Cryptocurrency trading in the UK is growing rapidly, with millions of investors seeking platforms that offer low or no fees to maximize profits. While no exchange is entirely free, some provide zero trading fees, free deposits, or minimal withdrawal costs, making them attractive for cost-conscious traders. This article explores the best crypto exchanges in the UK that offer free or near-free trading, based on fees, usability, and FCA compliance.
Key Factors for Choosing a Free Crypto Exchange
When selecting a crypto exchange with minimal costs, consider these factors:
- Trading Fees: Look for platforms with zero or low trading fees, ideally below 0.5%. Some exchanges use spread-based models, which can increase costs.
- Deposit and Withdrawal Fees: Free bank deposits and low withdrawal fees are essential for UK users.
- FCA Regulation: Ensure the exchange is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority for safety, though crypto investments remain unregulated.
- Security: Prioritize platforms with two-factor authentication, cold storage, and insurance.
- User Experience: Beginners need intuitive interfaces, while advanced traders may prefer sophisticated tools.
Top Free or Low-Fee Crypto Exchanges in the UK
Based on fee structures, security, and user experience, here are the best crypto exchanges in the UK for cost-effective trading in 2025.
1. eToro
eToro stands out for its commission-free trading model, making it ideal for beginners. Instead of trading fees, eToro charges a spread (around 1% per trade), which covers costs. It supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and altcoins like Cardano. The platform is FCA-regulated, ensuring compliance, and offers a user-friendly interface. Deposits are free, but withdrawals cost £5, which is higher than some competitors. eToro also provides access to stocks and ETFs, appealing to investors seeking diversification.
- Trading Fees: 0% (spread-based, ~1%)
- Deposit Fees: Free
- Withdrawal Fees: £5
- Best For: Beginners and diversified investors
- Cryptocurrencies: 100+
2. Best Wallet
Best Wallet is perfect for long-term holders who want to avoid trading and withdrawal fees. It charges only minimal network fees for blockchain transactions, with no platform-specific trading or withdrawal costs. As a non-custodial wallet, users retain full control of their private keys, enhancing security. However, it lacks built-in trading features, requiring users to buy crypto elsewhere. Best Wallet is not an exchange but pairs well with low-fee platforms for cost-free storage.
- Trading Fees: Minimal network fees
- Deposit Fees: Free
- Withdrawal Fees: Free
- Best For: Long-term holders
- Cryptocurrencies: Supports most major coins
3. Coinbase Advanced
Coinbase Advanced offers some of the lowest trading fees for active traders, ranging from 0% to 0.40%. UK bank deposits are free, and withdrawals cost just £1. The platform is FCA-regulated and supports over 250 cryptocurrencies, making it versatile for trading altcoins. While spreads are slightly higher than some competitors, the low trading fees compensate for frequent traders. The interface is more complex than standard Coinbase, suiting experienced users.
- Trading Fees: 0% to 0.40%
- Deposit Fees: Free (UK bank)
- Withdrawal Fees: £1
- Best For: Active traders
- Cryptocurrencies: 250+
4. Kraken
Kraken combines competitive fees with top-tier security, storing 95% of funds in offline cold storage. Trading fees range from 0% to 0.26%, with free deposits via Faster Payments. Withdrawals cost £1.95, slightly higher than Coinbase Advanced. Kraken supports over 200 cryptocurrencies and offers advanced trading tools, making it ideal for experienced investors. Its verification process can be slow, taking up to 24 hours, and the interface may feel complex for beginners.
- Trading Fees: 0% to 0.26%
- Deposit Fees: Free (Faster Payments)
- Withdrawal Fees: £1.95
- Best For: Security-conscious traders
- Cryptocurrencies: 200+
5. CEX.IO
CEX.IO is known for low fees, with taker transactions capped at 0.25%. It supports over 200 cryptocurrencies and offers free bank deposits. Withdrawal fees vary but are generally competitive. The platform provides a free Bitcoin wallet upon signup and sophisticated charting tools via TradingView, appealing to both beginners and advanced traders. CEX.IO is FCA-regulated and supports multiple payment methods, including VISA, Mastercard, and Faster Payments.
- Trading Fees: 0% to 0.25%
- Deposit Fees: Free
- Withdrawal Fees: Varies (competitive)
- Best For: Low-fee trading
- Cryptocurrencies: 200+
Comparing Fees and Features
| Exchange | Trading Fees | Deposit Fees | Withdrawal Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eToro | 0% (spread-based) | Free | £5 | Beginners |
| Best Wallet | Minimal network | Free | Free | Long-term holders |
| Coinbase Advanced | 0% to 0.40% | Free (UK bank) | £1 | Active traders |
| Kraken | 0% to 0.26% | Free (Faster Payments) | £1.95 | Security-conscious traders |
| CEX.IO | 0% to 0.25% | Free | Varies | Low-fee trading |