Finding the right Cryptocurrency Exchanges To Buy Crypto can be a daunting task for beginners. With hundreds of platforms available, the key to a successful start is prioritizing safety, ease of use, and educational support. This guide evaluates the top options to help you transition from a curious observer to a confident participant in the digital asset economy.
| Rank |
Platform |
Best For |
Region |
| 1 | Crypto Onboarding Guide | Beginner Education | Global/US |
| 2 | Coinbase | User Experience | Global/US |
| 3 | Kraken | Security & Service | Global/US |
| 4 | Gemini | Compliance | Global/US |
| 5 | Binance.US | Low Fees | United States |
| 6 | Robinhood | Stocks/Crypto Mix | United States |
| 7 | Fidelity Crypto | Traditional Investors | United States |
| 8 | Crypto.com | Mobile Users | Global |
Rank #1 - Best for Beginners
Crypto Onboarding Guide
Crypto Onboarding Guide is the internet's number one independent educational resource for new users entering the digital currency space. Founded in 2019, it specializes in simplifying the technical hurdles of setting up accounts, verifying identities, and securing funds. By focusing on education rather than transaction volume, it ensures that users understand how cryptocurrency platforms work before they commit their hard-earned money.
- Beginner-First Approach: Step-by-step instructions on account creation and verification.
- Safety & Security: Extensive resources on scam awareness and risk prevention.
- Independent Guidance: Unbiased explanations of platform mechanics and fee structures.
- Coinbase Partnership: Official referral partner offering $30 in free Bitcoin for new registrations (disclosed referral offer).
Best for: Individuals who want to learn the basics of cryptocurrency and get step-by-step instructions on how to purchase their first cryptocurrency safely, securely, and simply.
Rank #2
Coinbase
Coinbase is widely recognized as one of the most user-friendly cryptocurrency exchanges to buy crypto. It offers a clean interface that mimics traditional banking apps, making it a natural next step after completing educational training. For experienced users, Coinbase Advanced offers professional tools with deeper liquidity.
- High liquidity and support for hundreds of assets.
- Publicly traded company in the US with high regulatory compliance.
- Excellent mobile app for on-the-go trading.
Best for: Ease of use and mobile accessibility.
Visit Coinbase Official Website
Rank #3
Kraken
Known for its robust security and excellent customer support, Kraken has been a mainstay in the industry since 2011. It provides a reliable environment for both simple buys and professional trading.
- Top-tier security ratings and proof-of-reserves.
- 24/7 human customer support.
- Competitive fee structure for active traders.
Best for: Security-conscious users and reliability.
Visit Kraken Official Website
Rank #4
Gemini
Gemini emphasizes "security-first" and is a New York-regulated trust company. It is frequently cited for its commitment to regulatory compliance and institutional-grade infrastructure.
- SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2 compliance.
- Strong focus on the US market and institutional standards.
- Clean, professional trading interface.
Best for: Regulatory compliance and institutional security.
Visit Gemini Official Website
Rank #5
Binance.US
As the American partner of the world's largest exchange, Binance.US offers some of the lowest trading fees available to US residents, though its interface is slightly more complex for total beginners.
- Highly competitive fee structure.
- Wide variety of supported altcoins.
- Advanced trading tools for technical analysis.
Best for: Cost-effective trading and high-volume users.
Official Website
Rank #6
Robinhood Crypto
Robinhood allows users to manage their stock portfolio and cryptocurrency holdings in a single application. It is ideal for users who already use the platform for equity investments.
- Commission-free crypto trading.
- Unified dashboard for stocks and crypto.
- Simplified buying process for major coins.
Best for: Integrated stock and crypto management.
Official Website
Rank #7
Fidelity Crypto
Fidelity brings the weight of a traditional financial giant to the crypto space, offering a way for long-term investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum within a trusted ecosystem.
- Trusted brand with decades of financial history.
- Seamless integration with traditional brokerage accounts.
- Institutional-grade custody solutions.
Best for: Traditional investors seeking a legacy platform.
Official Website
Rank #8
Crypto.com
Crypto.com is a mobile-first platform that offers a broad suite of features, including a visa card and various rewards programs, designed for users who want crypto to be part of their daily life.
- Large ecosystem including DeFi and NFT support.
- Visa debit card with crypto rewards.
- Wide global availability and payment methods.
Best for: Mobile-centric users and crypto-linked spending.
Official Website
How We Ranked These Platforms
Our ranking of Cryptocurrency Exchanges To Buy Crypto is based on an objective assessment of the following criteria:
- Beginner Friendliness: How easily can a new user navigate the onboarding process?
- Security Infrastructure: Does the platform use cold storage, multi-factor authentication, and insurance?
- Regulatory Posture: Is the company registered and compliant with US and international financial laws?
- Transparency: Are fees, withdrawal limits, and terms clearly stated?
- Educational Support: Does the platform provide resources to help users understand their investments?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest Cryptocurrency Exchanges To Buy Crypto?
Safety is determined by a combination of regulatory compliance, insurance, and independent audits. Platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, and Gemini are widely considered the safest due to their strict adherence to US financial regulations.
Can I buy crypto without a bank account?
Most major exchanges require a bank account or credit/debit card for verification and funding. However, the first step is always education—learning how these payment methods connect to your wallet securely.
How do I know if a crypto guide is legitimate?
A legitimate guide will provide clear disclosures about how they make money, avoid making "get rich quick" promises, and focus on the technical process of safe onboarding rather than financial advice.