Crypto adoption is accelerating rapidly, and Bitcoin remains a top priority within it. That’s why many who are only now entering the crypto industry need a Bitcoin buying guide that explains which key factors to pay attention to and how to choose the most beneficial and trusted Bitcoin exchanges. That’s exactly what we’re here for—let’s dive in.
How to Buy Bitcoin for Beginners?
So, there are several key criteria you should consider when buying Bitcoin. They’re relevant to both professional traders and especially beginners. Each of them is undoubtedly important, even though people may prioritize them differently—here’s how I would rank them:
- Safety. Safety first isn’t said for nothing, because when it’s lacking, nothing else really matters. This applies both from a legal and technical standpoint—safety first, because without it, everything else is in doubt. By the way, if you’re only interested in secure crypto storage, check out our list of the safest crypto wallets.
- Usability. This is another extremely important factor that greatly affects adoption, especially for beginners, but also even among experienced users and institutional investors in the broader Web3 space.
- Profitability. Naturally, trading needs to be profitable, and that depends on the conditions provided. This includes available trading features and, of course, the fees you’ll have to account for.
Bitstamp – Experience, Low Fees, and Accessibility in Europe
Let’s start with a veteran of the European market—one of the oldest crypto exchanges, founded back in 2011 in Slovenia, later based in the UK, and now registered in Luxembourg. Despite starting in Europe and focusing on European users, it has offices in both London and New York. It was also among the first to receive a BitLicense in New York State. This gave it a significant edge in growing its platform and gaining a reputation as one of the most well-known and respected crypto platforms.
Naturally, such a long history—especially as an industry pioneer—couldn’t go without incident. In 2015, the platform was hacked and suffered major losses. However, as a result, it implemented a number of mandatory security measures like two-factor authentication, multisig hot wallets, and storing about 98% of assets offline​ with regular security audits. So Bitstamp meets key safety standards and certainly deserves the title of one of the most trusted Bitcoin exchanges.
What also makes Bitstamp one of the best Bitcoin brokers for beginners is its conservative approach to available features and listed coins, which makes it compliant and accessible even under the strictest jurisdictions like the EU, UK, and US. For example, it offers Spot Trading, FX Trading, Staking and Lending Features, proprietary Market Analytics Tools, and just 131 listed trading assets. It may not seem like much functionality compared to many other platforms, but remember—Bitstamp focuses on reliability and accessibility, all wrapped in a clean and simple interface that has been tested over years through millions of user interactions.
As for deposit and withdrawal methods, thanks to operating legally in many jurisdictions, you can use Instant Purchase via Debit Cards, Credit Cards, GooglePay, ApplePay, PayPal, and bank transfers like SEPA, Faster Payments, and ACH.
- Deposit fees are free, while withdrawal fees are free for ACH, €3.00 for SEPA, and £2.00 for Faster Payments. Instant Purchase carries a 4% fee.
Talking about spot trading fees, Bitstamp uses a simple tiered model.
- Spot traders with under $10k in 30-day volume pay a 0.3% Maker fee & 0.4% Taker fee. Above that, it drops to 0.2% & 0.3% and continues decreasing down to 0% for Maker (with the minimum Taker fee being 0.03%).
- The same applies to FX trading, though the percentages are slightly different—starting from 0.06% Maker & 0.08% Taker, and also down to 0% (Maker only, while the minimum Taker fee is 0.006%).
These may not be the most profitable fees, especially for beginners, but the unique value of this platform lies elsewhere. It’s one of the oldest, most respected, accessible, and beginner-friendly platforms where you can buy Bitcoin safely.
Gemini – Regulation and Security First
Next up is undoubtedly one of the most secure platforms to buy Bitcoin—Gemini. This American crypto exchange was founded a bit later, in 2014, with a huge focus on both technical and legal security. It was also one of the first platforms to obtain a BitLicense in New York and be registered as a trust company. On top of that, it has successfully passed SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 audits—these are independent certifications of operational and data protection reliability.
Gemini took technical security seriously from the very beginning, implementing features such as withdrawal address whitelisting, hardware-based 2FA keys, and cold storage for the majority of user assets. The remaining funds in hot wallets are covered by insurance policies.
In terms of functionality, Gemini offers much more than just basic Bitcoin purchasing, spot trading, and staking. It also provides access to derivatives, OTC crypto buying for institutions, institutional-grade cold storage, and more advanced features. All of this is delivered through a clean and responsive interface, which is split between a standard layout and a more advanced interface called ActiveTrader.
Among available deposit methods besides crypto, you have Instant Paying via Debit Cards & PayPal and Bank Transfers via ACH and Wire Transfer. As for withdrawals, you can use ACH, USD Wire Transfer, and Non-USD Bank Transfer.
- Deposit fees, Gemini offers dynamic fees for crypto, free for ACH & USD Wire Transfer, 3.49% for bank cards, and 2.5% for PayPal.
- Withdrawal fees are free for ACH, USD Bank Transfer & Non-USD Bank Transfer, while USD Wire Transfers cost $25.
Gemini’s trading fees operate under a completely different logic, with a key distinction between the standard interface and ActiveTrader. For the standard Gemini interface, trading fees are as follows:
Instant Order
Transaction Fee: 1.49%
Convenience Fee: 1.00%
Total: 2.49% of the transaction amount
The fee is included in the quoted price shown to you before purchase.
Recurring Order
Processed the same way as an Instant Order.
Total fee: 2.49% (1.49% + 1.00%)
Limit Order
Transaction Fee: 1.49%
Convenience Fee: 0%
For ActiveTrader, the logic is very similar to Bitstamp.
- If your 30-day spot trading volume is under $10K, the fees start at 0.2% Maker and 0.4% Taker, which is slightly more favorable, although you’ll need to get familiar with the advanced interface (which is actually very standard and won’t be a problem even for beginners).Â
- The higher your volume, the lower your fees— goes down to 0% at $50M, while Taker can reach 0.03% at $250M.
All in all, you’re getting one of the most secure platforms to buy Bitcoin—one that’s still very beginner-friendly and ideal for anyone who just wants to buy Bitcoin and store it securely on a regulated, well-established platform. Especially if you’re from the U.S. and need a fully licensed crypto exchange with a strong reputation—Gemini could be the perfect fit.
Binance – Low Fees and a Wide Range of Options
Now, let’s move on to what may not be a veteran but is certainly a well-established and arguably the most popular crypto platform—Binance. Founded in 2017 in China, it quickly became a global crypto platform and set the standard for the entire industry in many aspects—from functionality to interface design and user experience. While the global version of Binance is available across Europe and most of the world, in 2019, it also launched a separate version called Binance US tailored with some features removed to comply with local regulations. For example, Binance US offers access to around 150 coins and slightly higher fees.
Let’s address the topic of security right away. Binance, with its experience, applies 2FA authentication, stores the majority of funds in cold wallets, and monitors suspicious activity in real time​. In 2019, there was an incident where about 7,000 BTC were stolen, but all users were fully compensated from the SAFU insurance fund. After that, Binance significantly strengthened its security measures, introducing features like hardware keys, withdrawal whitelists, and more.
As for functionality, Binance is massive. You get access to all the classic and advanced features—from instant crypto buying and spot trading with various order types, to staking, copy trading, Launchpools, Earn products, DeFi integrations, and many more. Read our detailed review of Binance to dive deeper into all its features, pros, and cons.
It’s also important to note that Binance offers two interface modes—Binance Lite for beginners, with fewer elements and more automation, and the full version of Binance, packed with all advanced features and customizations.
What makes Binance one of the best Bitcoin brokers for beginners is its massive popularity. You’ll find countless tutorials and guides for literally every function of this platform, down to the tiniest detail. Still, we recommend using official sources and Binance’s own educational materials, which—like the rest of their design—are extremely polished and user-friendly, setting the standard for the entire industry.
Now, let’s cover the deposit and withdrawal options, as well as the fee structure, which is one of Binance’s key strengths.
Among deposit methods besides crypto, you have Binance P2P, cash purchases, and bank transfers via SEPA, SWIFT, and local methods, depending on the currency.
For withdrawals, you can use crypto transfers and bank withdrawals through SEPA, SWIFT, and other regional methods, depending on your country.
As for deposit and withdrawal fees, they are unique for each asset, meaning each cryptocurrency has its own fee. You’ll also need to add the standard network fee. For example, on Binance, the BTC deposit fee is 0, and the withdrawal fee depends on the network, ranging from 0.0000071 BTC to 0.001 BTC. The same applies to fiat currencies—for SEPA (EUR), the fee is just 1 EUR, for example.
Regarding the Binance fee structure, it’s extremely simple and cost-effective, though it does have some nuances. There’s a basic rate, but also a VIP system that significantly affects it. Additionally, holding Binance’s native token (BNB) gives you a 25% discount on trading fees.
- On Spot, regular users pay 0.1% Maker & Taker fees, but with BNB payment, that drops to 0.075% & 0.075%.
- The higher your trading volume and BNB balance, the lower the fees. For example, at VIP 1 (over $1M in volume and 25 BNB), fees are 0.09% & 0.10%, and with BNB discount — 0.0675% & 0.075%.
- At the maximum VIP 9 level (over $4B volume and 5,500 BNB), fees go down to 0.011% & 0.023%, and with BNB discount — 0.00825% & 0.01725%.
In summary, Binance is, without a doubt, one of the best places to buy Bitcoin safely and beneficially, offering support for a huge global user base, outstanding educational resources and still being one of the most trusted Bitcoin exchanges today.
Bybit – A Newcomer with Strong Potential and Advanced Capabilities
Now, let’s move on to a newer but very promising player—Bybit—which brings together the best of its predecessors while introducing its own highly attractive and competitive features. Bybit was founded in 2018 by Ben Zhou, along with co-founders with previous experience at Morgan Stanley, Tencent, and the former head of XM in China. Initially registered in the British Virgin Islands, it has since received an MVP license from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). It is also licensed by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Astana Financial Services Authority, and De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) for global operations.Â
Bybit quickly rose to popularity and became one of the top crypto exchanges by offering a strong technical foundation with its own custom-built trading engine designed for fast and seamless transactions, advanced functionality with a focus on derivatives, and all of this within a highly responsive and user-friendly interface.
Yes, Bybit recently made headlines for what initially appeared to be the largest security incident in crypto history. But once the dust settled and details emerged, it became clear that the causes were not technical in nature. Moreover, the consequences were resolved with record speed.
From a technical standpoint, Bybit remains one of the most efficient and secure platforms to buy Bitcoin. They implement advanced measures beyond standard MFA, including Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) and Threshold Signature Schemes (TSS), and have obtained PCI-DSS Service Provider Level 1 Certification. Additionally, they provide Proof of Reserve for user funds with an average 110% user-holding ratio, updated monthly.
As for their functionality, it’s extensive—covering spot trading, futures, staking, launchpool, demo trading (especially helpful for crypto beginners as it allows you to get used to the trading terminal without risking real funds), copy trading, bot trading (among the best on the market), a Web3 gateway, an NFT marketplace, and much more. But don’t let the number of features or their heavy focus on derivatives intimidate you—Bybit’s key strength is being accessible and efficient for traders of all levels, with all of this packed into a clean, simple, and responsive design, supported by high-quality educational materials from Bybit. Read our detailed review of Bybit to dive deeper into all its features, fees, pros, and cons.
Regarding Deposit & Withdrawal methods, Bybit offers classic crypto deposits, bank cards, and bank transfers, all within a system that supports over 547 payment methods, making it convenient for most regions worldwide.
Deposit & Withdrawal fees are free for crypto, though naturally, you’ll need to consider the blockchain network fee based on the network you choose.
Fiat deposit and withdrawal fees vary depending on the currency and service used, but these are always clearly shown before the transaction is executed.
When it comes to Spot Trading Fees, Bybit also has a VIP system that offers fee reductions, and even at base level, it’s extremely competitive.
- Even for new users at VIP 0, fees are just 0.1% Maker & 0.1% Taker.
- Reaching Supreme VIP (Level 6) unlocks 0.03% Maker & 0.045% Taker fees.
- There’s also a separate system for advanced Pro traders, where Pro 1 starts at 0.04% Maker & 0.06% Taker.
- At the highest Pro 5 level, fees go as low as 0.005% Maker & 0.015% Taker.
As you can see, this is incredibly competitive compared to other platforms, and you’re not sacrificing usability or reliability in the process. That’s why, among the newer platforms, Bybit rightfully earns its place as one of the best Bitcoin brokers for beginners.
By the way, right now Bybit is offering unique bonuses that can make your trading even more profitable. Follow the special link and unlock up to $30,050 in exclusive rewards and be invited to exclusive events!
Conclusion
Each platform in this top deserves, known as the most reputable, secure, convenient, or profitable to buy Bitcoin and other cryptos. However, which one suits you best depends on a variety of factors, such as your location, level of industry awareness, additional goals beyond just buying Bitcoin, and personal preferences.
Always evaluate all aspects carefully, and make an informed decision that will work for you. We’re here to give you the information you need to do just that and highlight the key aspects of the top solutions.
