Summary: In the United States, leading crypto exchanges are recognized for obtaining necessary licenses and operating under the vigilant oversight of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). By complying with stringent regulations and undergoing rigorous assessments by independent financial organizations, these platforms ensure the utmost safety and security for American investors and their assets.

We have assembled a lineup of the top 5 crypto exchanges in the USA that provide a blend of intuitive interfaces, diverse trading possibilities, and competitive fee structures:

  1. ‍eToro - Best Crypto Exchange in the USA
  2. Uphold - Best Alternative Exchange in the USA
  3. Coinbase - Best US-Based Exchange
  4. DYDX - Best Decentralized Exchange (DEX)
  5. Robinhood Crypto - Best for Crypto Options

Best Crypto Exchange in USA

Platform Highlights

  • Buy and sell 3,000+ assets including Crypto, Stocks, and more.
  • Licensed and regulated by both the FinCEN and the FINRA.
  • Trusted by over 30 million retail and institutional investors.
Best Crypto Exchange in USA
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Audited Proof of Reserves
Table of Contents

Top Crypto Trading Platforms

Our team of experts has developed a comprehensive method to evaluate the top cryptocurrency trading platforms in the United States. This process involves examining key factors for each platform, including regulatory compliance, security and transparency, fee structure, available features, supported digital assets, and other essential criteria. After thorough examination, we present the top 5 US exchanges ranked in descending order.

1. eToro

Standing tall as the premier multi-asset exchange in the United States, eToro USA empowers users to trade a wide variety of over 3,000 assets, encompassing cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, commodities, and beyond. With its competitive fee structure, the platform levies minimal fees on crypto and stock trades while implementing a spread fee for all transactions. A standout feature of eToro is the innovative CopyTrader tool, enabling users to replicate the portfolios of other accomplished traders on the platform seamlessly.

In addition, eToro offers a robust crypto wallet service, ensuring users can securely store their digital assets offline in a protected environment. This combination of diverse trading options and advanced features firmly positions eToro USA as the top choice for savvy investors in the country.

eToro US.
eToro US.

2. Uphold

Ranking as the second-best cryptocurrency exchange in the United States, Uphold is a fully licensed and regulated platform that boasts the unique feature of real-time audited proof of reserves—a rarity in the global crypto landscape. Offering a diverse selection of over 250 cryptocurrencies, 35+ staking options, and an extensive range of other assets such as gold and silver, Uphold has something for every investor. The exchange further enhances its appeal by providing instant and free ACH transfers via Plaid from all US banks, allowing users to trade all assets on the platform without incurring fees.

Uphold is widely acclaimed for its exceptional security measures, which include comprehensive two-factor authentication, cutting-edge encryption, and a proprietary platform rigorously tested by third-party auditors. With these features, Uphold solidifies its position as the second-best exchange for US investors.

Uphold US.
Uphold US.

3. Coinbase

Claiming the third spot among US cryptocurrency exchanges, Coinbase reigns as the largest globally, with a staggering 14 million registered users and $20 billion in digital currency transactions. Headquartered in San Francisco, Coinbase operates under strict regulations, ensuring high regulatory standards for its users. The exchange features both a web-based platform and an intuitive mobile application, granting users access to trade more than 200 cryptocurrencies at competitive fees.

Additionally, Coinbase presents a distinct platform known as Coinbase Pro, designed to offer reduced fees for specific trade categories. By delivering a seamless trading experience and maintaining high regulatory standards, Coinbase solidifies its position as the third-best exchange for US investors.

Coinbase.
Coinbase.

4. DYDX

Securing the fourth position among US cryptocurrency exchanges, DYDX is a decentralized platform renowned for its low fees on trades, charging no maker fee and a mere 0.1% taker fee. The exchange enables users to engage in margin trading with up to 4x leverage, magnifying both gains and losses.

As a non-custodial exchange, DYDX ensures users maintain full control over their funds. However, it is worth noting that the platform's user interface is primarily tailored for seasoned DeFi users. With its competitive fee structure and advanced trading options, DYDX cements its status as the fourth-best exchange for US investors.

DYDX DEX.
DYDX DEX.

5. Robinhood

Rounding out the top five US cryptocurrency exchanges, Robinhood is an American financial services company known for its commission-free trading of stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies. The platform enables spot trading for an array of digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Dogecoin, Avalanche, Shiba Inu, and Stellar. While Robinhood refrains from charging trading fees for cryptocurrency spot transactions, it does apply a minimal spread.

The "Instant Deposit" feature empowers users to swiftly fund their accounts using a debit card. However, Robinhood does not support margin or futures trading and lacks native crypto wallet functionality. Despite these limitations, Robinhood's commitment to commission-free trading earns it the title of the fifth-best exchange for US investors.

Robinhood.
Robinhood.

Is Crypto Legal in the USA?

Yes, cryptocurrencies are legal in the USA. The country has not banned the use, ownership, or trading of digital assets. However, the regulatory framework around cryptocurrencies is still in its early stages and subject to change. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued guidance and rules on a case-by-case basis, and other government agencies are also involved in the regulation of cryptocurrencies.

Overall, it is legal to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies in the USA, but it is important to stay informed about regulatory developments and comply with relevant laws and regulations.

What is the Safest Exchange in the USA?

eToro is a highly reputable and established cryptocurrency exchange in the US, founded in 2008. One of the key factors contributing to its safety and trustworthiness is that it is regulated by both FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) and FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). These regulatory bodies ensure that eToro adheres to strict compliance standards, safeguarding users' assets and maintaining a high level of transparency in its operations.

What makes a Cryptocurrency Exchange good?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and preferences. That said, here are a few things to look for when choosing a cryptocurrency exchange, such as:

  • Variety of coins: Some exchanges only offer a handful of the most popular cryptocurrencies, while others have hundreds to choose from. If you're looking to invest in a less mainstream coin, make sure the exchange you're considering has it listed.
  • Fiat currencies: Not all exchanges allow you to buy cryptocurrencies with fiat (i.e. USD). If this is important to you, check that the exchange offers this feature.
  • Security: When handling large sums of money, security is of the utmost importance. Make sure the exchange you choose has robust security measures in place, such as 2-factor authentication and safe storage of user funds (i.e. in cold storage).
  • Customer support: In the event that something goes wrong, it's important to have someone to turn to for help. Look for an exchange with responsive customer support that can offer assistance when you need it.
  • Fees: Some exchanges charge higher fees than others. If cost is a factor in your decision, make sure to compare the fees charged by different exchanges before making a final choice.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the top 5 cryptocurrency exchanges in the US are eToro, Uphold, Coinbase, DYDX, and Robinhood, each providing a range of unique features, competitive fee structures, and varying degrees of safety and security. eToro stands out as the most established and safest platform, being regulated by both FinCEN and FINRA. By carefully evaluating each exchange's offerings and considering individual needs and preferences, investors can choose the platform that best suits their requirements in the dynamic and evolving world of digital asset trading.

Co-Founder & former Investment Banker (Finance MBA) turned Full-Time analyst and Head of Research at Buy Bitcoin Bank. Left traditional finance to pursue my interest in digital assets and decentralized finance.