Crypto’s Top 10 Trading Hubs: The 2025 Power Rankings

As institutional money floods into digital assets, these exchanges are dominating the liquidity wars—with some surprising upstarts dethroning legacy players.

Binance holds its crown (despite regulators’ best efforts), while a redesigned Coinbase claws back market share. Meanwhile, Kraken’s atomic swaps gamble pays off big.

Watch out for the dark horse: a zero-KYC upstart leveraging AI-powered OTC desks just cracked the top five. Wall Street’s compliance officers are already having nightmares.

The price of Bitcoin has experienced explosive growth since its market launch in 2009, reaching an all-time peak of $109,000.00 on January 20th, 2025. The best crypto exchanges offer traders essential features, including robust trading tools, multiple order types, extensive cryptocurrency options, and additional services.

The best cryptocurrency exchanges operate like the best stock trading apps by providing competitive fees and resources on digital marketplaces through mobile or desktop platforms. Crypto enthusiasts can use crypto exchanges to purchase and sell digital currencies, including Bitcoin and altcoins like Ethereum, and traditional investable securities while storing them.

Our team selected the following top cryptocurrency exchanges for their low fees and human advisor access in 2025.

Best Crypto Exchanges 2025

• Kraken – Best for Low Fees
• Gemini – Best for Experienced Traders
• Coinbase – Best for Crypto Collectors
• Zengo – Best for Keyless Wallet Security
• Uphold – Best for Cross-Asset Trading
• Crypto.com – Best for Mobile Traders
• Abra – Best for Institutional & Private Clients
• Bitmart – Best for Altcoins
• Binance.US – Best for Security Runner-Up
• Cash App Investing – Best for Bitcoin Investors

Kraken – Best for Low Fees

stands as one of the oldest global crypto exchanges, which provides industry-leading educational resources and security features to its users. The crypto exchange Kraken provides investors with a secure platform to trade more than  200 different cryptocurrencies. The platform implements a complete security framework through proof of reserves and legal compliance, cold wallet storage, SSL encryption, and regular security testing.

The platform provides users with continuous  24/7 live chat and email support through its high-priority support system. Users of Kraken can access extra security information through their platform, which includes details about Kraken’s PGP key and instructions for master key setup.

The crypto exchange industry lacks transparency and safety standards, but Kraken stands out as a leading crypto trading platform among its peers.

The platform supports multiple fiat currencies, which serve both retail and institutional investors. Investors who use Kraken can access trading options through both margin and spot markets. Users can access increased trading volumes through margin borrowing, which allows them to use their account balance up to five times.  NFTs have no gas fees.

• Educational resources and tutorials are available
• Offers institutional services like OTC trading and one-on-one consultations
• Range of advanced trading tools

• Kraken’s futures trading platform isn’t available to US traders
• Only institutional and high-net-worth clients can use the exchange’s consultation and account management services 

Gemini – Best for Experienced Traders

launched operations in 2014 from its New York headquarters in N.Y. The high-security standards of Gemini make it our top recommendation for users who want to protect their cryptocurrency assets.  All user accounts at Gemini come with two-factor authentication enabled by default. Users can enhance their account security through the use of YubiKey external hardware security keys, which Gemini supports.

Gemini stores most customer assets in offshore cold storage while providing users with simple asset transfer options between the exchange and their wallets.  The company Gemini undergoes regular third-party audits while achieving SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type  2 exams and obtaining its ISO 27001 certification. Users have two options to store their cryptocurrency through Gemini’s hot wallet, which has insurance coverage, or its cold wallet.

In addition to being the best choice for security, Gemini is also our top choice for experienced traders due to Gemini’s ActiveTrader software. The platform offers experienced users the ability to conduct advanced charting techniques, use advanced order types, and trade futures and perpetual contracts.

• Highly secure and compliant platform
• Available in all 50 U.S. states
• Pass-through FDIC insurance for uninvested cash and crypto insurance

• Offers a low number of cryptocurrencies
• Customer support only has a request form
• Complex fee structure

Coinbase – Best for Crypto Collectors

operates as a major US-based cryptocurrency exchange that provides users with an easy-to-use digital marketplace featuring an easy-to-use interface and educational resources. The extensive cryptocurrency selection on Coinbase makes it the top choice for investors who want to spread their portfolio across different digital assets, including new coins and tokens.

 Coinbase operates two separate trading platforms for NFTs and private client services. The Pro and Advanced  Trade and Prime platforms of Coinbase serve investors at different levels.

The Coinbase One subscription service costs  $29.99 per month while providing users with reduced trading fees and tax assistance, and expedited customer support.  The trading fees on Coinbase Advanced range between 0% and 0.6% for both Maker and taker activities.

Users can swap cryptocurrencies using DEC through the Coinbase Wallet platform. Users can start trading with minimal account requirements and store their digital assets and cryptocurrencies in Coinbase’s digital wallet.

The beta  NFT trading platform operated by Coinbase does not charge fees to creators and collectors during transactions. The Apple  Store rates Coinbase at 4.7/5 while Google Play gives it  4.6/5.

• Access to hundreds of cryptocurrencies
• Hot wallet storage and multiple advanced trading platforms are  offered, and private client services
• NFT trading platform

• High trading and transaction fees
• Pay more for lower balances

Zengo – Best for Keyless Wallet Security

operates as a non-custodial crypto wallet that employs Multi-Party Computation  (MPC) to remove the requirement for private keys or seed phrases. The platform provides both beginners and experienced users with simple security features.

Zengo protects user funds by distributing authentication power between mobile devices and cloud servers while requiring biometric verification through Face ID or fingerprint as the last security checkpoint. The wallet remains secure against SIM swap phishing attempts and seed phrase theft.

Zengo supports more than 120 different crypto assets, which include Bitcoin (BTC), ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), and numerous ERC-20 tokens. Users can perform buying and selling operations as well as token swaps through  Zengo by using trusted third-party services, including MoonPay and Banxa.

 Pros of Zengo

• The platform does not need private keys or seed phrases, which minimizes the chance of losing or having your funds stolen.
• The platform features an easy-to-use interface, which makes it accessible to new users.
• The biometric recovery system provides users with simple and secure access to their accounts.
• Application provides continuous customer support throughout 24 hours with human representatives.
• The platform accepts numerous cryptocurrency options.
• Users can access DeFi and Web3 applications through WalletConnect on this platform.

Cons of Zengo

• The lack of open-source availability might be unappealing to users who value system transparency.
• Zengo Pro subscribers need to pay for access to certain advanced features.
• The platform provides less direct DeFi protocol integration than MetaMask does.
• The application exists only on mobile devices because it does not have a complete desktop version. 

Uphold – Best for Cross-Asset Trading

functions as a powerful crypto exchange platform which extends beyond basic cryptocurrency trading through its support for more than 260 assets, including digital currencies and precious metals and U.S. equities, and fiat currencies. 

The exchange market differentiates Uphold through its distinctive “Anything-to-Anything” trading system, which allows users to make direct swaps between any two assets. Users can convert bitcoin directly into gold or  Tesla stock through this system without needing to cash out or perform multiple transactions.

The flexibility of this system gives crypto traders an advantage by allowing them to manage their portfolios efficiently and diversify their investments seamlessly.  The platform attracts users who seek a reliable space because it operates under U.S. and European regulatory oversight and provides transparent real-time proof-of-reserves, and supports both desktop and mobile access.

Uphold provides a solid choice for crypto investors because it offers a user-friendly interface and cross-asset functionality, and transparent operations, while functioning as a gateway to a broader financial ecosystem through its single platform.

• The platform accepts various assets beyond cryptocurrency.
• Users can perform instant asset class conversions between unrelated assets, such as gold and Ethereum.
• Users can access real-time transparency through open reserve reporting.
• The platform features a user-friendly interface that supports both mobile and desktop access.
• Investors who need to manage traditional assets and crypto on one platform will find this platform suitable.
• The platform offers staking rewards for specific cryptocurrencies.
• The debit card service from Uphold provides U.S. customers with crypto cashback rewards.

• The trading spreads on Uphold are higher than those found on exchanges such as Kraken or Binance.
• The platform does not offer advanced trading tools, which makes it less suitable for day traders or technical analysts.
• The Uphold debit card is U.S.-only, limiting some features internationally.

Crypto.com – Best for Mobile Traders

operates as a worldwide crypto trading platform that provides users with an easy-to-use mobile trading app and DeFi wallet storage and reward opportunities.

Crypto.com introduced its US-based institutional-grade exchange in early 2025 to enable US investors to access advanced trading technology, which includes staking and thematic Crypto  Baskets with pre-specified token ratios and more than 5,000 US fee-free stocks and  ETFs, including fractional shares.

The Crypto.com platform enables users to trade 400+ different cryptocurrencies, which include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin. The platform accepts 20+ kinds of fiat money. The  Crypto.com mobile app delivers Visa Card benefits together with reward capabilities, crypto monitoring tools, and price notification features.

 The Crypto.com DeFi wallet now operates under the name Crypto.com Onchain while allowing users to perform crypto-to-crypto swaps.

• Supports 400+ cryptocurrencies
• Mobile app with advanced crypto trading features and reward opportunities
• DeFi wallet storage
• Staking for a wide range of coins, including Ether, Solana, and Cronos

• Not available in New York
• High fees on debit and credit card transactions

Abra – Best for Institutional & Private Clients

is a global cryptocurrency exchange and financial services platform catering to institutional investors and high-net-worth private clients across more than 150 countries. Designed to meet the needs of hedge funds, family offices, and sovereign wealth entities, Abra provides a comprehensive suite of crypto investment and wealth management solutions.

Private clients can open accounts with a minimum deposit of $50,000, gaining access to a wide range of premium services without incurring penalty, withdrawal, or origination fees. Abra employs a transparent pricing model with fixed-term fees and rates, and each private client is assigned a dedicated account manager who provides customized trading strategies, competitive fee structures, and 24/7 access to expert support.

For institutional partners, Abra Prime delivers a robust infrastructure for building and managing digital asset portfolios. This includes access to DEEP liquidity through OTC trading, tailored asset management programs, and secure custodial solutions. Clients can also leverage Abra’s lending products, interest-earning accounts, and exclusive one-on-one advisory services.

With a focus on security, flexibility, and personalized service, Abra is a trusted partner for sophisticated investors seeking meaningful exposure to the cryptocurrency market and emerging digital asset opportunities.

• Offers dedicated account managers, custom strategies, and personalized support for private and institutional investors.
• Provides OTC trading, lending, yield-generating accounts, and access to sovereign wealth solutions, ideal for comprehensive crypto wealth management.
• No penalty, withdrawal, or origination fees for private accounts; transparent pricing structure with fixed-term fee models.
• Around-the-clock expert guidance is available to private clients through their dedicated advisors.

• The platform is focused on traditional crypto finance and lacks native support for decentralized finance (DeFi) or NFT ecosystems.

Bitmart – Best for Altcoins

, founded in 2017 and headquartered in New York, has emerged as a standout crypto exchange for altcoin enthusiasts. With access to over 1,700 tradable cryptocurrencies, BitMart offers one of the most expansive selections in the market. While it includes major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, what truly sets BitMart apart is its support for a vast range of lesser-known and emerging tokens, many of which are not available on other mainstream platforms.

This accessibility makes BitMart a prime destination for traders looking to explore new projects and speculative coins. However, it’s essential to recognize the risks involved. While all cryptocurrencies carry a level of volatility, low-cap and newly launched tokens can be particularly prone to liquidity issues and market manipulation. As such, investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before diving into lesser-known assets.

BitMart also introduces a unique feature through its copy trading system, allowing users to follow and replicate the strategies of the platform’s top-performing traders. Users can review key metrics such as return on investment (ROI), historical performance, and current trading positions. While this feature is appealing to beginners or those seeking guidance, it’s important to remember that past performance does not guarantee future results.

From a technical standpoint, BitMart provides advanced charting tools, though these are currently limited to futures trading. Additionally, the platform supports only two basic order types: market and limit orders, which may be restrictive for experienced traders seeking a more sophisticated set of trading tools.

Despite these limitations, BitMart remains a compelling option for those interested in exploring the broader world of digital assets. Its unparalleled altcoin selection makes it especially valuable for crypto traders who WOULD otherwise need to open accounts on multiple niche platforms just to access the same tokens.

• Access to over 1,700 cryptocurrencies
• Allows social trading through its copy-trading feature
• BitMart Academy provides excellent educational resources

• Does not display its security infrastructure
• A complex, tiered fee structure that ranges to the high side
• Only supports crypto deposits to fund the account

Binance.US – Best for Security Runner-Up

is widely recognized as one of the top crypto exchanges in the United States, frequently compared to platforms like Kraken for its robust trading features and strong security measures. While it earns its position as a security-focused runner-up, its reputation is somewhat clouded by its association with past controversies and regulatory scrutiny, which have affected confidence among more risk-averse investors.

Despite these concerns, it’s important to note that legal and regulatory actions are not uncommon in the crypto industry, even for established and well-capitalized exchanges. Many platforms have faced allegations or enforcement actions over time, highlighting the importance of cautious investing and thorough due diligence when selecting a crypto exchange.

Binance.US has taken significant steps to prioritize security and compliance. Some of its notable security protocols include:

• Data privacy controls to protect user information
• Proactive security monitoring to detect and prevent suspicious activity
• SOC 2 Certification, indicating a high standard of system and organizational controls
• A self-service account lock feature to allow users to quickly secure their accounts in the event of a suspected breach
  

In addition to its security infrastructure, Binance.US is known for its exceptionally low trading fees, making it a popular choice for both retail traders and institutional investors. The platform offers a broad selection of cryptocurrencies, advanced trading tools, and various order types, appealing to active blockchain traders who seek performance and affordability.

Users also benefit from features such as cold-wallet storage for digital assets, staking services for earning passive income on supported tokens, and institutional-grade support for high-volume traders and organizations.

• Free bitcoin trades are available, and low trading fees
• Institutional services available

• Doesn’t offer crypto futures or margin trading.

Cash App Investing – Best for Bitcoin Investors

stands out as one of the most beginner-friendly crypto exchanges in the U.S., thanks to its simple, intuitive interface designed specifically for ease of use. It offers a seamless experience for new investors, not only in cryptocurrency but also in traditional markets, providing commission-free trading on over 1,800 stocks and ETFs.

For crypto users, the Cash App makes Bitcoin trading incredibly accessible. By linking your Cash App balance to the mobile app, you can quickly buy, sell, send, or receive Bitcoin directly within the platform. The app also supports a feature that allows users to automatically convert a portion of their paycheck into Bitcoin through direct deposit, encouraging long-term accumulation with minimal effort.

One standout feature is the Lightning Network integration, which enables instant, fee-free Bitcoin transfers between users. Additionally, Cash App offers an in-app custodial wallet, allowing users to securely store their Bitcoin holdings without needing a separate wallet or platform.

With a low barrier to entry, trading starts at just $1. Cash App Investing is an excellent choice for anyone looking to begin their crypto journey in a straightforward, secure, and versatile environment. 

• No minimum to open an account
• Online banking and investing on the same platform
• Fractional shares available

• Cash App Investing only offers Bitcoin

Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges – Buyer’s Guide

What Is a Crypto Exchange?

A crypto exchange is, very basically, a place where you can purchase a cryptocurrency using cash or another digital asset. This roundup primarily discusses a type of crypto exchange known as a centralized exchange. A centralized exchange is a marketplace operated by a business entity that buys, sells, and facilitates transactions in cryptocurrency.

If you’re new to cryptocurrency or just need to convert fiat currency into crypto, you’ll likely use a centralized exchange.

Another way to get crypto is through what is known as a decentralized exchange. These are largely automated, blockchain-based programs that allow users to swap certain kinds of cryptocurrency for one another. While these can have lower transaction costs, they also require more technical expertise. And if you don’t already have cryptocurrency, your options are limited. 

Types of Crypto Exchanges

• Centralized Exchanges (CEX): Centralized exchanges are the most common type of crypto exchange. Companies manage them and offer features such as fiat on-ramps, access to liquidity, and other advanced charting tools and analytics. However, they are susceptible to centralization and custodial risk. 
• Decentralized Exchanges (DEX): Decentralized exchanges operate on the blockchain and are managed by their users. The most popular example is the Bitcoin system. Decentralized exchanges offer peer-to-peer trading without intermediaries and prioritize privacy and security. However, they lack liquidity and consumer protection and are vulnerable to security breaches.

How Do I Choose the Right Crypto Exchange?

One of the biggest factors in picking a crypto exchange is the type of cryptocurrency you plan to invest in, and how far from the mainstream you want to stray. Bitcoin and a handful of the biggest altcoins like Ethereum are nearly universally available and may be the only cryptocurrencies on the menu at online brokers. If you’re interested in these and merely want to dabble in crypto, an online broker may be a good fit, one added benefit is you can keep your cryptocurrency and other investments within one platform.

But if you are eyeing a niche coin, you’ll want to double-check its availability on any exchange you’re considering. Pure-play crypto exchanges will offer the widest variety of cryptocurrencies and cryptocurrency pairs.

Then consider where you want to store your crypto once you’ve purchased it: Storage options vary from exchange to exchange, and the presence or absence of your preferred storage method could be a reason to choose one service over another.

Generally, you can store crypto with the exchange where you bought it. Most, though not all, exchanges also let you MOVE the digital assets you buy to your own crypto wallet. If that’s important to you, be sure to select an exchange that supports it.

Finally, consider other major factors like fees, the trading experience, and, if you’re new to crypto trading, the level of educational resources provided to help you get started.

What Services Do Crypto Exchanges Offer?

Aside from their primary role at the center of crypto sales and purchases, exchanges have added a handful of other offerings. Among those are services that pay rewards to people who lend out their crypto. Many crypto exchanges will hold your crypto for you if you don’t want to set up a wallet that you control by yourself.

Which Crypto Exchange Offers the Largest Selection?

The number of coins on offer at crypto exchanges can vary widely. If you’re looking to trade a specific cryptocurrency, you’ll want to confirm it’s available through the platform you’re interested in. Generally speaking, if you’re looking for anything more than Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum, you should probably consider a pure-play crypto exchange rather than a traditional broker with a crypto offering. This becomes clear when comparing the number of cryptocurrencies available at pure-play crypto platforms and traditional brokers above.

Are Crypto Exchanges Safe?

Crypto trading is not subject to the same investor protections you get when working with traditional investments. For example, U.S. Securities Investor Protection Corp. insurance doesn’t apply to cryptocurrency, so if your exchange fails, you could lose your investment.

It’s also worth noting that storing crypto in an exchange’s wallet can leave you vulnerable to losses if an exchange fails or suffers a cyberattack. For this reason, some users prefer not to store assets on exchanges unless they’re actively trading.

FAQs

Do I Need a Crypto Wallet to Use an Exchange?

You must have a crypto wallet to buy and sell cryptocurrencies through an exchange. Most platforms have built-in wallet storage. If you don’t want to use your exchange’s built-in wallet (if applicable), you’ll need to set up an external crypto wallet, such as one of the best bitcoin wallets, to store your assets securely.

What Are the Tax Implications of Trading Cryptocurrencies?

For tax purposes, cryptocurrencies are considered property by the IRS, similar to stocks and bonds. Typically, you’ll be taxed when you sell or trade crypto for more than you originally bought it.

Can I Use a Crypto Exchange Without Verifying My Identity?

Some exchanges (especially decentralized ones) allow limited use without identity verification. However, most regulated exchanges require KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance, which includes ID and proof of address for security and anti-money laundering (AML) purposes.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of cryptocurrency starts with selecting the right exchange, one that aligns with your goals, trading style, and risk tolerance. Whether you’re a beginner looking for simplicity, a seasoned trader seeking low fees and advanced tools, or a high-net-worth investor needing institutional-level services, there’s a platform designed to meet your needs.

From Coinbase’s beginner-friendly interface to Kraken’s low-cost structure, Zengo’s keyless security, and BitMart’s unmatched access to altcoins, each exchange offers a distinct set of features and advantages. Meanwhile, platforms like Uphold and Abra go beyond standard trading, providing unique multi-asset access and wealth management solutions.

As always, it’s critical to research thoroughly, prioritize security, and consider the long-term reliability of each platform before committing your assets. Cryptocurrency investing can be exciting and rewarding, but it requires a solid foundation, and that begins with choosing the right exchange.

No single exchange is perfect for everyone. The best choice is the one that empowers you to trade confidently, securely, and in line with your financial strategy.