6 Best Crypto Brokers for Beginners

Best Crypto Brokers for Beginners Revealed. Cryptocurrency trading refers to the practice of speculating on the price movements of cryptocurrencies via a contract for difference (CFD) trading account or directly trading the coins on an exchange.

Bets on Bitcoin (BTC) price fluctuations can be made through Contracts for Difference (CFD) trading, a kind of derivative trading that does not require physical Bitcoin (BTC) ownership. In addition, traders employ bitcoin options to hedge their bets and broaden their exposure to the market.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn:

Which crypto broker has the lowest fees?
How do you start crypto trading as a beginner?
How to choose a crypto broker in South Africa
How to buy cryptocurrency for beginners?
Pros and Cons of the Best Crypto Broker for Beginners

🏆 Top 3 Brokers Crypto Trading Platforms

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6 Best Crypto Brokers for Beginners

📍Platform	User-Friendliness	Minimum Deposit	Fees
🥇Coinbase	Very clean UI, simple for basic use; “ActiveTrader” mode for more features.	Very low (depends on fiat/crypto); in many regions you can deposit with small amounts (e.g. $1)	Web/mobile trades: flat fee for small amounts, or ~1.49% for > $200. ActiveTrader (maker/taker): maker 0.00–0.20%, taker 0.03–0.40%. Deposit: ACH free, debit card ~3.49% Cointelegraph Withdrawal: ACH free, wire ~$25, crypto network fees apply Custody fee (for institutional/large holdings): 0.40% annualized or $30 minimum per asset (for “Gemini Custody”)
🥉Binance	Very feature-rich, which is both strength & complexity. Beginners may find parts overwhelming, but has “Convert / Simple Buy” modes.	Very low Binance allows purchases as little as ~$10 (or even smaller in many regions).	Trading: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker (standard) can get discounts using BNB, higher volumes etc. Deposit: crypto deposits are generally free. Withdrawal: network/coin-based fees; fiat withdrawal costs vary by method/country.
🥈Luno	1.49% trading fee + 3.99% debit card deposit fee.	Low trading fees (0.1% to 0.5% depending on volume).	Deposits in South Africa: bank transfer free; instant deposit ~1.4% (or capped flat fee) Trading / exchange fees: in South Africa, depends on volume and order type. E.g. maker/taker fees like 0.06% / 0.15% in higher tiers. Buy/sell spreads: up to ~2% in some jurisdictions or methods. Withdrawal: express ZAR withdrawal ~R20 to RTC banks, R80 to others
🥇Gemini	Strong security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA).	High-level security protocols and insurance for funds.	Web/mobile trades: flat fee for small amounts, or ~1.49% for > $200. ActiveTrader (maker/taker): maker 0.00–0.20%, taker 0.03–0.40%. Deposit: ACH free, debit card ~3.49% Cointelegraph Withdrawal: ACH free, wire ~$25, crypto network fees apply Custody fee (for institutional/large holdings): 0.40% annualized or $30 minimum per asset (for “Gemini Custody”)
🥉Kraken	Good for beginners; has “simplified” and more advanced views; solid reputation	Very low — in many fiat depositor regions, you can start with small amounts (e.g. $1)	Trading: maker/taker ~ 0.00% – 0.26% / 0.10% – 0.40% depending on volume. Deposit: many fiat deposit methods free or low cost (region dependent) Withdrawal: variable by crypto and fiat method; network fees apply
🥈Crypto.com	Designed for wide appeal; mobile-first; many built-in promotions and rewards; moderate learning curve for advanced features	Depends on region; small fiat/crypto amounts usually possible	Trading: often competitive maker/taker rates (varies) Deposit: some methods free, others with fees (card, etc.) Withdrawal: network fees, possibly fiat withdrawal costs (varies by region)

What is Crypto Brokers for Beginners?

A beginner-friendly crypto broker enables the purchasing, selling, and trading of digital currencies and is affordable, aimed at customers with little or no experience in the crypto sector.

Most of these brokers offer easy-to-use interfaces, an easier way to open an account, and other materials that help beginners appreciate the difficult art of trading performance in cryptocurrency.

Some features that can make a crypto broker more consistent for beginners include easy-to-use mobile applications, small minimum deposits, and increased security.

3 Best Crypto Brokers for Beginners (2025):

☑️Coinbase – Most trusted Cryptocurrency Exchange.
☑️Binance – Best Cryptocurrency for beginners.
☑️Luno – Best digital payment services
☑️Gemini – A highly secure and regulated crypto broker
☑️Kraken – A trusted and versatile platform offering low fees
☑️Crypto.com – A mobile-first crypto broker that combines ease of use

1. Coinbase

Crypto Brokers for Beginners: Coinbase is a well-known and reputable digital currency exchange company that lets users buy, sell, store, and trade virtual currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, among others. Incorporated in 2012, Coinbase is among the first and most famous exchanges in the cryptocurrency market.

The firm also provides a digital wallet, enabling users to keep their coins safely. In addition to this, Coinbase offers various other services based on blockchain technology, including Coinbase Pro for sophisticated traders and Coinbase Custody for institutional clients.

Features

🔖Feature	🔍Details
Founded	2012
🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies	100+ including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and many others
💳Deposit Methods	Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal, and crypto deposits
💳Withdrawal Methods	Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal, and crypto wallets
📌Security Features	Two-factor authentication (2FA), insurance for digital assets, cold storage
⚙️Futures and Derivatives	Yes, offers futures, margin trading, and options for advanced traders
📌Staking	Yes, supports staking for select cryptocurrencies with variable yields
📊P2P Trading	Not supported
📲Mobile App	Yes, available on Android and iOS with full functionality
📞Customer Support	24/7 support via email and chat
📚Educational Resources	Coinbase Earn program, blogs, and tutorials for beginners
🧾Fiat Support	Supports multiple fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP
🛡️Regulation	Fully regulated and compliant in the U.S. and Europe

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.

Why is Coinbase ideal for beginners in 2025?

Coinbase offers an intuitive interface, educational tools, and top-tier security. Its simple buy/sell options, regulated environment, and insurance on digital assets make it a safe and beginner-friendly crypto trading platform.

Does Coinbase offer learning rewards?

Yes, Coinbase’s “Learn and Earn” program allows beginners to understand cryptocurrencies through short lessons while earning small crypto rewards, helping users learn the basics of blockchain and trading with real incentives.

2. Binance

When it comes to starting cryptocurrency trading or investment, Binance is the best exchange for beginners.

Simply put, Binance is the most user-friendly cryptocurrency trading platform, and it is packed with helpful education tools that help any novice trader, even those who have no prior experience, execute successful transactions in cryptocurrencies.

Furthermore, the platform accepts a wide range of cryptocurrencies, which allows for more than just the popular ones like Bitcoin and Ether. Moreover, Binance’s outlined trading costs are very friendly to a beginner, usually between zero point one and zero point five percent.

Features

🔖Feature	🔍Details
📆Founded	2017
🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies	600+ cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Coin, Ripple, etc.)
💳Deposit Methods	Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, P2P, crypto depositsno desktop version
💳Withdrawal Methods	Bank transfer, crypto wallets, P2P, credit/debit cards
📌Security Features	Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, withdrawal whitelist, anti-phishing code
⚙️Futures and Derivatives	Yes, offers futures, margin trading, and options for advanced traders
📌Staking	Supports staking for multiple coins with variable yields
📊Leverage	Up to 125x on futures
📲Mobile App	Yes, available on Android and iOS with full functionality
📞Customer Support	24/7 support, multilingual assistance through chat and email
📚Educational Resources	Binance Academy, blogs, and tutorials for all levels of traders
🧾Fiat Support	Supports over 50 fiat currencies, including ZAR (South African Rand)
🛡️Regulation	Registered and compliant in multiple jurisdictions, including the US, UK, and
💱NFT Marketplace	Yes, offers a platform for trading and creating NFTs
📏Advanced Trading Tools	Charting tools, API integration, order types like stop-loss, OCO, and more

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).

Why is Binance recommended for beginners?

Binance provides a beginner-friendly “Lite” mode for easy navigation, competitive fees, and extensive tutorials. New traders can start simple while gaining access to advanced tools as they grow more experienced in crypto trading.

What makes Binance safe for beginners?

Binance offers strong security measures like SAFU insurance, two-factor authentication, and cold storage for funds. These features ensure new traders can trade confidently without worrying about losing their digital assets.

3. Luno

Luno is a perfect platform for anyone wishing to use cryptocurrency for the first time, especially in South Africa. Its simple and user-friendly design allows new users to buy, sell, and control their cryptocurrencies without getting lost in the chaos.

When it comes to the minimum deposit, Luno is very attractive as it is only R188 (about $10), which means that even beginners do not have to worry about spending a lot of cash.

The app is safe to use as it takes the protection of its users’ funds seriously with measures such as multi-factor authentication and encryption.

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.

What makes Luno beginner-friendly in 2025?

Luno is ideal for beginners due to its simple design, low minimum deposits, and educational resources. It’s especially popular in emerging markets like Africa, offering users an easy gateway into the crypto world.

Does Luno support instant crypto purchases?

Yes, Luno allows instant cryptocurrency purchases using local payment methods. This makes it convenient for beginners to buy and sell crypto without complex trading steps or delays in fund transfers.

4. Gemini

Gemini stands out as one of the most beginner-friendly crypto brokers thanks to its clean interface, strong regulatory framework, and focus on security.

It offers a simple way to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrencies, making it ideal for newcomers who value safety and ease of use.

Features

🔖Feature	🔍Details
Founded	2014
🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies	120+ major coins including BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, DOGE, and stablecoins
💳Deposit Methods	Bank transfer (ACH), wire transfer, debit card, crypto deposits
💳Withdrawal Methods	Bank transfer (ACH), wire, and crypto withdrawals
📌Security Features	Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), cold storage, address whitelisting, insurance on custodial assets, SOC 2 Type 2 compliance
⚙️Futures and Derivatives	Not available
📌Staking	Yes
📊P2P Trading	Not supported
📲Mobile App	Yes
📞Customer Support	Email support and help center; 24/7 ticket system (no live chat)
📚Educational Resources	Gemini “Cryptopedia” offers detailed guides, glossaries, and beginner education
🧾Fiat Support	USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, AUD, HKD, and SGD supported for deposits and trading
🛡️Regulation	Fully regulated and licensed by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS); operates under strict US compliance laws

Pros and Cons

✅Pros	❌Cons
Very strong security and compliance	Higher fees, especially for simpler “buy” operations
Beginner-friendly UI + dual mode	Fee structure complexity
Insurance & custodial protections	Derivatives / futures limited or unavailable in some jurisdictions
Supports staking (for some assets) and yield features in many regions.	Limited staking options in certain regions

Our Findings

With features like two-factor authentication, cold storage, and a secure custody option, Gemini gives beginners confidence to start trading and investing in crypto responsibly.

Why is Gemini suitable for new crypto traders?

Gemini offers a clean, user-friendly interface and strong security compliance under U.S. regulations. It’s perfect for beginners who value safety, ease of use, and a trustworthy platform for buying and storing crypto.

Does Gemini provide learning tools for beginners?

Yes, Gemini includes educational materials and “Gemini Learn,” where users can explore blockchain basics, crypto trading strategies, and best practices for securing their digital assets.

5. Kraken

Kraken is another excellent choice for beginners who want a balance of simplicity and advanced features.

It provides an easy onboarding process, strong educational tools, and low trading fees.

Its stellar reputation for security and transparency makes it a trusted platform for learning and trading.

Features

🔖Feature	🔍Details
Founded	2011
🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies	300+ digital assets including BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, DOT, and many more
💳Deposit Methods	Bank transfer (SWIFT, SEPA, ACH), crypto deposits, wire transfer
💳Withdrawal Methods	Bank transfer, wire, SEPA, and crypto withdrawals to external wallets
📌Security Features	2FA, cold storage for majority of funds, SSL encryption, withdrawal whitelisting, proof-of-reserves audits
⚙️Futures and Derivatives	Yes – offers crypto futures, perpetual contracts, and margin trading (available in supported regions)
📌Staking	Yes – supports on-chain and off-chain staking for various coins like ETH, DOT, ATOM
📊P2P Trading	No direct P2P marketplace (spot and margin trading only)
📲Mobile App	Yes – Kraken App (for beginners) and Kraken Pro (for advanced users) on iOS & Android
📞Customer Support	24/7 live chat and email support; help center with troubleshooting guides
📚Educational Resources	Kraken Learn Center – articles, guides, podcasts, and webinars for traders of all levels
🧾Fiat Support	Supports major fiat currencies including USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, CHF, and AUD
🛡️Regulation	Regulated in the U.S. (FinCEN registered), and complies with AML/KYC laws in multiple jurisdictions

Pros and Cons

✅Pros	❌Cons
Lower trading fees	“Instant Buy”
Strong security track record	Interface complexity
Wide selection of coins and trading pairs, plus advanced products	Verification delays
Good reputation for transparency	Fiat withdrawal fees or processing costs sometimes higher depending on method.

Our Findings

While it’s beginner-accessible through its “Kraken Simple” interface, it also allows users to grow into more advanced trading, like futures or staking, over time.

Is Kraken good for beginners entering crypto trading?

Kraken provides a simple “Kraken Simple” mode for new traders while also supporting advanced trading options. Its low fees, educational content, and strong reputation for reliability make it a great beginner choice.

How does Kraken ensure fund security?

Kraken uses cold storage, encryption, and 24/7 system monitoring to protect user assets. It’s known as one of the most secure crypto exchanges globally, reassuring beginners of safe trading conditions.

6. Crypto.com

Crypto.com is a versatile platform perfect for beginners who want both convenience and rewards.

Its mobile-first design makes crypto trading straightforward, while features like “Crypto Earn” and a Visa card offer additional ways to benefit from holdings.

Features

🔖Feature	🔍Details
Founded	2016
🪙Supported Cryptocurrencies	400+ in many markets
💳Deposit Methods	Fiat (ACH, wire, Apple Pay, Google Pay, card, etc) in supported regions Crypto deposits (various chains)
💳Withdrawal Methods	Withdraw fiat via wire/SWIFT/ACH (depending on region) Crypto withdrawals on supported chains whitelisting new addresses (with 24h lock)
📌Security Features	Withdrawal address whitelisting, 24h lock on new addresses Cold vs hot wallet separation Separate wallets for staking ISO / compliance & certifications claimed (e.g. ISO 27001, PCI DSS, etc)
⚙️Futures and Derivatives	Supports delivery futures (BTC, ETH) in some places U.S. clients: “Up / Down” options type (strikes)
📌Staking	On-chain staking support; users can stake supported assets and earn rewards, with ability to unstake (subject to protocol unbonding)
📊P2P Trading	I did not find a strong, clear reference that Crypto.com globally supports peer-to-peer (P2P) trading in the same way some exchanges do.
📲Mobile App	Yes, the app is a central platform for trading, staking, wallet management, etc, with full features in many regions.
📞Customer Support	24/7 live chat and email support; help center with troubleshooting guides
📚Educational Resources	They have educational content and help center articles (staking, depositing, withdrawals, etc).
🧾Fiat Support	Supports many fiat currencies (USD, EUR, etc) in supported regions; fiat deposits & withdrawals via wire/ACH/SEPA etc in those regions.
🛡️Regulation	Crypto.com claims to be compliance- and security-focused; it markets itself with certifications (ISO, PCI DSS, etc) But regulatory status (licenses) depends regionally, and it has faced regulatory challenges (e.g. U.S. SEC interactions)

Pros and Cons

✅Pros	❌Cons
Large selection of assets and trading pairs	Withdrawal fees / minimums can be high
Low (or zero) trading fees under favorable funding methods	Some services are restricted in certain countries
Rich feature set	Past security incident
Strong security & regulatory claims	Customer support complaints

Our Findings

The app’s intuitive layout, wide crypto selection, and competitive fees make it easy for newcomers to explore digital assets confidently.

What makes Crypto.com beginner-friendly?

Crypto.com’s mobile app is intuitive, allowing beginners to buy, sell, and stake crypto easily. The platform’s clean layout, competitive fees, and Visa card integration make it simple for newcomers to start trading.

Does Crypto.com offer passive earning options?

Yes, through “Crypto Earn,” users can stake or deposit crypto to earn interest. This feature helps beginners generate rewards while learning about long-term crypto investment strategies.

Conclusion

For novice users exploring the South African crypto market, certain benefits are inherent to offering services by Coinbase, Binance, and Luno.

The ease of use observed on Coinbase may be attributed to its simple design and viable security measures, and users are also expected to trade crypto assets for the first time.