There are hundreds of cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK. some have been around for nearly a decade, while others launched just last year. others have reportedly lost millions of user funds due to security breaches, while some do not have enough liquidity for users who want to execute large trades.
Reading: Best uk bitcoin exchange
How do you choose the best exchanges so you don’t lose your hard-earned money or encounter avoidable pitfalls when trading and moving funds?
We make your job easy by providing you with this list of the best cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK. Please note that although some of these platforms are not located in the UK, they offer top-notch services to customers in the jurisdiction.
list of top cryptocurrency exchanges
here is a list of the top twelve cryptocurrency exchanges in the uk.
1. cex.io – UK compatible
country: great britain
cex.io is one of the most trusted fiat to crypto exchanges and has its offices located in London, UK. This physical presence is complemented by the variety of world-class investment and trading tools that the company offers to new and existing cryptocurrency investors.
features
- an instant buy and sell widget for cryptocurrency investors.
- spot and margin trading
- cryptocurrency savings and participation products
- cryptocurrency secured loans.
- a mobile app for mobile investors
- cex.io has an affiliate program for marketers and influencers.
fees:
- manufacturer 0.16%, taker 0.25%.
- card deposits 2.99%
- card withdrawals: visa, 3% + 1, twenty. mastercard, 1.8% + 1.20.
Here is the full fee schedule:
advantages
- cex.io’s interface is easy to use for first-time investors.
- the platform supports a variety of convenient fiat deposit options.
- cex trading .io service lists a range of large market cap cryptocurrencies.
- Experienced investors can trade with up to 100x leverage on some cryptocurrencies.
- Users can borrow fiat money against your crypto assets stored on cex.io .
- the exchange has sufficient liquidity across all its listed trading pairs.
cons
- cex.io has a typical 1-day response time to user queries.
- the user verification process is lengthy and restricts users without valid identification.
supported payment methods: national bank transfer, debit cards (mastercard and visa), swift, sepa, faster payments, skrill.
visit cex.io
2. binance — the cheapest
country: global
If you are looking for a high-yield cryptocurrency exchange that has cheap fees, then binance is a good option. It is the world’s largest crypto exchange by daily spot trading volume and is available to users in most jurisdictions, including the UK. after years of secure trading, binance can be considered the most secure platform.
features
- an instant option to “buy and sell” cryptocurrencies.
- a visa card to convert and spend cryptocurrencies.
- peer-to-peer trading platform.
- an otc desk for large and institutional traders.
- access to crypto-backed loans.
- binance provides educational content for new investors through binance academy.
- a variety of trading interfaces to match the user experience.
- interest paying crypto products and staking facilities.
fees:
- maker 0.1%, taker 0.1% (lower fees can be obtained when using bnb)
- no deposit and withdrawal fees for gbp and eur transactions.
Binance fee schedule
advantages
- binance lists a large number of cryptocurrencies and adds new assets that are in high demand.
- binance offers high liquidity on all trading pairs.
- the exchange has responsive customer service.
- users enjoy discounted trading fees when using binance coin (bnb).
- binance enables experienced traders to enjoy a High leverage position, up to 125x.
cons
- binance is loosely regulated and may be the subject of future regulatory attention.
- binance has occasionally listed crypto tokens that turned out to be apparent scams.
supported payment methods: faster payments, debit cards (visa and mastercard), bank transfers via p2p commerce, third-party gateways (banxa, simplex).
visit binance
3. 7b – kyc is not required
4. localbitcoins – best p2p exchange
country: finland
localbitcoins is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange and one of the oldest in the industry. allows buyers and sellers to trade bitcoin and ethereum and serves primarily as an escrow service for matching transactions.
Fees: Sellers are charged a 1% fee for each successful transaction.
advantages
- gbp and eur support.
- localbitcoins is a trusted peer-to-peer crypto trading platform.
- website and transaction format are easy to navigate.
- fees are relatively low compared to order book exchanges.
- supports a variety of fiat payment options for buyers and sellers.
- the exchange has a quite responsive customer support team.
cons
- Users could fall victim to unreliable sellers if they decide to play outside the herd or the highly rated ones on the platform.
supported payment options: local bank transfer, skrill, paypal, world remit.
visit localbitcoins
5. bc bitcoin: the best cryptocurrency broker
country: united kingdombc bitcoin is a uk-based crypto and exchange broker specializing in a variety of different cryptocurrencies. If you are looking for a reliable broker, you can choose this fast and professional service.
features
- easy buying and selling.
- currency exchange
- native support for eur and gbp.
- buy cryptocurrencies with bank cards.
- cryptocurrency investment mobile app.
- affiliate program.
commissions: 3.99% of the negotiated amount.
advantages
- bc bitcoin is one of the oldest cryptocurrency exchanges in the uk and is reliable.
- transaction flow is easier for first time investors.
- the exchange has responsive customer service.
- transactions are settled immediately after payment is made.
cons
- Users must create an external wallet to purchase cryptocurrencies with bc bitcoin.
- The exchange offers a limited amount of cryptocurrencies for direct purchase.
Supported payment methods: debit cards (visa, mastercard), faster payments, separate transfers.
visit bc bitcoin
6. exmo: best for trading
country: united kingdom
exmo is the ideal crypto trading exchange due to its easy to use trading interface. It is suitable for both new and experienced traders and offers access to various fiat currencies in addition to GBP and EUR.
fees
- 0.05% maker, 0.05 taker
- visa and mastercard, 2.99% + 0.3 eur.
see the full schedule of fees.
features
- exmo has a quick “exchange” feature for exchanging currencies.
- there is native support for exchanging bitcoin for eur and gbp.
- exmo supports a variety of major -cap altcoins on its 195 pairs.
- exmo, a native token, to earn trading rewards and fees.
- exmo has a high-performance mobile app available on android and ios.
advantages
- exmo is relatively trustworthy and has been around since 2013.
- exmo is an ideal exchange for new traders looking to hone their skills.
- there are many fiat options available for uk users.
- users can vote for their favorite coins to be listed on the exchange.
- fees are transparent and relatively lower compared to other trading platforms cryptocurrency trading.
cons
- the exchange lacks sufficient liquidity on some of its trading pairs.
- there is no live chat option on the website for quick help.
supported payment methods: faster payments, bacs, chaps, sepa, debit cards (visa and mastercard), payeer, advcash.
visit exmo
7. coinmama – the fastest
See also: Bitcoin Regulation: Where is Bitcoin Legal? – SpendMeNot
country: slovakia
Coinmama is another cryptocurrency exchange that was launched in 2013. The platform has more than two million users and is available to users in more than 188 countries, including the UK.
fees
- 5.00% for card purchases.
- 2.90% for selling cryptocurrencies.
see the full schedule of fees.
features
- a simple interface for buying and selling cryptocurrency.
- instant delivery of purchased cryptocurrency for debit card purchases.
- a virtual debit card for spending cryptocurrency.
- high spending limits on crypto purchases.
- support for most large-cap cryptocurrencies.
- affiliate program.
advantages
- the verification process is quick and easy to complete.
- you can buy crypto using many fiat options.
- coinmama has a live chat option and a great support team.
- the exchange has strict security standards to protect its users, it is also known as one of the most secure.
- by reaching user verification level 3, you can buy up to £100,000 at a time.
- coinmama allows users to take custody of their crypto and does not offer wallets on the exchange.
- there are no fees associated with bank transfers.
cons
- Users are required to set up an external wallet before buying crypto on coinmama.
- coinmama charges fees that are relatively higher than the competition.
Supported payment methods: debit cards (visa, mastercard), pay pay, bank transfer, swift, sepa.
8. swapzone: the best non-custodial option
country: georgia
swapzone is a non-custodial cryptocurrency exchange aggregator that allows you to browse multiple exchanges, compare exchange rates, and trade crypto using one interface. searches for available deals, sorts them by real-time rates, speed, and ratings to help users make the best and most profitable instant trade.
fees: depend on the exchange service
advantages:
- practical, progressive and transparent;
- combines more than 15 fonts;
- the largest variety of assets: more than 400;
- the deals are made directly from partner exchanges;
- no registration required;
- internal trading via partner api;
- mail support 24/7 email and live chat;
- rewarding referral program.
cons:
- different exchange rates received from service providers;
- you can include the currency in the exchange only if it is included in the partner services.
supported payment options: cryptocurrency.
9. bitpanda
country: austria
bitpanda was launched in 2014 and primarily caters to the European market, including UK users. they offer a range of services that make the exchange a one-stop shop for accessing the crypto market.
fees
- 1.49% to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.
- maker, 0.1%, taker, 0.15%
see the full schedule of fees.
features
- multiple fiat deposit options
- a crypto index to invest in a basket of cryptocurrencies through a single channel.
- savings products to earn interest on your crypto assets.
- a feature-rich trading interface for professional traders.
- educational resources are available for new investors.
- bitpanda has a mobile app available on android and ios
advantages
- bitpanda is fast, reliable and easy to use for new users.
- the platform implements the latest security standards to protect users and has no reported history of data breaches. security.
- bitpanda has a responsive customer support team and an active community.
- Users can also invest in precious metals like gold and silver.
cons
- There is no live chat option on the website.
- Fees associated with transactions are not explicitly stated.
Supported payment methods: bank transfer, skrill, debit cards (visa and mastercard), netteller, sofort.
10. yobit: the best altcoin exchange
country: russia
If you love trading altcoins and want an exchange that lists a variety of them, then you can check out yobit. according to coinmarketcap, yobit has over 300 trading pairs and up to $45 million in daily trading volume.
features
- a simple and straightforward trading interface with user balances ready and visible.
- compatibility with a wide range of altcoins (including some you’ve never heard of).
- live community chat on the website.
- free coins for new users.
commissions: 0.2% per operation.
see the full schedule of fees.
advantages
- yobit is a one stop shop for altcoin lovers and has been around since 2014.
- yobit has a highly responsive customer support team, including an active telegram community.
- the registration process is quick and easy.
- there are no strict kyc requirements for customers who join.
- yobit offers free coins to new users.
cons
- yobit is not a UK based bitcoin exchange and is loosely regulated. the exchange lists high-risk projects.
- aside from major trading pairs, yobit has highly illiquid order books with wide margins.
Supported payment options: advcash, debit cards (visa and mastercard), payeer, perfect money.
11. UK wallet
country: united kingdom
Coinjar is a local cryptocurrency exchange serving the UK and European markets. the platform is colorful, easy to use and ideal for all categories of users, including institutional investors.
features
- cryptocurrency conversion
- direct deposit and withdrawals to and from UK bank accounts.
- available on web and mobile (android and ios).
- supports bitcoin and a range of large-cap altcoins.
- an exchange platform for professional traders.
- otc trading desk.
- a cryptocurrency debit card.
commissions: 1% fixed for buy and sell orders.
see the full schedule of fees.
advantages
- coinjar is a reliable and trustworthy cryptocurrency exchange with no history of hacking.
- the interface is easy to navigate for new investors.
- the exchange rarely suffers downtimes.
- coinjar fees are low and transparent compared to the competition.
- withdrawals to external wallets do not incur an additional fee (an additional fee applies). network).
- coinjar has a highly responsive customer support team.
cons
- coinjar supports a limited number of cryptocurrencies.
- the platform does not support card purchases.
supported payment methods: faster payments and bank transfer.
12. currency base
See also: What is Bitcoin Blockchain and Bitcoin Blockchain Size? – Intellipaat
country: united states
San Francisco-based coinbase is one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges in the world (over 30 million users) serving a European audience.
features
- native support for gbp and eur deposits.
- credit and debit card purchases.
- insurance coverage for deposited crypto assets.
- exchange setup for professional traders (coinbase pro).
- stake options for popular proof-of-stake coins.
- high security standards for platform and asset storage of the client.
fees
- 3.99% for card purchases
- 0.25 taker, 0.15 creator (coinbase pro)
see the full schedule of fees.
advantages
- Coinbase’s interface is elegant and easy to navigate even for first-time users.
- Coinbase boasts high liquidity across all listed assets and trading pairs.
- multiple security options to protect users’ assets.
- coinbase supports buying crypto with 3d-protected credit cards.
- coinbase offers options for users to earn crypto free learning about new projects.
cons
- coinbase typically experiences downtime when there is significant bitcoin price action.
- the platform supports a limited number of cryptocurrencies.
- coinbase also shares data user with the tax authorities.
supported payment methods: debit and credit cards, bank transfer, faster payments, swift, sepa, cryptocurrencies.
13. bittrex
See also: What is Bitcoin Blockchain and Bitcoin Blockchain Size? – Intellipaat
country: united states
bittrex was launched in 2014 and is primarily designed for professional traders. If you’re looking for where to buy bitcoin as a retail investor, there are plenty of other platforms that offer an easier route.
features
- strong security features to protect client assets.
- deep liquidity on listed trading pairs.
- leveraged tokens that track the price of various trading alternatives. large caps.
- affiliate program
- support for most of the widely traded cryptocurrencies on the market.
- a mobile app for merchants on the go
fees: 0.2 creator, 0.2 taker.
see the full schedule of fees.
advantages
- bittrex is a trusted crypto exchange for European customers.
- new users receive $15 in credits that can be used to offset trading fees.
- bittrex brags a reliable customer support system.
- native support for deposits and withdrawals in euros.
cons
- bittrex does not support card deposits.
- the platform is not suitable for retail investors.
supported payment methods: bank transfer, cryptocurrencies.
supported payment methods:
14. binance uk
country: united kingdom
binance uk aims to be the uk and europe focused arm of the leading cryptocurrency exchange, binance. Expected to launch in the summer of 2020, the platform will not only be fully compliant with regulations, but will also benefit from binance’s immense influence in the crypto space.
will utilize binance’s world-class trading technology and take advantage of the exchange’s unprecedented liquid order books. Binance UK will be operated by Binance Market Limited, an entity seeking approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
features
- native support for gbp and eur
- basic and advanced trading interface.
- support for up to 65 cryptocurrencies at launch
- virtual bank accounts for easier deposits.
supported payment methods: faster payment service, please know.
types of exchanges
There are mainly five types of cryptocurrency exchanges.
1. instant trades
These are cryptocurrency exchanges that primarily allow people to buy and sell crypto instantly and through a single interface. the process is usually smooth and mainly supports card transactions.
examples: changelly, bc bitcoin.
2. centralized exchanges
Centralized exchanges maintain centralized order books and serve as a marketplace for buyers and sellers to transact with each other without knowing each other.
They also maintain custody of the assets being exchanged and often serve as a central point for hackers to steal these funds. Users are advised to only leave on a crypto exchange an amount that they are actively trading and can afford to lose. neither your keys, nor your cryptography!
Examples: Most of the exchanges we cover in this article are centralized exchanges.
3. decentralized exchanges
As the name suggests, decentralized exchanges (dexes) are platforms that do not maintain centralized order books. users can trade directly from their cryptocurrency wallets without delegating their keys to anyone.
examples: ethereum-centric uniswap and honeyswap.
4. peer-to-peer (p2p) exchanges
P2P exchanges are platforms that provide a custody service for buyers and sellers of cryptocurrencies. transactions are usually initiated by the interested parties, while the exchange holds the funds until payment is confirmed.
examples: localbitcoins and paxful
5. derivatives exchanges
Derivatives exchanges offer products that track the price of cryptocurrencies, allowing investors to bet on price movements without owning the underlying asset. Popular crypto derivative products include futures, options, and perpetual contracts.
examples: bitmex and ftx.
how to choose a bitcoin exchange
As you might already guess, your preferred bitcoin app would be one that offers the exact services you’re looking for. here are other factors to consider when choosing a bitcoin exchange:
ease of use
The best cryptocurrency exchanges prioritize providing a user-friendly platform. therefore, your preferred platform should have an easy-to-navigate interface for user balances, deposit and withdrawal options, as well as other trading tools.
security
Cryptocurrency exchanges are the main targets of hackers. therefore, world-class exchanges implement the latest security standards to protect users’ assets and also provide users with security features. these may include two-factor authentication (2fa) and the mandatory use of strong, unique passwords.
fees
Experienced traders understand how much they can save by using exchanges that offer low trading fees and related bonuses. therefore, before choosing a bitcoin exchange, make sure they offer the best rates.
supported cryptocurrencies
If you’re not just into bitcoins, then you probably need a bitcoin trading platform that allows you to buy and trade as many altcoins as possible. Remember to beware of exchanges that list worthless tokens and always do your due diligence before investing.
how to use a cryptocurrency exchange
The user interface of cryptocurrency apps may differ, but some features available on these platforms are permanent and therefore can be easily located even by first-time visitors. therefore, you can follow the steps below to use a cryptocurrency exchange.
- sign up with your email and complete email verification.
- go through the kyc process to verify your identity and increase transaction limits.
- enable 2fa and other security measures provided by the platform.
- access the deposit button and use your preferred option (fiat or crypto)
- for fiat deposits, you are usually provided with an account bank to transfer funds. once the deposit is confirmed, you will see them in your exchange account.
- for crypto deposits, get the address of the asset you want to transfer and send the funds from your external address. wait for network confirmation to access the funds in your exchange account.
- locate the “buy” button if you want to sell fiat for bitcoin or other supported cryptocurrencies.
- for crypto -to -crypto exchanges, find the “markets” or “exchange” tab and select the appropriate trading pair, e.g. btc/eth to sell bitcoin for ethereum.
- choose the type of order and complete the operation.
frequently asked questions
Are deposits on cryptocurrency exchanges insured?
not. Cryptocurrency deposits on exchanges are generally not insured as with traditional institutions. however, some operators such as coinbase insure clients’ fiat currency deposits. others like binance also implement a self-insurance policy that allows users to be paid if there is a security breach.
Are all cryptocurrency trading platforms regulated in the UK?
not. all cryptocurrency platforms are unregulated. But you can determine that a platform meets regulatory standards if it requires you to submit K&C documents before you can access certain features. You can also check the website for more information as most regulated bitcoin exchanges like to flaunt their regulatory credentials.
Do all major bitcoin trading platforms have a mobile app?
yes. Every major player in this field released a crypto app, and all of those apps are available to UK users.
Are only high-volume cryptocurrencies traded on exchanges?
not. most major platforms can also be used for altcoin trading.
conclusion
As promised, in this article we cover the twelve best cryptocurrency exchanges in the UK. We discuss the features, fees, pros, cons, and payment methods supported on these platforms, and we hope that the information provided will help you make an excellent decision.
In the end, remember to keep custody of your crypto assets where possible and implement security best practices when using exchanges. if you do this, then you can focus on growing your crypto investments and not scratch your head due to security flaws.
