How to choose the safest crypto exchange: 6 top options for 2026
Jan 13, 2026・6 min read
Finding platforms that offer crypto is a lot easier now than when Bitcoin (BTC) first emerged on the scene. Although cryptocurrencies still have an "alternative asset" status, more high-profile brokerages, investment firms, and even banks are meeting the growing demand from customers to support Web3 currencies.
Having options is great, but it does mean that choosing where to buy crypto is also more complex. Plenty of exchanges promise an optimal crypto trading service, but you need to know what features they offer and how they secure all parties’ sensitive data.
Read on to explore six of the safest crypto exchanges for 2025. But first, let’s talk about what these trading platforms are and how to evaluate them.
What are crypto exchanges?
Any website or mobile app that lets users buy and sell cryptocurrencies qualifies as a crypto exchange. Most fall into one of two categories: centralized and decentralized.
Centralized exchanges (CEXs) are corporate-controlled crypto trading platforms. They typically use centrally managed order books to record transactions and match buyers with sellers. Similar to a stock brokerage, CEXs let users connect with separate financial accounts to deposit and withdraw funds. For that reason, even though these exchanges are convenient, they come with counterparty risks. Plus, most require personal information in the form of know-your-customer (KYC) details.
In contrast, decentralized exchanges (DEXs) offer crypto trading services without intermediaries. Instead, they run on blockchain networks like Ethereum (ETH) or Solana (SOL), and use self-executing "smart contract" commands to handle order requests without third parties. Traders connect their self-custodial wallets to trade digital assets via a decentralized application (dApp).
DEXs cut down on counterparty risks, but they aren't without drawbacks. Smart contract code vulnerabilities and hacks are ever-present threats. Also, since there’s no one company in charge of a DEX, you can’t rely on insurance protections in the case of theft.
Features to consider when reviewing crypto exchange security
No platform lacks risk, so it’s very important to know what each exchange does to minimize fraud and data leaks. To evaluate an exchange's security, you’ll want to consider its:
- Regulatory approvals: The best way to know a crypto exchange has high standards for legal compliance is if it carries regulatory approvals from multiple official organizations. Accreditations from government institutions show that an exchange has the right to operate in its jurisdiction and works closely with authorities to maintain security.
- Years in operation: Crypto exchanges build credibility over years of successful operation. Old exchanges aren’t necessarily better than new ones, but they have longer track records and it’s easier to find credible reviews from real users.
- History of prior hacks: Every reputable exchange should have a public record of past security breaches. Ideally, safe exchanges won't have any hacks in their histories. But prior crisis moments can show how effective exchanges are at resolving issues.
- Insurance protections: Many exchanges establish user trust by setting aside funds in a treasury for emergencies. Even though cryptocurrencies don't carry government protections, an exchange-backed insurance fund provides extra peace of mind.
- Audits and transparency policies: Independently verified audits show that a crypto exchange has nothing to hide. Reports like proof-of-reserves (PoRs) and third-party code inspections assure traders that an exchange always has a 1:1 assets-to-liabilities liquidity ratio, and it protects those funds with the latest encryption standards.
- External transfers protocol: The safest crypto exchanges trust users to take control of their portfolios. When a CEX lets traders send digital assets to self-custodial wallets, you’re able to use private keys and bolster security from your end.
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6 safest crypto exchanges in 2026
Many reputable exchanges offer crypto assets, but a few stand out for their user experience and protections. Beginning your search with these leaders gives you a solid starting point when choosing a trading platform.
1. Coinbase
Founded in 2012, Coinbase is one of the most established crypto exchanges. As such, it’s gathered a large user base and boasts high daily trading volumes – and it’s had plenty of time to establish strong security practices.
Every Coinbase user benefits from FDIC insurance on their USD deposits, as well as AES-256 encryption to prevent hackers from getting into their accounts. Coinbase has also been a publicly traded company on the NASDAQ since 2021, making it one of the most transparent crypto companies.
2. Binance
Although Binance has a relatively short history (founded in 2017), it’s become the largest crypto exchange and offers many standard security measures, such as multi-factor authentication and real-time PoRs. In addition, Binance’s Security of User Assets Fund (SAFU) functions as insurance for emergencies like hacks and has a trackable crypto wallet address.
It’s important to note that the flagship Binance exchange doesn't operate in the United States. Instead, American users can trade crypto on the subsidiary Binance.US, which offers limited products and services but has U.S. regulatory approval. Binance.US also meets many other security and regulatory requirements, including ISO exams and FinCEN registration.
3. Kraken
Kraken isn't as big as Coinbase or Binance, but it’s had a long history and built a strong reputation for commitment to regulatory compliance and security. This exchange offers an accessible PoRs report, 24/7 armed surveillance at its cold storage facilities, and ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification. Kraken also uses FIDO2 compliant two-factor authentication (2FA), with passkeys for extra security when verifying your identity.
4. Gemini
New York-based exchange Gemini puts regulatory compliance and safety at the forefront, and it’s one of the few CEXs with licenses to work in every U.S. state. Gemini is also the first crypto exchange to hold both SOC1 Type 2 and SOC2 Type 2 certifications, and it hosts annual penetration tests and third-party reviews to verify that it’s meeting the highest security standards.
Traders on Gemini are required to use 2FA for every sign-in and transfer request. This platform also offers FDIC protection on USD holdings and a portal on real-time holdings, and it’s a publicly listed company – all of which provide added protection and transparency.
5. Crypto.com
Crypto.com’s brand reputation centers around its partnerships with high-profile stadiums and sports organizations. To attract those clients, it offers many features that help keep client funds secure.
Crypto.com has multiple ISO certifications, an insurance fund, and FDIC protection for USD. This exchange publishes all of its reserve data online for extra transparency, and it gives traders multiple ways to protect their accounts, thanks to features like passkeys and biometric logins. Also, in response to earlier hacks, Crypto.com created a Worldwide Account Protection Program to protect against similar threats and reimburse affected clients when needed.
6. Robinhood
Unlike crypto-specific CEXs, Robinhood began as a stock brokerage at its 2015 launch. Robinhood is still well known as a commission-free equities platform, but it opened the door to crypto in 2018, and it now offers an optional self-custodial wallet.
The majority of Robinhood’s crypto holdings are in cold storage at all times to prevent a hack. But even in the event of a security breach, Robinhood holds crime insurance from underwriters at Lloyd's. Robinhood also guarantees compliance with international lawmakers as a FinCEN-registered company.
Although Robinhood doesn’t have a unique crypto insurance fund like SAFU, it offers FDIC insurance on cash deposits, and traders are free to withdraw their crypto to a self-custodial wallet. Extra protections like passkeys, device approvals, and customer support add further layers of security for accountholders.
Securely link your exchange accounts to CoinTracker
Portfolio trackers and tax software should meet the same standards for security found on popular crypto exchanges. Since these tools handle sensitive data like exchange APIs, public wallet addresses, and personal details, users need to feel confident that the apps they use have strong defenses.
At CoinTracker, security is at the core of everything we do. When you use CoinTracker to monitor and review your crypto transactions, high-grade encryption and SQL injection filters keep your data safe. CoinTracker also holds SOC1 and SOC2 certifications, and we enlist a third-party security firm to conduct annual penetration tests.
Managing your crypto assets shouldn’t be complicated. CoinTracker lets you track your entire portfolio across multiple exchanges and wallets, all in one place. Join the two million users who rely on CoinTracker for a seamless crypto experience – start free today.
Disclaimer: This post is informational only and is not intended as tax advice. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.
FAQ
What are the best apps to buy crypto on?
The "best" app or website to buy crypto on is subjective, but well-established CEXs like Coinbase, Kraken, and Binance are great places to start. These websites have proven histories and strong user ratings, and they maintain high security standards.
How can you choose the best crypto trading platforms?
The safest crypto platforms have a strong security track record and provide insurance protections in case of a hack. You might also want to choose an exchange that lets you send crypto to a self-custodial wallet – preferably a high-quality hardware unit – giving you control over private keys and reducing counterparty risks.
What are the best crypto exchanges in the U.S.?
Coinbase is the largest U.S. exchange, and it offers plenty of security features along with excellent transparency thanks to its public listing on the NASDAQ. Other U.S.-based crypto platforms that rank high for security include Gemini and Kraken.