eToro vs Coinbase: Which crypto exchange is better?

Coinbase launched in 2012 as a remote-first platform and has grown into one of the most recognizable names in crypto worldwide. Its user-friendly layout makes purchasing your first fraction of Bitcoin feel as simple as online shopping.

eToro started in 2007 as a multi-asset trading app and has since built a massive global social trading network. Alongside traditional stocks and ETFs, eToro offers a streamlined crypto experience famous for its CopyTrader feature, which lets you automatically replicate the moves of top-performing investors.

Crypto is unregulated in the UK; there's no consumer protection; value can rise or fall; tax on profits may apply*.

Round 1: At a glance

Both platforms maintain a strong UK presence and are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for anti-money laundering compliance. While crypto holdings are not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) on either platform, FCA oversight ensures both meet strict regulatory requirements in the UK.

If you want to move beyond basic buy-and-hold trading, both platforms cater to advanced users. Coinbase includes Coinbase Advanced (which replaced Coinbase Pro) directly within its main app, offering lower maker/taker fees, order books, and advanced charting. Meanwhile, eToro provides multi-asset charting and risk-management tools alongside traditional markets.

Round 2: Supported cryptos

If total choice is your top priority, Coinbase takes the trophy here with support for over 240 cryptocurrencies. Whether you are looking for major coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum or smaller altcoins, Coinbase likely lists them.

eToro keeps a tighter crypto lineup (around 100+ assets), focusing primarily on high-volume, established coins. However, eToro balances this with its standout CopyTrader functionality and Smart Portfolios. If you prefer delegating asset selection to experienced investors or buying thematic crypto bundles, eToro offers a distinct edge. But for raw asset variety, Coinbase wins this round comfortably.

Round 3: Supported fiat currencies

Both exchanges offer convenient fiat options for UK investors, including GBP deposits via Faster Payments, as well as EUR and USD.

The main catch is that eToro operates internally in US Dollars whereas Coinbase supports native GBP trading pairs directly on its core exchange, making cash management slightly cleaner for UK users.

Round 4: Fees

eToro charges a straightforward 1% flat fee added to the market spread on all crypto purchases and sales. While this fixed pricing is easy to calculate, UK users must account for potential FX conversion charges when funding accounts.

Coinbase’s basic buy/sell feature can be expensive due to variable spreads and transaction markups. However, switching to Coinbase Advanced unlocks a tiered maker/taker fee schedule (typically starting around 0.4%–0.6% for lower volumes and dropping as trading volume increases). While eToro provides simpler pricing upfront, high-volume active traders will find lower overall execution costs on Coinbase Advanced.

Winner: eToro

Both Coinbase and eToro deliver beginner-friendly entry points into digital assets, pairing clean design with strong security and FCA oversight.

While Coinbase remains the go-to exchange for asset variety and self-custodial Web3 tools, eToro edges ahead as the top choice for overall portfolio management. Its transparent 1% crypto fee structure, multi-asset capabilities (allowing you to hold crypto alongside stocks and ETFs), and market-leading CopyTrader feature make it a versatile platform for building a diversified portfolio.

*Cryptocurrencies aren't regulated in the UK and there's no protection from the Financial Ombudsman or the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Your capital is at risk. Capital gains tax on profits may apply.

Cryptocurrencies are speculative and investing in them involves significant risks - they're highly volatile, vulnerable to hacking and sensitive to secondary activity. The value of investments can fall as well as rise and you may get back less than you invested. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This content shouldn't be interpreted as a recommendation to invest. Before you invest, you should get advice and decide whether the potential return outweighs the risks. Finder, or the author, may have holdings in the cryptocurrencies discussed.