Best Crypto Platforms in 2025

What is a cryptocurrency?

A cryptocurrency is a form of digital money designed for use on the internet. Unlike traditional currencies, such as the pound sterling or the euro, cryptocurrencies do not exist in physical form and are not issued or managed by governments or banks. Their value is determined by supply and demand in online markets, and they can be used for payments, trading, or as an investment. What sets cryptocurrencies apart is their reliance on cryptography—advanced mathematical techniques that secure transactions and control the creation of new units.

One of the core innovations of cryptocurrencies is the use of decentralised transactions. Instead of processing transfers through a central institution like a bank, cryptocurrencies operate on a peer-to-peer network. In this system, transactions occur directly between users anywhere in the world, without an intermediary. The key technology behind this is called blockchain—a shared, tamper-proof digital ledger that records every transaction across the network, ensuring transparency and security.

Behind the scenes, cryptocurrencies rely on a network of participants known as miners (or validators, depending on the system). These individuals or organisations confirm and record new transactions on the blockchain by solving complex computational problems. Their work is essential: it prevents fraud, keeps the network running smoothly, and ensures that all records are accurate and up-to-date. In exchange for their efforts, miners or validators are often rewarded with newly created cryptocurrency coins or transaction fees. This decentralised system helps keep the entire network secure and reliable, without needing a central authority.

Which platforms can you use to invest in cryptocurrency?

When looking to invest in cryptocurrencies in the UK, there are two main types of platforms to consider: crypto exchanges and crypto brokers. Crypto exchanges allow you to buy and own real digital assets (“spot” trading), while crypto brokers let you trade cryptocurrency price movements through financial products known as derivatives, most commonly CFDs (Contracts for Difference), without ever owning the actual coins. These options cater to different needs: exchanges are typically chosen by those seeking long-term ownership, while brokers are favoured by active traders looking for short-term profit opportunities and leverage.

Good to know: “What is a crypto CFD?”

A crypto CFD (Contract for Difference) is a kind of financial derivative. Instead of purchasing a cryptocurrency, you speculate on its price movements—profiting if the price moves in your favour, losing if it doesn’t. With a CFD, you never take possession of the actual crypto asset. A key advantage is the ability to use leverage, which means you can open larger positions than your own capital would allow—potentially amplifying both gains and losses. Crypto CFDs are typically offered by regulated financial brokers.

Crypto Exchange

A crypto exchange is a digital marketplace where you can buy, sell, and hold real cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. When you buy via an exchange, you actually own the crypto, which is then held in a wallet—either on the exchange itself or in one you control. This ownership gives you access to holding, sending, or even staking your assets for passive income. Exchanges give you exposure to the “spot” market, suitable for those who want to invest and potentially benefit from long-term value growth.

Example of investment via an exchange

Suppose you decide to invest £1,000 in Ethereum (ETH) using a crypto exchange. You create your account, deposit funds, and purchase £1,000 worth of ETH at the current market price. The ETH is now stored in your exchange wallet. You can hold it as a long-term investment, transfer it to a personal wallet, or possibly earn rewards by staking it on the platform.

Crypto Broker

A crypto broker allows you to trade cryptocurrencies through contracts for difference (CFDs) and similar derivatives. Here, you never own the underlying asset; instead, you’re speculating on whether the price will go up or down. Brokers typically offer features such as leveraged trading (potentially up to x5 or even x10), advanced order types (like stop-loss for risk management), and fast execution. This setup is designed for active traders aiming to profit from short-term price fluctuations, but be aware that leverage can quickly amplify both profits and losses.

Example of investment via a broker

Imagine you want to speculate on the price of Bitcoin (BTC) using a crypto broker. You open a CFD position worth £2,500 on BTC with a leverage of x5, meaning you only need to put up £500 of your own money as margin. If BTC’s price rises by 10%, you gain 10% of £2,500 (£250). However, if BTC loses 10%, you lose £250—half of your initial margin—showing both the opportunity and the risk leverage introduces.

What are the fees for crypto brokers and platforms?

When trading cryptocurrencies, you will encounter various fees, which differ depending on the platform, type of product (spot or CFD), and how frequently you trade. Understanding these fees is essential, as they can have a significant impact on your returns, whether you are a beginner investor or a more active trader.

Good to know

Deposit, withdrawal, and inactivity fees are most relevant for beginners or passive investors who tend to trade occasionally or hold positions long-term. Trading fees, spreads, and overnight/swap fees mainly affect active traders who execute frequent trades or use leveraged products such as CFDs. Always check the latest fee schedules on each platform, as rates can change and may depend on your trading volume or payment method.

What services are offered by crypto platforms?

The world of crypto platforms has evolved far beyond simple token buying and selling. Today, these platforms offer a range of innovative services that allow users not only to maximise yields, but also to diversify their strategies and actively participate in the broader Web3 ecosystem. From earning passive income to leveraging decentralised finance tools or engaging with the booming NFT market, crypto enthusiasts have never had more ways to make their assets work for them.

Crypto Staking

Crypto staking involves locking up your digital assets in a blockchain protocol to contribute to network security and transaction validation. In return, stakers receive periodic rewards, typically calculated as a percentage yield on the amount staked. Platforms usually offer two types of staking: flexible (withdraw at any time) or locked (funds inaccessible for a set duration, with higher yields as compensation). Staking is commonly available for major blockchains using Proof of Stake consensus.

Staking can be an attractive way to generate passive income, but it can also come with the risk of loss in case of sudden price drops or protocol bugs.

Crypto Lending

Crypto lending lets users lend out their digital assets to other participants through centralised or decentralised platforms, in exchange for steady interest payments. This service is popular for both major cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, the latter offering protection from volatility. Lending is available as fixed or flexible terms, with higher rates typically for longer lock-ins or riskier assets.

Many investors in the UK prefer lending stablecoins such as USDT and DAI for their relative price stability, minimising risks linked to crypto market swings.

Crypto Mining and Farming

Crypto Mining:
Mining refers to the process where powerful computers (often ASIC rigs or high-end GPUs) solve complex mathematical puzzles to verify transactions and create new coins, most commonly with Proof of Work blockchains like Bitcoin. While mining can yield regular income, it's an energy-intensive activity that requires significant upfront investment in hardware and can result in high electricity bills. In the UK, home mining is less common due to rising energy costs, with many miners opting for cloud mining or overseas facilities.

Yield Farming:
Yield farming is a practice within decentralised finance (DeFi) where users supply liquidity (either by lending, staking, or depositing token pairs) to DeFi protocols in exchange for attractive returns. Yields can be very high, especially with newer projects, but come with higher risks, including impermanent loss and potential smart contract vulnerabilities.

Yield farming's variable rates depend largely on the protocol and token pairs chosen, and can sometimes fluctuate dramatically, so proper risk assessment is essential.

NFT

NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are unique digital assets secured by blockchain technology, representing items such as digital art, collectibles, music, or in-game assets. Crypto platforms enable users to buy, sell, and even create (mint) NFTs. Most NFT activity occurs on blockchains such as Ethereum, Polygon, or Solana, each having its own set of transaction fees ("gas fees"), which can range from a few pence to several pounds per transaction. Collectors and creators in the UK can use NFTs for a variety of purposes: art investment, digital collectibles, gaming, or speculative trading. As with any emerging asset class, NFT prices can be volatile, and prospective buyers should be aware of both fees and market trends before participating.

Which cryptocurrencies should you trade on an online platform?

The best crypto trading platforms give access to thousands of digital assets, allowing UK-based investors to buy and sell a vast variety of cryptocurrencies. In 2025, more than 10,000 cryptocurrencies are listed globally, but only a subset demonstrates the characteristics that traders look for—such as strong liquidity, exploitable volatility, or solid fundamental value. To help you navigate these options, here is an overview of the main categories of cryptocurrencies available for trading, their typical examples, and what makes them attractive from a trading perspective:

Before selecting a cryptocurrency to trade, it is crucial to evaluate a few key indicators:

• Daily trading volume: A daily volume above 500 million USD (or GBP equivalent) typically indicates robust liquidity, making it easier to enter and exit positions without significant price slippage.
• Historical volatility: Assets such as SOL or DOGE may fluctuate by 5% to 20% in a single day, offering ample opportunities but also increased risk—understanding past price swings helps in setting strategies and managing risk.
• Market capitalisation: Cryptos ranked in the top 20 by market cap tend to be less volatile and more stable compared to “small-cap” tokens, which can experience sharp, unpredictable price movements.
• Real-world utility: The cryptocurrencies most likely to retain value are those actively used, whether for payments, smart contracts, or DeFi applications—practical adoption often supports price performance over time.

How to choose a cryptocurrency platform?

Choosing the right crypto platform is a crucial decision that depends on several factors, including your level of experience, investment goals (short-term trading or long-term holding), and the specific features you need. The market offers platforms suitable for different profiles: mainstream solutions for the general public, more advanced environments for active traders, and simple interfaces for beginners. Evaluating the key criteria below will help you select a platform tailored to your needs.

• Regulation and legal registration in the UK (presence of authorised registrations or official regulation)
• Number of cryptocurrencies available for purchase or trading
• Transaction fees (including commissions, spread, and withdrawal costs)
• Quality of the user interface (ergonomics, speed, clarity)
• Trading tools offered (leverage, advanced order types, technical indicators)
• Options for staking or lending your crypto assets
• Availability of a reliable and well-designed mobile app
• Platform reputation (user feedback, past security incidents)
• Payment and deposit methods accepted (card, bank transfer, stablecoins)
• Customer support (language options, responsiveness, availability)

These criteria are essential to distinguish the best-suited platform for your needs, whether you are investing long-term, trading actively, or using crypto occasionally.

What is the best crypto platform based on experience level?

Choosing the right crypto platform depends greatly on your experience level and objectives. Beginners, active traders, and experienced traders all have different priorities when it comes to usability, features, and security. Understanding your needs and how each platform can cater to them is key to making a wise and successful choice.

Best Crypto Platform for Beginners

Beginners are discovering the world of cryptocurrency and often need extra guidance and support. User-friendliness, safety, and simplicity are crucial at this stage, prioritising platforms that make the buying, selling, and holding of crypto straightforward.

• An intuitive interface for easy navigation.
• Clear educational resources and tutorials.
• Simple account verification and funding process.
• Responsive customer support.
• Strong regulatory compliance and robust security features.

Example

A first-time investor signs up for a platform with guided onboarding and uses step-by-step instructions to buy their very first bitcoin in just a few clicks.

Best Crypto Platform for Active Traders

Active traders buy and sell crypto frequently and look for platforms that offer advanced trading tools, speed, and lower costs. They value efficiency and the ability to respond quickly to market movements.

• Competitive trading fees and tight spreads.
• Advanced charting and analysis tools.
• Fast order execution with reliable uptime.
• A wide range of coins and trading pairs.
• Automation features such as stop-loss and limit orders.

Example

An active trader sets up custom alerts and uses advanced charting tools on their platform to rapidly respond to price swings and execute multiple trades in a day.

Best Crypto Platform for Experienced Traders

Experienced traders and professionals manage diverse portfolios and require the highest level of functionality, security, and flexibility. They often trade large volumes and may seek institutional-grade features.

• Access to deep liquidity and large order books.
• Comprehensive API access for custom trading solutions.
• Enhanced security features like multi-factor authentication and cold storage.
• Advanced portfolio management and reporting tools.
• Options for margin and derivatives trading.

Example

A professional trader integrates the platform’s API into their own trading bot, allowing for automated high-frequency strategies while closely monitoring risk and performance analytics.

Which crypto platforms are registered in GB?

In the United Kingdom, any company offering services related to cryptoassets (such as buying, selling, custody, or trading of cryptocurrencies) must be registered with the local authority, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Alternatively, some platforms may operate under an equivalent European authorisation scheme if applicable. This registration is primarily designed to ensure minimum standards regarding anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) measures, as well as a higher degree of operational security and transparency for users.

List of crypto brokers registered in GB

A number of crypto platforms operate in the UK under formal registration with the FCA. This is similar to PSAN status in France or VASP in other jurisdictions. The following table offers an overview of some platforms that are officially registered in the United Kingdom, either as local subsidiaries or entities with explicit FCA approval:

Warning

Registration with the UK authority does not guarantee capital protection, nor is it equivalent to a banking or asset management licence.

Other reliable regulations in GB

Some platforms are not directly registered in the UK but are overseen by reputable financial regulatory authorities elsewhere in the European Economic Area. These entities may operate in the UK market under a former or alternative "passporting" regime (pre-Brexit, or through equivalent legal frameworks). The table below gives an overview of well-recognised regulators and associated platforms.

These European regulatory frameworks enforce rigorous standards for fund security, transparency, and fair treatment of European clients.

What strategies can be used to invest in cryptocurrencies?

Investing in crypto-assets can follow different strategies, depending on how much time you want to dedicate, how long you plan to invest, and your personal risk tolerance. Understanding the main approaches can help you find a method that matches your goals and comfort level.

What taxation applies to income from crypto trading in GB?

The taxation of crypto-assets in the UK is governed by specific legislation and HMRC guidance. The applicable tax regime will depend on the type of activity (occasional or professional) as well as the nature of the income received (such as capital gains from sales, regular income from staking, etc.). It is crucial for users to understand these distinctions, as they determine the rates and obligations that apply to their crypto transactions.

*According to relevant income bands and after personal allowance.

• Capital gains are calculated as: (Sale proceeds – allowable costs [unit cost × quantity sold]). You can use the “share pooling” method for cost basis, as outlined by HMRC.
• It is the taxpayer’s responsibility to declare all taxable crypto transactions to HMRC, usually through the Self Assessment tax return.
• If you hold crypto on foreign platforms (outside the UK), you might need to declare these accounts to HMRC if certain thresholds are exceeded or as part of broader reporting obligations.
• Capital losses from crypto can be offset against capital gains in the same tax year and carried forward indefinitely to offset future gains, provided they are reported to HMRC.

This structured approach helps UK residents ensure that their crypto investing, trading, or related activities are compliant and optimised for tax purposes.

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.