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Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK June 2024

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Meet Thadeus, a trading guru, brilliant writer, and financial fanatic with years of expertise in the industry. Get ready to learn from his wealth of knowledge.

Article was updated: June 6, 2024
Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

In the ever-volatile cryptocurrency landscape, selecting the right exchange is crucial for success. Our curated list of the top crypto exchanges UK below, vetted by experts and professional traders, simplifies your search. These exchanges offer diverse features, ensuring a tailored experience for your trading and investment needs. Besides our recommendations, we will also enlighten you on how to get started with these exchanges and tips for selecting a suitable option. 

Essence

  • Cryptocurrency exchanges are digital platforms for trading cryptocurrencies.
  • They provide trading options like spot, margin, and futures trading.
  • The best UK cryptocurrency exchanges offer a wide range of cryptocurrencies for diversification.
  • Ensure the cryptocurrency exchange you select offers robust security measures and other suitable features for maximum experience and potential. 
  • Exchanges with high liquidity ensure efficient trades at preferred prices.
  • Comply with tax obligations and seek professional advice for guidance.

List of the Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK

  • eToro – Overall Best Crypto Exchange* in the UK
  • Coinbase –  Biggest Crypto Exchange in the UK
  • Crypto.com – Crypto Exchange with Lowest Fees and Commissions in the UK
  • Kraken –  Safest Crypto Exchange in the UK
  • HTX – Best Crypto Exchange for Bitcoin in the UK
  • Binance – Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners
  • CEX – Best Crypto Exchange Mobile App

*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.

How We Choose Crypto Exchanges

When selecting and recommending the best crypto exchanges in the UK, our approach is rooted in thorough research and careful consideration. Security is paramount in our decision-making process. Therefore, we prioritise platforms that offer robust security features such as two-factor authentication, cold storage for digital assets, and encryption protocols.

Additionally, we place great emphasis on the exchanges’ reputation and track record within the crypto community. Factors such as operational history, regulatory compliance, and past security incidents are thoroughly evaluated. We also compare their features, and only those meeting our specifications are selected for the next procedure. 

User testimonials are another crucial aspect of our decision-making process. In this regard, we analyse and sample hundreds of comments and ratings on Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot. We prefer exchanges with good ratings as they assure our readers of a worthwhile experience. By combining the findings from our tests and user testimonials, we give you the best of the best in the UK market. 

Compare the Best Crypto Exchanges

Our experts have selected the finest cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK above to assist you in your decision. We’ve also created a brief comparison table showcasing key features for each exchange to ensure you invest with the best. 

Best Crypto ExchangeExchange TypeSupport ServicePriceSupported CoinsDigital Wallet
eToroDecentralisedPhone, Email, Live ChatFree30+Yes
CoinbaseDecentralisedPhone, Email, and TwitterFree200+Yes
Crypto.comDecentralisedPhone, Email, Live ChatFree250+Yes
KrakenCentralisedEmail, Phone, Live ChatFree200+Yes
HTXDecentralisedLive Chat, EmailFree700+Yes
BinanceCentralisedPhone, Email, Live ChatFree400+Yes
CEXDecentralisedPhone, Email, Live ChatFree200+Yes

Before diving into our unbiased reviews, let’s first understand the fees and assets offered by our recommended cryptocurrency exchanges. Using tables, we’ll break down the key details, allowing you to easily compare and select the best exchange for your trading needs in the UK market.

Fees

Best Crypto ExchangeFeesMinimum Deposit Requirement
eToro1%$100
CoinbaseFrom $0.99From £1
Crypto.comFrom 0.04%From £1
KrakenFrom 0.16%£10
HTXFrom 0.2%USDT 100
BinanceFrom 0.1%£50
CEXFrom 0.01%£20

Supported Assets

Best Crypto ExchangeBitcoinEthereumLitecoinRippleTetherDogecoinSolana
eToroYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
CoinbaseYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Crypto.comYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
KrakenYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
HTXYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
BinanceYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
CEXYesYesYesYesYesYesYes

Our Opinion & Overview of the Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges in the UK

As expert researchers and cryptocurrency investors, we pride ourselves on offering unbiased reviews to our readers. Therefore, we have rigorously evaluated top crypto exchanges UK based on criteria such as security, user experience, asset variety, fees, and more. Our goal is to provide you with valuable insights and guidance, enabling you to make well-informed decisions. 

1. eToro – Overall Best Crypto Exchange in the UK

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After thorough testing and analysis, we are excited to award eToro a 5-star rating as the overall best cryptocurrency exchange UK. It impresses with a wide range of features suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. eToro offers over 33 cryptocurrencies and a highly secure wallet with access to private keys. Its social platform also connects cryptocurrency traders, and the copy trading feature allows you to replicate the strategies of successful traders, potentially enhancing your profits. 

*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.

eToro Review
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Copy/Social trading
✔Low minimum to fund an account and begin investing
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Low minimum deposit to get started.
  • Availability of popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, etc.
  • Social and copy trading platforms for maximum experience.
Cons
  • Limited number of cryptocurrencies compared to its peers.
  • Withdrawal charges apply.

Types Fee
Minimum Deposit $100
Conversion Fee depends on your payment method, currency, and eToro Club level.
Overnight Fee vary according to the value and direction (BUY or SELL) of your position
Withdrawal Fee all withdrawal requests are subject to a $5 USD fee
Inactivity Fee monthly inactivity fee of $10 USD (charged after 12 months)

  • Stocks – there is a total of 800 stocks offered ranging from the biggest tech businesses in the U.S. to smaller companies from all over the world. Stock trading is always commission-free with eToro.
  • Cryptocurrencies – being one of the first brokers to jump on the cryptocurrency bandwagon, it comes as no surprise that eToro dominates this segment. With more than 20 coins and a number of cryptocurrency pairs, there is enough for all crypto traders.
  • Currency Pairs – in the early days, eToro was just another FX broker and even though they’ve developed since, the broker has stayed true to its roots. As a trader, you can choose between 49 currency pairs ranging from majors and minors to a few exotic ones.
  • Long-Term Investments – unlike many online brokers, eToro is also suitable for long-term investments. For example, their investment portfolios are a great way to diversify your portfolio and limit risk.
  • Additional assets – in addition to the above, eToro provides access to commodities, indices, and ETFs as CFDs. There is also a range of unique assets such as Crypto Portfolios that are only offered by eToro. This means that you can create a diverse portfolio with ease.

2. Coinbase – Biggest Crypto Exchange in the UK

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We also tested Coinbase and are pleased to award it a 5-star rating as the largest crypto exchange in the UK. With over 98 million users, Coinbase offers a user-friendly platform for buying, selling, and monitoring popular cryptocurrencies. It operates as a centralised exchange, ensuring the security of transactions and assets. Coinbase also provides the option to secure assets on a cold wallet and boasts 24/7 asset monitoring. Comprehensive insurance coverage further enhances the safety of stored assets. We explored over 100 cryptocurrencies and are pleased to recommend it to any trader or investor looking to diversify their portfolios. 

Coinbase Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Highly secure
✔Inbuilt cryptocurrency wallet
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • User-friendly platform.
  • In-built centralised crypto wallet backed up by an insurance policy.
  • Wide array of crypto assets offered.
  • Opportunities to earn cryptocurrencies by buying and holding assets.
  • Low account minimum of £2.
Cons
  • High transaction charges on its primary platform.
  • You get to pay more for lower balances.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit $2
Transaction fee 1%
Credit transactions 2%
Inactivity fee Free
Maker fee Yes
Taker fee Yes

Coinbase hosts hundreds of thousands of assets and below is a list of the top digital assets to access on the exchange:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Tether (USDT)
  • USD Coin (USDC)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • Shiba Inu (SHIB)
  • SushiSwap (SUSHI)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • Uniswap (UNI)
  • Algorand (ALGO)
  • Dai (DAI)
  • Stellar Lumens (XLM)
  • Polygon (MATIC)

3. Crypto.com – Crypto Exchange with Lowest Fees and Commissions in the UK

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Although there are plenty of crypto exchanges with low fees and commissions, Crypto.com tops the list based on our experience. Besides offering access to non-fungible tokens (NFTs), we explored its DeFi wallet, which provides easy access to the best NFT marketplaces. Plus, Crypto.com allows you to trade, buy, and sell over 250 cryptocurrencies, including the popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc. The UK best crypto exchange also supports over 20 fiat currencies, and its low fees and commissions are other elements we noted. There are no transaction charges nor inactivity fees, making you plan accordingly and trade at your own convenient time. Traders also enjoy various payment options, including bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and e-wallets like Skrill and Advcash. Overall, we give Crypto.com a 5-star rating. 

Crypto.com Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔Purchase newly-listed tokens at up to 50% off
✔Earn daily rewards on your balance, no lock-up period
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Low trading fees.
  • Compatible with desktop and mobile devices.
  • In-built DeFi wallet, giving you total control of your assets.
  • Over 14.5% annual rewards on your cryptocurrencies.
  • Wide range of cryptocurrencies offered.
Cons
  • You get to pay more for low trading volumes.
  • Withdrawing cryptos to external address attracts a fee.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit £1
Deposit fee No
Withdrawal fee Depending on the crypto you trade
Maker fee 0.04 – 0.20%
Taker fee  0.10 – 0.20%
Inactivity fee £5

The most popular crypto:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • Cronos (CRO)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • Polkadot (DOT)

4. Kraken – Safest Crypto Exchange in the UK

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Kraken, our analysis concludes, is the safest cryptocurrency exchange in the UK. With over 9 million users spanning 190 countries, it boasts a substantial trading volume of over $207 billion. Kraken secures assets with a cold storage system, robust encryption, and vigilant monitoring. We tested it and got to explore 100+ cryptocurrencies with a minimum investment of just £10. Its user-friendly interface, trading app, and learning resources cater to users of all levels. Additionally, this best UK cryptocurrency exchange offers round-the-clock customer support for any trading challenges. It stands as a secure and comprehensive platform for cryptocurrency trading, leading us to award with a 4.5-star rating.

Kraken Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Learn Center for learning about all things crypto
✔ 24/7/365 on LiveChat or by email
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Up to 23% rewards offered annually for staking your assets with Kraken.
  • Low spreads on non-instant buys.
  • High liquidity across various markets.
  • Availability of popular cryptocurrencies.
Cons
  • No personal wallet service.
  • Many elements featured, making it not suitable for newbies.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit £10
Transaction fee 0.5% for bank transfers and 3.75% + 0.25 cents for cards and e-wallets
Maker fee 0.26%
Taker fee  Between £0-$50,000

Cryptocurrency traders and investors will have access to over 100 cryptocurrencies when using Kraken crypto exchange. Some of the featured crypto assets to build your portfolio with include:

  • Bitcoin
  • Ethereum
  • Litecoin
  • Ripple
  • Bitcoin Cash
  • Dogecoin
  • Solana, etc.

5. HTX – Best Crypto Exchange for Bitcoin in the UK

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HTX is a decentralised exchange that offers fast and secure cryptocurrency transactions through its P2P platform. With over 20,000 BTC in security funds and a cold wallet for asset protection, we consider it a secure platform for trading. HTX also provides a web-based platform and a reliable mobile app for on-the-go trading, along with a wealth of educational resources and welcome bonuses for beginners. Hosting more than 500 cryptocurrencies and maintaining a high daily trading volume, HTX proves to be a versatile and trustworthy choice for cryptocurrency trading. For these reasons, we’re delighted to award it a 4.5-star rating.

HTX Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ World-class security
✔ A wide array of digital assets
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • Wide range of cryptocurrencies offered.
  • P2P platform for direct interaction with other traders.
  • Compatible with all mobile devices.
  • Excellent 24/7 support service.
  • Cold wallet available for safe storage of traders’ cryptocurrencies.
Cons
  • Challenging platform to navigate, making it unsuitable for newbies.
  • Less unregulated compared to its peers.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit USDT 100
Deposit fee Free
Withdrawal fee Apply on your cryptos
Maker fee 0.2%
Taker fee  0.2%

    • Bitcoin (BTC)

    • Ethereum (ETH)

    • Huobi Token (HT)

    • Ripple (XRP)

    • EOS (EOS)

    • Tether (USDT)

    • Litecoin (LTC)

    • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

    • Cardano (ADA)

6. Binance – Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners

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Our analysis of Binance as one of the top cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK leads us to recommend it as the ideal choice for beginners. This best crypto exchange in UK boasts over 600 cryptocurrencies available for trading, buying, and selling. We also noticed that Binance is integrated with a cryptocurrency wallet, which offers a secure means of storing digital assets. The platform goes a step further in supporting beginners by providing educational resources through its Academy platform. Additionally, Binance ensures convenience with diverse payment options, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. These and more led us to award Binance a 4.9-star rating.

Binance Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU)
✔Personalised Access Control
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • User-friendly platform perfect for newbies.
  • Excellent collection of learning resources for skills development.
  • Low trading fees.
  • P2P platform for direct interaction with other cryptocurrency traders.
  • Numerous cryptocurrencies to choose from.
Cons
  • Has a history of hacking.
  • Less regulated compared to its peers.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit £50
Transaction fee Based on the blockchain you transact on
Receiving crypto assets Free
Maker fee Yes
Taker fee Yes

You can transact with over 600 cryptocurrencies using Binance wallet. Some of the popular assets you will store, stake, receive, and transfer include:

7. CEX – Best Crypto Exchange Mobile App

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We consider CEX the best crypto exchange UK for mobile trading since it has been highly rated by users on Google Play and the App Store. Plus, it executes trades seamlessly on mobile devices, making it easier for traders to manage their investments even while on the move. With CEX, you can trade, buy, sell, hold, and earn cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, USD Coin, Dogecoin, etc. We also discovered that the exchange is highly encrypted and offers cold wallets to prevent attacks from hackers. With 24/7 support service, reasonable fees, and a low minimum deposit requirement of $20, CEX is worth trying. We therefore give it a 4-star rating. 

CEX Review 2024
TradingGuides Rating:
✔ Buy crypto with a debit or credit card
✔ 24/7 support
Pros & Cons
Fees
Trading Assets
Pros
  • User-friendly mobile app for Android and iOS users.
  • Regulated by the GFSC.
  • Wide range of crypto assets supported.
  • Offer traders the opportunity to earn cryptocurrencies.
  • Crypto-collateralised loans offered.
Cons
  • Features many products and services, which can overwhelm newbies.
  • Offers lower liquidity compared to other leading cryptocurrency exchanges.

Type Fee
Minimum deposit £20
Transaction fee No fees for UK traders for Faster Payments method
Maker fee 0.15%
Taker fee  0.25%
Inactivity fee Yes

  • (BTC) Bitcoin
  • (ETH) Ethereum
  • (USDT) Tether
  • (BNB) Binance Coin
  • (USDC) USD Coin
  • (XRP) XRP
  • (BUSD) Binance USD
  • (ADA) Cardano
  • (DOGE) Dogecoin
  • (MATIC) Polygon

more cryptocurrencies

What do Other Traders Say?

Besides conducting multiple tests and comparisons, we also analysed what other traders say regarding their experience with the best crypto exchanges UK. This is to ensure we get unbiased recommendations, and you also get to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of each exchange. Take a look below at some of the comments we gathered. 

1. eToro

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Users praise eToro for its user-friendly interface, social trading features, and the ability to copy experienced traders. They also appreciate the diverse range of cryptocurrencies and additional assets available for trading.

  • “Great application to get money all the time” – fitnessandnutrition212

  • “Best trade app I’ve used, display is nice and clear whilst the functions are easy to use. Customer support has been very responsive within 24hrs.” – Tony C

2. Coinbase

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Many user testimonials for Coinbase consistently highlight its user-friendly interface and robust security measures. Others appreciate Coinbase’s extensive range of supported cryptocurrencies and reliable support service.

  • “Coinbase Wallet offers so many new and exciting things to do, such as collecting free NFT’s. Now who else is offering that. There are so many fun and exciting things to do I could easily spend the day just messing around. But also can make money. I love it!!!” – Connie Lowe

  • “WOW!!! Easy to navigate front to back. This app is all I wanted, hoped, and expected it to be. Actually is become much much more!! Very pleasant to use I gave it 5 stars!!!” – Jeff Jeffery

3. Crypto.com

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Crypto.com is frequently lauded for its user-friendly mobile app, innovative features like the Crypto Visa Card, and a broad spectrum of services beyond trading, such as staking and DeFi opportunities.

  • “This app holds relevant features that make me love it and get inspired. It embedds a number of crypto that are not found in some other wallets. Easy to run and control. I credit the same app with a rate of 5 stars.” – Charles Rutabanzibwa

  • “been great so far. sent an etransfer the other day and it didn’t show up. messaged support and got it taking care of in 5 mins. really impressed.” – Josh Vandendort

4. Kraken

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Kraken stands out for its strong security measures, transparency, and regulatory compliance. Users value the availability of fiat currency trading and staking services.

  • “Kraken has a simple but secure verification system. The interface is hard to learn at first(Loading card etc) Once understood it works really well. Easy to transact and move items to my metamask and buying other Crypto” – Delaney Chikwaya

  • “App is always up. Doesn’t try to force Authenticator apps on me like uphold did and none of which worked. Processes transactions lightning quick. Withdrawals to cold wallet work fine. App has never once crashed on me. ” – TonyB2011

5. HTX

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HTX users often highlight the platform’s wide variety of trading pairs, advanced trading tools, and liquidity. Margin trading options are also appreciated.

  • “Very good, I watch it many times a day. and I must give it a praise! The experience of the webśite has always been good! There are often some fùnny activities! The customer service’s attitude is also very conscientious. And when the Bitcoin market was bullish before, I made a small profit. I hope the market will turn bullish soon!” – Lynch Purnell

  • “I think it’s great for beginners too.. the interface might be complicated at first but as you use it gradually you will get to understand it. Easy to buy & sell.” – Alex Verse

6. Binance

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Regarding Binance, users often praise its extensive range of cryptocurrencies, low trading fees, and advanced features. The platform’s responsiveness to market trends and innovations is noted as a key advantage.

  • “i wonder why enemies are lying against this innocent,decent, legit binance….they have never fail or disappointed me and my country nigeria people before.” – Festus Ikenna

  • “I love this app. If it’s possible to include an alert button in “futures” just as there is an alert button in the “spots”, bottom left hand side of the spots interface. It will be very helpful” – Chime Michael

7. CEX

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CEX receives positive feedback for its user-friendly experience and robust security. Users also appreciate its compliance with regulations and the option for fiat-to-crypto trading.

  • “This exchange is honest and helpful. It was airdropped many times and paid out instantly. I also had no problems loading and withdrawing money. Cexio forever.” – Abdullah Cevik

  • “This is such a great app! It has a simple UI and very user friendly. Cex.IO exchange is one of the best in the cryptocurrency community. It’s always my go-to app. I love ittttt! Kudos to this team???” – Richard Martins

The Ultimate Guide About Trading with Crypto Exchange

Now that you are familiar with the best cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK, we want to ensure you are fully ready to kickstart your investment ventures. For this reason, we have prepared the sections below highlighting the crucial elements of cryptocurrency investment to note. This is from getting started the right way to understanding the tax laws in the UK financial space.

How to Choose the Right Cryptocurrency Exchange

BEWARE OF SCAMS

When engaging with cryptocurrencies, it’s crucial to recognise that these digital assets are characterised by their extreme volatility and speculative nature. This can result in swift and substantial price fluctuations. To safeguard your crypto holdings, it is imperative to utilise reputable wallets and exchanges, prioritising the security of your investments. 

Also, exercise vigilance and due diligence to guard against crypto-related scams and fraudulent schemes that can potentially threaten your financial well-being. You can also spread your investments across multiple digital tokens and avoid making decisions based on emotions.

Choosing the best UK crypto exchange is vital for a smooth trading experience. To do so effectively, consider the following.

Opt for exchanges regulated by local financial authorities for added protection. Check for robust security measures like cold storage and cybersecurity protocols.

Ensure the exchange supports your desired cryptocurrencies and offers a variety of trading pairs for portfolio diversification.

Look for a user-friendly platform with clear charts and tools for analysis. If you prefer mobile trading, choose an exchange with a reliable mobile app.

Understand the fee structure, including trading, withdrawal, and deposit fees. Compare fees across platforms to align with your budget and trading strategy.

Decide whether you want an integrated exchange wallet or prefer external wallets. Prioritise fund security regardless of your choice.

Read user reviews and testimonials to gauge other traders’ experiences. Consider both positive and negative feedback to make an informed decision. Engaging with the exchange’s community and social channels can also offer insights into their user support.

Types of Exchanges

Cryptocurrency exchanges are essential platforms for buying, selling, and trading digital assets. They serve as the gateway to the world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. While they all share a common purpose, there are different types of cryptocurrency exchanges that cater to varying needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the most common types of cryptocurrency exchanges.

  • Centralised Exchanges (CEXs)

Centralised exchanges are the most common and user-friendly type of cryptocurrency exchange. They function as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, much like traditional stock exchanges. They are characterised by a centralised authority that manages the order books, wallet services, and liquidity. Some popular CEXs include Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken. These platforms are known for their ease of use, liquidity, and wide range of trading pairs. However, they require users to trust the exchange with their funds, which can be a security concern.

  • Decentralised Exchanges (DEXs)

Decentralised exchanges are built on blockchain technology and operate without a central authority. They allow users to trade cryptocurrencies directly from their wallets, eliminating the need for an intermediary. DEXs are known for their commitment to decentralisation and privacy. They offer greater security as users retain control of their funds but may have lower liquidity and a steeper learning curve.

  • Hybrid Exchange (HEX)

Hybrid exchanges combine elements of both centralised and decentralised exchanges to provide a balanced trading experience. These platforms offer the liquidity and ease of use of centralised exchanges while allowing users to maintain control of their funds, akin to decentralised exchanges. Hybrid exchanges seek to provide a middle ground for traders who value both security and liquidity.

What is a Crypto Exchange?

A crypto exchange is a digital marketplace where users buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. These platforms act as intermediaries for crypto-to-fiat or crypto-to-crypto transactions. They offer spot trading for immediate transactions, margin trading with borrowed funds, and futures trading with contracts for future purchases. Beyond trading, cryptocurrency exchanges provide services like wallet storage, market analysis, and educational resources. Some support Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) for fundraising. Note that exchanges vary in features and fees, so choose wisely based on your needs.

Tax on Withdrawing Funds from Crypto Exchanges in the UK

As cryptocurrencies gain traction, the UK enforces regulations regarding taxes on withdrawals from crypto exchanges. These regulations encompass capital gains tax on profits from crypto sales and exchanges. Withdrawal fees can also be subject to taxation. However, tax implications can differ based on individual factors, including profit amounts, investment duration, and trading status. Therefore, to ensure compliance with UK tax laws and avoid penalties, seeking professional advice is crucial.

5 Quick Steps To Start Trading with Crypto Exchange

Getting started with cryptocurrency trading can be an exciting venture, but it’s important to proceed with caution and understand the basics. Here are five quick steps to help you kickstart your journey on a UK based cryptocurrency exchange.

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Exchange
Step 2: Create an Account
Step 3: Secure Your Wallet
Step 4: Deposit Funds
Step 5: Start Trading

Begin by selecting a reputable cryptocurrency exchange. Research various platforms, considering factors like security, fees, available cryptocurrencies, and user-friendliness. Popular exchanges include Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken, but there are many others to explore.

Once you’ve chosen an exchange, sign up for an account. You’ll need to provide some personal information and, in most cases, complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification procedures. This step is essential for security and regulatory compliance.

Before trading, you’ll need a cryptocurrency wallet to store your assets securely. Many exchanges offer integrated wallets but consider using a separate hardware wallet for added security. This will protect your investments from potential hacks or breaches.

After setting up your account and wallet, deposit funds into your exchange account. You can often deposit fiat currency (like USD or EUR) via bank transfers, credit cards, or other payment methods. Some exchanges also accept cryptocurrency deposits if you already own digital assets.

With funds in your exchange account, you’re ready to start trading. Begin by selecting your desired cryptocurrency pair (e.g., BTC/USD) and choose the type of trade (e.g., market or limit order). Market orders execute at the current market price, while limit orders allow you to set a specific price at which you want to buy or sell.

Crypto ETFs and Index Funds

Besides trading and buying cryptocurrencies, there are other ways to get exposure to this market. Crypto ETFs and index funds are the best options for individuals who do not want to experience the complexities of buying and owning crypto tokens. 

Crypto ETFs and index funds allow you to explore a single cryptocurrency or a basket containing various tokens. You can track a specific index or crypto performance. The best element is that you do not need to worry about buying and taking ownership of the underlying assets. 

‍For instance, ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO) is a crypto ETF listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The ETF exposes investors to Bitcoin’s price without the need to take full ownership of the asset. It is designed to track Bitcoin’s value through Bitcoin futures contracts, cash, and treasury securities. 

‍Bitwise 10 crypto index fund (BITW) is a good example of an index fund in the market. It gives traders an opportunity to get diversified exposure to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. It is more cost-effective than investing in individual cryptos. You also avoid the challenges that come with securing crypto tokens once purchased. 

Note: ‍Crypto ETFs and index funds expose you to cryptos at low cost and with limited risk exposure. Unfortunately, the FCA has banned the sale of these derivative crypto assets to retail clients in the UK. 

Pros and Cons of Trade with Crypto Exchange

Trading on the best cryptocurrency trading platform UK can be a rewarding but complex endeavour. Before diving in, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make informed decisions.

Pros
  • Access to a wide range of digital assets
  • Quick buying and selling due to substantial trading volumes
  • 24/7 trading to fit different schedules
  • Opportunities in volatile markets
  • Advanced security measures protect user funds
Cons
  • Price volatility can lead to losses
  • Legal complexities and compliance challenges
  • Hacking threats remain a concern

FAQs

Are crypto exchanges safe?

Yes. Crypto exchanges are secure as long as they are highly reputable, have plenty of active users, and adhere to trading regulations in the UK. Our mini-reviews above list the top cryptocurrency exchanges to choose from. Simply ensure you settle for the one meeting your investment/trading needs.

How do you use a crypto exchange?

Using a cryptocurrency exchange is pretty straightforward; all you need to do is sign up using your personal details, including your name, email, phone number, etc. You can use a crypto exchange to trade one crypto for another. Also, investors can use crypto exchanges to buy or sell their assets for fiat currencies.

How many crypto exchanges are there?

There are hundreds of cryptocurrency exchanges to choose from. However, you need the best one like those listed in our mini-reviews above to trade securely and enjoy your experience.

How do crypto exchanges make money?

While cryptocurrency exchanges are more affordable than brokers, they still charge commissions or spreads when transacting with them. These charges you incur are their profits.

Which crypto exchanges are legal in the UK?

Although cryptocurrency trading is not regulated in the UK, you need a legal crypto exchange to trade securely. With many exchanges in the UK claiming to be legal, it is crucial to confirm their credibility before making a choice. Please refer to our mini-reviews above for good examples of legal cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK.

What is the difference between a crypto exchange and a crypto wallet?

A crypto exchange is a platform that allows you to trade, buy and sell your crypto assets for other cryptos or fiat currencies. On the other hand, a crypto wallet is a platform for storing private keys so that you can easily and securely access your assets.

Conclusion

Our guide above has presented seven top cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK, but your journey in the crypto space is just beginning. Beyond the exchange you choose, your knowledge, strategy, and risk management will be key to success. You must also stay updated on market developments, craft solid trading strategies, and remember to invest only what you can comfortably afford to lose in this volatile space. By remaining disciplined and patient, you will understand how to manoeuvre the crypto market and maximise your chances of becoming successful and independent. 

How we test?

Our test process is really based on two different aspects: our independent tests and research, as well as user reviews from Google Play, the App Store, and Trustpilot, etc.

The first thing we do when testing is to check every detail and test every tool and instrument. Our experts spend more than 200 hours on every article. We pay special attention to the specific function or the criteria that we’re comparing during the comparing stage. This means that we must determine which broker is more suited for beginners, and which is better suited for experts, for example. Find out more about our test process here.

Thadeus Geodfrey logo
Thadeus Geodfrey

Is a regular dad trying to be smart about how we play and win in this big game of life. He has worked within the very best of the financial industry producing numerous training resources. He is an experienced copywriter with immense financial background. Now earns a full time living as a Trader, and as our writer.

His articles help everyday families build sustainable wealth, stop stressing about their financial security, and start living the life they’ve always wanted.
If he is not trading or writing, he is at the gym.

2 Replies to “Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK”

  • Olivia Bennett says:

    This helpful guide makes choosing crypto exchanges easy with clear, expert-approved options. Real user reviews give practical insights, boosting your decision-making confidence. The info on taxes and step-by-step trading is a big plus. Hats off for unraveling crypto complexities! I highly recommend it to fellow newcomers in the crypto world.

  • Fabio Costa says:

    Recently faced difficulty choosing a cryptocurrency exchange, unsure where to start. The article on cryptocurrency exchanges came to the rescue right on time. Its recommendations and detailed comparisons significantly eased my decision-making process. I opted for a reliable exchange supporting the cryptocurrencies I needed with a high level of security. Now, I have confidence in my choice of exchange and can engage in trading peacefully, thanks to this informative article.

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