When it comes to buying and trading cryptocurrencies in the UK, Coinbase has long been a go-to platform. Known for its user-friendly interface and strong regulatory compliance, it’s a trusted name for beginners and casual investors. However, growing demand for better fees, wider coin selection, advanced trading tools, and reliable uptime has led many UK users to explore Coinbase alternatives.
Issues such as high transaction costs, limited altcoin availability, and service outages during market volatility have pushed investors to seek platforms that offer more value, flexibility, and performance. Whether you're looking for lower fees, access to emerging tokens, or professional-grade trading features, there’s a growing list of secure, FCA-compliant exchanges ready to meet your needs.
This guide explores the top Coinbase alternatives for UK users, comparing their security standards, fee structures, supported cryptocurrencies, and user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Why Look for a Coinbase Alternative?
While Coinbase remains popular, several factors make it less ideal for certain investors:
- High fees: Especially on card purchases and small trades.
- Limited coin selection: Many promising altcoins are absent.
- Service disruptions: Occasional downtime during high market activity.
- Basic trading tools: Not ideal for active or advanced traders.
If you're seeking lower costs, more trading options, or faster execution, switching to a Coinbase alternative could be the right move.
Top Coinbase Alternatives in the UK
Gemini
Gemini, launched in 2015, entered the European market in 2020 and has since become a trusted Coinbase alternative for UK investors. Regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as an e-money institution, Gemini emphasizes security, transparency, and ease of use.
Key Features:
- Native GBP and EUR support
- Insurance coverage for stored crypto
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- Educational resources for beginners
- Staking and recurring buys available
Pros:
- Strong regulatory compliance
- Intuitive interface
- Excellent customer support
- Supports major altcoins like Cardano (ADA) and Chainlink (LINK)
Cons:
- Smaller selection of tradable coins compared to rivals
- Strict KYC verification limits anonymity
Payment Methods: Bank transfers, debit cards
Gemini is best suited for UK investors prioritizing safety and simplicity over extensive trading options.
eToro
eToro is a multi-asset platform offering crypto, stocks, and ETFs since 2007. With over 35 million users globally and FCA authorization, it's a solid choice for those who want more than just crypto trading.
Key Features:
- CopyTrading (mirror expert investors)
- Demo account with virtual funds
- NFT marketplace
- Crypto staking (not available in the UK)
Fees:
- 1% trading fee on crypto
- 1.5%–3% currency conversion fee
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly interface
- Social trading tools
- Free educational content via eToro Academy
Cons:
- Limited to around 100 cryptocurrencies
- Accounts are USD-denominated, leading to conversion fees
Payment Methods: Skrill, Neteller, bank transfer, Klarna
eToro shines for new investors who value learning and social trading features.
👉 Access a global trading platform with innovative tools and diverse investment options.
Uphold
Uphold stands out with its 100% reserve model, ensuring all user funds are fully backed. It supports over 250 cryptocurrencies and offers real-time transparency with asset-liability updates every 30 seconds.
Key Features:
- Instant asset conversion
- Uphold Card for global spending
- Advanced order types (take-profit, stop-loss)
- Staking and scheduled trades
Pros:
- High transparency with proof-of-reserves
- Strong customer support (24/7)
- Easy onboarding for beginners
Cons:
- Basic charting tools
- Fewer advanced analytics
Payment Methods: Bank transfer, cards, digital wallets
Uphold is ideal for users who value transparency and seamless asset management.
OKX
Launched in 2017, OKX ranks among the world’s most trusted exchanges. It’s fully compliant with UK regulations and offers one of the most comprehensive feature sets available.
Key Features:
- Spot, futures, and margin trading
- Trading bots and copy-trading
- P2P marketplace
- Launchpad for new crypto projects
- Crypto-backed loans
Pros:
- Over 350 tradable coins
- Transparent fee structure (as low as 0.1%)
- No security breaches in nearly a decade
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly
- No direct bank deposits (P2P only)
Payment Methods: Visa/Mastercard, Wise, P2P bank transfers
OKX is perfect for active traders seeking advanced tools and low fees.
Bitget
Bitget has rapidly grown since 2018, offering strong liquidity and innovative tools like copy-trading. It’s especially popular among UK users who prefer bank transfers via Faster Payments.
Key Features:
- Trading bots and futures
- Launchpad access
- High liquidity pairs
Pros:
- Competitive fees
- Excellent customer service
- Strong security protocols
Cons:
- High minimum withdrawal ($20)
Payment Methods: Bank transfer, Visa/Mastercard
Bitget suits traders focused on leverage, automation, and fast deposits.
PayBis
Based in Glasgow, PayBis offers 0% fees on your first purchase, making it attractive for newcomers. It supports 47 fiat currencies and focuses on fast verification.
Pros:
- First transaction fee-free
- Multilingual 24/7 support
- Trusted on Trustpilot
Cons:
- High card fees after first trade
- Limited advanced features
Payment Methods: Cards, SEPA, Skrill, Neteller
Best for UK users wanting a quick start with minimal initial cost.
Bitfinex
One of the oldest exchanges (since 2012), Bitfinex offers deep liquidity and professional tools.
Pros:
- Advanced trading interface
- Margin and futures trading
- Supports GBP/EUR pairs
Cons:
- Complex for beginners
- Fewer listed coins
Ideal for experienced traders needing sophisticated tools.
Bitstamp
Operating since 2011 and FCA-registered, Bitstamp is known for reliability and strong security.
Pros:
- Over a decade of breach-free operation
- User-friendly design
- Staking and margin trading available
Cons:
- No launchpad for new projects
A solid long-term, security-focused alternative.
Kraken
Kraken (founded 2013) offers strong security, proof-of-reserve audits, and staking. It supports GBP and EUR directly.
Pros:
- No major security breaches
- Excellent customer support
- High liquidity
Cons:
- Interface can be overwhelming for beginners
Great for security-conscious investors seeking variety.
XT.com & KuCoin
Both offer vast coin selections (800+ on KuCoin) and advanced features. While not FCA-regulated, they emphasize transparency with regular proof-of-reserves.
KuCoin supports staking, futures, and leveraged tokens—ideal for global traders seeking diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Coinbase alternatives safe for UK users?
A: Yes—many alternatives like Gemini, Kraken, and Bitstamp are FCA-regulated or comply with UK financial standards, ensuring user protection.
Q: Which exchange has the lowest fees?
A: OKX, Bitget, and PayBis offer competitive pricing. PayBis even provides 0% fees on your first buy.
Q: Can I use GBP on these platforms?
A: Most top alternatives—including Gemini, Kraken, eToro, and Bitstamp—support GBP deposits and trading pairs.
Q: Do any platforms offer better coin selection than Coinbase?
A: Absolutely. KuCoin (900+ coins), XT.com (800+), and OKX offer significantly broader selections.
Q: Are there beginner-friendly Coinbase alternatives?
A: Yes. eToro, PayBis, and Uphold are designed with intuitive interfaces ideal for new users.
Q: What should I consider when switching exchanges?
A: Evaluate fees, coin availability, payment methods, security certifications, customer support, and whether the platform supports your trading style.
Final Thoughts
While Coinbase remains a reliable entry point, numerous Coinbase alternatives in the UK offer better value across fees, features, and performance. Whether you're a beginner seeking low-cost access or an advanced trader demanding professional tools, there's a platform tailored to your needs.
From FCA-regulated exchanges like Gemini and Bitstamp, to feature-rich platforms like OKX and KuCoin, the choice is broader than ever. Prioritize security, cost-efficiency, and functionality to find your ideal match.
👉 Start exploring a top-tier exchange today—built for speed, security, and smart investing.
Investing in cryptocurrency carries risk. Prices are highly volatile, and you should only invest what you can afford to lose.