How to Buy Cryptocurrency in 2025

With Bitcoin’s all-time high value reached in 2024, interest in the cryptocurrency has reignited, and both seasoned investors and newcomers are actively looking to join the action and get their hands on some BTC.

It may seem a bit tricky if you have never purchased it before, but buying Bitcoin and other crypto coins is easier than ever in 2025. All you have to do is:

• Step 1: Find one of the best sites to buy crypto

• Step 2: Create and verify your account with the chosen platform

• Step 3: Deposit some funds

• Step 4: Select the amount of BTC or other crypto you want and buy it

• Step 5: Transfer coins to your crypto wallet

Key Takeaways

• Decide which cryptos you want to buy and why
• Find a platform to purchase it from
• Complete the purchase
• Withdraw it to your personal crypto wallet

Where Can I Buy Crypto? Best Exchanges Revealed

Centralized exchanges are probably the most convenient option for less experienced crypto investors to buy their first crypto coin. Below are our rankings of the best crypto exchanges in 2025.

Short Reviews of the Top 10 Exchanges to Buy Cryptocurrency in 2025

Disclaimer: Investing in cryptocurrencies carries significant risk. Values are highly volatile. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. This site does not provide financial advice. Act based on your own research and consult with a financial professional before making decisions. Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.

Why Trust Us?

At CCN, we take pride in our commitment to delivering thorough, accurate, and impartial reviews. Our analyses are based on meticulous research, direct, hands-on experience, and continuous monitoring of the cryptocurrency market trends.

Our expert team has spent countless hours examining the intricacies of each platform, from security protocols and fee structures to user experience and support services. We dissect every aspect to ensure our reviews are comprehensive and provide a clear picture of what each exchange offers.

Our dedication to detail underpins our reputation as a trusted source in the cryptocurrency community, offering you the guidance you can rely on.

Best Ways to Buy Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin is the world’s most widely accepted and popular cryptocurrency, which means there are numerous ways to buy it in 2025. Nowadays, users can make their choice and decide whether they want to buy it from:

• Cryptocurrency Exchanges: Platforms that specialize in buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies. Practically all crypto exchanges sell BTC.

• Online Brokers: Digital platforms that typically work with traditional investment assets, like stocks and bonds. Many of them allow you to buy BTC.

• Bitcoin ATMs: Physical machines, similar to traditional ATMs, that allow individuals to buy Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies using cash or credit card.

• Peer-to-Peer Platforms: Websites or applications where buyers and sellers trade cryptocurrencies directly with each other, without intermediaries.

• Crypto Wallets: Apps and physical devices used to store cryptocurrencies. Some of these allow users to buy BTC without leaving the app.

• Digital Wallets: Digital services commonly used to execute online transactions, including fiat currencies. They can be used to purchase BTC from other platforms, and a few even offer direct buying of Bitcoin from within their own ecosystems.

How to Buy Bitcoin on Crypto Exchanges

Crypto exchanges are widely considered to be the safest and best place to buy Bitcoin. While a bit convoluted and slightly intimidating at first, crypto exchanges offer a relatively straightforward way to buy BTC and other cryptocurrencies. All you have to do is the following.

Step 1 - Research and Choose an Exchange

There are hundreds of crypto exchanges to buy Bitcoin from but not all are created equal. It is important that you do your due diligence and choose a crypto exchange that aligns with your needs in terms of security, fees, acceptable payment methods, and user experience.

We at CCN can help you narrow your search by providing reviews of different exchanges that include all the necessary details for you to make an informed choice.

Step 2 - Create an Account

Once you have identified an exchange that meets your criteria, it is time to enter the crypto world by creating an account. This process resembles signing up for any online service, where you provide basic personal information such as your name and email address and choose a password.

Step 3 - Verify Your Identity

To comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulatory requirements, most crypto exchanges will ask you to provide additional information to verify your identity. This process typically includes uploading copies of your identification documents, such as a passport, national ID card, or driver's license.

Step 4 - Deposit Funds

After you finish the verification process, you may need to deposit funds before you can start trading. Some exchanges allow you to choose the amount of BTC you want to buy first and only ask for a deposit after calculating all the costs. In any case, you will need to deposit funds at a certain point.

Step 5 - Buy Bitcoin

If you have already deposited your funds, you can navigate to the Buy&Sell section of the exchange and choose to buy Bitcoin (BTC). Enter the exact amount of BTC you want to buy, double-check the transaction details, and confirm the purchase.

Step 6 - Secure Your Bitcoin

After finalizing the payment, the BTC has been moved to your exchange wallet, but for enhanced security, it's advisable to transfer it to a personal wallet, where you have full control over your digital assets.

How to Buy Bitcoin and Other Cryptos With an Online Broker

While online brokers primarily deal with traditional financial instruments such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs, due to the popularity of crypto, many offer the option to buy Bitcoin in their trading environments.

For investors who have dealt with such investments before and are familiar with these platforms, using an online broker may be the best way to buy Bitcoin, so let’s jump right in.

Step 1 - Choose a Suitable Broker

While most popular ones do, not all online brokers offer Bitcoin trading. So, the first step is finding the right broker that deals with Bitcoin and aligns with your needs and preferences. Look for brokers that provide a secure, user-friendly platform with competitive fees and reliable customer support.

Step 2 - Open an Account

After finding the right broker, you will need to create an account, typically by filling out a form with personal details. Just like with crypto exchanges, you will need to go through the KYC verification process and upload government-issued identification documents to prove your identity when registering with an online broker.

Step 3 - Fund Your Account

After the verification process is complete, you can deposit funds into your account. Most online brokers accept a variety of payment methods, so you should be able to find one that suits you. Enter your payment information, double-check the transaction details and fees, and confirm the payment.

Step 4 - Navigate to the Cryptocurrency Section

Now, since online brokers typically deal with a variety of financial assets, you will have to navigate to the specific section of the broker's platform dedicated to cryptocurrency trading. Next, select Bitcoin from the list of available cryptocurrencies to access the trading interface.

Step 5 - Place a Buy Order for Bitcoin

Choose the exact amount of Bitcoin you want to purchase and buy it through the online broker's trading platform. Unlike crypto exchanges, some brokers might use terminology such as "place" or "execute" a buy order, which is essentially a transaction command to buy. Double-check the transaction details and fees, and confirm your purchase.

Step 6 - Move Bitcoin to Your Wallet

After the transaction, your Bitcoin will be in your brokerage account. While you can keep it there for trading or investment purposes, you can also move it to your crypto wallet, where it will be stored securely and under your control.

How to Buy Bitcoin From a Crypto ATM

In most cases, buying Bitcoin requires using your computer or smartphone, creating an account, uploading a copy of your ID, linking payment information, etc. However, if you prefer a direct approach without too many steps, you can always use a crypto ATM to buy BTC.

Crypto ATMs offer the easiest way to buy Bitcoin for users who are in a hurry, want to buy BTC with cash, or simply prefer the tangible experience of a physical transaction.

Step 1 - Find a Crypto ATM Near You

Cryptocurrency ATMs are typically located in high-traffic areas like shopping centers, convenience stores, and airports, providing easy access for users to buy or sell cryptocurrencies. If you're not sure where to find one, try using an ATM locator website or an app that can help you find an ATM near you.

Step 2 - Choose Buy Bitcoin

Most crypto ATMs allow you to buy and sell a variety of cryptocurrencies, so make sure to select the ‘Buy Bitcoin’ option.

Step 3 - Choose the Amount

Every ATM has a slightly different process, but in most cases, you will be asked to select the range of the amount you would like to buy. Depending on what your choice, the next step might differ from one ATM to another.

Step 4 - Scan the QR Code (if you have a crypto wallet)

The ATM will display a QR code you can scan to connect your crypto wallet to the ATM, if you have one. If you don’t, some ATMs may allow you to create a wallet on the spot and provide you with a paper wallet or send you the public and private keys by text or email after completing your transaction.

Step 5 - Verify Your Identity

Depending on the ATM and the choices you made in the previous steps, some ATMs may ask you to verify your identity before they allow you to buy Bitcoin. However, instead of uploading pictures of your documents, some ATMs can scan your ID or fingerprint, while others may ask you to use two-factor authentication using text or email.

Step 6 - Make a Payment

With everything else out of the way, you should now be ready to pay and purchase Bitcoin from a crypto ATM. Most machines accept cash, and some also accept debit cards. Fund your purchase using your preferred method and the BTC will be sent to your wallet in a few seconds.

How to Buy Bitcoin on P2P Platforms

If you are familiar with cryptocurrency transactions and crypto wallet management, using a P2P platform is arguably the fastest way to buy Bitcoin.

Please note that, unlike crypto exchanges, P2P platforms don’t usually provide a wallet for storing your purchased BTC after the transaction, so make sure you have a wallet set up before you take the next steps.

Step 1 - Choose a P2P Platform

There are many P2P platforms, each with its own set of features, user interface, and security measures. When selecting a platform to trade on, consider essential factors such as security, affordability, supported payment methods, and everything else you consider essential. Research thoroughly and choose the option that suits you best.

Step 2 - Create an Account and Verify Your Identity

Create an account with the platform and go through the KYC verification process to verify your identity. As we explained earlier, identity verification is a standard procedure for many cryptocurrency transactions, including purchasing Bitcoin, to comply with AML regulations and ensure the security of the platform and its users.

Step 3 - Find the Right Seller

Once your account is set up and verified, you can browse the platform and find a reputable seller offering Bitcoin for sale. Look at sellers’ transaction history, ratings, as well as the terms of the trade, such as payment methods accepted and exchange rates. Choose a seller with terms that work for you.

Step 4 - Initiate the Trade

After identifying a suitable seller, initiate the trade by selecting their offer and specifying the amount of Bitcoin you wish to purchase. You can always contact the seller before you finalize the trade to discuss any specific details or negotiate the terms further.

Step 5 - Make the Payment

When you reach an agreement with the seller, you can go ahead and make the agreed-upon payment. It is worth noting that during this step, your funds do not go directly to the seller's account. Instead, they are held in escrow by the platform. This escrow system ensures that both parties fulfill their obligations per the trade terms.

Step 6 - Confirm the Payment

Once you've made the payment through the P2P platform, you can mark it as complete. The P2P platform will then notify the seller that the funds are secured on their behalf. Once the seller confirms receiving payment, the P2P platform will release the Bitcoin to your wallet address.

How to Buy Bitcoin From Within a Crypto Wallet

No matter what method you use to buy Bitcoin, you will likely want to move it to your personal crypto wallet at some point.

If you still haven’t created one, it is worth mentioning that some of the best crypto wallets allow you to buy Bitcoin directly from within the wallet interface itself. Many crypto investors believe this is the most secure way to buy Bitcoin.

Step 1 - Choose Which Wallet You Want to Create

Many crypto wallets are available online, each with unique features and benefits. They vary in terms of security, convenience, supported cryptocurrencies, and user interface, so you need to research and compare different brands and models to determine which one best suits your requirements.

Step 2 - Set Up Your Wallet

Once you find a wallet you’d like to use, it is time to set it up. The process of setting up a crypto wallet requires downloading and installing a piece of software on your preferred device and choosing a strong password or PIN for security. Be sure to save the password in a secure location. If you ever forget it, you won’t be able to access the assets stored in it.

Step 3 - Verify Your Identity

Depending on your location and the provider, in some cases, the last step of creating a new crypto wallet will likely involve verifying your identity. Follow the instructions to provide proof of your identity to complete the wallet creation process.

Step 4 - Link a Payment Method to Your Wallet

Now that your crypto wallet is set up and verified, you will need to connect it to a payment method so that you have access to funds to purchase Bitcoin. Different wallets work with different payment methods, although debit cards, bank transfers, and popular digital wallets, such as PayPal and Skrill, are commonly accepted.

Step 5 - Buy Bitcoin

Once you link the wallet with your preferred payment method, you can navigate to the "Buy" or "Purchase" section within your wallet app. Specify the amount of Bitcoin you wish to purchase, double-check the transaction details and fees, and confirm the transaction. The purchased Bitcoin will be credited to your crypto wallet balance.

How to Buy Bitcoin With Digital Wallets

Finally, our last method involves using a digital wallet to buy Bitcoin directly from their integrated purchasing feature, without ever needing to leave the wallet's interface or create accounts on exchanges or trading platforms.

If you are looking for the quickest way to buy Bitcoin, this is certainly one of them. However, please note that only a few digital wallets, including PayPal, CashApp, and Revolut, provide this feature.

Step 1 - Choose a Digital Wallet that Supports Buying BTC

While there aren’t that many options to choose from, you should still research and see which digital wallet works best for your needs and preferences. In addition to supporting the purchase of Bitcoin, choose the wallet with the best user interface, supported payment methods, and lowest fees that you find acceptable.

Step 2 - Set up the Wallet

If necessary, download and install the digital wallet on your device and create an account with the wallet’s provider. Submit all the required information and go through the KYC verification process to activate your digital wallet.

Step 3 - Link Your Digital Wallet to a Payment Method

After completing the second step, your wallet should be activated, but it would still require access to funds to purchase Bitcoin. Navigate to the payment settings in your wallet application and add a payment method to draw funds from. Bank accounts and credit and debit cards are commonly accepted linkable payment methods.

Step 4 - Buy Bitcoin Directly From the App

With your digital wallet set up and linked to a viable payment method, you can navigate to the 'Buy' or 'Trade' section and make your purchase. Select ‘Buy Bitcoin,’ specify the amount you want to buy, double-check the transaction details and fees, and complete the payment if everything is correct.

Step 5 - Storing Your Bitcoin

After completing the purchase, you now own the BTC you just bought, but it will still be held under the custody of the digital wallet’s provider. If you want full control over your Bitcoin, including the ability to send, spend, or simply hold it securely, you will need to transfer it to a crypto wallet, where you will control the private keys.

How to Store Your Bitcoin

For enhanced control and improved security of your newly acquired Bitcoin, we strongly recommend transferring it to a crypto wallet immediately after purchasing it. As we mentioned above, there are many different crypto wallets, but generally, they fall under these two categories.

Hot Wallet

Hot wallets are digital, meaning they don't exist in a physical form. They are essentially software programs that store your private keys and interact with the blockchain to manage your cryptocurrency.

Because they are always connected to the internet, they provide quick and easy access for managing transactions, making them ideal for daily trading and spending. However, their constant online presence also heightens the risk of online threats and hacking attempts.

In summary, hot wallets prioritize convenience over security and are typically used to store a small portion of cryptocurrency used for day-to-day transactions.

Cold Wallet

Cold wallets, on the other hand, are physical devices, such as USB drives or other specialized hardware, used for storing private keys offline. They are not connected to the internet and thereby provide better security for your cryptocurrency holdings.

Cold wallets are best suited for long-term storage of larger cryptocurrency amounts, acting as a secure vault for your digital assets. Since they require physical interaction to access and make transactions, they are less convenient for frequent trading or spending but offer superior protection.

According to many crypto owners, the best way to own Bitcoin or other crypto assets is to store the bulk of them in a cold wallet while keeping a smaller amount in a hot wallet for daily transactions and trading.

What To Do With Your Bitcoin

So, you made your first investment in Bitcoin, and now you are not sure what to do with it. Depending on your personal financial goals and risk tolerance, you can explore multiple avenues.

Do Nothing and Wait

Doing nothing and waiting, also known as HODLing (Holding On to Dear Life), is a perfectly viable strategy for your newly acquired Bitcoin. Similarly to how long-term investors approach traditional assets like stocks or real estate, you can hold onto your Bitcoin with the expectation that its value will increase over time.

If you believe that Bitcoin’s growth isn’t over yet and the crypto will continue to gain value as it becomes more mainstream and integrated into the financial system, HODLing may be your preferred strategy.

Swap Your BTC for Something Else

Of course, you can also swap your BTC for other cryptocurrencies, tokens, fiat currencies, or even use it to directly purchase goods and services. The BTC is yours now, and you can do whatever you want with it.

You can wait for the next price surge and sell Bitcoin for profit, invest in other digital assets, or use Bitcoin to enter the emerging world of decentralized finance (DeFi) and explore opportunities like staking, lending, or yield farming for additional earnings.

Conclusion - How to Buy Bitcoin and Other Cryptos

In conclusion, buying Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency in 2025 is easier and more accessible than ever, offering opportunities for both seasoned investors and newcomers to participate in the growing crypto market. Bitcoin can be the perfect entry point into the world of cryptocurrencies, providing the potential for significant returns and diversification of your investment portfolio.

Whether you prefer the standard way of using cryptocurrency exchanges, the directness of crypto ATMs, or the flexibility of P2P platforms, there's a method suited to your preferences and needs. Just remember to always do thorough research and ensure you are using the safest way to buy Bitcoin by following our guidelines.

FAQ

Rundown of the Best Exchanges to Buy Cryptocurrency

1. Uphold 
2. eToro US 
3. Kraken 
4. CEX.IO 
5. Gemini 
6. Coinbase 
7. OKX 
8. WEEX 
9. Nemo.Money 
10. Ecxx