Coinbase
Coinbase is the most recognizable name in US crypto, and that recognition is largely earned: it was the first major exchange to go public, which means its finances are audited and public in a way most competitors' aren't. For someone buying their first $50 of Bitcoin, it's hard to beat the simplicity.
Fees
| Simple buy/sell | ~1.49% |
| Advanced Trade (maker) | ~0.00–0.40% |
| Advanced Trade (taker) | ~0.05–0.60% |
| Withdrawal to bank | Free (ACH) |
Security
Coinbase holds the large majority of customer funds in offline cold storage and carries crime insurance on its hot wallet holdings. It has never suffered a major hack of customer funds in its history, though individual account takeovers via phishing remain the most common way users lose funds — 2FA is essential.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Publicly listed (NASDAQ: COIN), audited financials
- Cleanest beginner UI of any major exchange
- Strong regulatory standing in the US
Cons
- Simple 'Buy' flow fees are high — often 1%+
- Advanced Trade (lower fees) has a learning curve
- Customer support response times vary
Verdict
The easiest on-ramp for a first-time buyer, with the trust of being publicly listed. Fees run high on the simple "buy" flow — worth switching to Advanced Trade once you're comfortable.
Visit Coinbase → affiliate link