Best of
Best Bitcoin-Only Exchanges of January 2026
Updated: Jan 1, 2026
Written by Alex Lewin
Founder & Director of Content
While most cryptocurrency exchanges offer hundreds of different coins, Bitcoin-only exchanges take a different approach. By focusing exclusively on Bitcoin, these platforms provide a superior experience for Bitcoin investors—better education, stronger security practices, and features specifically designed for long-term Bitcoin accumulation.
Bitcoin-only exchanges are often run by Bitcoin maximalists who deeply understand the technology and philosophy behind Bitcoin. They're not distracted by the latest altcoin trends or meme coins. Instead, they focus on making it as easy as possible to buy, hold, and secure Bitcoin for the long term.
Best Bitcoin-Only Exchanges
StrikeBest Overall
Key Details
- Trading Fee:
- 0.39% - 0.99%
- KYC Required:
- Full KYC
- Min. Deposit:
- $0.01
- Sign-up Bonus:
- Referral BTC rewards
Pros & Cons
✓ Top Pros:
- • Low trading fees
- • Lightning support
✗ Consider:
- • Limited regional support
RiverRecommended
Key Details
- Trading Fee:
- 0% - 0.99%
- KYC Required:
- Full KYC
- Min. Deposit:
- $1
- Sign-up Bonus:
- Up to $100 in BTC
Pros & Cons
✓ Top Pros:
- • Zero fees on recurring purchases
- • Bitcoin-only focus
✗ Consider:
- • US only
- • One-time purchases have fees
UnchainedRecommended
Key Details
- Trading Fee:
- 0.50%
- KYC Required:
- Full KYC
- Min. Deposit:
- $100
- Sign-up Bonus:
- Referral rewards
Pros & Cons
✓ Top Pros:
- • Client retains control of keys
- • Secure multisig setup
✗ Consider:
- • US only
- • Higher entry cost
Best Bitcoin-Only Exchanges
Our top picks based on fees, security, and user experience
Fold
Pocket Bitcoin
Relai
Robosats
Swan Bitcoin
Detailed Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of fees, pricing, and requirements
| Exchange | Trading Fee | Regions | KYC | Sign-up Bonus | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Strike | 0.39% - 0.99% | US, El Salvador, select EU regions | Full KYC | Referral BTC rewards | 5.0 |
 Unchained | 0.50% | US only | Full KYC | Referral rewards | 4.9 |
 Fold | 0% - 0.95% | US only | Full KYC | Spin wheel sats rewards | 4.6 |
 Pocket Bitcoin | 1.5% - 2% | EU, Switzerland | Light KYC | Referral rewards | 4.6 |
 Relai | 0.99% - 1.49% | EU, Switzerland, UK | No KYC | Referral sats | 4.6 |
 Robosats | 0.20% | Global | No KYC | None | 4.6 |
 Swan Bitcoin | 0.99% - 1.49% | US only | Full KYC | $10 in BTC | 4.6 |
 CoinCorner | 1% | UK, EU, Isle of Man | Full KYC | Referral program | 4.5 |
 Amber | 0% - 0.99% | US, Australia | Full KYC | Referral rewards | 4.4 |
 Cash App | 3%–0.75% | US only | Full KYC | Referral and BTC bonuses | 4.4 |
 Onramp Bitcoin | 0.75%–0.32% | US only | Full KYC | Exclusive member perks | 4.4 |
 Hodl Hodl | 0.50% - 0.60% | Global | No KYC | None | 4.3 |
 River | 0% - 0.99% | US only | Full KYC | Up to $100 in BTC | 5.0 |
 lnp2pbot | 0.6% | Global | No KYC | None | 4.5 |
 Mostro | Variable | Global | No KYC | None | 4.4 |
Note: Prices and fees are subject to change. Trading fees may vary based on volume. Spread represents the difference between buy and sell prices. Always verify current rates on the exchange platform before trading.
How We Chose These Exchanges
We evaluated Bitcoin-only exchanges based on their commitment to Bitcoin education, quality of their Bitcoin-specific features (like automatic dollar-cost averaging), security practices, and overall user experience. We also considered their fee structures and whether they encourage best practices like self-custody.
We gave higher ratings to exchanges that offer educational content, make it easy to set up recurring Bitcoin purchases, and provide clear paths to self-custody. The platforms below represent the best options for serious Bitcoin investors who want a focused, distraction-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we rate Bitcoin exchanges?
Our ratings are based on a comprehensive evaluation of fees, security, ease of use, customer support, and additional features. We test each exchange ourselves, making real purchases and evaluating the entire user experience from sign-up to withdrawal.
Are these exchanges safe?
All exchanges listed here have strong security track records and implement industry-standard security measures. However, no exchange is 100% risk-free. We recommend using two-factor authentication, withdrawing to your own wallet for long-term storage, and never investing more than you can afford to lose.
How often do you update these rankings?
We review and update our rankings monthly to reflect changes in fees, features, and user experience. We also update immediately if there are significant security incidents or major platform changes that affect our recommendations.
Ready to Buy Bitcoin?
Compare all exchanges side-by-side to find the perfect platform for your needs.
Compare All Exchanges