How do we rate cryptocurrency exchanges?

To help you find the best crypto exchange, our team analysed the fees, features, user experience and security for each FCA-registered cryptocurrency exchange we’ve reviewed on our site.

We use this analysis to create our expert Finder score. Exchanges that score well across the board are eligible to be included in our “best for” picks. These reflect the stand-out features of the exchanges.

What is the Finder score?

Our expert team evaluates various products in our database, assigning each one a score out of 10. A higher score means the product is more competitive and may offer better value.

If you want peace of mind, this rating will give it to you. These products offer the best value and outcomes considering various product features, terms, conditions and price.

Well-balanced products that provide what you need, offering a healthy mix of competitive features at a good price. However, they’re not quite the best in class.

Bottom line: You can find better, but these products still offer reasonable value and have the basics sorted.

These products may not offer much value in the long run, and there are better options available.

What factors do we take into account?

We rate the exchanges on 6 key factors:

1. Fees. We look at what fees an exchange charges for deposits and withdrawals, as well as its maker and taker fees, and whether there are any additional fees for inactivity on the account.
2. Choice of crypto. Exchanges usually deal in both cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. We look at the number of altcoins on offer and how many different fiat currencies you can trade with.
3. Tools, resources and features. Exchanges typically have trading tools, educational resources and additional features in order to bring extra value to their services. The larger, more established exchanges tend to offer services like recurring buys or bundles.
4. Account types. This is all about the different services on offer. Whether an exchange has a pro trading function or offers a wallet to store your cryptoassets.
5. User experience. What is the app like? Does it have good reviews? How can you contact customer service? All of these contribute towards a negative or positive experience using an exchange.
6. Safety & security. What security features does the app have? Is the exchange FCA-registered? Does it have any additional insurance to reimburse you if there is a hack?

How do we choose our “best” exchanges?

Our “best fors” are displayed across our crypto content and feature those exchanges that have scored well across the board, have stand-out features and are among partner brands we work with.