Given the number of crypto exchanges that have shut down, a recurring problem for crypto traders is finding reputable crypto brokers. These fears were heightened in 2022 by the collapse of FTX, one of the largest exchanges. Traders would like to trade and keep cryptocurrencies on exchanges without worrying.
Unlike many crypto exchanges that avoid the U.S. market, Coinbase has registered as a Money Services Business with FinCEN and complies with financial services and consumer protection laws. Its publicly traded status in the U.S. also means it is a regulated entity. Its platform is popular for its simple interface and accessibility. Coinbase offers a simple entryway to the crypto market suitable for new and experienced traders.
In this article, Benzinga provides an in-depth review of Coinbase, including its pros and cons and how it compares to other crypto exchange platforms.
- Beginners and new crypto investors
- Investors looking to trade or invest in cryptocurrencies
- People looking for a trustworthy platform to trade their digital assets
- Easy-to-use design makes it simple to buy, sell and store cryptocurrencies
- Hundreds of cryptocurrencies available, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and more
- Trusted reputation as a reputable exchange and a publicly listed company, which means it is subject to regulation.
- Convenient portfolio management via mobile app
- Offers institutional solutions like prime brokerage, commerce support
- High fees compared to other platforms, especially for small transfers
- Pending SEC lawsuit about operating an unregistered securities exchange
Coinbase Ratings at a Glance
Product Offering and Features | |
Commission and Fees | |
Usability | |
Customer Support | |
Security Measures | |
Mobile App | |
Overall Rating |
Coinbase offers a comprehensive range of products and features aimed at beginner and experienced cryptocurrency traders. Product offerings include:
- Cryptocurrency trading: You can trade many cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin.
- Coinbase Pro: If you are an advanced trader, Coinbase offers a platform called Coinbase Pro, which offers additional features such as advanced charting tools, order types and lower fees for high-volume trading.
- Coinbase Wallet: The platform offers a secure digital wallet where you can store thousands of cryptocurrency assets. This wallet provides access to decentralized apps (dApps), decentralized storage and multi-coin compatibility, among other features.
- Coinbase card: Coinbase has a Visa debit card that allows you to spend cryptocurrency for everyday purchases. If you are looking to use cryptocurrency in real-world transactions, the Coinbase card offers you that convenience and flexibility.
- Institutional offering: Coinbase provides exchange access to institutions so that they can trade with deep liquidity. Prime brokerage services and execution services also cater to institutional clients.
- Educational resources: You can access a wide range of resources, including articles, tutorials and videos, to educate yourself about cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. For example, you can learn about crypto staking or how to begin day trading crypto. These free resources increase your chances of becoming a more informed trader or investor.
Coinbase has a wide range of products with features for both new and seasoned traders. Its emphasis on accessibility, security and user-friendliness make it a popular option for people wishing to enter the cryptocurrency market.
Coinbase requires no minimum amount to open an account. Whenever you trade on the platform, you'll encounter a spread of approximately 0.50%. Transaction fees range from 0.05% to 0.6%, depending on various factors such as order type, trading pair, currency pricing tier and payment method. Coinbase may charge either a flat fee or a percentage fee for transactions, depending on the region and transaction amount.
While bank transfer deposits are typically free, credit and debit card deposits may incur a 3.99% fee. Withdrawal fees vary depending on the cryptocurrency and destination wallet, with adjustments made to cover network transaction costs. However, for small traders or investors, Coinbase's charges may be considered expensive.
Coinbase has an easy-to-use interface and a clear dashboard of market pricing to track the market.
Signing up is easy thanks to clear steps that guide you through creating and verifying your account seamlessly. You have complete control over your portfolio, empowering you to manage your assets according to your preferences
Coinbase's usability stands out for its accessibility and reliability, making it a top choice for cryptocurrency enthusiasts seeking a user-friendly platform.
You can get help from customer service via email or a full help center with Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and tips. However, response times may vary, and there could be delays in getting assistance or resolving issues. Delays have contributed to a poor Trustpilot rating of 1.5.
Despite this, Coinbase offers multiple channels for contacting customer support, including email and a reporting system. While the platform's customer service could be more prompt, its diverse support options show the platform's intent to satisfy its customers.
Coinbase prioritizes account security through two-factor authentication (2FA), requiring users to provide a secondary verification method, such as a code sent to their phone, in addition to their password.
Coinbase uses cold storage wallets to mitigate the risk of theft from online hacking attempts. The platform also maintains a dedicated security team tasked with monitoring the platform for potential threats and implementing security measures to mitigate risks effectively.
Although Coinbase offers insurance coverage for a portion of digital currencies against losses from theft and security breaches, coverage does not extend to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or losses resulting from unauthorized account access from breaches or credential loss.
Despite these precautions, some users have reported isolated cases of security breaches and unauthorized access, suggesting that Coinbase's security protocols may need some work. Coinbase is known as a generally secure platform to store and trade digital assets because it has strong security measures in place.
Coinbase's interface is simple yet eye-catching, with a user-friendly and intuitive layout that facilitates multitasking. Apart from trading cryptocurrencies, you can review account balances and transaction history, set price alerts and access instructional materials.
While the app generally performs well, with fast loading times and minimal glitches, occasional reports of crashing or freezing, particularly during periods of high market volatility, have been noted.
The Coinbase mobile app serves as a convenient and accessible tool for users to manage their cryptocurrency portfolios on the go, boasting a range of features and a user-friendly interface.
Coinbase vs. Competitors
Coinbase competes with the best crypto exchanges, including Binance, Kraken and Gemini. These platforms share similarities in offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies for trading, user-friendly interfaces and robust security measures. However, they differ in terms of fees, supported features and target audiences.
Below is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between Coinbase and its competitors.
Sum of median estimated savings and rewards earned, per user in 2021 across multiple Coinbase programs (excluding sweepstakes). This amount includes fee waivers from Coinbase One (excluding the subscription cost), rewards from Coinbase Card, and staking rewards. ³Crypto rewards is an optional Coinbase offer. Upon purchase of USDC, you will be automatically opted in to rewards. If you’d like to opt out or learn more about rewards, you can click here. The rewards rate is subject to change and can vary by region. Customers will be able to see the latest applicable rates directly within their accounts.
Coinbase gets a 4 out of 5 because it is easy to use, especially for U.S. customers who are trying to access crypto for the first time. It has strong security measures and supports trading for hundreds of cryptocurrencies. The platform may have higher fees than some competitors, and users sometimes have trouble with customer service, but many crypto traders choose it because it offers features suitable for individuals and institutions. With a solid reputation and continuous improvements, Coinbase remains a heavyweight in its niche, which is why it gets such a high overall rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How trustworthy is Coinbase?
Coinbase has established a solid reputation for being a dependable, safe and secure cryptocurrency exchange. Being a publicly traded company means that it adheres to strict financial regulations and compliance. Your funds are kept in cold storage, which means they are safe from hackers. Plus, its digital wallets are non-custodial, meaning the company itself cannot access them.
What is the downside to Coinbase?
Coinbase is known for its relatively high fees compared to other exchanges. Transaction fees can range from 0.05% to 0.6%, depending on the payment method used and additional fees may apply for certain transactions.
Is it safe to invest via Coinbase?
Yes, it is safe to invest via Coinbase. The platform has taken several measures to ensure that your funds are safe. Also, the regulatory oversight and scrutiny that apply to the platform because it is a public company gives you some measure of assurance. However, it’s important to understand that every crypto exchange has risks. Overall, in comparison to other platforms, Coinbase is safe.
User Reviews
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ASSET ACCOUNT
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COINBASE SUCKS! Period. They might have a large reach, but their customer service is HORRIBLE. Worse than a THIRLD WORLD COUNTRY!!! Don't use them, even though they have low rates.
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locked my account and won't respond to emails
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About Anna Yen
Anna Yen, CFA is an expert crypto writer with over two decades of professional finance and writing experience in roles within JPMorgan and UBS derivatives, asset management, crypto, and Family Money Map. She specializes in writing about alternative investment topics ranging from derivatives to cryptocurrencies. Her work has been published on sites like the crypto exchange Bybit. After six years of personal experience investing in crypto, she prefers BTC, ETH, and SOL.