11 Best Coinbase Alternatives for 2023 (Top Sites & Apps Like Coinbase)

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When it comes to buying, selling, and storing cryptocurrency, Coinbase has long been the go-to platform for beginners and casual investors. With its clean interface, regulatory compliance, and widespread trust, it’s no surprise that millions have adopted it as their primary gateway into digital assets. However, as the crypto ecosystem evolves, so do user expectations—especially around fees, privacy, security, and asset diversity.

Over time, concerns have grown about Coinbase’s relatively high trading fees, extensive data collection practices, and limited payment options outside the U.S. These drawbacks have driven both new and experienced investors to explore better-performing alternatives that offer improved cost-efficiency, broader coin selection, stronger security models, and enhanced usability.

After thorough analysis of over a dozen platforms—including centralized exchanges, decentralized protocols, custodial wallets, and retirement-focused services—here are the top Coinbase alternatives in 2023 that stand out for reliability, innovation, and user-centric design.

Zengo – Best All-in-One Crypto Wallet & Exchange

Zengo emerges as the most balanced alternative to Coinbase, combining a non-custodial wallet with built-in exchange functionality. Its keyless security model—powered by facial authentication and multi-party computation (MPC)—eliminates the risk of lost private keys while maintaining full user control over funds.

Why Zengo excels:

While Zengo supports fewer fiat onramps than Coinbase, its focus on self-custody and ease of use makes it perfect for users who want security without complexity.

👉 Discover a smarter way to manage crypto with advanced wallet technology

Uphold – Most Diverse Asset Marketplace

For investors seeking exposure beyond mainstream tokens, Uphold offers one of the broadest selections in the industry: over 250 cryptocurrencies and 30+ fiat currencies, including exotic altcoins and ERC-20 tokens not listed on larger exchanges.

Key advantages:

Though its mobile app lags behind its desktop experience, Uphold remains unmatched for users pursuing global diversification across digital and traditional assets.

Bitcoin IRA – Top Choice for Tax-Efficient Crypto Investing

If you're looking to grow your crypto portfolio within a tax-advantaged structure, Bitcoin IRA is the leading platform for integrating digital assets into retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s.

Notable features:

With a $15,000 minimum investment requirement, this service is best suited for serious long-term investors focused on wealth preservation and retirement planning.

Kraken – Gold Standard in Security & Compliance

Kraken has earned a reputation as one of the most secure and transparent exchanges in the crypto space. With zero major breaches since its founding and full compliance across multiple jurisdictions, it's a top pick for security-conscious traders.

Highlights include:

While Kraken offers fewer niche altcoins than some competitors, its commitment to legal compliance and institutional-grade infrastructure makes it ideal for active traders and professional investors.

👉 Access advanced trading tools with strong security protocols

Binance – Largest Selection of Altcoins & Low Fees

As the world’s largest crypto exchange by volume, Binance dominates in two critical areas: altcoin availability and ultra-low fees.

Standout benefits:

Despite regulatory challenges in certain regions (including restrictions in the U.S.), Binance continues to lead globally in innovation, liquidity, and product depth.

Crypto.com App – Best Onboarding Experience for Beginners

The Crypto.com App shines as an entry point for newcomers thanks to its sleek mobile interface, gamified learning modules, and generous referral incentives.

Why new users love it:

While spread-based pricing can make trades slightly more expensive than advertised, the overall experience is highly accessible and motivating for first-time investors.

Gemini – Most Regulated U.S. Exchange

Gemini stands out as one of the few exchanges licensed to operate in all 50 U.S. states, making it a trusted choice for compliant crypto investing.

Key strengths:

Though fees are slightly higher than average and altcoin selection is modest, Gemini’s regulatory rigor appeals strongly to conservative investors and institutions.

Robinhood Crypto – Commission-Free Trading for Holders

Robinhood has extended its popular zero-commission stock trading model to crypto, allowing users to trade seven major coins—including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin—without any fees.

Pros:

Limitations include lack of staking, DeFi access, and narrow coin selection—making it better suited for passive investors than active traders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the safest alternative to Coinbase?
A: Kraken and Gemini are widely regarded as the safest options due to their proven security track records, cold storage policies, insurance coverage, and strict regulatory compliance.

Q: Which exchange has the lowest fees compared to Coinbase?
A: Binance offers some of the lowest trading fees starting at 0.1%, followed closely by Kraken, which scales fees down to 0% for high-volume traders.

Q: Can I buy crypto without KYC verification?
A: Yes—some decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and peer-to-peer platforms allow anonymous purchases, though most reputable alternatives like those listed require identity verification for regulatory reasons.

Q: Are there tax advantages to using certain exchanges?
A: While exchanges themselves don’t offer tax benefits, platforms like Bitcoin IRA enable you to hold crypto in tax-deferred or tax-free retirement accounts, providing significant long-term savings.

Q: Is it safe to store crypto on an exchange?
A: It’s generally safer to move large holdings to a private wallet. However, exchanges like Kraken and Gemini use advanced security measures (cold storage, insurance) that make short-term storage reasonably secure.

Q: Can I earn interest on crypto outside of Coinbase?
A: Yes—many alternatives like Crypto.com and Binance offer staking, lending, and yield-generating products that often provide higher returns than Coinbase Earn.

How to Choose the Right Coinbase Alternative

Selecting the best platform depends on your specific goals. Use these criteria to guide your decision:

🔒 Security: Look for cold storage usage, insurance policies, audit transparency, and history of breaches.
💰 Fees: Compare maker/taker rates, spreads, withdrawal costs, and volume-based discounts.
🪙 Asset Support: Ensure the platform offers the coins you want—especially lesser-known altcoins or stablecoins.
💳 Payment Options: Check availability of bank transfers, cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, etc.
📱 User Experience: Prioritize intuitive design, mobile app quality, educational tools, and responsive support.

👉 Compare real-time market data across top exchanges effortlessly

Final Thoughts: Diversify Beyond Coinbase

While Coinbase played a pivotal role in mainstreaming cryptocurrency adoption, relying solely on one platform limits your potential. From lower fees and greater privacy to tax advantages and wider altcoin access, the best Coinbase alternatives empower you to take full control of your financial future.

Whether you're a beginner seeking simplicity or an advanced trader chasing performance, there’s a tailored solution available today. Evaluate your priorities—security, cost, convenience—and test platforms that align with your strategy. The future of investing isn’t locked inside a single app; it’s built through smart choices across a dynamic ecosystem.