Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Which Should You Choose? (2024)

Crypto.com and Coinbase are two trusted cryptocurrency exchanges with their respective native coins. Coinbase’s USD coin (USDC) is a U.S. dollar-stable coin, meaning 1 USDC equals $1. On the other hand, Crypto.com provides Crypto.com coin (CRO), which doesn’t have a fixed value. Both exchanges let users buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrency. Plus, they ensure top-notch security and provide a digital wallet in addition to allowing users to earn rewards for staking their cryptocurrencies.

Although both platforms are popular, Crypto.com is a more affordable option for most users. While both use a maker-taker fee structure, Crypto.com is cheaper for low-volume takers, which is what most users are looking for in a crypto exchange. However, in specific trading areas, Coinbase is a better option, especially if you are dealing with large volumes. Crypto.com delivers generous rewards in the form of interest on crypto deposits. While staking rewards on Coinbase are lower, it makes up for this with its ease of use.

We evaluated both exchanges on supported currencies, fees, special features, and security. Moreover, we looked at how access levels differ between investors in various U.S. locations.

Why Trust Us

28

Exchanges reviewed

41

Exchange features considered

1148

Data points analyzed

50

Primary data sources used

Investopedia collected key data points from 28 cryptocurrency exchanges across several key categories, including security, fees, features, and more. Then, we applied our subject matter expertise to the development of a quantitative comparison model that we used when conducting comprehensive company reviews that help our readers find the right exchange to fit their needs.

Full methodology Link

Unlike traditional brokerage firms, cryptocurrency exchanges are not members of the Securities Investor Protection Corp. (SIPC). Therefore, unless user terms specify otherwise, investors with cryptocurrency assets commingled on a custodial cryptocurrency exchange could potentially lose their funds as unsecured creditors.

Investing in cryptocurrencies, decentralized finance (DeFi), and other initial coin offerings (ICOs) is highly risky and speculative, and the markets can be extremely volatile. Consult with a qualified professional before making any financial decisions. This article is not a recommendation by Investopedia or the writer to invest in cryptocurrencies nor can the accuracy or timeliness of the information be guaranteed.

:Crypto.com

Investopedia's Rating

4.7

  • Fees: 0.0% to 0.075% maker fees, 0.05% to 0.075% taker fees
  • Currencies: 350+
  • Security: Two-step verification, FDIC-insured USD balances up to $250,000, platform insurance against theft, cold storage, bug bounty program
  • Wallet: Multi-factor authentication, biometric, private keys locally encrypted
  • Transactions Supported: Buy, sell, send, receive, withdraw, exchange

Pros

  • Non-custodial, DeFi Wallet available

  • Added benefits for locking CRO

  • Multiple ways to earn crypto or interest

Cons

  • Customer service isn’t responsive

  • Somewhat limited educational resources

:Coinbase

Investopedia's Rating

4.8

  • Fees: Variable fees (Coinbase),0.00% to 0.40% maker fee and 0.05% to 0.60% taker fee per trade (Coinbase Advanced Trader)
  • Currencies: 240+
  • Security: Two-step verification, FDIC-insured USD balances up to $250,000, platform insurance against theft, cold storage, bug bounty program
  • Wallet: AES-256 encryption and multi-signature wallets
  • Transactions Supported: Buy, sell, send, receive, withdraw, exchange

Pros

  • Make transactions using PayPal

  • Earn crypto by learning about trading

  • User-friendly, even for beginners

Cons

  • For the average user, some of the highest fees of all exchanges

  • Fewer tradable altcoins than Crypto.com

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase

  • Crypto.com
  • Coinbase
  • At a Glance

  • Features

  • Currencies

  • Security

  • Fees

  • Ease of Use

  • Access

  • Final Verdict

  • Frequently Asked Questions

  • Methodology

At a Glance

Crypto.comCoinbase
Fees0.0% to 0.75% maker fees, 0.05% to 0.075% taker feesVariable fees (Coinbase),0.00% to 0.40% maker fee and 0.05% to 0.60% taker fee per trade (Coinbase Advanced Trader)
Currencies350+240+
SecurityTwo-step verification, FDIC-insured USD balances up to $250,000, platform insurance against theft, cold storage, and uses a bug bounty programTwo-step verification, FDIC-insured USD balances up to $250,000, platform insurance against theft, cold storage, and uses a bug bounty program
WalletMulti-factor authentication, biometric, private keys locally encryptedAES-256 encryption and multi-signature wallets
Transactions SupportedBuy, sell, send, receive, withdraw, and exchangeBuy, sell, send, receive, withdraw, and exchange
Max. Monthly Trading AmountMonthly withdrawal limit of 500,000 USD$500,000 withdrawal limit in any currency

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Features

Both cryptocurrency exchanges provide a mobile app that works on Android and iOS devices along with a digital wallet. However, the platforms differ in their offerings. Coinbase focuses on beginner education, while Crypto.com, which started as a crypto payment platform, offers several products, such as Visa cards and crypto pay at checkout, and several ways to earn crypto.

Coinbase investors appreciate its massive library of information about trading cryptocurrency. By taking a course or viewing a lesson about various altcoins, users earn a bit of cryptocurrency, usually $3 or more at a time. The Coinbase Card is a Visa debit card available to Coinbase users that earns rewards on every purchase. Plus, Coinbase has a native coin, USD Coin (USDC). Users can hold onto USDC to earn a 0.15% annual percentage yield (APY).

Unlike Coinbase, Crypto.com offers very limited educational materials. Its knowledge base covers the basics of the platform. There are also various categories of articles and a handful of lessons in the "university" section. Instead, it concentrates on products:

  • Visa card: Several card tiers offering up to 5% CRO rewards on purchases, depending on the amount of CRO staked
  • Crypto pay: Buy gift cards with crypto or select crypto pay at checkout at certain retailers to pay using crypto
  • Crypto earn: Users can earn up to 7% on crypto deposits; however, it’s typically not recommended to store currency on platforms
  • Crypto credit: Non-U.S.-based users can borrow against their crypto collateral with a Crypto loan

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Currencies

Crypto.com supports more than 350 cryptocurrencies, whereas Coinbase has more than 240 tradable cryptocurrencies. Both exchanges support popular fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, and GBP, as well as coin fractions. Crypto.com has 21 fiat-supported currencies, but Coinbase does not share its complete list. Both platforms have state-specific restrictions for certain currencies; however, both support Dogecoin (DOGE), along with other favorite altcoins.

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Security

Coinbase and Crypto.com are both highly secure platforms offering industry-standard measures required for operation in the United States. Both exchanges provide two-factor (2F) authentication, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance on USD balances, and insurance against damage or theft. They also use a bug bounty platform to find weaknesses in their code. Coinbase keeps 98% of cryptocurrency in cold storage, whereas Crypto.com says it stores 100% in cold storage.

Each platform features a digital wallet with excellent security features, including multi-factor authentication and address whitelisting. Whitelisting is sometimes mandatory on the Crypto.com wallet and always optional on Coinbase. The Crypto.com wallet provides private keys that are encrypted locally on the user’s device. With Coinbase, the trading account does not allow you to manage your private keys, but the stand-alone wallet does let you manage them and have them on your device.

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Fees

The biggest difference between the platforms comes down to cost. Crypto.com keeps it simple using the maker-taker model, with rates ranging from 0.0% to 0.75% for maker fees and 0.05% to 0.075% for taker fees. Investors pay additional fees for using credit cards. Coinbase charges maker fees ranging from 0.00% to 0.40% and taker fees ranging from 0.05% to 0.60%. This makes Crypto.com cheaper for most customers who will fall into the category of the highest taker fee.

For example, a low-volume trader wanting to purchase $100 worth of Bitcoin (BTC) via an Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) transfer incurs a maker-taker fee of 0.0% to 0.75% on Crypto.com. Coinbase charges maker-taker fees of 0.40% and 0.60%, respectively, on the same transaction.

Crypto.comCoinbase
Wallet Conversion FeeFree1%
Debit/Credit Cards2.99%N/A
ACH TransferFree, with a minimum of $20Free
Wire TransferFree, with a minimum of $1,000$10 deposit, $25 withdrawal
TradesMaker-taker model based on 30-day trading volumeMaker-taker model

Maker-taker fees for Crypto.com differ according to different levels:

  • < 250,000 -0.0750% maker fee and 0.0750% taker fee
  • ≥ 250,000 -0.0700% maker fee and 0.0720% taker fee
  • ≥ 1,000,000 - 0.0650% maker fee and 0.0690% taker fee
  • ≥ 5,000,000 - 0.0600% maker fee and 0.0650% taker fee
  • ≥ 10,000,000 - 0.0% maker fee and 0.0500% taker fee

In comparison, Coinbase charges rates that are a bit higher:

  • $0 to 10,000: 0.60% taker fee, 0.40% maker fee
  • $10,000 to 50,000: 0.40% taker fee, 0.25% maker fee
  • $50,000 to 100,000: 0.25% taker fee, 0.15% maker fee
  • $100,000 to 1,000,000: 0.20% taker fee, 0.10% maker fee
  • $1,000,000 to 15,000,000: 0.18% taker fee, 0.8% maker fee
  • $15,000,000 to $75,000,000: 0.16% taker fee, 0.6% maker fee
  • $75,000,000 to $250,000,000: 0.12% taker fee, 0.3% maker fee
  • $250,000,000 to 400,000,000: 0.8% taker fee, 0% maker fee
  • $400,000,000 and above: 0.5% taker fee, 0% maker fee

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Ease of Use

Both platforms offer web-based and app-based trading, each platform with its own strengths in terms of ease of use. Crypto.com provides a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate and trade cryptocurrencies. Its mobile app offers a seamless experience with features like a built-in wallet and a user-friendly trading interface.

Coinbase also offers a simple and intuitive interface, appealing to novice users. Its user-friendly design and straightforward buying/selling process make it accessible to beginners.

Both platforms prioritize ease of use, but Crypto.com's mobile app may have a slight edge in terms of user experience and convenience.

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Access

Both exchanges offer wide accessibility to users, but with some notable differences. Crypto.com provides global access to its services, allowing users from various countries to sign up and trade cryptocurrencies. It also supports a wide range of fiat currencies, making it convenient for users worldwide.

Coinbase offers access to customers in multiple countries, although the availability of certain features may vary depending on the user's location. Coinbase also provides a mobile app for convenient access.

Final Verdict

When it comes to the best cryptocurrency exchanges, factors like ease of use, low fees, and a wide selection of coins are crucial. Crypto.com, despite having a slight learning curve, offers a user-friendly website and app that are easy to navigate. Moreover, it supports a broader range of currencies and boasts lower costs compared to Coinbase, especially for the fee tier that most users fall into. The broader scope of offerings enhances the overall appeal of Crypto.com, making it the preferred choice for users seeking a more comprehensive cryptocurrency platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Crypto.com and Coinbase?

Crypto.com and Coinbase are crypto exchange platforms that let investors buy and sell a wide range of cryptocurrencies, encompassing both popular and lesser-known options. Crypto.com stands out by providing a unique Crypto.com Visa Card, allowing users to spend their cryptocurrencies directly at millions of locations worldwide. This innovative feature bridges the gap between traditional finance and the crypto world, offering convenience and utility to users. On the other hand, Coinbase offers a Coinbase Earn program, enabling users to earn free cryptocurrencies by completing educational tasks. These enticing incentives make both platforms not only practical but also engaging and rewarding for crypto enthusiasts.

How Do Crypto.com and Coinbase Work?

Crypto.com and Coinbase use similar verification methods once users sign up for an account. Once the account is verified, investors can deposit money via ACH, wire transfer, PayPal, or a credit or debit card.

To trade on Crypto.com, simply go to the Markets page, select your preferred coin, and click on the Trade button. On Coinbase, click Get Started to access a list of available cryptocurrencies. Both platforms provide fee information before finalizing the trade.

Regardless of the exchange, it's important to learn the basics of investing, find the most cost-effective deposit methods (such as ACH), and determine the security measures you wish to implement for a successful crypto trading experience.

Are Crypto.com and Coinbase Safe?

Yes, both Crypto.com and Coinbase prioritize the safety of their users' funds and employ multiple industry-standard security measures. While Crypto.com is based in Singapore and may have different regulatory requirements, it places equal importance on security compared to Coinbase.

These reputable exchanges are recognized within the industry and actively engage bug bounty hunters to identify and address any potential security vulnerabilities. Rest assured, both platforms strive to maintain a secure environment for their U.S.-based customers and employ robust security practices.

Who Should Use Crypto.com vs. Coinbase?

Crypto.com is ideal for users seeking a comprehensive cryptocurrency platform with features like the Crypto.com Visa Card and a broad range of supported currencies. It appeals to individuals looking for a user-friendly mobile app and global accessibility.

Coinbase, on the other hand, suits users who prioritize simplicity, straightforward buying/selling processes, and a trusted brand. It is a great choice for beginners or those focused on popular cryptocurrencies.

Ultimately, the choice between Crypto.com and Coinbase depends on individual preferences and specific requirements for features, accessibility, and ease of use.

Methodology

Investopedia is dedicated to helping those interested in cryptocurrency investing make informed and safe decisions. We are committed to providing our readers with unbiased reviews of the top cryptocurrency exchanges for investors of all levels.

We reviewed Coinbase and Coinbase Pro by looking at the breadth of features, such as the trade types, purchase and withdrawal options, and supported currencies. Moreover, we assessed the overall ease of use in a web browser and on mobile apps. We also considered the fee structure and security levels for both account types and the Coinbase Wallet.

Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Which Should You Choose? (3)

Article Sources

Investopedia requires writers to use primary sources to support their work. These include white papers, government data, original reporting, and interviews with industry experts. We also reference original research from other reputable publishers where appropriate. You can learn more about the standards we follow in producing accurate, unbiased content in oureditorial policy.

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Crypto.com vs. Coinbase: Which Should You Choose? (2024)
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