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Coinbase Review

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

James Headshot
Written by
Adam Headshot
Edited by
Coinbase logo
3.20
Crypto Head Rating
Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.
Visit Coinbase

The Bottom Line Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.

Coinbase positions itself as a comprehensive crypto exchange, catering to a wide array of digital currency needs – from the first cryptocurrency purchase to complex investment strategies for institutional investors. With a robust infrastructure, a host of crypto assets to trade, and a continual push for innovation, it remains a significant player in the cryptocurrency exchange arena.

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This is not a validation of cryptocurrency or any particular provider, service, or product. It should not be taken as advice to engage in trading or use any services. Please check our terms and conditions.

Pros

  • User-friendly interface
  • Wide range of cryptocurrencies
  • High liquidity
  • Strong security measures
  • Educational resources available

Cons

  • Higher fees compared to some competitors
  • Limited customer support options
  • May track how its users spend bitcoin
  • Wallet services are custodial
  • Limited advanced trading features

Quick Summary

Headquarters Location International
Fiat Currencies Supported USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 50 others
Total Supported Cryptocurrencies 243+
Trading Fees 0% - 0.60%
Deposit Methods Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card, Cryptocurrency, Paypal, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Support Twitter, Instagram, Live Chat, Help Center Articles, Support Ticket
Mobile App Yes - iOS, Android

Coinbase stands as one of the most recognised names in the world of cryptocurrency. This platform has caught the attention of both novice and experienced traders seeking a reliable entry point into the dynamic crypto market.

Coinbase homepage

In this review, we delve into various aspects of Coinbase, assessing its offerings and how it stacks up in today’s competitive landscape.

Coinbase has become synonymous with the cryptocurrency landscape, offering a gateway for users to explore the burgeoning sphere of digital finance. With its commitment to simplifying the process of buying and selling cryptocurrencies, Coinbase has attracted a global user base, eager to participate in the digital economy.

As the exchange continues to develop, it strives to maintain a balance between ease of use for newcomers and sophisticated features for seasoned market participants.

About Coinbase

Coinbase, founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam, has grown exponentially to become one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally. Its mission to make digital currency accessible and approachable for everyone has resonated across the market.

Over the years, Coinbase has expanded its services to include a variety of digital assets, including popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as a host of ERC-20 tokens and lesser-known crypto coins.

Coinbase features

The trajectory of Coinbase has been shaped by seminal events in the cryptocurrency world, such as the Bitcoin boom of 2017 and the increased interest in decentralised finance (DeFi) platforms. These industry milestones have had a profound impact on the exchange, dictating the expansion of its asset offerings and the scaling of its infrastructure to accommodate the growing demand.

The journey of Coinbase is also a testament to the evolving regulatory landscape, as it has navigated through a sea of policy changes to establish a compliant and respected presence in the market.

Coinbase has a number of active social profiles including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Reddit, TikTok and YouTube.

Coinbase has a mobile app on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Coinbase Supported Cryptocurrencies

Coinbase supports trading on over 243 cryptocurrencies on their platform. This exchange currently supports 25 of the top 30 market cap cryptocurrencies.

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Tether USDt (USDT)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • BNB (BNB)
  • XRP (XRP)
  • USDC (USDC)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Avalanche (AVAX)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • Shiba Inu (SHIB)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Toncoin (TON)
  • TRON (TRX)
  • Chainlink (LINK)
  • Polygon (MATIC)
  • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
  • NEAR Protocol (NEAR)
  • Uniswap (UNI)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • Aptos (APT)
  • UNUS SED LEO (LEO)
  • Dai (DAI)
  • Internet Computer (ICP)
  • Filecoin (FIL)
  • Cosmos (ATOM)
  • Ethereum Classic (ETC)
  • Bittensor (TAO)
  • Render (RNDR)
  • Arbitrum (ARB)

View all cryptocurrencies Coinbase supports

  • 1INCH
  • AAVE
  • ABT
  • ACH
  • ACS
  • ADA
  • AERGO
  • AGLD
  • AIOZ
  • ALCX
  • ALEPH
  • ALGO
  • ALICE
  • AMP
  • ANKR
  • ANT
  • APE
  • API3
  • APT
  • ARB
  • ARPA
  • ASM
  • AST
  • ATA
  • ATOM
  • AUCTION
  • AUDIO
  • AURORA
  • AVAX
  • AVT
  • AXL
  • AXS
  • BADGER
  • BAL
  • BAND
  • BAT
  • BCH
  • BICO
  • BIT
  • BLUR
  • BLZ
  • BNT
  • BOBA
  • BOND
  • BTC
  • BTRST
  • C98
  • CBETH
  • CELR
  • CGLD
  • CHZ
  • CLV
  • COMP
  • COTI
  • COVAL
  • CRO
  • CRPT
  • CRV
  • CTSI
  • CTX
  • CVC
  • CVX
  • DAI
  • DAR
  • DASH
  • DDX
  • DESO
  • DEXT
  • DIA
  • DIMO
  • DNT
  • DOGE
  • DOT
  • DREP
  • DYP
  • EGLD
  • ELA
  • ENJ
  • ENS
  • EOS
  • ERN
  • ETC
  • ETH
  • EUROC
  • FARM
  • FET
  • FIDA
  • FIL
  • FIS
  • FLOW
  • FLR
  • FORT
  • FORTH
  • FOX
  • FX
  • GAL
  • GFI
  • GHST
  • GLM
  • GMT
  • GNO
  • GODS
  • GRT
  • GST
  • GTC
  • GUSD
  • GYEN
  • HBAR
  • HFT
  • HIGH
  • HNT
  • HOPR
  • ICP
  • IDEX
  • ILV
  • IMX
  • INDEX
  • INJ
  • INV
  • IOTX
  • JASMY
  • JUP
  • KAVA
  • KNC
  • KRL
  • KSM
  • LCX
  • LDO
  • LINK
  • LIT
  • LOKA
  • LPT
  • LQTY
  • LRC
  • LSETH
  • LTC
  • MAGIC
  • MANA
  • MASK
  • MATH
  • MATIC
  • MCO2
  • MDT
  • MEDIA
  • METIS
  • MINA
  • MKR
  • MLN
  • MNDE
  • MONA
  • MPL
  • MSOL
  • MTL
  • MULTI
  • MUSE
  • MXC
  • NCT
  • NEAR
  • NEST
  • NKN
  • NMR
  • OCEAN
  • OGN
  • OOKI
  • OP
  • ORCA
  • ORN
  • OSMO
  • OXT
  • PAX
  • PERP
  • PLA
  • PLU
  • PNG
  • POLS
  • POLY
  • POND
  • POWR
  • PRIME
  • PRO
  • PRQ
  • PUNDIX
  • PYR
  • PYUSD
  • QI
  • QNT
  • QSP
  • QUICK
  • RAD
  • RAI
  • RARE
  • RARI
  • RBN
  • REN
  • REQ
  • RLC
  • RNDR
  • ROSE
  • RPL
  • SAND
  • SEI
  • SHIB
  • SHPING
  • SKL
  • SNT
  • SNX
  • SOL
  • SPA
  • SPELL
  • STORJ
  • STX
  • SUI
  • SUKU
  • SUPER
  • SUSHI
  • SWFTC
  • SYLO
  • SYN
  • TIME
  • TONE
  • TRAC
  • TRB
  • TRU
  • TVK
  • UMA
  • UNFI
  • UNI
  • USDC
  • USDT
  • VGX
  • VOXEL
  • WAMPL
  • WBTC
  • WCFG
  • XCN
  • XLM
  • XRP
  • XTZ
  • XYO
  • YFI
  • ZEC
  • ZEN
  • ZRX

Trading Experience

Coinbase is designed to deliver a comfortable and intuitive trading experience. From simple trades to advanced options on Coinbase Advanced Trade, investors are catered for at every level.

The platform is continuously refined to keep pace with market conditions and user expectations, incorporating features like real-time market updates and educational resources to aid trading decisions.

The trading experience on Coinbase has been fine-tuned to cater to the needs of diverse investor profiles. With tools designed to empower both novice and advanced users, the exchange has positioned itself as a platform where one can progress from basic transactions to complex trading strategies with ease.

The continuous introduction of new features and analytical tools reflects the platform’s dedication to enhancing user engagement and satisfaction.

Coinbase exchange marketing

Coinbase Fees

Understanding the fee structure of a cryptocurrency exchange is crucial. Coinbase employs a pricing model that varies based on a number of factors including the user’s location, transaction size, and payment method.

While it’s not always the cheapest option, Coinbase’s fee schedule is designed to be transparent, allowing customers to clearly understand what they will be paying for each transaction before it is completed.

Transparent and predictable costs are crucial for traders when engaging with a cryptocurrency exchange. Coinbase’s fee model is crafted to reflect the dynamic nature of the cryptocurrency market, with a nuanced approach that takes into account the ever-changing conditions of supply, demand, and network congestion.

Users are empowered with the knowledge of the fee framework, enabling them to make informed decisions without the worry of hidden charges.

Type Fee
Deposit Fee (Bank Transfer) $0 - $10
Deposit Fee (Credit/Debit Card) $0 - $10
Trading Fee 0% - 0.60%
Withdrawal Fee (Bank Transfer) $0 - $25

Coinbase supports a range of different cryptocurrencies with varying withdrawal fees. When looking at Bitcoin, their withdrawal fee is 0.000079 BTC compared to the industry average of 0.000075 BTC. So Coinbase has a fee that is above the industry average by 5.33%.

Coinbase has a maker/taker fee schedule which you can see below.

Tier Taker Fee Maker Fee
$0K-$10K 60bps 40bps
$10K-$50K 40bps 25bps
$50K-$100K 25bps 15bps
$100K-$1M 20bps 10bps
$1M-$15M 18bps 8bps
$15M-$75M 16bps 6bps
$75M-$250M 12bps 3bps
$250M-$400M 8bps 0bps
$400M+ 5bps 0bps

Security - Is Coinbase Safe?

Security is a non-negotiable aspect of any crypto exchange. Coinbase has established several measures to ensure customer funds remain secure.

Not only does it adhere to strict regulatory compliance programmes, but it also stores a significant portion of digital assets in cold storage. Furthermore, the platform is backed by crime insurance that protects a portion of digital assets against potential cybersecurity breaches, ensuring peace of mind for its users.

Coinbase has gone great lengths to build trust with its users through robust security protocols. Incorporating advanced encryption and industry-best practices, Coinbase seeks to fortify all points of interaction, from user accounts to transaction executions.

The platform’s commitment to security is further exemplified by its regular security audits and dedication to staying ahead of the curve in combating emerging cybersecurity threats.

Coinbase Customer Support

An often underrated but essential feature of any platform is its customer support. Coinbase offers support through various channels, aiming to resolve queries and issues promptly.

However, there have been instances of customer service falling short of expectations, which is a common pain point reflected in some reviews.

In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency trading, effective customer support is pivotal. Coinbase has laid out a support framework aiming for responsiveness and thoroughness.

This includes accessible resources and guidance to help customers navigate the intricacies of cryptocurrency trading and manage their digital assets confidently. Feedback from the user community is taken seriously, as it forms the backbone of the exchange’s efforts to improve customer service experiences.

Coinbase support

Coinbase Support Channels

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Live Chat
  • Help Center Articles
  • Support Ticket

How to Sign Up on Coinbase

  1. Create Account - Visit the Coinbase website and fill out the create account form. You'll need to include a valid email, set your password and type in other details like your phone number and name.
  2. Verify Account - Confirm your email, you should get an email asking you to verify your account creation.
  3. Transferring Funds - Once your account has been verified, you'll be able to deposit using the deposit methods listed below.
  4. Start Trading Crypto - That's it! You should now have everything in place to start trading.

Deposit Methods

  • Bank Transfer
  • Debit Card
  • Credit Card
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Paypal
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay

Coinbase Alternatives

Binance logo

Binance

3.23
Crypto Head Rating
Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.

Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
386+

Trading Fees
0.10%

Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 75 others

Visit Binance
Kraken logo

Kraken

3.67
Crypto Head Rating
Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.

Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
233+

Trading Fees
0.06% - 0.16%

Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR + 1 other

Visit Kraken
OKX logo

OKX

3.75
Crypto Head Rating
Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.

Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
332+

Trading Fees
0.06% - 0.10%

Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 85 others

Visit OKX

Final Thoughts

Coinbase has solidified its status as a cornerstone of the cryptocurrency exchange world. It offers a blend of user-friendly services with advanced options for more sophisticated investors.

While fees and certain limitations may be points of consideration, the platform continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its diverse user base.

Curious about Coinbase’s performance compared to other cryptocurrency exchanges? Check out our detailed articles comparing Coinbase vs CoinSpot, Coinbase vs Kraken, Coinmama vs Coinbase, and eToro vs Coinbase.

Coinbase FAQs

Coinbase, as one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, has established a reputation for being a mainstream and accessible platform for buying, selling, and storing cryptocurrencies. It is important to note that it is a regulated entity in the United States, complying with various financial services and consumer protection laws.

However, like any online service, it’s prudent for users to be cautious and use strong security measures.

Generally, users can withdraw their funds from Coinbase to their bank account or other external wallets. If there are withdrawal issues, they could be due to maintenance, security checks, or account verification processes.

Users need to ensure they comply with any requested verification steps and check for any service notifications.

Making a specific amount such as $100 a day on Coinbase or any other exchange involves trading, which comes with risks. Users must conduct thorough research, understand market trends, and only invest what they can afford to lose.

It’s essential to be aware of the volatility in the cryptocurrency market.

No online platform can be considered 100% safe from all potential risks, including security breaches or system failures. Coinbase implements various security measures to protect user accounts and funds, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and FDIC insurance for USD balances.

Still, users should take personal security measures seriously.

Coinbase uses encryption and other security protocols to protect the connection with users’ bank accounts. As with any financial service, it’s crucial for users to have strong passwords, enable 2FA, and monitor their accounts for unauthorized activity.

As of my last update, Coinbase had a subscription service called Coinbase One, which offered benefits like zero-fee trading and account protection. The fees for such services may vary and can be checked directly on the Coinbase website or through the app for the most current pricing.

Coinbase requires users to verify their identity to comply with regulatory requirements. They claim to store personal information securely and use it for verification purposes.

Users should ensure they understand the platform’s privacy policy and the measures it takes to protect personal data.

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Methodology

At Crypto Head we use a rigorous research and rating process to assess each platform. Our star rating system is out of 5 stars and is designed to condense a large amount of information into an easy-to-understand format. You can read our full methodology and rating system for more details.

About The Authors

James Headshot
Written by

Crypto Technical Writer

James Page, previously the lead writer at Crypto Head and a registered psychologist, brings a unique perspective to the world of blockchain and cryptocurrency.

His extensive experience in the industry and ability to present complex concepts in an understandable manner make his articles a valuable resource for readers seeking to navigate the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

Check James out on:
Adam Headshot
Edited by

Co-Founder / Managing Editor

Adam Morris, the co-founder of Crypto Head and a respected crypto expert, offers insightful commentary and analysis on cryptocurrency, NFTs, and the evolving digital landscape.

His extensive experience and features in top-tier publications like Forbes and CNN underscore his deep understanding of the crypto world and its future potential.

Check Adam out on: