13 Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK for 2024

Kane Pepi

Last updated: April 9, 2024 07:38 EDT | 21 min read

Crypto exchanges enable UK investors to buy and sell digital currencies like Bitcoin and BNB. The best crypto exchanges in this space are regulated and offer competitive trading fees across a wide number of markets. In this comparison guide, we review the best crypto exchanges in the UK. 

The 13 Best Crypto Exchanges in the UK for 2024

The best crypto exchanges in the UK for 2024 can be found in the list below:

1. eToro — Overall best crypto exchange in the UK 
2. MEXC — Best for 0% spot trading fees
3. Gate.io — More than 1,700 crypto assets supported
4. Margex — Best no-KYC sign-up crypto exchange
5. Binance — The world’s biggest crypto exchange
6. Bybit — Best for instant trade execution
7. PrimeXBT — Best for margin trading
8. Coinbase — Best crypto exchange for beginners
9. Kraken — Gain exposure to 185+ crypto markets
10. Kucoin — Top altcoin exchange with more than 700 supported coins
11. Crypto.com — Trade 250+ crypto assets at 0.4% commission
12. Bitstamp — Zero trading fees on monthly volumes <$1,000
13. HTX — Top crypto exchange for technical traders

Our comprehensive reviews in the sections below will enable traders to make an informed decision and select the best crypto exchange in the UK.

The Top 13 UK Bitcoin Exchanges Reviewed 

Many UK crypto trading platforms still operate without regulatory approval. To choose the best crypto exchange in the UK, investors should make it a priority to assess the safety of their funds. 

Additionally, UK investors should explore which cryptocurrencies the exchange supports and the fees it charges. Below, we cover these important metrics and more through comprehensive UK crypto exchange reviews. 

1. eToro — Overall Best Crypto Exchange in the UK

eToro has over 30 million global clients who can access more than 70 cryptocurrencies to buy, trade, and hold. That includes large cap coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, BNB, and Cardano, as well as Shiba Inu, Dogecoin, Solana, Decentraland, and the Sandbox. In the UK, the minimum deposit on eToro is $10.

Traders will pay a commission of 1% per slide when trading crypto at eToro. This means that users can buy Bitcoin in the UK and pay a crypto fee of 1% plus the market spread. This amounts to £1 for every £100 worth of crypto bought or sold. 

Another option to consider when buying crypto at eToro is to invest in a Smart Portfolio. This offers access to dozens of crypto assets through a single investment. The Smart Portfolio is professionally managed by eToro. 

This means that investors in the UK can buy and sell crypto passively, as the Smart Portfolio will be re-weighted and re-balanced regularly. The minimum Smart Portfolio investment at eToro is $500, or about £400.

Another option is the eToro CopyTrader tool. It automatically replicates the trades of experienced investors, enabling other investors to follow their strategies and potentially achieve similar investment outcomes.

For example, by investing capital into an experienced crypto trader, any buy or sell positions that they enter on eToro will be copied over to the user’s portfolio. The minimum investment per trade with the CopyTrader tool is $200, or about £160. In addition to crypto assets, eToro also supports traditional financial markets. 

This includes thousands of stocks and ETFs from the UK and international markets, with the latter including the US, Hong Kong, Canada, France, and more. It’s also possible to trade stocks at eToro via CFDs with leverage of up to 1:5. eToro also offers CFD markets on forex, commodities, and indices. 

Other eToro features include a demo account with $100k in paper funds, one of the best crypto wallets, and a mobile app. There are also tools to perform analysis, such as technical indicators and pricing charts.

Pros

• 30+million clients
• 1% crypto trading fee
• 80+ cryptocurrencies
• Supports stocks and ETFs
• Copy trading feature 
• Mobile app

Cons 

• Better suited for those seeking custodial storage 
• $5 (about £4) withdrawal fee

Visit eToro

2. MEXC — Top Choice for 0% Spot Trading Fees

MEXC stands tall as one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK. This is a global crypto exchange catering to over 10 million users across 170+ countries.  Offering an extensive range of features and services, MEXC is a platform for traders seeking diverse options and robust security measures. 

One of the most striking aspects of MEXC is its extensive range of supported cryptocurrencies. With more than 1,700 options available, investors can trade a wide array of assets ranging from large cap cryptos, such as Bitcoin, to niche coins and projects.

What sets MEXC apart is its fee structure, incurring 0% fees for both ‘maker’ and ‘taker’ spot trades, a 0% futures maker fee, and a 0.02% taker fee. This makes MEXC an enticing option for traders seeking a cost-effective solution. Moreover, the platform allows leverage up to 10x on margin trading, amplifying opportunities for users to maximize their gains.

Security takes center stage at MEXC, managing over $500 million worth of crypto deposits through its cold storage option. Advanced security measures such as 2FA protocols, KYC processes, and an anti-DDoS system secure the platform against potential threats.

The exchange’s high-performance trade matching engine technology can handle 1.4 million transactions per second, enabling swift and efficient trading. Combined with advanced charting tools and indicators, traders can analyze market trends and conduct technical analysis.

MEXC also offers attractive APYs through its staking mechanism — which can be used on popular cryptos such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Polkadot. All these features make MEXC one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK.

For more information, read our MEXC review.

Pros

• 0% spot trading fees
• Offers more than 1,700 tradable coins
• High staking returns on cryptos
• High-speed transaction capability
• Stores funds in cold wallet

Cons 

• Charges a 2% debit card fee

Visit MEXC

3. Gate.io — More Than 1,700 Crypto Assets Supported

Gate.ioGate.io is another option to consider on this list of the best crypto exchanges in the UK. The standout feature of this provider is that it supports more than 1,700 crypto assets on its platform. Naturally, Gate.io appeals to investors who wish to diversify across a wide variety of small-to-medium cap projects. 

Although Gate.io doesn’t directly support fiat payment deposits, it does connect to several third-party processors. This includes MoonPay, Banxa, and Coinify. As such, UK investors can deposit funds with a debit or credit card. Fees are determined by the chosen third-party provider and will likely average 3-5%. 

Trading commissions amount to 0.1% per slide for casual traders. Volumes of over $60,000 per month have access to lower commissions. Finally, Gate.io also offers DeFi services, including lending and interest accounts. 

For more information, read our Gate.io review.

Pros

• Huge number of markets at over 1,700 coins
• DeFi services and native wallet app
• High-security measures and proof of reserves
• Comprehensive platform for pro traders

Cons 

• Not regulated in the UK
• More suited for experienced crypto traders 

Visit Gate.io

4. Margex — Best No-KYC Crypto Exchange

Margex stands out as one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK with its strong focus on privacy and streamlined user experience, eliminating the need for Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures.

Launched in 2020, Margex offers a simplified sign-up process that allows traders to dive into derivatives trading without the usual verification hurdles, making it an attractive platform for those who prioritize privacy and speed.

As a platform specializing in crypto-USD pairs for leveraged trading, Margex supports leverage ranging from 5x to 100x. This flexibility enables traders to amplify their trading strategies according to their risk tolerance and market outlook.

Margex distinguishes itself with the MP Shield AI system, designed to protect users from price manipulation and ensure fair trading conditions. With liquidity provided by twelve different sources, Margex ensures high liquidity, facilitating efficient trade execution without significant price slippage.

Traders have the convenience of funding their accounts with cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, or even purchasing Bitcoin directly using Visa or Mastercard.

Despite its unregulated status, Margex doesn’t compromise on security. The platform employs industry-standard security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage wallets to safeguard users’ funds.

Moreover, Margex’s commitment to accessibility and convenience is complemented by its robust customer support, available around the clock through live chat and email. For more information, read our Margex review.

Pros

• No-KYC sign-up simplifies onboarding
• Advanced margin trading options
• High liquidity enhances trading efficiency
• Intuitive interface for pro traders

Cons 

• Unregulated status

Visit Margex

5. Binance — The World’s Biggest Crypto Exchange

Binance was for a long time the cheapest crypto exchange in the UK, with commissions starting at just 0.1% per slide. Nowadays, Binance charges fees between 0% to 0.6%, depending on each investors trading volume. A casual or beginner trader can expect to pay 0.6% per slide, amounting to 60p for every £100 worth of crypto traded. 

Interestingly, Binance offers a 25% fee reduction for those holding BNB. This is the native coin of the Binance ecosystem. Moreover, depositing funds into a Binance account via a UK bank transfer costs just £1. Debit and credit card payments are supported, but it costs 1.8% in transaction fees. 

In addition to offering competitive fees, Binance is the best crypto exchange in the UK for supported markets. It offers access to more than 350 coins across a wide variety of projects. Moreover, this extends to more than 1,000 tradable markets. There is also a conversion feature that enables traders to swap coins at the click of a button. 

However, the more cost-effective way of trading is to use the Binance exchange. This will see UK investors trading with other market participants through a highly sophisticated platform that comes packed with analysis tools and features. Binance also offers a decentralized wallet called Trust, which comes in the form of a mobile app.

For more information, read our Binance review.

Pros

• Relatively low trading fees
• Low minimum deposit (£15)
• Supports more than 350 coins
• Huge liquidity levels 

Cons 

• Debit/credit cards fee of 1.8%
• Not regulated by the FCA

Visit Binance

6. Bybit — Best for Instant Trade Execution

Bybit stands out for its fast trade executions, advanced trading features, and stringent security protocols, making it a top choice for advanced traders in the UK looking for an efficient and secure trading environment.

Established in the UAE and launched in 2018, Bybit has quickly climbed the ranks to become a significant force in crypto. Renowned for its ultra-fast matching engine, Bybit guarantees instant trade execution.

The platform’s interface, whether on web or mobile, is designed with intuitiveness in mind, although it’s particularly geared towards seasoned traders.

This is largely due to the integration of advanced TradingView charts and a focus on perpetual futures products, tools that can be complex for novices but are invaluable for experienced traders aiming to conduct in-depth technical analysis or engage in high-level trading strategies.

Security measures at Bybit are robust, featuring a dual wallet mechanism that divides user funds between hot (online) and cold (offline) wallets. This design ensures that the bulk of assets are stored offline, minimizing the risk of cyber-attacks and enhancing the safety of user investments.

For more information, read our Bybit review.

Pros

• Instant trade execution
• Advanced trading features
• Professional-grade platform
• Secure dual wallet mechanism

Cons 

• Complex interface for beginners

Visit Bybit

7. PrimeXBT — Best for Margin Trading

PrimeXBT stands out in the UK crypto exchange landscape, especially for margin traders. Launched in 2018, PrimeXBT has quickly established itself as a premier platform for advanced traders, offering a vast array of financial instruments, including cryptocurrency CFDs, commodities, indices, and forex pairs.

Its appeal lies not just in the variety of trading options, but also in the platform’s high liquidity and advanced trading tools.

PrimeXBT prides itself on superfast execution speeds, with an average order execution time of less than 7.12 milliseconds. This efficiency is bolstered by its integration with Amazon AWS servers and connections to multiple liquidity providers, ensuring trades are executed swiftly and reliably.

One of PrimeXBT’s most notable features is its high leverage offerings. Traders can access up to 200x leverage on Bitcoin and Ethereum CFDs, and up to 100x on other altcoins and indices.

Its proprietary copy trading solution adds another layer of accessibility, particularly for beginners. This feature allows less experienced traders to mirror the strategies of seasoned investors, providing a practical learning tool and potentially accelerating their trading success.

Additionally, PrimeXBT caters to a broad audience with its customizable platform, allowing users to tailor their trading interface to match their specific strategies and goals.

For more information, read our PrimeXBT review.

Pros

• High leverage options
• Advanced trading features
• Proprietary copy trading solution

Cons 

• Lack of regulation
• Limited fiat support

Visit PrimeXBT

8. Coinbase — Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners 

Established in 2012, Coinbase has grown into a global powerhouse, serving users in over 100 countries and granting access to a vast array of cryptocurrencies. Its platform mirrors the simplicity of online banking apps, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can navigate it effortlessly.

With a straightforward interface, robust security measures, and a plethora of educational resources, Coinbase is very accessible for beginner traders.

Moreover, Coinbase prioritizes security, offering features such as FDIC insurance for USD balances, digital fund insurance, two-factor authentication, and IP address whitelisting. 

The latter means that when an account holder logs in from an unrecognized IP address, Coinbase will execute an additional security check. Additionally, 98% of client digital assets are kept offline in cold storage wallets.

While Coinbase’s trading fees are competitive, they may pose a challenge for small-scale traders, reaching up to 0.60% depending on trading volume. Still, Coinbase’s offerings extend beyond trading, including an NFT marketplace and opportunities for passive earning on numerous assets.

For more information, read our Coinbase review.

Pros

• One of the best crypto exchanges for beginners  
• More than 200 cryptocurrencies listed 
• Strong commitment to regulation and security
• Extensive educational resources available

Cons 

• Debit/credit cards attract a fee of 3.99%

Visit Coinbase

9. Kraken — Gain Exposure to 185+ Crypto Markets 

Kraken is an established provider and one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK. It was founded in 2011, and has been offering crypto services since 2013. UK investors can open an account with Kraken in a matter of minutes, and proceed to make a deposit with a UK bank transfer. This will not attract any deposit fees. 

The other option is the make a debit/credit card payment to buy crypto instantly. This will attract a fee of 3.75%, plus 25p. In total, Kraken offers access to more than 200 cryptocurrencies. There is a spot trading fee of 0% to 0.4%, when exchanging coins on the Kraken Pro suite. This comes with advanced charting tools and technical indicators. 

Although Kraken is considered safe, this crypto exchange doesn’t offer its own proprietary wallet. Therefore, UK investors should consider withdrawing their coins out of the Kraken exchange after completing their purchase. Those looking to improve their crypto trading knowledge will find the free Kraken educational department valuable.     

For more information, read our Kraken review.

Pros

• Offers more than 200 cryptocurrencies
• Great reputation for customer safety 
• Advanced trading features
• Professional-grade platform

Cons 

• Debit/credit cards fee of 3.75% + 25p
• No proprietary crypto wallet

Visit Kraken

10. Kucoin — Top Altcoin Exchange With More Than 700 Supported Coins  

Kucoin is a global crypto exchange that accepts clients from the UK in addition to 200 other countries. This provider is perhaps the best crypto exchange in the UK for altcoins, with more than 700 cryptocurrencies. Kucoin is often the go-to place to invest in newly launched crypto assets that carry a small market capitalization. 

Kucoin also offers social trading features that enable users to share market insights and discuss potential trading opportunities.

Kucoin users can trade via the exchange’s web trading suite or mobile app. The latter is free to download on both Android and iOS smartphones. Spot trading commissions operate on a maker-taker pricing model. 

At Kucoin, spot trading fees stand at just 0.1% per slide. When holding and paying commissions in Kucoin’s native token, KCS, fees are reduced by 20%. Kucoin also offers crypto lending, interest account services, and NFTs. 

For more information, read our Kucoin review.

Pros

• The best crypto exchange in the UK for altcoins
• More than 700 coins supported
• Low minimum deposits from just £10 
• Advanced trading tools for pro users
• Extensive crypto staking options

Cons 

• Not transparent on debit/credit card fees
• Not regulated by the FCA 

11. Crypto.com — Trade 250+Crypto Assets at 0.4% Commission

Crypto.com is one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK for diversification purposes as well as gaining exposure to new cryptos. After opening an account with this provider, which typically takes 5-10 minutes, UK investors will have access to more than 250 coins.

Additionally, Crypto.com offers competitive trading fees. For example, the highest rate that UK investors will pay to trade is just 0.075% per slide. This means that buying £100 worth of crypto costs just 7.5p.

The Crypto.com maker-taker pricing model offers even lower fees to those trading larger volumes. Lower fees are also possible when staking CRO tokens, which is the native digital currency of the Crypto.com ecosystem.

To get money into a newly created Crypto.com account, UK investors can transfer funds from a bank account without paying any deposit fees. Those in a rush might consider using a debit/credit card, which is processed instantly. 

However, this will attract a fee of 2.99% of the transaction amount. Furthermore, do note that GBP deposits can only be made via the Crypto.com app. Once the account is funded, investors can buy and sell coins via the Crypto.com web trading interface, which comes packed with tools and features. 

It’s also possible to generate a yield on idle coins through the Crypto.com Earn platform. For example, by depositing crypto on a 3-month term, investors can earn up to 14.5%. Shorter-term investors might opt for a flexible account which, although yielding a lower interest rate, offers instant withdrawals.

Crypto.com also offers loans, NFTs, and a DeFi wallet. For more information, read our Crypto.com review.

Pros

• Low crypto trading fees 
• 250+ cryptocurrencies supported
• User-friendly mobile app for iOS and Android
• DeFi services, including interest accounts and loans

Cons 

• Debit/credit cards attract a fee of 2.99%
• Purchases made with GBP are only available on the app

Visit Crypto.com

12. Bitstamp — Zero Trading Fees on Monthly Volumes <$1,000

Bitstamp is a popular crypto exchange that offers access to 95 coins. Investors in the UK can trade via the Bitstamp website or mobile app, which is compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. There are plenty of trading tools supported by Bitstamp across both device types, including real-time crypto charts and technical indicators. 

When it comes to fees, deposits are free when transferring funds from a UK bank account. Debit and credit card payments, however, will attract an instant buy fee of 5%. As such, bank transfers, although slower to process, represent the better option. Commissions are very competitive at Bitstamp. 

For monthly trading volumes of under $1,000 (about £800), no commissions are charged. Anything traded above this figure within a 30-day period will attract a commission of 0.4%. After buying crypto at Bitstamp, the coins can be left in the web/mobile wallet. 95% of client digital assets are kept in cold storage at all times.  

For more information, read our Bitstamp review.

Pros

• 0% commission on the first $1,000 traded each month 
• 95% of client tokens are kept offline
• No fees to transfer funds via a UK bank account 

Cons 

• Debit/credit cards attract a fee of 5%

Visit Bitstamp

13. HTX — Top Crypto Exchange for Technical Traders

HTX is one of the best crypto exchanges in the UK for advanced traders. After choosing a suitable market across more than 700 supported coins, traders will have access to a highly intuitive charting area. This can be customized to the trader’s liking in terms of timeframes, colors, and market depth. 

There are comprehensive order books updated in real-time in addition to drawing tools and technical indicators. Multiple order types are supported too, including triggers, stop-limits, and take-profits. HTX offers a competitive maker-taker pricing model, where the highest commission charged is just 0.2% per slide.  

Although HTX isn’t FCA regulated, its exchange is protected by a 20,000 BTC security fund. This is in place to cover account holders in the event the exchange is hacked. HTX traders are also protected by cold storage. HTX supports UK debit/credit cards and bank account transfers for a smooth deposit and withdrawal process. 

Pros

• Trade Bitcoin and 700+ other crypto assets
• Pay just 0.2% per trade in commission

Cons 

• Confusing debit/credit card fees
• Some  HTX products are’t accessible to UK clients

Visit HTX 

Comparing the Best UK Crypto Exchanges

The table below highlights the key features of the 13 crypto exchanges reviewed in the sections above:

Conclusion: What’s the Best Crypto Exchange in the UK?

Each exchange offers unique features such as deposit options, cryptocurrency variety, and fees, which cater to a variety of crypto investors and traders. Compare each exchange to find the right one for your needs.

Our pick as the best crypto exchange in the UK is eToro thanks to its user-friendly interface and extensive offerings. With 80+ tradable coins, a proprietary wallet, and an award-winning copy trading tool, it provides you with everything you need to buy, sell, and hold crypto easily.

Visit eToro

FAQ

Which crypto exchange is best in the UK?

eToro is the best crypto exchange in the UK. It offers an extensive selection of over 80 cryptocurrencies, a proprietary wallet, and a CopyTrader tool. Its user-friendly interface and $10 minimum deposit make eToro accessible to all traders, while robust security and stellar customer support underscore its reliability.

What is the safest crypto exchange in the UK?

Gemini is the safest crypto exchange in the UK thanks to its robust security protocols, including SOC 2 certification, hot wallet insurance,  and enforcement of 2FA and device approval.

What is the cheapest way to buy crypto in the UK?

The cheapest way to buy crypto in the UK is to use an exchange with low deposit and low trading fees, like MEXC.

References

1. CoinMarketCap: Top Cryptocurrency Spot Exchanges
2. Gate.io: 100% Proof of Reserve Report
3. MEXC: The Complete Guide to USDT-M Perpetual Futures on MEXC
4. CoinDesk: KuCoin Token
5. Gemini: Gemini Completes SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 Examinations — Leading Crypto Industry

About the Author

Kane Pepi

Kane Pepi is a financial, gambling and cryptocurrency writer with over 2,000 published works, including on platforms like InsideBitcoins and Motley Fool. He specializes in cryptocurrency guides, exchange and wallet reviews, and covers new crypto projects for Cryptonews.com. His expertise includes asset valuation, portfolio management, and financial crime prevention. Pepi holds a Bachelor's in Finance, a Master’s in Financial Crime, and is pursuing a Doctorate in money laundering in crypto and blockchain. Connect with Kane on LinkedIn.

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