5 Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges. We have explored and tested several prominent brokers to identify the 5 best.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn:
- The Best Crypto Broker for Beginners.
- What are Cryptocurrency exchanges?
- Best Crypto Trading Platform for Professionals.
- Pros and cons of each broker.
- Popular FAQs about the best Cryptocurrency Exchanges.
And lots more…
Let’s dive right in…
Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges
| ➕Exchange | 🪙Available Cryptocurrencies | 🔑Special Features | 💴Fees | 📌KYC Requirements |
| 🥉Binance | 600+ | Futures, staking, P2P trading, margin trading | 0.10% per trade | Yes |
| 🥇Luno | 10+ | Simple user interface, educational tools, local payment options | 0.1% to 1% per trade | Yes |
| 🥈VALR | 60+ | Zero fees for deposits, digital banking integration | 0.75% taker, 0.1% maker | Yes |
| 🥉Gemini | 100+ | Gemini Earn, regulated by NYDFS, high-security standards | 1.49% per trade | Yes |
| 🏅Coinbase | 100+ | Coinbase Earn, easy-to-use interface, educational tools | 1.49% per trade | Yes |
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What are cryptocurrency exchanges?
A cryptocurrency exchange is a network-based system that allows users to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies.
In this regard, such systems perform the functions of buyers and sellers, facilitating the buying and selling of digital currency assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, among other cryptocurrencies.
One can buy another cryptocurrency using an existing one or convert the cryptocurrencies to fiat currencies (for example, bitcoins to dollars or rands). Usually, cryptocurrency exchanges and trading platforms provide extra options and services like security wallets, analytics, and staking and also allow for leverage trading.
5 Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges Revealed (2025 October)
- ☑️Binance – Largest and most widely-used cryptocurrency exchanges.
- ☑️Luno – Popular digital payment platform.
- ☑️VALR – User-friendly interface for trading cryptocurrencies.
- ☑️Gemini – Highly-regulated cryptocurrency exchange.
- ☑️Coinbase – Best digital currency exchange company
1. Binance
Binance is undeniably one of the largest and the most outstanding crypto ventures globally, with access to over 600 cryptocurrencies for trading.
It is characterized by relatively low transaction costs (0.1% per trade) and an array of trading alternatives, such as spot trade, futures, and margin trading. It also includes other activities, such as staking and p2p trade, as well as savings products, making this platform suitable for both novices and seasoned users.
The site primarily focuses on user safety, with features such as two-step verification (2FA) and the use of cold wallets for funds, though the platform has had regulatory issues in some countries.
Features
| 🔖Feature | 🔍Details |
| 📆Platform Name | Binance |
| 🔖Trading Options | Spot trading, Futures trading, Margin trading, Staking, P2P, Binance Earn |
| 🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies | Over 350+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Binance Coin (BNB), and more |
| 💳Fees | - Spot Trading: 0.10% (can be reduced to 0.075% using BNB) - Futures: 0.02% Maker / 0.04% Taker |
| 📊Leverage | Up to 125x leverage on futures trading |
| 💱Liquidity | Very high, suitable for large volume trades |
| 📌Security Features | - Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) - Withdrawal whitelist - Anti-phishing code |
| 📲Mobile App | Fully-featured mobile app for Android and iOS |
| ⚙️User Interface | Advanced trading interface with customizable charts, real-time market data, and multiple order types |
| 📌Staking & Savings | Earn passive income through staking, savings, and liquidity pools |
| 📚Trading Tools | Advanced charting tools, real-time market data, trading bots, and API integration |
| 💳Payment Methods | Credit/Debit cards, Bank Transfers, P2P trading, Third-party payment methods |
| 🧾Supported Regions | Available in most countries globally |
| 📞Customer Support | 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and an extensive help center |
| 📏Additional Features | - Binance Launchpad (for new tokens) - Binance Academy (for educational content) - NFT Marketplace |
Pros and Cons
| ✅Pros | ❌Cons |
| Over 600+ coins available for trading. | Facing scrutiny from some regulators globally. |
| 0.1%, with further discounts using Binance Coin | Advanced features and interface might be overwhelming for new users. |
| One of the most liquid exchanges in the world, ensuring smooth trades. | May not support local currency in certain regions. |
| Offers margin trading, futures, options, and more. | Delays may occur during high traffic periods. |
Our Findings
Binance stands out as a highly versatile crypto trading platform. It offers access to over 600 cryptocurrencies with competitive fees, especially when using Binance Coin (BNB).
2. Luno
Luno is one of the most sought-after platforms for trading cryptocurrencies in South Africa, giving users an easy and well-thought-out system to purchase, sell, and keep digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Novices prefer Luno because of its simple-to-use platform and local payment integration.
The exchange can be accessed via mobile apps for Android and iOS, expanding the scope of crypto trading to anywhere. Luno emphasizes safety and security, employing, among other precautions, two-factor authentication (2FA) and holding most of the users’ money in cold storage. It is also in the market, with appropriate governmental relations and relevant licenses.
Features
| 🔖Feature | 🔍Details |
| Founded | 2013 |
| 🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), USDC |
| 💳Deposit Methods | Bank transfer (EFT), credit/debit cards, crypto deposits |
| 💳Withdrawal Methods | Bank transfer, crypto wallets |
| 📌Security Features | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, multi-signature wallets |
| ⚙️Futures and Derivatives | Yes, offers futures, margin trading, and options for advanced traders |
| 📌Staking | Currently not supported |
| 📊P2P Trading | Not supported |
| 📲Mobile App | Yes, available on Android and iOS with user-friendly interface |
| 📞Customer Support | 24/7 email support, help center with articles, responsive social media support |
| 📚Educational Resources | Luno Learning Portal with articles, guides, and in-app tutorials for beginners |
| 🧾Fiat Support | Supports local currencies including ZAR (South African Rand), EUR, IDR, MYR, NGN |
| 🛡️Regulation | Regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa |
| 💱Crypto Savings | Luno Earn – Allows users to earn interest on Bitcoin and USDC deposits |
| 📏User Interface | Beginner-friendly with a clean, intuitive design |
Pros and Cons
| ✅Pros | ❌Cons |
| Luno offers beginner-friendly crypto trading to South Africans | There is an extremely limited selection of coins offered |
| Traders and investors can gain interest on their crypto savings | |
| Luno is known for its ultra-low fees |
Our Findings
Luno is a South Africa-based crypto exchange known for its user-friendly interface and strong local support. It primarily focuses on popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
3. VALR
VALR is an incredibly easy-to-use cryptocurrency exchange from South Africa that competes with other exchanges regarding pricing and the number and types of coins offered.
It provides more than 60 cryptocurrencies for buying, selling, and trading purposes. VALR is the only platform in South Africa that charges a very low 0.1% maker’s fee and no deposit fees, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced traders.
The system guarantees high levels of security via two-way verification and cold storage methods while providing digital banking to ease of converting fiat currencies to cryptocurrencies. Counselors can provide another service where VALR positions itself as the best solution in the local market for users who want a local exchange with a global offering.
Features
| 🔖Feature | 🔍Details |
| Founded | 2018 |
| 🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies | 60+ including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Solana (SOL), and more |
| 💳Deposit Methods | Bank transfer (EFT), crypto deposits |
| 💳Withdrawal Methods | Bank transfer (EFT), crypto wallets |
| 📌Security Features | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, encryption, biometric login |
| ⚙️Futures and Derivatives | Yes, offers futures, margin trading, and options for advanced traders |
| 📌Staking | Currently not supported |
| 📊P2P Trading | Not supported |
| 📲Mobile App | Yes, available on Android and iOS |
| 📞Customer Support | Responsive email support, help center with FAQs, active social media channelsmedia support |
| 📚Educational Resources | VALR Learn – Articles, blogs, and resources to educate beginners and advanced traders |
| 🧾Fiat Support | Supports local Supports ZAR (South African Rand) |
| 🛡️Regulation | Regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa |
| 💱Crypto Savings | Not supported |
| 📏User Interface | Beginner-friendly but also has advanced features for pro traders |
Pros and Cons
| ✅Pros | ❌Cons |
| Based in South Africa | Primarily focused on the South African market |
| Competitive fees with a 0.1% maker and 0.2% taker fee structure. | Does not support staking or earning interest on crypto holdings. |
| Luno is known for its ultra-low fees | Does not offer a peer-to-peer trading platform. |
Our Findings
VALR is a prominent crypto exchange in South Africa, offering over 60 cryptocurrencies with competitive fees.
4. Gemini
Gemini is a popular cryptocurrency exchange and day trading platform that allows users to buy, sell, and trade various digital assets. Gemini’s Crypto Day Trading platform offers advanced tools and features, such as real-time market data, charts, and order books, making it suitable for experienced traders. The platform is known for its security measures, including cold storage and two-factor authentication. Gemini also offers competitive fees and margin trading options, making it an attractive choice for day traders.
Gemini is a popular and well-regulated cryptocurrency trading platform catering to active traders who trade large volumes using day trading strategies. Gemini is known for its robust regulatory framework in the crypto market, with regulation through the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS).
With Gemini, traders can be assured of a secure trading environment while having access to a wide variety of crypto assets. Gemini’s fees are competitive, and the platform supports a variety of trading opportunities.
Features
| 🔖Feature | 🔍Details |
| 📆Founded | 2014 |
| 🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies | 100+ including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Chainlink (LINK), and more |
| 💳Deposit Methods | Bank transfer (ACH), wire transfer, crypto deposits, debit card |
| 💳Withdrawal Methods | Bank transfer (ACH), wire transfer, crypto wallets |
| 📌Security Features | Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, hardware security modules, SOC 2 Type 2 compliance |
| ⚙️Futures and Derivatives | Yes, offers futures, margin trading, and options for advanced traders |
| 📌Staking | Gemini Earn – Users can earn interest on their crypto holdings |
| 📊P2P Trading | Not supported |
| 📲Mobile App | Yes, available on Android and iOS with full functionality |
| 📞Customer Support | 24/7 email support, help center with guides, responsive social media channels |
| 📚Educational Resources | Gemini Cryptopedia – Educational articles and guides for all levels of traders |
| 🧾Fiat Support | Supports USD, EUR, GBP, and a few other major currencies (ZAR not directly supported) |
| 🛡️Regulation | Registered and compliant in multiple jurisdictions, including the US, UK, and |
| 💱Crypto Savings | Gemini Earn – Allows users to earn interest on select crypto holdings |
| 📏Advanced Trading Tools | Charting tools, API integration, order types like stop-loss, OCO, and more |
| 🔗Transaction Speed | Bank transfers typically processed within 1-3 business days, with fast crypto transactions |
| 📱User Interface | Beginner-friendly platform with advanced options available through Gemini ActiveTrader |
Pros and Cons
| ✅Pros | ❌Cons |
| Licensed and regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services | Standard trading fees are higher compared to other exchanges |
| SOC 2 Type 2 compliance, cold storage | Doesn't directly support ZAR |
| Intuitive interface for beginners and a powerful ActiveTrader platform for advanced users. | Lacks a peer-to-peer trading option for users. |
| Users can earn interest on their crypto holdings. | Although it supports 100+ coins, fewer than some competitors. |
Our Findings
Gemini is a well-regulated global crypto exchange known for its strong emphasis on security and compliance.
5. Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world and has more than 43 million registered users from over 100 countries. Coinbase is the perfect option for retail traders and investors despite their trading experience.
Coinbase provides a powerful, trusted platform where users can buy, sell, store, and trade 43 cryptocurrencies. In addition, Coinbase offers its users an innovative mobile trading platform where they can perform all kinds of functions.
The app is available on smartphones and tablets for Android and iOS users, allowing users to trade while they are on the move. A robust desktop portal, with a Coinbase Pro desktop trading platform, is also offered, catering to active traders and professional investors.
On the Pro version of Coinbase, users can gain access to real-time order books, use different charting tools, and manage their orders seamlessly.
Coinbase also provides the perfect opportunity for users to earn free crypto when they learn about newly released digital assets. To earn free digital assets, users can watch videos on different crypto assets, complete quizzes, and do several other tasks.
Features
| 🔖Feature | 🔍Details |
| 💻Platform Name | Coinbase |
| 🔖Trading Options | Spot trading, Limit and Market Orders, Stop Orders |
| 🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies | 200+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), and more |
| 💳Fees | - Maker: 0.00% to 0.40% - Taker: 0.05% to 0.60% (Fees reduce with higher trading volume) |
| 📊Leverage | No leverage |
| 💱Liquidity | High liquidity, especially for major cryptocurrencies |
| 📌Security Features | - Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) - Cold storage for most assets - Insurance for custodial funds |
| 📲Mobile App | Full-featured mobile app for Android and iOS with charting and trading capabilities |
| ⚙️User Interface | Clean and intuitive interface with real-time order books, price charts, and market history |
| 📌Staking & Savings | Staking rewards on select cryptocurrencies like ETH and ADA |
| 📚Trading Tools | - Advanced charting - API for custom trading bots - Order book and real-time market data |
| 💳Payment Methods | Bank transfers, ACH, wire transfers, and cryptocurrency transfers |
| 🧾Supported Regions | Available in over 100 countries, including the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia |
| 📞Customer Support | 24/7 customer support through email, chat, and comprehensive help center |
| 📏Additional Features | - Coinbase Earn (earn rewards by learning about crypto) - Insurance for U.S. customers' assets |
Pros and Cons
| ✅Pros | ❌Cons |
| Wide range of cryptocurrencies supported | Complex user interface for beginners |
| Strong security features, including 2FA and cold storage | Higher trading fees compared to some competitors |
| Advanced trading tools and charting options | Limited fiat currency options in some regions |
| Margin trading with up to 5x leverage | Withdrawal limits can be restrictive for unverified accounts |
Our Findings
Coinbase is a highly secure and beginner-friendly crypto exchange known for its clean interface and ease of use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best cryptocurrency exchange depends on individual trading needs, preferences, and experience levels. Ultimately, thorough research and consideration of security, fees, supported assets, and user experience will help users select the best exchange to suit their investment strategies and goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which crypto exchange is the best in South Africa?
A few options suit different crypto traders and investors in South Africa. Each exchange has unique features that will satisfy different users’ trading and investment needs and objectives. The exchanges on the list above are considered the best options for South Africans based on various offerings, fees, security, and other metrics.
Do Bitcoin exchanges trade other cryptocurrencies?
Yes, most Bitcoin exchanges will offer a wide range of other coins.
What is the cost of trading crypto through an exchange?
This will depend on the exchange. Most exchanges charge maker and taker fees according to the volume traded. Lower trading volumes will attract higher fees.
Do I need to pay tax on crypto in South Africa?
Yes, according to SARS, normal income tax rules will apply to crypto assets. This means that affected taxpayers must declare any gains or losses on crypto assets as part of their taxable income.
Is Binance legit in South Africa?
Crypto giant Binance operates globally – including in South Africa.
Do you pay tax on crypto in South Africa?
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) classifies cryptocurrencies as “assets of an intangible nature” and taxes crypto-to-crypto trades and payments for goods or services as barter transactions.
Which is the safest crypto exchange?
The safest crypto is Binance.
How does a cryptocurrency exchange work?
When you buy cryptocurrencies via an exchange, you purchase the coins themselves.
Is crypto real money?
Cryptocurrency, or crypto, is virtual or digital assets purchased with real money ($, £) traded on blockchain technology.
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