Best Crypto Exchanges in the USA (2025 Guide)

AI summary

Crypto adoption in the U.S. is rapidly growing, making the choice of a secure, regulated, and user-friendly exchange increasingly important for investors. This guide reviews the top crypto exchanges for 2025—Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, Binance.US, eToro, Robinhood, and Crypto.com—highlighting their strengths, fees, and regulatory compliance. Regardless of the platform, users are advised to prioritize security and self-custody for long-term asset protection.

Crypto adoption in the United States keeps accelerating, with millions of Americans owning Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins, alongside growing institutional investment. This surge makes choosing a safe, regulated, user-friendly exchange more critical. In 2025, investors must weigh factors like SEC and CFTC compliance, security, fees, supported coins, and app experience. This guide highlights the best crypto exchanges in the USA for 2025, and for a broader overview of laws, taxes, and adoption, see our complete guide on Crypto in the USA.

How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange in the USA

Finding the right exchange starts with understanding your priorities. A safe crypto exchange in the USA should meet strict compliance standards and protect your funds through security measures like cold storage and insurance. Beyond safety, consider these factors:

• Regulation: Stick to exchanges registered with FinCEN and, where possible, those licensed at the state level. Compliance reduces the risks of shutdowns or frozen assets.
• Security: Look for proof-of-reserves audits, FDIC insurance on USD balances, and features like two-factor authentication.
• Fees: A low-fee Bitcoin exchange in the USA can make a difference over time. Maker/taker models, spreads, and withdrawal fees impact your bottom line.
• Payment methods: Some platforms allow ACH transfers and debit cards, while others support PayPal or wire transfers.
• Liquidity: Higher liquidity means smoother trades and better prices.
• Customer support: Quality help channels matter, especially for beginners.

Finally, never keep all your assets on an exchange. Even the safest platforms face risks. Self-custody wallets like Tangem give you actual ownership of your crypto. Remember the golden rule: Not your keys, not your coins.

Top 7 Best Crypto Exchanges in the USA (2025)

Here are the seven leading crypto apps and trading platforms in the USA this year, each with strengths and weaknesses.

1. Coinbase – Best for Beginners

Coinbase remains the entry point for most U.S. investors. Its app and website make buying Bitcoin as simple as using online banking. The platform ensures USD balances up to FDIC limits and supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies.

However, Coinbase charges higher fees than most rivals, especially on simple debit card purchases. Active traders should use Coinbase Advanced Trade, which offers lower maker/taker fees.

• Best for: Beginners learning to buy Bitcoin in the USA
• Pros: Easy interface, wide coin selection, FDIC-insured cash balances
• Cons: Higher fees, less cost-efficient for frequent trading

2. Kraken – Best for Security & Advanced Traders

Kraken built its reputation on security. The exchange holds most assets in cold storage, publishes proof-of-reserves audits, and has never suffered a significant hack. Advanced traders appreciate the margin and futures markets. Kraken's interface is more complex than Coinbase's, but the platform offers a professional-grade experience once you learn it.

• Best for: Security-focused and advanced U.S. traders
• Pros: Industry-leading security, advanced features, transparent reserves
• Cons: Less beginner-friendly, slightly slower onboarding

3. Gemini – Best for Regulation & Compliance

Gemini, founded by the Winklevoss twins, remains one of the most tightly regulated platforms in the country. Licensed by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), Gemini offers institutional-grade security and compliance. The exchange provides a smooth app, a solid selection of coins, and an emphasis on trust. Fees, however, can be higher than those of competitors.

• Best for: Investors who prioritize regulation and peace of mind
• Pros: Strong compliance, institutional security, clear oversight
• Cons: Higher trading fees, smaller user base than Coinbase or Kraken

4. Binance.US – Best for Low Fees

Binance.US offers some of the lowest trading fees among U.S. exchanges. While it lacks the full range of tokens available on global Binance, it still supports a solid list of major coins. Liquidity remains strong, making it attractive for traders who want low-cost execution. Binance.US has faced regulatory scrutiny, which makes some investors cautious. Still, as of 2025, it continues to operate legally within the U.S.

• Best for: Cost-conscious traders looking for low fees
• Pros: Competitive maker/taker fees, strong liquidity
• Cons: Limited coin list vs global Binance, regulatory pressure

5. eToro USA – Best for Social Trading

eToro lets users buy crypto, stocks, and ETFs in a single account. Its standout feature is social trading, where you can copy strategies from experienced traders. The ability to learn from others appeals to beginners. On the downside, eToro's crypto fees can be higher, and not all features of its global platform are available in the USA.

• Best for: Beginners who want community and multi-asset trading
• Pros: Social trading, stocks + crypto in one app
• Cons: Higher crypto fees, limited U.S. functionality

6. Robinhood – Best for Zero Commission Trading

Robinhood brought millions of Americans into investing with commission-free stock trades, and it applies the same model to crypto. You can buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a handful of altcoins without paying trading fees.

The main drawbacks are its limited coin selection and restricted withdrawal features. While Robinhood has improved, it still falls short for serious crypto investors.

• Best for: Users who want free trades and already use Robinhood for stocks
• Pros: Zero commissions, easy to use
• Cons: Small coin list, limited transfer options

7. Crypto.com – Best for Mobile Users

Crypto.com built one of the most user-friendly crypto apps in the world. U.S. users get access to an intuitive mobile interface, a Visa debit card that earns rewards, and a growing selection of cryptocurrencies. Its fees are competitive, especially if you hold and stake CRO (its native token). The platform focuses heavily on mobile, so desktop traders may find it less flexible.

• Best for: Mobile-first investors who want rewards and convenience
• Pros: Intuitive app, debit card perks, broad coin support
• Cons: CRO dependency for best fees, less desktop focus

Comparison Table – Best U.S. Crypto Exchanges (2025)

Fees on U.S. Crypto Exchanges

Fees can make or break your experience. Most U.S. exchanges use a maker/taker model, where makers add liquidity and pay slightly less than takers." Coinbase Advanced charges 0.4% maker and 0.6% taker, while Kraken offers 0.16% and 0.26%. Binance.US leads with just 0.1% each.

On top of this, watch out for:

• Deposit fees: ACH is usually free, but wire transfers cost extra.
• Withdrawal fees: Networks like Ethereum can get expensive.
• Spreads: Platforms like Robinhood and eToro often bake costs into spreads instead of showing fees directly.

The best approach is to match your trading style to the fee structure. If you buy occasionally, spreads may not hurt much. If you trade daily, focus on transparent exchanges with low fees.

Safety & Regulation of U.S. Crypto Exchanges

Regulation shapes the crypto industry in the USA. Exchanges must register with FinCEN and comply with AML/KYC rules. Depending on the assets they list, many also fall under SEC or CFTC jurisdiction.

Safe platforms offer:

• FDIC insurance on USD balances (Coinbase, Gemini, Kraken)
• Proof of reserves to prove they hold client assets (Kraken)
• Cold storage and strong security standards

Even if popular abroad, unregulated platforms pose risks of frozen funds or legal action. To protect your assets, stick to regulated crypto exchanges in the USA.

Alternatives to Crypto Exchanges in the USA

Not everyone wants to use a centralized exchange. Alternatives include:

• Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms like Paxful alternatives allow buyers and sellers to connect directly.
• Bitcoin ATMs, though these often come with high fees.
• Self-custody wallets such as Tangem secure your funds and help you track transactions for tax purposes, or Ledger for long-term safety.

Moving your coins to a secure wallet ensures long-term safety even if you buy through a significant exchange. Remember: exchanges are for trading, not for permanent storage.

Future of Crypto Exchanges in the USA

The future looks dynamic. In 2025, Bitcoin ETFs from giants like BlackRock and Fidelity have opened doors for traditional investors. Regulation is increasing, and exchanges must adapt to stricter oversight.

Decentralized exchanges (DEX) also continue to grow. While U.S. regulators eye DeFi closely, DEX platforms offer transparency and peer-to-peer trading that centralized exchanges can't match. Expect the best U.S. exchanges to become more regulated, user-friendly, and integrated with traditional finance.

FAQ – Best Crypto Exchanges in the USA

What is the safest crypto exchange in the USA?

Kraken and Gemini stand out for security and compliance. Coinbase also provides FDIC protection for USD balances.

Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees in the USA?

Binance.US charges the lowest maker/taker fees at 0.1% each. Crypto.com also offers competitive rates.

Can I use Binance in the USA?

You cannot use the global Binance platform, but Binance.US is available to most American residents.

What is the most popular crypto app in the USA?

Thanks to its beginner-friendly design and wide availability, Coinbase remains the most widely used crypto app.

Is Coinbase better than Kraken in the USA?

Coinbase is easier for beginners, while Kraken offers stronger security and advanced features. The best choice depends on your experience level.

Final Thoughts

The best crypto exchanges in the USA combine regulation, safety, and usability. Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, Binance.US, eToro, Robinhood, and Crypto.com all serve different needs, from beginners to advanced traders. But no matter which platform you choose, never forget that exchanges are not banks. Move your coins to a secure self-custody wallet like Tangem for true ownership. That way, your assets stay safe regardless of what happens in the market or the exchange itself. If you're not in the United States, check our guides for: Crypto in Brazil, Crypto in the UK, Crypto in France, and Crypto in Germany.