Is It Still the Best Crypto Exchange?

Coinbase is one of the most widely used cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, serving over 100 million users and handling billions in daily trading volume. Known for its accessibility, strong security, and user-friendly design, it has become a go-to platform for both beginners and experienced traders.

In this Coinbase Wallet review 2025, we take a closer look at how the platform performs today, covering its key features, trading options, fees, and safety measures. Whether you’re exploring crypto for the first time or looking for a reliable exchange to manage your assets, this guide will help you understand where Coinbase stands in the ever-changing crypto landscape.

Coinbase Exchange Review: Quick Summary

Coinbase Review: What is Coinbase?

Coinbase is a digital currency exchange founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam with the goal of making cryptocurrency accessible to everyone. Headquartered in San Francisco, the company started as a simple platform for buying and selling Bitcoin but has since evolved into one of the largest and most regulated crypto exchanges in the world. Today, it supports hundreds of digital assets and serves over 100 million users across more than 100 countries.

Coinbase caters to both new and experienced traders through a variety of products. It offers a simple interface for beginners, while seasoned investors can use Coinbase Advanced for a more technical crypto trading experience. For institutions, Coinbase Prime and Coinbase Custody provide the tools and protection needed to manage large holdings securely. The company is widely recognized for its strong compliance record, intuitive design, and focus on user safety. Its emphasis on education and transparency has also helped it build a loyal user base. Those looking to start their journey on the platform can also explore the latest promotions, such as referral bonuses for new Coinbase users, to make the most of their first trades.

Coinbase Pros

• Simple and intuitive interface suitable for beginners
• Regulated and publicly listed company on the NASDAQ
• Wide selection of supported cryptocurrencies
• Strong security features, including cold storage and insurance coverage
• Multiple products for retail and institutional users

Coinbase Cons

• High trading fees compared to some competitors
• Limited access in a few regions
• Customer support can be slow during high-traffic periods
• Advanced traders may find fewer customization options than on specialized exchanges

Coinbase Products: For Individuals

Before diving into the individual offerings, it’s worth noting how the Coinbase platform structures its services. The Coinbase exchange has created a layered ecosystem that caters to different types of users, whether you’re just starting out or you’re actively trading and managing large portfolios. Each product is accessible through one account, giving you room to grow without switching platforms or losing your history. Features such as fee variations, advanced tools, and user control levels are designed to match your needs as they change. With that in mind, here’s a closer look at each major product for individual investors.

1. Standard Coinbase

The main version of the platform is tailored for Coinbase users who want a straightforward way to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies. At this stage of its growth, Coinbase users can link fiat bank accounts or cards, choose from over 360 cryptocurrencies, and handle crypto to crypto transactions with ease. Its design focuses on clarity rather than complexity.

The appeal here lies in familiarity. You don’t need to understand advanced charting tools or order types to get started. The trade-off is typically higher fees and fewer advanced options compared to specialized trading platforms. However, Coinbase’s strength lies in its regulated status and wide reach, which provides peace of mind for beginners entering the crypto space.

2. Coinbase Advanced Trade (formerly Coinbase Pro) 

When you’re past the basics and want more control over your trades, the Coinbase Advanced Trade interface is the next step. This version offers real-time charting powered by TradingView, a range of order types including limit and stop-loss, and strong liquidity for active traders.

Many Coinbase users appreciate that their experience can grow with them. You can keep your same account, history, and balances while unlocking features that suit more strategic crypto trading. Because the platform serves both beginners and professionals, it’s easier to scale up without having to move to a different exchange. It may still lack some specialized tools found on high-frequency trading or derivatives platforms, but it’s a solid option for most investors.

3. Coinbase One

Coinbase offers a subscription plan called Coinbase One, designed to enhance your experience with added benefits. The service provides zero trading fees up to a monthly limit, priority customer support, and stronger account protection. For frequent traders, this can lead to meaningful savings, especially if you trade in large volumes or value faster assistance.

The monthly cost, which varies by region, can be worthwhile if the savings and support outweigh what you would normally spend on trading fees. Less frequent traders may find that the standard platform already offers enough for their needs.

4. Base App (formerly Coinbase Wallet) 

The Base App, previously known as Coinbase Wallet, gives users full control over their assets. It’s a self-custody wallet, which means you hold your own private keys rather than relying on the crypto exchange. The app supports thousands of cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and DeFi tokens, and it connects directly to decentralized apps across blockchains such as Ethereum, Polygon, and Avalanche.

This Coinbase exchange review suits users who want independence and greater flexibility. It also bridges your Coinbase account and the wider decentralized finance world. It’s worth remembering that self-custody comes with responsibility. If you lose your recovery phrase or make an incorrect transaction, support options are limited.

5. Coinbase Earn

For users who want to learn while earning, Coinbase Earn stands out. It offers short educational videos and quizzes about specific cryptocurrencies, rewarding users with small amounts of those tokens upon completion. The idea is simple: learn how a project works, answer questions correctly, and receive a token reward.

This approach helps users explore new coins without financial risk. While the earnings are small, the experience provides real value by expanding knowledge and building confidence in using digital assets.

6. Staking

Crypto staking allows users to earn rewards by helping secure blockchain networks. On Coinbase, eligible assets like Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA) can be staked, with annual rewards that vary by coin and network performance. For example, the official ETH staking reward is about 2.9 percent APY according to Coinbase data.

The convenience is one of its main strengths. Users can stake their assets with a few clicks, while Coinbase handles all the technical work. The company charges a small commission on staking rewards, and some assets may have waiting periods for unstaking due to network requirements. 

7. Coinbase Card

The Coinbase Card brings crypto into everyday life. Issued through Visa, it connects directly to your Coinbase account and automatically converts your crypto to local currency when you make a purchase. In certain regions, users can earn up to 4 percent cashback in crypto on eligible purchases.

The Coinbase card review can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, online or in-store. It’s a simple way to spend your assets without manual conversions, and rewards make it appealing for users who regularly use their crypto for payments.

8. Coinbase Private Client

Coinbase Private Client caters to investors with larger portfolios who need a more personalized experience. Clients receive dedicated account managers, access to advanced portfolio tools, enhanced reporting, and early access to new investment features.

While this service isn’t designed for the average user, it shows how Coinbase supports a wide range of customers. For investors holding significant assets, the added attention and tailored guidance can be valuable.

9. Coinbase Learn

Coinbase Learn is the company’s educational hub, built to help users understand crypto basics, blockchain technology, and investing strategies. It includes guides, videos, and tutorials presented in simple language. The goal is to give users the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

Many new users start here before moving on to more complex features like staking or trading. Together with Coinbase Earn, it creates a learning environment that encourages smart participation in the crypto market.

Coinbase Products: For Institutions

As cryptocurrency adoption grows, more companies, funds, and financial institutions are seeking reliable ways to participate in the market. Coinbase has built a strong reputation among these players by offering a range of institutional-grade products that combine security, liquidity, and compliance. From prime brokerage and custody solutions to derivatives and venture funding, the company has created a complete framework for organizations that want to manage digital assets responsibly and efficiently.

1. Coinbase Prime

Coinbase Prime is at the center of the company’s institutional offering. It brings together trading, financing, and custody under one roof, giving professional investors access to deep liquidity and powerful execution tools. According to Coinbase’s own data, the platform supports over 260 digital assets and handles more than $190 billion in quarterly institutional trading volume, with $245 billion in assets held under custody.

Prime caters to hedge funds, corporations, and family offices that need fast execution and advanced portfolio tools. Clients can trade through smart order routing, use API integrations, and access over-the-counter (OTC) services for large orders. The platform also provides unified reporting to make auditing and compliance more seamless. For organizations managing significant crypto exposure, Coinbase Prime feels less like other top crypto exchanges and more like a full-service financial hub.

2. Coinbase Custody

Coinbase Custody was launched in 2018 to meet one of the biggest concerns in institutional investing: the secure storage of digital assets. It operates as a New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS)-regulated trust company and offers segregated, insured cold storage for clients. Assets are stored offline in secure facilities distributed across multiple regions, minimizing both physical and cyber risks.

Institutions using Custody range from investment funds to corporate treasuries. The service supports staking for assets like Ethereum and Solana, so clients can earn rewards while keeping their holdings secure. Coinbase’s custodial setup reflects the same level of protection and oversight expected in traditional finance, which has made it a go-to choice for firms entering crypto for the first time.

3. Derivatives Exchange

To give institutions more flexibility in managing risk and exposure, Coinbase introduced its own derivatives exchange. This product allows clients to trade regulated Bitcoin and Ethereum futures, offering the ability to hedge or speculate without directly holding the underlying assets.

For many professional investors, derivatives are an essential part of a balanced trading strategy. Coinbase’s derivatives platform offers competitive liquidity, margin features, and regulatory clarity—qualities that have helped it gain credibility in a market where trust and transparency matter as much as returns.

4. Crypto-as-a-Service (CaaS)

Crypto-as-a-Service, or CaaS, is Coinbase’s solution for businesses that want to integrate crypto capabilities without building their own complex infrastructure. Using Coinbase’s APIs and technology, companies can enable features like crypto payments, digital asset custody, or trading directly within their own platforms.

This service is especially popular with fintech companies, payment providers, and traditional banks exploring blockchain-based products. By relying on Coinbase’s secure and compliant framework, these organizations can bring crypto offerings to market faster while maintaining the standards expected in regulated financial environments.

5. Coinbase Ventures

Beyond trading and infrastructure, Coinbase plays an active role in shaping the future of crypto through its investment arm, Coinbase Ventures. Since 2018, it has funded more than 500 startups across blockchain, decentralized finance (DeFi), and Web3 innovation. Its portfolio includes well-known names such as Uniswap, BlockFi, and Alchemy.

The goal of Coinbase Ventures is to support the next generation of companies building the foundation of the digital economy. By investing in promising projects, Coinbase not only strengthens its ecosystem but also helps drive adoption and technological progress throughout the industry.

Coinbase App Review: User Experience

When you open the Coinbase mobile app, everything feels clear and easy to follow. The dashboard shows your portfolio, prices update in real time, and the buying or selling process is straightforward. It’s designed to make trading comfortable even for beginners, while still offering tools that experienced Coinbase users will find useful. Switching between features like price tracking, order management, or learning resources feels smooth and intuitive.

Coinbase also ranks highly in app stores, with a strong Coinbase rating from users who appreciate its usability and consistent performance. Whether you’re trading daily or just checking prices, the Coinbase App provides a smooth and dependable experience.

Coinbase Review: Security Measures

Many new investors often wonder; Is Coinbase safe? The short answer is yes. Coinbase remains one of the most regulated and security-focused exchanges in the crypto industry. It protects user funds with offline cold storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption, and insurance against certain breaches.

While no platform is completely risk-free, Coinbase’s track record and transparency make it one of the safest choices for both new and experienced traders.

Is Coinbase Safe for Beginners?

If you’re new to crypto, Coinbase is one of the safest places to start. The app is easy to use and includes strong built-in security features. You can log in using biometrics like fingerprint or face recognition, turn on 2FA, and get alerts for suspicious activity.

Most problems happen when users click fake links or share private details. Always check that you’re on the official Coinbase app or website before signing in. Avoid public Wi-Fi when trading and never share your passwords or recovery codes.

Coinbase’s regulated status adds confidence. It operates under U.S. law and is regularly audited, which makes it more trustworthy than many unregulated exchanges. While no platform can guarantee complete safety, Coinbase combines technology, compliance, and user control to create a strong level of protection. For beginners, it’s a reliable and secure way to enter the world of cryptocurrency.

Coinbase Fees Review

When it comes to Coinbase fees, users should know that costs depend on the type of transaction and payment method. 

Trading Fees

When you trade on Coinbase, the platform charges a few different types of Coinbase trading fees. The first is the spread, which is the small difference between the buy and sell prices you see. For most retail users, the spread averages between 0.50% and 1.20%, depending on the asset and how you pay.

If you use Coinbase Advanced Trade (formerly Coinbase Pro), you’ll get a lower and more transparent fee structure. Maker fees, which apply when you add liquidity to the market, usually range from 0.00% to 0.40%. Taker fees, which apply when you take liquidity, typically range from 0.05% to 0.60%, depending on your 30-day trading volume.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:

• Buying crypto with a credit or debit card has the highest cost, often around 3.99%.
• Bank transfers (ACH) in the U.S. are free or very low-cost.
• The more you trade, the lower your fees become over time.

Deposits and Withdrawals Fees

Depositing or withdrawing money on Coinbase depends on your region and the method you choose.

Deposits:

• Bank account transfers (ACH) in the U.S. are generally free.
• Credit and debit card deposits often cost around 3.99%.
• SEPA transfers in Europe may include a small fixed fee, such as €0.15 per deposit.

Withdrawals:

• U.S. wire withdrawals cost about $25 per transaction.
• SEPA withdrawals in Europe are either free or have a small flat fee.
• Crypto withdrawals include a variable network fee, which depends on the specific blockchain and traffic at that time.

How to Use Coinbase Crypto Exchange

If you’re new to Coinbase, the good news is that it’s one of the easiest crypto platforms to get started with. Everything from signing up to trading and moving funds is designed to be simple, even if you’ve never bought crypto before. Let’s walk through each step so you can get comfortable using the platform.

How to Open a Coinbase Account 

Before you can start trading, you’ll need to set up your Coinbase account. The process only takes a few minutes.

• Go to the official Coinbase website or download the Coinbase app from Google Play or the App Store.
• Tap or click Get Started and enter your full name, email, and a strong password.
• Verify your email address through the link Coinbase sends you.
• Enter your phone number and confirm it with the security code sent by SMS.
• Provide your date of birth and address, as required for verification.
• Upload a valid ID (like a driver’s license or passport) to verify your identity.
• Once verified, add your preferred payment method, such as a bank account, debit card, or PayPal (available in some regions).

After completing these steps, your account will be ready for deposits and trading.

How to Buy & Sell Crypto on Coinbase  

Buying or selling crypto on Coinbase is straightforward, even if you’re new to the process.

• Log in to your account and go to the Trade tab.
• Choose the cryptocurrency you want to buy or sell (for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum).
• Select Buy or Sell, depending on what you want to do.
• Enter the amount you want to trade. You can also toggle between your local currency (like USD or EUR) and the crypto amount.
• Choose your payment method. Bank transfers have lower fees than card payments.
• Review the transaction details, including fees and total cost.
• Confirm the trade. Your purchased crypto will appear in your Coinbase wallet instantly, and if you’re selling, funds will move to your fiat balance.

How to Deposit & Withdraw at Coinbase

Moving funds into or out of your Coinbase account is simple. Here’s how it works:

To deposit funds:

• Go to the Assets tab and click Add cash or Deposit.
• Select the currency you want to deposit (for example, USD or EUR).
• Pick a payment option: bank transfer (ACH), card, or PayPal (where supported).
• Enter the amount and confirm. Bank deposits may take a few business days, while card deposits are instant.

To withdraw funds:

• From your dashboard, select Assets, then click Cash out or Withdraw.
• Choose the balance you want to withdraw and your preferred withdrawal method.
• Enter the amount, review details, and confirm the transaction.
• Crypto withdrawals can take minutes, while fiat withdrawals depend on the bank or region.

Coinbase Review: Regulatory Compliance

Coinbase operates as a fully regulated cryptocurrency exchange headquartered in the United States. It’s licensed under multiple U.S. financial authorities, including the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), and complies with KYC and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.

As a publicly traded company on NASDAQ, Coinbase must follow strict financial reporting standards and undergo regular audits. It also holds licenses in several countries, allowing it to serve millions of users globally while meeting local compliance laws.

Coinbase Customer Support & User Feedback 

Coinbase offers customer support through live chat, email, and phone in some regions. The Help Center is available 24/7 with guides on common issues like login problems, account verification, and transaction delays. Most users find it easy to access support from within the app or website, and basic questions are usually resolved quickly.

User feedback, however, is mixed. Many people appreciate the app’s ease of use and the quick responses for simple inquiries, while others report long wait times or slow help with account-related issues. Overall, Coinbase’s support is dependable for everyday needs but can take time to resolve more complex problems.

Top Alternatives to Coinbase for Crypto Trading

Conclusion: Is Coinbase a Good Exchange?

After reviewing its features, fees, and performance, Coinbase stands out as a reliable and beginner-friendly crypto exchange. It offers a safe environment, user-friendly tools, and trusted services like staking, secure wallets, and the Coinbase Card for real-world spending. While fees may be higher than some competitors, the platform’s simplicity and regulatory compliance make it worth it for most users.

That said, Coinbase isn’t perfect. Its trading and transaction fees are higher than those of some other crypto exchanges, and customer support can be slow at times. Still, the exchange’s transparency, insurance coverage, and global reputation make it a reliable choice for most users.

In short, Coinbase is a great starting point for beginners and a dependable platform for anyone who values safety and simplicity over the lowest possible fees. It’s a strong all-around option for trading and managing crypto assets in 2025.

FAQs

Can Coinbase be trusted?

Yes, Coinbase can be trusted. It’s a publicly traded company regulated in the United States and listed on NASDAQ, which means it follows strict financial and security standards. Coinbase also stores most user funds offline in cold storage and uses advanced security tools like encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and insurance coverage for online assets.

Who should use Coinbase and Coinbase Wallet?

Coinbase is best for beginners and everyday users who want an easy way to buy, sell, and manage crypto. Coinbase Wallet, on the other hand, is ideal for users who want full control of their private keys and access to decentralized apps (DApps) and NFTs. In short, Coinbase suits casual investors, while Coinbase Wallet fits those looking for more independence.

Does Coinbase charge a monthly fee?

No, Coinbase does not charge a monthly fee for using the platform. However, there is an optional subscription plan called Coinbase One that costs around $29.99 per month. This plan offers benefits like zero trading fees up to a set limit, priority support, and extra account protection.

Is Coinbase available globally?

Yes, Coinbase is available globally. The exchange operates in more than 100 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, most of Europe, and several regions in Asia and Africa. Some services and payment methods may vary depending on your location, but the platform continues to expand its global reach each year.

Does Coinbase offer staking or rewards?

Yes, Coinbase offers staking and rewards. You can stake supported cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA) directly on the platform to earn interest-like rewards. Coinbase also runs programs like Coinbase Earn, where you can watch educational videos and earn small amounts of crypto for learning.

Can I earn passive income on Coinbase?

Yes, you can earn passive income on Coinbase through staking and reward programs. When you stake your crypto, you help secure blockchain networks and receive regular payouts in return. The amount you earn depends on the coin, staking duration, and current market conditions. Coinbase makes this process simple by handling the technical side for you.