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Best Crypto Brokers In 2026

Written By

Michael MacKenzie

Written By

Michael MacKenzie

Michael is a writer, editor and broker reviewer with over a decade in journalism and publishing. His niche lies in editing and fact-checking content in the financial services sector, with a focus on online brokers and trading platforms. Michael previously reported on politics and economics in the Middle East and edits books for established publishers.

» Michael MacKenzie Profile Page

Edited By

James Barra

Edited By

James Barra

James is an investment writer and brokerage expert with a background in financial services. A former management consultant, he's worked on major operational transformation programmes at top European banks. A trusted industry name, James's work at DayTrading.com has been cited in publications like Business Insider.

» James Barra Profile Page

Updated

Feb 2, 2026

Crypto brokers offer a way to trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin that’s safer than directly buying and selling tokens on exchanges, many of which we’ve seen go bankrupt following high-profile scandals.

We’ve evaluated dozens of platforms to find you the best cryptocurrency brokers, taking into account:

Regulatory variations may result in the unavailability of specific crypto brokers in some regions.

How Did DayTrading.com Choose The Best Crypto Brokers?

Find out more about how we test brokers.

What Is A Crypto Broker?

Crypto brokers provide an online platform to trade cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC).

Unlike crypto exchanges that are generally used to buy and sell digital currencies directly and often operate with little to no regulatory oversight, brokers can be established firms that deal in other asset classes and have obtained multiple regulatory licenses, so we consider them as a more reliable and trustworthy way to trade cryptocurrencies.

Some cryptocurrency brokers may allow traders to directly buy and sell the crypto tokens, but most will provide trading through derivatives like CFDs.

These derivatives typically allow for leveraged trading, meaning you can magnify your profits (or losses) by a factor, though this is often at levels far below those mandated for other assets due to crypto’s volatility.

For example, the majority of crypto brokers we’ve reviewed offer 1:2 leverage on cryptocurrencies, while retail trading on traditional currencies is often available up to 1:30 in major jurisdictions like Europe.

Should I Trade With A Crypto Broker Or Crypto Exchange?

Crypto exchanges offer popular ways to trade tokens, since their clients can place buy and sell orders in the same way as you would on a stock exchange.

In addition, some exchanges offer margin trading and decentralized finance (DeFi) functionality that lets you put your digital assets to work.

So, why sign up with crypto brokers?

There are many good reasons – and foremost among them is safety. From the 2014 collapse of the Mt. Gox exchange to 2022’s FTX fiasco, the largely unregulated exchanges have time and again fallen foul of poor management, unscrupulous business practices or bankruptcy, losing clients’ assets worth billions.

System hacks have also plagued crypto exchanges. Even larger providers have not been immune.

Brokers offer similar services to exchanges, but many are overseen by reputable regulators, reducing the risk factor in our view. Although, it’s important to note that not every cryptocurrency broker is regulated for their activities in digital currency trading.

Since they are generally not wholly invested in the crypto sector, online brokers are also usually better able to withstand the crypto markets’ wild swings. eToro, for example, offers stocks and commodities as well as cryptocurrencies.

Finally, many cryptocurrency brokers offer derivative products such as CFDs or binary options that can be difficult to find on an exchange. These allow you to make leveraged bets on crypto assets without having to actually purchase and hold them – meaning you don’t need to worry about an exchange being hacked or about keeping their crypto keys safe.

What Do I Need To Start Trading Crypto?

The first step is to open an account with brokers that offers cryptocurrency trading.

As part of the sign-up process, you will normally need to provide contact details, verify your identity and make a minimum deposit (typically ranging from $0 to $500).

Most cryptocurrency brokers then offer the opportunity to trade tokens using fiat currency through pairs such as USD/BTC.

When you have decided on a crypto you want to trade, you can place an order directly through your brokerage platform or mobile app.

Whether you make a profit or loss, and the size, will depend on the direction and extent the market moves when you close the trade, as well as any fees.

Bottom Line

Crypto brokers offer an excellent way to make short-term trades on digital assets, benefiting from the market’s notorious volatility while avoiding some of the risks associated with crypto exchanges.

Which crypto brokerage you choose to trade with is ultimately a personal decision. However, you can use our list of the best crypto brokers to find the right firm for your needs.

FAQ

Can Crypto Brokers Be Trusted?

We see crypto brokers as a step up from exchanges in terms of security since they tend to have better regulatory oversight and a longer track record.

That said, not all crypto brokers are necessarily regulated for their digital currency operations. Also, not all brokerages are equal in terms of service and security.

You should deal with one that is reputable and trusted.

Do Crypto Brokers Offer Leverage?

Yes, there are online crypto brokers that offer leverage. Rates are usually capped at around 2x (1:2) your deposit amount, however, some firms offer up to 5x (1:5) leverage on certain digital assets.

It’s worth noting that some regulators, including the UK’s FCA, have imposed blanket restrictions banning leverage for crypto markets.

Which Is The Best Crypto Broker For Day Trading?

Our analysis shows that AvaTrade, OANDA, Eightcap, IC Markets and NordFX are all excellent brokers for day trading cryptocurrencies. They offer a good range of digital currencies including Bitcoin, low fees, great charting tools, access to leverage, and are trusted.

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