As Bitcoin continues to dominate headlines—hitting an all-time high of over $109,000 on January 20, 2025—interest in crypto trading is surging. Whether you’re investing in Bitcoin, Ethereum, or altcoins, choosing the right platform is crucial. The best crypto exchanges and apps provide robust trading tools, a wide selection of cryptocurrencies, intuitive interfaces, and varying fee structures to match your trading style and experience level.
Investopedia’s team of editors and analysts evaluated 14 of the most active crypto exchanges using 27 weighted criteria, including trading features, fees, security, and transparency. Here’s our list of the top platforms for April 2025, tailored to different types of users:
Best Crypto Exchanges and Apps (April 2025)
- Best for Low Fees: Kraken
- Best for Security & Experienced Traders: Gemini
- Best for Beginners: Coinbase
- Best Mobile App & Best for Bitcoin: Crypto.com
- Best for Altcoins: Bitmart
Kraken – Best for Low Fees
Kraken leads the pack when it comes to low-cost trading. With a minimum deposit of just $10, Kraken delivers professional-grade trading tools, strong customer support, and a wide range of crypto assets—all at a competitive price.
Gemini – Best for Security & Experienced Traders
Gemini stands out for its rigorous security protocols, including third-party audits and insurance coverage for digital assets. It’s also perfect for seasoned traders thanks to its ActiveTrader platform, which supports advanced charting, multiple order types, and derivatives trading like futures and perpetual contracts.
Coinbase – Best for Beginners
Coinbase is the ideal starting point for crypto newcomers. Its sleek, user-friendly interface, easy-to-understand fee structure, and robust educational resources make it easy for beginners to start trading with confidence. As users grow more comfortable, they can access advanced features without switching platforms.
Crypto.com – Best Mobile App & Best for Bitcoin
For traders on the move, Crypto.com offers the most seamless mobile experience. Users can buy, sell, and manage crypto directly from their smartphones. It’s also the best choice for Bitcoin enthusiasts, offering strong security, competitive fees, and a wide array of Bitcoin-focused tools—including options and futures trading.
Bitmart – Best for Altcoins
With over 1,700 cryptocurrencies listed, Bitmart is the go-to exchange for altcoin hunters. Though it lacks some advanced features found on other platforms, it provides access to hard-to-find digital assets, making it a great supplemental exchange for crypto enthusiasts exploring niche projects.
Why You Can Trust This List
Since 2020, independently researched the crypto exchange market. For this list, our team analyzed nearly 450 data points across key categories:
- Trading Features (30%)
- Fees (28%)
- Security (21%)
- Transparency (21%)
Our goal is to deliver unbiased, data-driven insights to help readers choose the best crypto exchange for their goals.
Note: Investing in cryptocurrencies, DeFi platforms, and ICOs involves significant risk. Crypto markets are highly volatile. Always consult with a financial professional before making investment decisions. This article is not a recommendation to invest, and we do not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.
