Exchanges
Where you buy, sell, and trade crypto. Centralized exchanges require an account - decentralized exchanges connect directly to your wallet.
Centralized (CEX)
A company holds your funds and facilitates trades. Requires KYC (ID verification). Easiest for beginners buying with fiat currency.
- ✓ Buy with bank card or transfer
- ✓ Customer support
- ✗ They hold your keys (not your coins)
- ✗ Identity required
Decentralized (DEX)
Smart contracts execute trades directly from your wallet. No account, no KYC. You stay in control of your assets at all times.
- ✓ No identity required
- ✓ You keep your keys
- ✗ No fiat on-ramp
- ✗ Steeper learning curve
Not financial advice. Availability varies by region. Always verify local regulations before using any exchange.
Centralized Exchanges
Coinbase
CEXKYC requiredThe most regulated US crypto exchange. Beginner-friendly interface with strong compliance track record.
Kraken
CEXKYC requiredTrusted exchange with a wide coin selection, advanced trading features, and a strong security history.
Gemini
CEXKYC requiredUS-regulated exchange known for security, compliance, and institutional-grade custody.
Bitstamp
CEXKYC requiredEurope's longest-running crypto exchange, established in 2011, with a clean regulatory record.
Binance
CEXKYC requiredWorld's largest crypto exchange by volume. Not available in the US - use Binance.US instead.
OKX
CEXKYC requiredGlobal exchange with an extensive altcoin selection and built-in Web3 wallet.
Decentralized Exchanges
Connect your wallet directly - no account or ID needed.
Uniswap
DEXNo KYCThe largest Ethereum DEX. Swap any ERC-20 token directly from your wallet on Ethereum and major L2s.
1inch
DEXNo KYCDEX aggregator that finds the best swap rates across multiple protocols and chains simultaneously.
Jupiter
DEXNo KYCThe leading Solana DEX aggregator with the best swap rates and liquidity routing on Solana.
Aerodrome
DEXNo KYCThe central liquidity hub on Base (Coinbase L2), offering deep liquidity and low fees.
Curve Finance
DEXNo KYCOptimized for stablecoin and similar-asset swaps with minimal slippage across chains.