Coinbase
Coinbase is the world's largest publicly listed crypto exchange and holds FCA registration in the UK through CB Payments Ltd (FRN 900635). It offers a clean, beginner-friendly app for simple crypto purchases alongside Advanced Trade — a full exchange interface with order books and a competitive maker-taker fee model. With 200+ cryptocurrencies, free Faster Payments deposits, and a strong security record, Coinbase is one of the most credible starting points for UK users entering the crypto market.
Who it's for: Traders looking for beginners, regulated, crypto, buy-and-hold.
Coinbase
The UK's largest FCA-registered crypto exchange — simple buy/sell for beginners, Advanced Trade for cost-conscious active traders.
- Min. Deposit
- None
Affiliate link · Disclosure
Fees
Spread + transaction fee (standard); Maker-taker (Advanced Trade). Minimum deposit: None.
Platforms & tools
- Web
- iOS
- Android
- Advanced Trade
Markets
- crypto
Pros
- Largest FCA-registered crypto asset firm in the UK (CB Payments Ltd, FRN 900635)
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface with simple one-click buy/sell
- Advanced Trade for active traders — fees drop to 0.25%/0.40% at moderate volume
- Free GBP deposits via Faster Payments (FPS)
- 200+ cryptocurrencies including all major assets
- Strong security track record and publicly listed on NASDAQ
Cons
- Standard app fees high for casual buying — 0.5% spread plus up to 2.99% transaction fee
- Debit card purchases carry a 3.99% fee
- Crypto-to-crypto swaps cost 2%
- Coinbase retains 25-35% of staking rewards
- Customer support response times can be slow
- Crypto holdings are not FSCS-protected
Alternatives to Coinbase
Capital.com
FCA-regulated CFD and spread betting broker with an intuitive platform suited to beginners and cost-conscious traders.
- Min. Deposit
- £20
Affiliate link · Disclosure
IG
One of the UK's largest and longest-established brokers, offering CFDs, spread betting, shares, ETFs, ISA and SIPP under FCA regulation.
- Min. Deposit
- £0
Affiliate link · Disclosure
Plus500
FCA-regulated and London Stock Exchange-listed CFD broker with a simple proprietary platform and commission-free pricing.
- Min. Deposit
- £100
Affiliate link · Disclosure
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive compensation when you click on links to brokers and products featured on this site. This compensation does not influence our rankings, reviews, or recommendations. We maintain editorial independence and provide objective comparisons. Read our full disclosure policy.
Risk Warning: This website does not provide financial, investment, or trading advice. All information is for educational purposes only. Trading and investing involve substantial risk of loss. You should carefully consider your financial situation and consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions.
Last updated: 2026-05-26