restricted, existing users can still access the platform. It remains one of the most comprehensive crypto exchanges globally.

Features: 370+ assets, margin trading, savings tools, NFT marketplace, and advanced charting. Users can also participate in launchpads, liquidity farming, and P2P trading.

Security: 2FA, cold storage, ongoing audits. Past breaches have led to stronger protections.

Pros

• Unmatched crypto asset selection
• High liquidity for fast trading
• Advanced features for pro users
• Fee discounts using BNB

Cons

• No new UK user registrations
• Complex interface for beginners
• Regulatory issues in some regions

Best for: Experienced users who want access to the largest crypto market with full trading tools.

What is a crypto exchange?

A crypto exchange is a digital platform where users can buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrencies. Think of it as a currency marketplace, similar to a stock exchange but focused on digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Most exchanges use trading pairs (like BTC/ETH or BTC/GBP) to match buyers and sellers.

Exchanges rely on order books to manage trades. These books display real-time offers and demands, helping set the market price based on supply and demand. The platform acts as an intermediary, facilitating secure and efficient transactions.

Types of cryptocurrency exchanges

Crypto exchanges come in different forms, each offering unique features and trade-offs. The three main types are custodial, non-custodial, and decentralised exchanges (DEXs).

Custodial exchanges

These platforms, like Coinbase and Binance, hold your crypto for you. They’re easy to use and offer high liquidity. But since they control your private keys, you’re trusting them with your funds.

Pros

• Simple setup and fast transactions
• Access to a large number of trading pairs

Cons

• You don’t control your private keys
• Higher risk if the platform is hacked

Non-custodial exchanges

Non-custodial platforms like ShapeShift or Changelly let you trade directly from your personal wallet. You retain full control of your keys and assets.

Pros

• Greater control and privacy
• Reduced exposure to exchange hacks

Cons

• Typically slower and less intuitive
• May require more technical know-how

Decentralised exchanges (DEXs)

DEXs like Uniswap and SushiSwap operate without central control. They use smart contracts to process trades between users directly.

Pros

• Fully peer-to-peer with no central authority
• Lower censorship risk

Cons

• Lower liquidity than centralised platforms
• Can be difficult for beginners to use

Crypto exchange types compared

Exchange Type	Who Controls Funds	Ease of Use	Best For	Key Risk
Custodial	The platform	Easy	Beginners, high-volume traders	Loss if exchange is hacked
Non-Custodial	The user	Moderate	Privacy-focused, experienced users	User error, slower transactions
Decentralised (DEX)	The user (via smart contracts)	Complex	DeFi users, decentralisation advocates	Lower liquidity, no recovery options

Key factors when choosing a UK crypto exchange

1. Security

Your exchange should protect your money and your data. Look for two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage of funds, encryption, and a solid reputation. Exchanges with a history of secure operations should be prioritised.

2. Regulation

Choose platforms registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). FCA registration means the exchange complies with UK anti-money laundering laws. However, remember crypto investments aren’t covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

3. Fees

Fees can quickly eat into your profits. Always check deposit, withdrawal, trading, and spread fees. Transparent pricing and low costs are important—especially if you trade often.

4. User experience

A clean interface, responsive design, and clear dashboards make a difference. Features like mobile apps, learning tools, and 24/7 support help new users feel more confident.

5. Market variety

Exchanges that support more cryptocurrencies give you more trading opportunities. Look for platforms that offer both popular and emerging tokens, not just Bitcoin and Ethereum.

6. Customer support

You’ll want fast, helpful support if anything goes wrong. Live chat, email support, and responsive service are key. Look for exchanges with solid user reviews on support response.

Crypto trading fees explained: what UK users need to know

Understanding how crypto fees work helps you avoid surprises and keep more of your profits.

Here’s a breakdown of common fee types:

Fee Type	What It Means
Trading fees	A charge for each buy or sell transaction, usually as a percentage
Maker/Taker fees	Makers add liquidity (lower fee), takers remove liquidity (higher fee)
FX or conversion fees	Charged when you deposit/withdraw in GBP but the platform uses USD
Withdrawal fees	Fixed or variable fees when moving crypto or fiat off the exchange
Spreads	The built-in difference between buy and sell prices — especially common on eToro
Gas/network fees	Blockchain fees for sending crypto (paid to miners, not the exchange)

Always review fee previews before confirming a trade, especially on platforms with variable spreads.

Real-time fee snapshot (2025)

Platform	BTC Trading Fee (Approx.)	Type
Binance	0.1%	Custodial
eToro	~1.0% spread (no direct fee)	Custodial
Coinbase	1.49% (bank), 3.99% (card)	Custodial
Kraken	0.26% taker / 0.16% maker	Custodial
OKX	0.08% maker / 0.10% taker	Hybrid
Cryptomus	0.1% taker / 0.04% maker	Non-Custodial

Popular UK crypto exchanges

eToro

Known for its simple design and social trading, eToro lets you copy other users’ trades. It’s fully FCA-registered and ideal for beginners, though spreads can be higher than on other platforms.

Coinbase

Coinbase is beginner-friendly and well-regulated. It supports a wide range of assets and has strong security, but transaction fees can be high—especially for small trades.

Kraken

Kraken stands out for advanced features, strong security, and lower fees. It supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies but has a steeper learning curve.

Binance

Binance offers low fees and a huge range of coins. It’s popular with frequent traders, but new UK users can’t register right now due to regulatory limits.

Popularity metrics (UK overview)

Platform	Google Trends	Social Followers	Website Traffic	Trustpilot Rating
eToro	Medium	7.2 Million	Medium	4.2 Stars
Coinbase	High	12 Million	High	2.7 Stars
Best Wallet	Low	N/A	Low	N/A
Uphold	Low	300,000	Low	4.1 Stars
Cryptomus	Low	N/A	Low	N/A
OKX	Medium (Asia)	1.5 Million	Medium	N/A
MoonPay	Medium	N/A	Medium	4.2 Stars
Binance	High	15 Million	High	2.4 Stars

Ready-made crypto portfolios: UK alternatives to ETFs and index funds

Crypto ETFs and index funds aren’t available to retail investors in the UK due to FCA restrictions.

However, platforms like eToro and CoinJar offer similar features through managed crypto portfolios.

eToro’s CryptoPortfolio

• A diversified basket of top-performing cryptocurrencies
• Weighted by market cap (e.g. BTC, ETH, BNB, XRP)
• Automatically rebalanced annually
• Suitable for users who want exposure without active management

CoinJar Bundles

• Themed crypto baskets (e.g. “DeFi Bundle,” “Stablecoin Bundle”)
• Buy all included assets with a single transaction
• Portfolio is held in your CoinJar account
• Can be rebalanced manually or held long-term

These options give UK users a way to invest in a diversified crypto portfolio — without managing each asset individually.

What’s the difference between a crypto exchange and a crypto wallet?

A crypto exchange is where you buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. It works like a digital stock market for crypto assets. In contrast, a crypto wallet is where you store those assets securely.

Crypto exchanges:

• Designed for transactions and trading
• Allow fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-crypto conversions
• Typically require identity verification
• Can be custodial (exchange holds your funds) or non-custodial

Crypto wallets:

• Used to store your private keys
• Can be hot (connected to the internet) or cold (offline)
• Offer more control and long-term security
• Ideal for users who don’t want to keep assets on an exchange

Tip: Buy your crypto on an exchange, but store long-term holdings in a secure wallet.

UK crypto regulation and taxation

How is crypto regulated in the UK?

The UK continues to refine its crypto regulations. The FCA focuses on preventing financial crime and protecting consumers. While crypto itself isn’t banned, only exchanges that meet specific anti-money laundering standards can operate legally.

Crypto users must understand that digital assets aren’t protected by compensation schemes, and the regulatory landscape is still evolving.

Do you pay tax on crypto in the UK?

Yes. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) requires you to pay tax on crypto gains and some income.

If you receive crypto:

• Crypto received as income (like from mining or work) may be subject to Income Tax.
• Your employer might handle PAYE if they pay you in crypto.

If you sell or swap crypto:

• Capital Gains Tax applies when profits exceed your yearly allowance (£3,000 for individuals).
• Tax also applies when you swap crypto, use it to buy items, or gift it (unless to a spouse).

Always keep clear records of:

• Acquisition and disposal dates
• Amounts and GBP values
• Wallet addresses and related costs

When in doubt, speak to a professional tax adviser.

Crypto exchange safety checklist (for UK users)

Before signing up with a crypto exchange, make sure it checks these boxes:

• FCA-registered (or compliant with UK regulations)
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Cold storage for majority of customer funds
• Transparent fees and no hidden charges
• Positive user reviews (Trustpilot, Reddit, app stores)
• Insurance or fund protection (if available)

Final thoughts

Choosing the right crypto exchange in the UK starts with your priorities. Do you value low fees, strong regulation, or a beginner-friendly interface? Whether you’re just getting started or trading regularly, there’s a platform that fits your needs.

Do your research, compare platforms, and use trusted resources like the FCA and leading crypto news sites. The right exchange makes a big difference in both your trading confidence and your long-term results.

FAQs

Similar guides

• How to buy cryptocurrency UK
• How to buy Bitcoin UK
• Best crypto wallet UK
• Best trading apps UK

Sources

• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): https://www.fca.org.uk
• HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tax-on-cryptoassets
• Coinbase Help Center: https://help.coinbase.com
• eToro Fees Page: https://www.etoro.com/customer-service/fees/
• Kraken Fee Schedule: https://www.kraken.com/en-gb/features/fee-schedule
• Binance Fees: https://www.binance.com/en/fee/schedule
• Gemini Security & Features: https://www.gemini.com/security
• CoinJar UK: https://www.coinjar.com/uk
• Uphold Pricing: https://uphold.com/en/pricing