
If you’re ready to explore cryptocurrency, you might wonder if Coinbase is the best choice. With claims of simplicity and security, does it live up to its reputation for British users? This Coinbase UK review uncovers everything you need to know—fees, features, and what makes Coinbase stand out (or not) for UK traders in 2025.
What Is Coinbase?
Coinbase is a leading cryptocurrency platform that allows users to buy, sell, transfer, and store digital assets with ease. Founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong, who also serves as the CEO, Coinbase has grown into one of the most prominent names in the crypto space.
Operating in over 130 countries, including the UK, Coinbase has become a global platform trusted by millions. As of 2025, the company boasts a trading volume exceeding $2 trillion annually, reflecting its significant role in the cryptocurrency market. In the UK, Coinbase operates through CB Payments, Ltd, an electronic money institution (EMI) under register number 900635. Its registered office is at The Scalpel, 18th Floor, 52 Lime Street, London, EC3M 7AF.
This regulation ensures compliance with UK financial laws, adding an extra layer of trust for British users.
With its user-friendly interface and advanced security measures, Coinbase has established itself as a reliable gateway into the world of cryptocurrency.
Coinbase UK Review: Regulation
In the United Kingdom, Coinbase operates through CB Payments, Ltd., a company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This isn’t just a formality—it means Coinbase adheres to the UK’s strict financial rules, giving users peace of mind that their money and personal details are in safe hands.
As an officially registered electronic money institution (EMI) with FCA registration number 900635, Coinbase complies with important regulations like anti-money laundering (AML) laws and know-your-customer (KYC) checks.

For UK users, this level of oversight offers a sense of security and legitimacy that’s often missing with less regulated platforms. Choosing Coinbase means you’re trading on a platform that takes its responsibilities seriously and operates within the law, ensuring a safer and more reliable experience.
Coinbase UK Review: Security and Trustworthiness
When it comes to safeguarding your assets, Coinbase takes security seriously. The platform uses a combination of industry-leading measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), to protect your account from unauthorised access. Furthermore, the majority of digital assets are stored in offline cold wallets, which are virtually immune to hacking attempts.
Coinbase also provides insurance coverage for funds stored in its online hot wallets, protecting against cyber theft or breaches. However, it’s important to know that this insurance does not cover losses caused by user negligence, such as sharing passwords or falling victim to phishing scams.
Although Coinbase was targeted in a hacking incident in 2021, affecting around 6,000 accounts, the platform acted swiftly to reimburse affected users. This demonstrated Coinbase’s commitment to its customers and reinforced its reputation for reliability.
With regular independent security audits and its status as a publicly traded company in the US, Coinbase offers users transparency and a strong track record in safeguarding assets. These measures, combined with its FCA registration, make it a trusted choice for UK users entering the world of cryptocurrency.
Availability of Cryptocurrencies
Coinbase offers an impressive range of cryptocurrencies for users in the UK, making it easy to buy, sell, and trade. With over 250 digital assets, you have access to popular coins like:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Solana (SOL)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Litecoin (LTC)
- Stellar (XLM)
Plus, stablecoins like USDC are available, which can be a safe haven for your assets during volatile market conditions. Whether you’re looking for established names or exploring new tokens, Coinbase’s variety has you covered.
The platform also supports a wide range of altcoins, making it ideal for those keen to explore the diverse world of cryptocurrency, whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced trader.
Deposit and Withdrawal Methods
When it comes to funding your Coinbase account, there are several payment methods to choose from, making deposits and withdrawals quick and straightforward. For UK users, these options include:
- Bank transfers (Faster Payments): Free and fast, usually completing within one business day for deposits.
- Debit cards: Instant deposits, though subject to card fees.
- PayPal: Convenient for those who prefer using their PayPal balance.
- Cryptocurrency transfers: Deposit crypto directly into your account without any fees, apart from the network fee.
For withdrawals, you can easily send GBP to your bank account, with £1 fees for bank transfers, and withdrawal times typically ranging from 1 to 3 business days.
Coinbase UK Review: Fees and Costs
When it comes to fees, Coinbase has a transparent structure, but it’s important to understand how they work before you start trading. Here’s a breakdown:
- Trading Fees
On the basic platform, trading fees can be a bit steep, with a spread included in the price when you buy or sell. The fees range from 0.00% to 0.4% for makers and 0.05% to 0.6% for takers. - Advanced Trading Platform
For those looking to reduce costs, the Advanced Trade platform offers lower fees—0.5% for both makers and takers. This is especially beneficial for traders who place larger orders and want to save on fees. - Deposit & Withdrawal Fees
- Deposits: Bank transfers (via Faster Payments) are free. PayPal and debit card deposits are also available, but may incur additional charges.
- Withdrawals: While UK users can withdraw to their GBP wallet with no charge using Faster Payments, SWIFT withdrawals come with a £1 fee. For EUR deposits and withdrawals via SEPA, fees are €0.15.
- Crypto Transfers: Depositing and withdrawing cryptocurrency is free on Coinbase, but you’ll be responsible for paying the network fees dictated by the blockchain.
While the fees may seem high for small transactions, the Advanced Trade platform and transparent cost structure provide opportunities for more experienced traders to save money.
Customer Support
Coinbase’s customer support is designed to help you quickly resolve any issues, although experiences can vary. Here’s what you can expect:
- Live Chat
Coinbase offers live chat support, which is accessible directly from the website. While it’s a great feature, response times can sometimes be slower than expected. - Email Support
If you prefer, you can reach out via email, and typically receive a reply within 1 to 3 days. Keep in mind that during busy times, it might take longer to get a response. - Phone Support for Coinbase Card
For issues specifically related to the Coinbase Card, there’s a dedicated phone line, ensuring quicker support if you need help with your card or suspect any fraudulent activity. - Self-Help Resources
Coinbase also provides a comprehensive knowledge base with guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting articles. Many users find the self-help resources useful for resolving common questions and problems without needing to contact support.
Overall, Coinbase’s support system offers a decent mix of options, but it’s always a good idea to try to find answers in the self-help section first before reaching out.
Coinbase UK Review: Crypto Tax
When it comes to taxes on cryptocurrency in the UK, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Cryptocurrency is treated as an asset by HMRC, and any profits you make from selling or trading crypto are subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT).
So, when do you pay tax on crypto in the UK? You’ll need to pay tax when you make a profit from selling or trading your cryptocurrency. If you sell, swap, or use crypto to buy goods or services, and you make a profit, that profit is taxable.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies when you sell your crypto and make a profit above £12,300 in a tax year.
- If you earn income from crypto, such as through staking rewards or interest on crypto holdings, you’ll pay Income Tax instead.
- Tracking your transactions is essential—HMRC expects you to keep records of every trade and how much you spent on each crypto asset.
- Don’t forget that you can deduct losses from your capital gains to reduce the amount of tax you owe.
Coinbase makes it easier by allowing you to download your transaction history. You can use this information when filing your self-assessment tax return. While Coinbase won’t calculate your tax for you, the data provided helps ensure you’re not missing any important details when reporting your gains or income.
Coinbase UK Review: Pros and Cons
Coinbase is a popular choice for UK crypto traders, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before diving in. Here’s a quick look:
Pros
- User-Friendly: Ideal for beginners, with a simple, easy-to-navigate platform.
- FCA-Regulated: Fully compliant with UK regulations, offering peace of mind for UK users.
- Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies: Access to over 250 crypto assets, including popular ones like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
- Fast GBP Deposits: Faster Payments allow instant GBP deposits from UK bank accounts.
- Coinbase Card: Spend your crypto anywhere Visa is accepted, a great feature for everyday use.
- Security: Strong security features like two-factor authentication and cold storage of assets.
Cons
- High Fees on Basic Platform: Trading fees are higher on the standard Coinbase platform compared to the advanced version.
- Limited Customer Support: While there’s live chat, response times can be slow, especially for non-urgent issues.
- Not Ideal for Advanced Traders: More experienced traders may find the platform limiting, especially when it comes to advanced charting and trading tools.
- Transaction Spreads: When buying or selling, Coinbase charges a spread, which can increase your costs.
How to Signing Up
Getting started with Coinbase is straightforward, but as with any regulated platform, there are a few steps to ensure everything is secure. Here’s how you can create your account:
- Visit the Website or Download the App
Head over to the Coinbase website or download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. - Enter Your Details
Provide your name, email address, and choose a secure password. You’ll then receive an email to verify your address. - Verify Your Phone Number
Once your email is confirmed, enter your mobile number. Coinbase will send you a confirmation code to complete the verification process. - Provide Personal Information
Now, you’ll need to enter your date of birth, address, and some details about your source of funds and employment. - Verify Your Identity
This is a crucial step for UK users, as Coinbase follows Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. You’ll be asked to upload a passport, driver’s licence, or national ID, along with a selfie for added security. - Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
To add an extra layer of protection, 2FA is mandatory. You’ll set this up using an authentication app or SMS, making sure your account is as secure as possible. - Complete a Risk Assessment
Before you start trading, Coinbase will ask you to fill out a short questionnaire to assess your level of cryptocurrency knowledge. This is required for UK users to ensure you’re trading responsibly.
Once these steps are complete, you’re ready to fund your account and dive into the world of crypto! With these clear, simple steps, Coinbase makes sure everything is secure, while also being accessible for beginners.
How to Trade on Coinbase
If you’re new to cryptocurrency, the idea of trading might feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry—Coinbase makes the whole process simple and easy to follow, even if you’ve never traded before. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you buy and sell Bitcoin, or any other cryptocurrency, in a way that feels natural and straightforward.
Buying Cryptocurrency
- Log in to your Coinbase account and head to the “Buy/Sell” section.
- Choose the cryptocurrency you want to buy—let’s start with Bitcoin (BTC).
- Next, enter how much you want to buy. You can do this by typing in the amount in GBP or just select how many Bitcoin you’d like to get.
- Now, pick your payment method. If you’ve already linked your debit card or bank account, it’s as simple as clicking the option. If not, you can easily add one.
- Before you confirm, take a moment to check the price and fees. Coinbase will show you exactly how much you’ll pay, including any small fees.
- When you’re happy with everything, just hit “Buy”—and voilà! Your Bitcoin will appear in your Coinbase account almost instantly.
Selling Cryptocurrency
Selling is just as easy! Here’s how to do it:
- Go back to the “Buy/Sell” tab, but this time, select “Sell”.
- Pick the cryptocurrency you want to sell—say, Bitcoin.
- Enter how much you want to sell. You can sell all your Bitcoin, or just a part of it—whatever works for you.
- Choose where you want the money to go. Do you want it sent to your bank account or use it to buy something else on Coinbase? The choice is yours.
- Double-check your sale to make sure everything looks right.
- Hit “Sell”, and your GBP will be ready for you to use or withdraw.
Using Coinbase’s Advanced Platform
Once you’re comfortable with buying and selling, you might want to take your trading to the next level. That’s where Coinbase’s Advanced Trade platform comes in. It’s a little more complicated but gives you more control over your trades. Here’s what you can do:
- Limit orders: You can choose a specific price you want to buy or sell at, and Coinbase will automatically do it when the price hits that level.
- Stop orders: These can help protect you from losing too much money if the price drops suddenly.
- Charts and analysis: Keep track of the market with live charts and tools that show you trends.
Don’t worry, though—if you’re just starting, you can always stick to the simple “Buy/Sell” option. The Advanced Trade platform is there if you want to explore more options later on.
Tips for Beginners
- Start small: You don’t need to dive in with huge amounts. It’s better to start slow and learn as you go.
- Be aware of the fees: Every trade on Coinbase comes with a fee, so make sure to check before confirming.
- Educate yourself: Coinbase has a Learn section that’s packed with helpful videos and articles. It’s a great resource for understanding the ins and outs of cryptocurrency.
With these easy steps, you’ll be ready to start buying and selling Bitcoin (or any crypto) like a pro in no time. Keep things simple, take your time, and soon enough, you’ll be feeling confident about trading.
Additional Features
Coinbase isn’t just a platform for trading cryptocurrencies—it’s packed with extra features that make it even more appealing for UK users.
- Coinbase Card:
One standout feature is the Coinbase Card, a Visa debit card that lets you spend your crypto directly from your Coinbase wallet. Whether you’re buying a coffee or booking a holiday, the Coinbase Card makes it easy to use your cryptocurrency anywhere Visa is accepted. Plus, there are no transaction fees for spending crypto with the card—though keep in mind, the exchange rate for converting crypto to GBP may include a small spread. - Coinbase Learn:
If you’re new to the world of cryptocurrency, the Coinbase Learn programme is a fantastic resource. You can access educational content, from short video lessons to quizzes, that help you build your knowledge and confidence. And as you progress, you can even earn small amounts of crypto as a reward. It’s a great way to learn and earn at the same time. - Staking:
For those who want to make the most of their crypto holdings, Coinbase offers staking rewards. By holding certain cryptocurrencies, like Ethereum or Tezos, you can earn rewards just for keeping them in your Coinbase account. It’s a way to earn passive income while supporting the network of the coin you’re staking. - Coinbase Earn:
Another unique feature is Coinbase Earn, where you can earn crypto simply by learning about different projects and tokens. It’s a fun way to familiarise yourself with new cryptocurrencies while gaining a bit of extra crypto in the process.
These additional features set Coinbase apart and provide extra value for UK users, whether you’re spending, learning, or earning.
Competitor Comparison
Here’s a detailed table comparing Coinbase, Revolut, Binance UK, and eToro, with exact fees and features relevant to UK users:
![]() |
Revolut |
Binance UK |
![]() |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Regulation |
FCA registered (CB Payments Ltd., EMI 900635) |
FCA registered (limited crypto offering) |
Not FCA registered (global operations) |
FCA registered (as a broker-dealer) |
Cryptocurrencies |
200+ (BTC, ETH, ADA, etc.) |
~30 major coins (BTC, ETH, LTC) |
350+ coins |
~70 coins (BTC, ETH, ADA, etc.) |
Trading Fees |
Standard: 0.4%-0.6% maker/taker fees + spread; Advanced: 0.05%-0.5% |
1.5% hidden spread |
Maker: 0.1%; Taker: 0.1% |
1% fee on crypto purchases + spreads |
Deposit Fees |
Free for UK Faster Payments (GBP) |
Free via bank transfers |
Free for bank transfers |
Free for bank transfers |
Withdrawal Fees |
£1 for UK bank withdrawals (GBP) |
Free |
£1 for bank transfers (GBP) |
£5 per withdrawal |
Staking/Earnings |
Earn rewards for holding ETH, ADA, and more |
None |
Wide range of staking options available |
No staking options |
User-Friendliness |
Very beginner-friendly |
Simple interface, best for casual users |
Complex; geared towards advanced users |
Easy to navigate with social trading features |
Extras |
Coinbase Card (no transaction fees, spreads apply); Learn & Earn |
Banking tools integrated with crypto trading |
Advanced trading tools like futures/options |
Social trading & CopyTrading features |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Coinbase if You want a regulated platform, a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, and a simple, user-friendly interface. It’s ideal for beginners or those looking for extra features like the Coinbase Card and staking rewards.
Go for Revolut if You’re an occasional crypto buyer already using Revolut for other financial services. It’s convenient but lacks advanced trading options or a wide range of coins.
Pick Binance UK if You’re an experienced trader or investor looking for the lowest fees and access to over 350 cryptocurrencies. Binance offers 0.1% trading fees but may feel complex for newcomers and isn’t FCA regulated.
Choose eToro if You want a platform that combines crypto with traditional investments. Its social trading features and easy-to-use interface are ideal for those who like to follow or copy successful traders. Keep in mind the 1% trading fee plus spreads.
When you understand your trading style, goals, and comfort with fees, it would be easy for you to select the platform that best aligns with your needs.
Coinbase UK Review: Conclusion
Now that you have the lowdown on Coinbase, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re looking to start trading, learning about crypto, or using your digital assets in everyday life, Coinbase offers a secure, regulated platform to make it all happen.
With a user-friendly interface, top-tier security, and a wealth of features tailored to UK users, Coinbase is an ideal choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of cryptocurrency. But don’t just take our word for it—take the first step yourself.
Sign up, explore the platform, and start your cryptocurrency journey with Coinbase today. The world of crypto is waiting, and Coinbase makes it easy for you to get started, securely and confidently.
FAQs
1. Is Coinbase safe to use in the UK?
Yes, Coinbase is safe for UK users. It operates under CB Payments, Ltd., which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It also employs strong security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption, and insurance for digital assets held in hot wallets.
2. How long do GBP deposits/withdrawals take?
GBP deposits via Faster Payments typically complete within 1 business day. Withdrawals take 1-3 business days, depending on your bank’s processing times.
3. What are the limits for UK users?
For UK users, limits depend on verification level and payment method. Bank transfers have higher limits, while card payments may have stricter caps. Verified users can deposit and withdraw up to £250,000 daily via bank transfer.
4. Does Coinbase report to HMRC?
Yes, Coinbase complies with UK tax regulations and may report user transactions to HMRC. It’s important to keep records of your trades and report any taxable gains or losses.
5. Are there fees for UK users on Coinbase?
Yes, UK users face a £1 withdrawal fee for GBP transfers. Trading fees range from 0.4% to 0.6% on the standard platform, while using the Advanced platform reduces fees to 0.05%-0.5%. Deposit fees are free via Faster Payments.
6. Can I use Coinbase to stake cryptocurrencies in the UK?
Yes, UK users can stake select cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum (ETH) and Cardano (ADA), to earn rewards. Staking availability depends on the token and is accessible via the app or website.