This Coinbase review is needed. With a market cap of $30 billion and over 110 million verified users across more than 100 countries, Coinbase has firmly established itself as a major player in the crypto world.
It handles over $1 billion in daily trades and holds more than $100 billion in crypto assets. Plus, it manages $90 billion for institutional clients, including big names like Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal.
Here’s why it matters to you. This review will answer key questions about how Coinbase works, detail the Coinbase transaction fees, and explain Coinbase One. Whether you’re curious about Coinbase APY or Coinbase commission, this article covers all you need to know about Coinbase’s features and offerings.
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Our verdict on Coinbase
Coinbase is a robust and user-friendly cryptocurrency exchange, offering a secure gateway to the crypto economy.
Its intuitive interface simplifies the buying, selling, and storage of cryptocurrencies,, making it a useful financial services provider for all kinds of digital assets.
For instance, to cater to more experienced traders, Coinbase Advanced Trade (formerly Coinbase Pro) offers lower Coinbase transaction fees, extensive liquidity, and advanced tools, providing a competitive edge. Check out our full Coinbase vs Coinbase Pro comparison for more information on this service.
However, like any platform, Coinbase has its drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with account holds and the length of time it takes to resolve them.
This highlights the importance of managing your assets carefully. While Coinbase is a great place to buy and trade, storing your cryptocurrencies in a wallet where you control the keys for added security is advisable.
When considering the value of Coinbase One, its $29.99 monthly fee becomes justifiable, especially if you prioritize dedicated customer support and need access to zero-fee trading up to $10,000 per month.
For U.S.-based users, Coinbase remains a leading choice, offering a reliable and regulated environment with the backing of institutional partners.
In summary, Coinbase is a top-tier platform for anyone entering the crypto space. However, advanced users should leverage its full potential by using Advanced Trade and taking advantage of Coinbase One’s perks.
Overall, it stands out as a trusted and versatile exchange, still users should be mindful of where they store their assets.
Pros and cons of Coinbase
Coinbase is a reputable exchange that provides custody and trading services to the Justice Department’s U.S. Marshals Service. However, every cryptocurrency exchange has pros and cons.
Coinbase pros
- Beginner-friendly interface – Coinbase makes buying, selling, and storing crypto easy, even for first-time users
- Large crypto selection – Over 290 cryptocurrencies are available, covering popular and emerging assets
- FDIC insurance for USD – Cash balances are insured up to $250,000, adding security for users
- Educational rewards – Users earn free crypto by learning about different coins and blockchain concepts
- Coinbase Visa Card – Spend crypto like cash and earn rewards using the Coinbase Visa debit card
- Instant Withdrawals – PayPal withdrawals process instantly, while bank transfers take 1–3 business days
- Low minimum investment – Buy crypto with as little as $2, making it accessible to all users
- Advanced trading tools – Coinbase Advanced offers pro-level features like interactive charts and advanced order types
- Regulated & publicly traded – As a Nasdaq-listed company, Coinbase follows strict financial regulations for added trust
- Convenience with Apple Pay – Users can buy crypto using Apple Pay. This integration, launched in December 2024, enables users to purchase Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and more directly. The Coinbase Onramp feature extends this payment option to third-party wallets
Coinbase cons
While Coinbase offers many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- High trading fees – Debit card purchases can cost up to 3.99%, higher than some competitors
- Limited customer support – Users often report slow responses and frustrating issue resolution
- No full crypto insurance – FDIC coverage applies only to USD, not to cryptocurrency holdings
- Account freezes – Suspicious activity can trigger sudden account restrictions, sometimes without clear explanations
- No anonymous accounts – Identity verification is mandatory, limiting privacy-focused users
- Not ideal for High-Frequency Traders – Trading fees make it expensive for frequent buying and selling
- Limited protection against hacks – If hacked, users may have little recourse to recover stolen crypto
- U.S.-centric focus – Some features are unavailable in certain countries due to regulations
- Reports to IRS – Transactions and earnings over $600 are reported for tax purposes
- Bank transfer delays – Withdrawals via ACH take 1–3 business days, slower than competitors
Methodology: How we scored Coinbase
We scored Coinbase on the following criteria, measured across various data points.
Our expert reviewers also used their experience with the platform to judge subjective qualities like ease of use.
- Supported cryptocurrencies: We assessed the range and popularity of digital assets available, including major cryptocurrencies and emerging altcoins.
- Payment methods: We evaluated Coinbase’s variety of deposit and withdrawal options, considering speed, fees, and accessibility.
- Fees: We analyzed the fee structure for various Coinbase services, including trading, withdrawal, and conversion fees, to determine their competitiveness.
- Ease of use: We evaluated the platform’s user interface and experience and assessed its suitability for beginner and experienced cryptocurrency investors.
- Features: We examined Coinbase’s range of tools and services, such as order protections, matching engines, and portfolio management, to determine their value to users.
- Customer service: We assessed the quality and responsiveness of Coinbase’s customer support channels, including response times and problem-solving abilities.
- Reputation and security: We evaluated Coinbase’s trustworthiness by considering its track record, regulatory compliance, and security measures.
About Coinbase
Coinbase, a publicly traded U.S. company, holds its position as the second-largest cryptocurrency exchange in the United States by trading volume. It serves users in over 100 countries and maintains a fully distributed structure, allowing its 4000+ employees to work remotely.
The platform serves over 110 million verified users and has safeguarded $330 billion in assets. In Q1 2024, Coinbase recorded $256 billion in institutional trading volume, underscoring its significance in the crypto industry.
Known for its interface, Coinbase caters to traders with staking, crypto rewards, and an educational “learn and earn” program. While the basic platform’s fees can be high, users can access a more competitive rate through Coinbase’s advanced trading option.
Its comprehensive services and secure infrastructure support the platform’s mission to increase global economic freedom. This Coinbase review highlights the exchange’s extensive offerings, fee structure, and value for all types of investors.
Coinbase fees
A complete breakdown of the fees charged by Coinbase.
Deposit and withdrawal fees
| Deposit method | Deposit fees | Withdrawal fees |
| ACH | Free | Free |
| Wire (USD) | $10 | $25 |
| Sepa (EUR) | €0.15 EUR | Free |
| Swift (GBP) | Free | £1 |
| PayPal | 3.99% to buy crypto 2.5% for depositing USD | 1.5% (up to $2.99 for withdrawals under $200). |
| Credit card | Up to 3.99% | Up to 1.50% |
Coinbase announced in July 2024 that transferring crypto assets from its platform to BASE (a layer-2 chain that Coinbase developed) will have zero fees.
Coinbase trading fees
| Buy (taker) | Sell (maker) | Instant Purchase | |
| Spot market | Varies based on trading volume (typically 0.05% – 0.60%) | Varies based on trading volume (typically 0.00% – 0.40%) | Higher fees than spot market |
| Futures | Depends on specific contracts and trading volume (typically 0.0180% – 0.0550%) | Depends on specific contracts and trading volume (typically 0.00% – 0.020%) | Not applicable |
Writer’s note: Coinbase fees can vary depending on several factors, including payment method, transaction amount, and market conditions. Coinbase also supports Apple Pay, letting users buy cryptocurrency directly in apps and simplifying USD conversions with lower fees.
Important considerations:
- Coinbase Pro: Often offers lower fees than the standard Coinbase platform.
- Coinbase One: Subscription service provides fee discounts and other benefits.
- Instant purchase: Typically involves higher fees depending on the convenience offered.
- Trading volume tiers: The amount and size of your transactions affect maker and taker fees on the spot market. Higher trading volumes generally result in lower fees.
- Network fees: For cryptocurrency withdrawals, network fees (gas fees for Ethereum) are separate from Coinbase’s fees.
Coinbase key features
Coinbase offers a platform for retail investors to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrencies while providing institutional-grade trading, custody, and financing solutions.
| Feature | Summary |
| Interface | Coinbase offers a beginner-friendly interface, making it easy for new users to buy, sell, and manage cryptocurrencies. It’s a straightforward entry point into the crypto market. |
| Staking | Users can stake eligible cryptocurrencies on Coinbase to earn rewards. This feature appeals to those looking to passively increase their crypto assets. |
| ETH Staking | Coinbase’s ETH staking API, allowing users to stake any amount of ETH directly through Ledger Live with Coinbase-operated validators. |
| Spot Market Margin Trading | Advanced traders can utilize Coinbase Advanced Trade for spot market margin trading, allowing them to amplify their market exposure. This feature is geared toward those with more trading experience. |
| Futures Trading | Coinbase provides futures trading options through Coinbase Derivatives, available to qualified investors. This feature offers leverage and risk management tools for seasoned traders. |
| Coinbase Wallet | Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody wallet that gives users control over their assets while providing access to decentralized applications (dApps). It’s perfect for users who prioritize security and independence. |
| Coinbase Card | The Coinbase Card enables cryptocurrency spending anywhere Visa is accepted, with real-time crypto-to-fiat conversion. It’s a seamless way to integrate crypto into daily spending. |
| Coinbase Earn | With Coinbase Earn, users can watch educational videos and take quizzes to learn about cryptocurrencies. In return, they earn small amounts of crypto, combining education with rewards. |
| Coinbase Pro | Coinbase Pro is tailored for experienced traders, offering advanced charting tools, real-time order books, and lower fees. It’s the go-to platform for those seeking professional-grade trading features. |
| Coinbase L (Earn) | Coinbase L (Earn) is more than just a learning platform; it offers users a way to earn crypto while expanding their knowledge. By completing courses, users can unlock valuable insights and rewards. |
| KYC-Verified Liquidity Pools | Coinbase’s Verified Pools offer identity-verified DeFi trading, reducing counterparty risk for retail and institutional users. |
Coinbase app review
The Coinbase mobile app is a critical component of this review. It offers an intuitive experience for both newcomers and seasoned investors.
Available on Google and Apple, the app mirrors the functionality of the desktop platform, offering a seamless experience. It’s designed with a clean, intuitive interface, making buying, selling, and managing digital assets easy. Users can easily buy and sell various cryptocurrencies with various payment methods, including bank accounts and cards.
Coinbase recently integrated Apple Pay into its platform, enabling third-party app developers to allow users to buy cryptocurrency directly through their apps.
This integration is part of Coinbase On-ramp, which simplifies converting traditional currencies like USD into cryptocurrencies, making it more accessible for consumers by reducing fees and streamlining transactions.
The app offers secure storage, a clear overview of portfolio balances, transaction history, and multiple wallet management. Sending and receiving funds is streamlined, and robust security measures are in place. In addition to the main Coinbase app, there’s a separate Coinbase Wallet app for enhanced asset control.
About the Coinbase Wallet app
Anyone looking for a wallet application that offers a comprehensive on-chain solution can consider the new Coinbase Wallet web app.
Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, it provides a streamlined interface to explore, manage, and engage with crypto assets, NFTs, and DeFi positions in one place.
The app supports multiple wallets, offering a 360-degree view of portfolios without switching between accounts. Its smart wallet feature simplifies onboarding, allowing users to get on-chain without installing extensions or mobile apps.
As a non-custodial wallet, security is in your hands—ensure your login details are protected. This web app also serves as an alternative for users in regions where Coinbase.com is unavailable, offering a unified platform for seamless on-chain activity.
In essence, Coinbase and Coinbase Wallet are two distinct platforms offering different levels of control and accessibility for cryptocurrency users.
The Coinbase app is a centralized exchange that provides a user-friendly environment for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies. It prioritizes security by holding users’ private keys and offers additional features like staking and rewards.
On the other hand, Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody platform that grants users complete control over their digital assets by allowing them to manage their private keys. This approach is ideal for interacting with decentralized finance applications and NFTs.
While beginners may find the Coinbase app more convenient, experienced users looking for greater autonomy often prefer the Coinbase Wallet. Both platforms can be used in conjunction for a comprehensive cryptocurrency experience.
It’s important to note that you can use both platforms simultaneously. For example, you could buy cryptocurrency on the Coinbase app and then transfer it to your Coinbase Wallet for self-custody.
For developers, Coinbase recently enabled agentic commerce for OpenAI’s Agents SDK. Its AgentKit now offers launch-day support, allowing AI agents to handle commercial transactions instantly.
Coinbase’s user ratings
| Platform | Rating | Number of reviews |
| Google Play | 2.8/5 | 892K |
| Apple Store | 4.7/5 | 1.75M |
| Trustpilot | 3.9/5 | 16K |
Coinbase customer satisfaction
This one’s a mixed bag. Coinbase is a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, but it has received mixed reviews regarding customer satisfaction.
On the positive side, its user-friendly interface, extensive educational resources, and intuitive mobile app make it accessible for both beginners and experienced traders. However, significant challenges persist, particularly with customer support, where users often face long wait times, unhelpful responses, and unresolved issues.
The fee structure, account restrictions, and lingering security concerns further contribute to dissatisfaction.
One recurring complaint involves account restrictions. Users report accounts being locked without explanation, sometimes holding substantial amounts. This has led to frustration and even discussions of class action lawsuits. The difficulty of resolving these issues, coupled with inadequate support, echoes the experiences of Robinhood users.
Despite these challenges, it’s important to note that Coinbase serves millions of customers, and only a fraction of them report such problems.
While Coinbase has made efforts to expand customer support, reduce fees, enhance security, and improve overall user experience, the potential for facing these issues remains a critical consideration when evaluating the platform.
Coinbase customer support
Coinbase’s customer service has garnered varied feedback, showcasing both its strengths and areas needing improvement. The platform provides multiple support options, such as live chat, social media, and a ticketing system. Nevertheless, users frequently encounter issues with these services.
The live chat feature often results in automated responses rather than engaging with a live representative, which can prolong problem resolution. Social media support is another available option, but it, too, suffers from delays. The ticketing system allows users to submit requests but can be impersonal and less effective.
Coinbase’s customer service is generally adequate in regions like the United States and parts of Europe. However, users who move outside these areas may face difficulties.
For example, after relocating and updating their profiles, some users posted complaints about locked accounts, adding that they only received automated responses when they raised the issues.
Such experiences are increasingly common, with many users finding it challenging to get human assistance. Coinbase’s self-help support may fall short for those in unsupported regions, leading to frustration and concerns about accessing their funds.
Coinbase regulatory compliance
In response to new regulatory developments, Coinbase has been adjusting its approach to remain compliant with evolving regulations. Notably, in the European Union, Coinbase is preparing for the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations, which will affect its stablecoin offerings.
By the end of 2024, the platform will delist certain unauthorized stablecoins for EU traders. Affected users will be prompted to switch to USDC or EURC, with the exchange ensuring compliance with future EU regulatory changes.
Additionally, Coinbase’s decision to end its yield offering on USD Coin (USDC) for certain European users, effective December 1, 2024, is a direct response to these regulations. The company is also expanding its presence in other jurisdictions, such as Turkey, where it applied for a crypto license in August 2024.
In the U.S., Coinbase has been actively advocating for clearer regulations, particularly around stablecoins, and is pushing for stronger oversight from agencies like the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) rather than the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These steps reflect Coinbase’s ongoing efforts to adapt to both regional and international regulatory landscapes
How safe is your money with Coinbase?
While Coinbase is a leading exchange, it’s not without its challenges.
Insider trading has cast a shadow over the platform, most notably in the July 2022 case, in which a former Coinbase product manager, his brother, and a friend were implicated in the first-ever insider trading prosecution in cryptocurrency.
Following this, Nikhil Wahi received a ten-month prison sentence in January 2023 for trades based on privileged Coinbase information.
Coinbase’s CFO, Alesia Haas, also made headlines by selling over $1 million in company stock in August 2024, raising concerns about executive confidence, though her sale followed a pre-set trading plan.
Security issues have also emerged. In 2023, hackers exploited a flaw in Coinbase’s SMS-based two-factor authentication, stealing funds from over 6,000 accounts. Phishing attacks have further highlighted vulnerabilities, with scammers successfully bypassing multi-factor authentication to steal user funds, as confirmed by this article by PCMag.
Despite these concerns, Coinbase continues to evolve. The platform has taken steps to address security issues and reimburse affected users, signaling its commitment to improving user safety.
It is important to note that regulated crypto exchanges are taking measures to protect their client’s funds.
How to open a Coinbase account: Easy-to-follow guide
Create a Coinbase account
- Go to Coinbase website and click “Sign Up”.
- Enter your email address and create a strong password. You’ll need to verify your email address.
- Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process, which may require providing personal information and identification documents.
- Note: Coinbase will recommend enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security. Do this.
Fund Your Account
- Click on “Account” and then “Deposit Funds”.
- Choose your preferred deposit method (bank account, debit/credit card, etc.).
- Follow the instructions to complete the deposit.
Choose a trading platform
Coinbase offers two trading platforms:
- Coinbase: User-friendly interface for buying and selling cryptocurrencies.
- Coinbase Pro: Advanced trading platform with more features and lower fees.
Start Trading
On Coinbase:
- Click on “Buy/Sell”.
- Select the cryptocurrency you want to trade.
- Choose the amount you want to buy or sell.
- Review the order details and click “Buy” or “Sell”.
On Coinbase Pro:
- Click on “Markets”.
- Select the trading pair you want to trade (e.g., BTC/USD).
- Choose a buy or sell order type (market order, limit order, stop order, etc.).
- Enter the amount and price you want to trade.
- Review the order details and click “Place Order”.
Exchanges like Coinbase
Bybit caters more to experienced traders seeking advanced features.
Bybit is a derivatives powerhouse designed for experienced traders seeking advanced features. With its emphasis on leverage trading and a wide range of tradable cryptocurrencies, it’s a platform tailored for those looking to maximize their trading potential.
Essentially, Bybit caters to the thrill-seeking trader, while Coinbase provides a secure and accessible onramp to the crypto world. Read this comprehensive ByBit review for more context.
Recent years have also witnessed Crypto.com’s traction, especially among retail investors; compare it to Coinbase here.
Is there a future for Coinbase?
Coinbase is strategically positioned for long-term success. It offers stability and innovation, making it a top choice for cryptocurrency investors. The platform’s recent performance reflects this strength, with EOY revenues topping $5.246B in total revenue and an adjusted EBITDA of $596 million.
Despite some challenges in transaction revenue, Coinbase has seen substantial growth in subscription and services revenue, proving its adaptability in a volatile market. CEO Brian Armstrong’s emphasis on regulatory clarity and the increasing global utility of cryptocurrencies underlines Coinbase’s commitment to navigating the evolving crypto landscape.
These factors make Coinbase a secure platform with continuous liquidity, reassuring users it’s built for the long haul. Coinbase’s suspension of trading for FLOKI, TURBO, and GIGA in New York, effective April 14, 2025, reinforces its commitment to regulatory compliance and security under New York’s strict BitLicense framework.
Financially, Coinbase remains strong, holding $7.8 billion in USD reserves. With a market cap of $51.11 billion and a P/E ratio of 33.28, investor confidence is high. Additionally, Coinbase controls 3.84 million ETH -11.42 % of all staked Ethereum.
The company’s strategic expansion, including focusing on leveraging Europe’s MiCA legislation and promoting USDC adoption, indicates a bright future. Additionally, Coinbase aims to bring 1 billion people on-chain, underscoring its ambition to drive global crypto adoption.
Coinbase crypto ETFs
One of the most promising developments for Coinbase is its involvement in the rise of spot crypto ETFs. The SEC’s approval of nine spot ETH ETFs highlights the platform’s critical role in the future of digital assets. As a trusted custodian,
Coinbase powers 10 of 11 spot bitcoin ETFs and eight newly approved ETH ETFs. This partnership boosts investor confidence and signals that Coinbase is a major player in the next phase of the crypto economy.
Moreover, Coinbase has expanded its offerings by partnering with the U.S. Marshals Service to manage large-cap digital assets, partnering with Stripe to enhance on-chain adoption, and launching new futures contracts for oil and gold. These moves highlight Coinbase’s versatility and commitment to offering diverse products.
However, Coinbase’s strategic initiatives extend beyond traditional offerings, with its Base network emerging as a significant innovation.
Coinbase Base blockchain network
Base is an Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) solution developed to provide a secure, low-cost, and developer-friendly environment for on-chain activities, and it’s rapidly gaining traction with trading activity soaring and positioning Base as the second-most active network in terms of decentralized exchange (DEX) users.
As of April 2024, Base reached a record $12B in bridged TVL. The network’s growth is driven by its ability to capture 20% of the total DEX user market share, with between 7 to 15M daily transactions and close to 1.5 million daily active users.
The platform’s partnership with Stripe to enhance on-chain adoption and the success of Base, its Ethereum Layer 2 solution, further demonstrate its forward-thinking approach. Base has rapidly grown in user adoption, with over 1.3 million daily active users and $7 billion in total value locked, solidifying Coinbase’s position as a leader in blockchain innovation.
This activity surge highlights Base’s appeal to retail investors and showcases its capacity to support diverse and emerging markets within the crypto ecosystem.
Coinbase’s new smart wallet (mentioned above), is designed to streamline on-chain transactions through account abstraction, further enhancing the user experience on Base.
Currently available on testnet, the smart wallet is set to eliminate friction points, making it easier for users to engage with decentralized finance (DeFi) and other blockchain-based activities.
Conclusion
Unless you’re looking for alternatives, Coinbase remains a safe and highly regulated cryptocurrency exchange, offering excellent liquidity and competitive fees for traders, particularly in the U.S. and parts of Europe. Advanced Trade tools provide a solid option for active investors, while its commitment to security helps safeguard user assets effectively.
That said, challenges like account restrictions for users outside supported regions and occasional customer support limitations are areas Coinbase could improve. The platform also requires users to keep their profiles updated, which has caused issues for some international users.
Despite occasional unscheduled maintenance, Coinbase remains a trusted choice, especially for U.S.-based investors and those who value a user-friendly experience. While critics often misunderstand online security protocols, Coinbase’s proactive approach and continuous platform enhancements reflect its commitment to both beginners and seasoned traders.
Whether you are new to cryptocurrency or an experienced investor, Coinbase’s reputation and expansive feature set make it one of the most reliable exchanges to consider.
FAQs
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References
SEC scores big win in lawsuit against crypto exchange Coinbase | CNBC | 2024
Coinbase Derivatives Expands Futures Offering to Include Oil and Gold | Coinbase Blog | 2024
95% of Coinbase Users Rely on SMS-Based 2FA, Account Takeover Stats Reveal | PCMag |2023
Coinbase Introduces KYC-Verified Liquidity Pools for DeFi Swaps and Trades | Decrypt
Ledger Live Integrates Coinbase’s <32 ETH Staking | Coinbase Blog
