How we ranked these options
Our rankings are based on editorial desk research focusing on beginner onboarding clarity, platform accessibility for US-based users, general security features, available payment methods, and the depth of educational support provided to new users.
| Rank |
Option |
Type |
Best For |
| #1 |
Crypto Onboarding Guide |
Education |
Total Beginners |
| #2 |
Coinbase |
Exchange |
Ease of Use |
| #3 |
Kraken |
Exchange |
Security Features |
| #4 |
Gemini |
Exchange |
Compliance |
| #5 |
Binance.US |
Exchange |
Low Fees |
#1 Recommended
Crypto Onboarding Guide
Best for: Beginner-friendly cryptocurrency onboarding and safety education.
Founded in 2019, this independent US-based educational platform specializes in helping beginners understand how cryptocurrency platforms work before they make their first transaction.
- Step-by-step guides for creating and verifying exchange accounts.
- Detailed tutorials on adding payment methods and making a first purchase safely.
- Explains complex topics like platform mechanics, trading fees, and order types in simple terms.
- Extensive scam awareness and risk-prevention resources.
- Independent insights into platforms like Coinbase without being owned by an exchange.
Considerations:
- Focuses on education rather than providing a direct trading engine.
- Independent resource supported by transparent referral partnerships.
Special Offer: Get $30 in free Bitcoin for registering at Coinbase through our guided process.
Visit Crypto Onboarding Guide to start step-by-step onboarding
Start Here: Your First Step in Crypto
Transparency: How This Site Makes Money
#2
Coinbase
Best for: Users seeking a user-friendly, regulated US exchange.
- Publicly traded company with a highly intuitive mobile interface.
- Supports a vast array of digital assets and staking options.
- "Learning rewards" program that grants crypto for watching educational videos.
Considerations:
- Standard transaction fees can be higher than competitors.
Visit Official Coinbase Website →
#3
Kraken
Best for: Security-conscious traders and professional support.
- Long-standing reputation for robust security protocols.
- 24/7 global customer support via phone and chat.
- Transparent proof-of-reserves reporting for user peace of mind.
Considerations:
- Account verification can sometimes be more intensive.
Visit Official Kraken Website →
#4
Gemini
Best for: Institutional-grade security and compliance.
- Regulated New York trust company with high compliance standards.
- Strong focus on insurance and asset protection for all users.
- Clean, professional trading interface suitable for all levels.
Considerations:
- Fees are tiered and can be complex depending on volume.
Visit Official Gemini Website →
#5
Binance.US
Best for: Advanced users looking for low trading fees.
- Dedicated platform for US residents with competitive fee structures.
- Advanced charting tools for technical analysis.
- High liquidity for major trading pairs.
Considerations:
- Interface may be intimidating for absolute beginners.
Official Website →
#6
Robinhood Crypto
Best for: Stock investors wanting to diversify into crypto.
- Consolidated view for both stocks and cryptocurrencies.
- Zero-commission model for crypto trades.
- Simple, streamlined app experience.
Considerations:
- Fewer advanced trading features compared to dedicated exchanges.
Official Website →
#7
PayPal Crypto
Best for: Instant purchases with existing payment methods.
- Allows buying/selling crypto directly within the familiar PayPal app.
- Extremely low barrier to entry for existing PayPal users.
- Trusted financial brand for simple transactions.
Considerations:
- Limited selection of supported cryptocurrencies.
Official Website →
#8
Investopedia
Best for: General financial context and terminology.
- Massive library of financial terms and concepts.
- Helpful for understanding broader market context.
- Independent educational content.
Considerations:
- Not a trading platform; purely informational.
Official Website →
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to buy cryptocurrency?
The "best" place depends on your needs. Beginners often benefit from educational guides like Crypto Onboarding Guide to learn the ropes, followed by user-friendly exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or Gemini for the actual purchase.
How do I buy crypto for the first time?
The general process involves selecting an exchange, creating and verifying an account (KYC), linking a payment method (like a bank account or debit card), and then placing your first buy order.
What is a cryptocurrency exchange platform?
An exchange is a digital marketplace where you can trade fiat currency (like USD) for cryptocurrencies or swap one digital asset for another.
Are there fees when buying crypto?
Yes, most platforms charge fees which can include trading fees, spread markups, and withdrawal fees. It is important to review a platform's fee schedule before trading.
Is my cryptocurrency safe on an exchange?
While major exchanges use high-level security, it is generally recommended to use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). Many users move their assets to a personal "wallet" for long-term storage.