The landscape of crypto trading in the United States has matured significantly, with exchanges offering more than just a place to buy and sell digital assets. From zero-commission models to institutional-grade infrastructure, platforms now cater to a wide range of users. Each with different priorities. Whether you’re a first-time Bitcoin buyer or an advanced trader seeking low latency and margin tools, understanding how these exchanges differ is critical.
In this guide, we break down the top 10 Crypto Exchanges in the US. Highlighting not just their features and strengths, but also their trading fees, hidden costs, and ideal user profiles. Whether you’re chasing low spreads, prioritising regulation, or looking for a seamless mobile experience, this comparison will help you make an informed decision.
1. Coinbase
The mainstream choice for retail traders.
Coinbase is the most widely used crypto exchange in the United Sates and ideal for beginners. It is one of the top Crypto Exchanges in the US. It features two modes: Coinbase (basic) and Coinbase Advanced.
- Trading fees:
- Coinbase basic: ~0.50% spread + flat fee ($0.99 to $2.99 depending on amount)
- Coinbase Advanced: Maker: 0.00–0.40%, Taker: 0.05–0.60%
- Other fees: Higher costs for credit card purchases and withdrawals
- Strengths: Strong brand, easy-to-use, insured custodial wallets
- Weaknesses: High fees unless using Advanced mode
2. Kraken
High-security exchange for serious traders.
Kraken is favoured by experienced traders for its security and full suite of services including margin and futures.
- Trading fees (Kraken Pro):
- Maker: 0.00–0.16%, Taker: 0.10–0.26%
- Other fees: Free ACH deposits; crypto withdrawal fees vary by asset
- Strengths: Advanced tools, low fees, US and EU licenses
- Weaknesses: Slower fiat processing at times
3. Gemini
Institutional-grade infrastructure with a retail touch.
Gemini is known for transparency, security, and compliance. It offers both a simple app and an ActiveTrader platform.
- Trading fees:
- Mobile app/web: ~0.50% spread + convenience fee (up to 1.49%)
- ActiveTrader: Maker: 0.00–0.25%, Taker: 0.01–0.35%
- Other fees: $0 for ACH transfers, $10 minimum for wire withdrawals
- Strengths: Regulation-focused, secure custody, insurance coverage
- Weaknesses: Expensive on retail interface
4. Crypto.com
Mobile-first experience with extensive rewards.
Crypto.com has one of the most expansive app offerings, from a Visa debit card to DeFi integration.
- Trading fees:
- Maker: 0.075–0.16%, Taker: 0.075–0.25%
- Up to 0% if staking enough CRO tokens
- Other fees: Free crypto transfers to other Crypto.com users; network fees apply for external withdrawals
- Strengths: Rewards ecosystem, broad crypto support
- Weaknesses: CRO staking needed for top perks
5. Binance.US
Low fees and wide range of tokens.
Binance.US offers one of the lowest-cost trading environments in the country.
- Trading fees:
- BTC spot pairs: 0% (zero-fee Bitcoin promotion)
- Others: Maker: 0.00–0.35%, Taker: 0.00–0.35%
- Other fees: ACH deposits/withdrawals are free; wire: $15–$35
- Strengths: Inexpensive, wide token access
- Weaknesses: Limited features compared to global Binance
6. eToro USA
Social trading meets crypto investing.
eToro combines crypto with stocks and ETFs on a single platform. Its social trading feature lets users mirror top investors.
- Trading fees:
- 1.0% flat spread per transaction (buy/sell)
- Other fees: $5 withdrawal fee, $10/month inactivity after 12 months
- Strengths: Social trading, intuitive UI
- Weaknesses: Limited tokens, high spread cost
7. Robinhood Crypto
Zero-commission trading for the masses.
Robinhood offers commission-free crypto trading, but the price spread can hide costs.
- Trading fees:
- $0 commission, but hidden spreads often range from 0.3–1.5%
- Other fees: No deposit or withdrawal fees, but crypto transfers newly supported
- Strengths: Clean app, zero fees
- Weaknesses: Less transparent pricing, fewer tokens
8. Bitstamp USA
European reliability with US access.
Bitstamp is a veteran exchange with a conservative approach to asset listings and a strong record of stability.
- Trading fees:
- Maker: 0.00–0.30%, Taker: 0.00–0.40%
- Fees drop with higher 30-day volume
- Other fees: $10 wire withdrawal (free for SEPA and ACH)
- Strengths: Regulated, good liquidity
- Weaknesses: Not many trading pairs
9. Uphold
Multi-asset platform with strong cross-border access.
Uphold allows users to trade crypto, metals, and fiat from a single wallet. Prices are inclusive of fees, shown before execution.
- Trading fees:
- Spread: ~0.8–1.2% on major cryptos (can be higher on low-liquidity assets)
- Other fees: $0 ACH transfers; $3.99/card withdrawal fee
- Strengths: Transparent pricing, asset diversity
- Weaknesses: Spreads wider than pro exchanges
10. Swan Bitcoin
Dedicated to long-term Bitcoin investors.
Swan is ideal for users who want to DCA (dollar-cost average) into Bitcoin over time, not trade actively.
- Trading fees:
- 0.99–2.29% depending on purchase amount
- Other fees: Free BTC withdrawals (within reasonable limits)
- Strengths: Education-driven, Bitcoin-only simplicity
- Weaknesses: Not suitable for traders or altcoin buyers
Summary Fee Comparison Table
| Exchange | Trading Fees (Maker/Taker) | Notable Perks | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | 0.00–0.40% / 0.05–0.60% (Advanced) | Insured custody, easy UI | Beginners, casual investors |
| Kraken | 0.00–0.16% / 0.10–0.26% | Margin, staking, security | Advanced traders |
| Gemini | 0.00–0.25% / 0.01–0.35% (Active) | Regulated, insured, simple app | Institutions, security-focused |
| Crypto.com | 0.075–0.25% | Debit card, CRO rewards | Mobile users, rewards seekers |
| Binance.US | 0.00–0.35% | 0% BTC, large asset range | Cost-sensitive traders |
| eToro USA | ~1.0% spread | Social trading | Copy traders, multi-asset fans |
| Robinhood | 0% commission, hidden spread | Easy access | Retail traders, mobile-first |
| Bitstamp USA | 0.00–0.30% / 0.00–0.40% | Trusted legacy brand | Institutions, conservative |
| Uphold | ~0.8–1.2% spread | Cross-asset trading | Global and casual users |
| Swan Bitcoin | 0.99–2.29% | Education + BTC-only focus | Long-term Bitcoin holders |
Conclusion
In 2025, crypto exchanges are not just places to trade. They are gateways to a broader financial ecosystem. Coinbase and Kraken continue to dominate for general use, while Binance.US and Crypto.com appeal to active traders seeking low fees. Newer players like Swan and Uphold target niche audiences with long-term or cross-asset strategies.
Make sure to compare not just fees, but also features, compliance, and user protection before choosing a platform.
