Best Solana Exchanges in 2023

Our team has reviewed several Solana exchanges and compiled for you a list of the 10 best Solana exchanges.

1. Kraken  – best for high-volume trading
2. Coinbase  – best for beginners
3. Binance.US  – best for low fees
4. eToro  – best for social trading
5. Capital.com  – best for CFD trading
6. MEXC  – best for global users
7. Bithumb  – best for Korean users
8. Gemini  – best for security
9. Uphold  – best for multiple asset classes
10. Bitstamp  – best for European users

Reviews of the Top Solana Exchanges

You can have a look at some of the reviews of our 10 best Solana exchanges.

1. Kraken Exchange Review

• Overview: Kraken is one of the oldest and most established cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, founded in 2011 and launched in 2013. It is available internationally and to most U.S. residents, but not currently available to residents in the states of New York or Washington. Kraken accepts a handful of fiat currencies and deals with over 160 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 160 coins
• Fees: Kraken has a tiered fee structure that ranges from 0.16% to 0.00% maker fee and 0.26% to 0.10% taker fee, depending on the trading volume. Kraken is known for its low fees, especially for high-volume traders
• Pros:
  • Well-established and reputable exchange
  • Low fees for high-volume traders
  • Wide range of coins
  • Advanced trading tools like margin trading
• Cons:
  • Limited fiat currencies accepted
  • Not available to residents of New York or Washington
• Visit Kraken 

2. Coinbase Exchange Review

• Overview: Coinbase is a beginner-friendly cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2012 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. It is available in over 100 countries and deals with over 50 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 50 coins
• Fees: Coinbase has a fee structure that ranges from 0.50% to 1.49% depending on the payment method used. Coinbase is known for its user-friendly interface and ease of use, but its fees are higher compared to other exchanges
• Pros:
  • Beginner-friendly interface
  • Wide range of coins
  • Available in over 100 countries
• Cons:
  • Higher fees compared to other exchanges
• Visit Coinbase 

3. Binance.US Exchange Review

• Overview: Binance.US is a cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2019 and headquartered in San Francisco, California. It is a subsidiary of Binance, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world. Binance.US is available in most U.S. states and deals with over 50 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 50 coins
• Fees: Binance.US has a fee structure that ranges from 0.10% to 0.50%, depending on the trading volume. Binance.US is known for its low fees, especially for low-volume traders
• Pros:
  • Low fees for low-volume traders
  • Wide range of coins
  • Available in most U.S. states
• Cons:
  • Limited fiat currencies accepted
• Visit Binance.US 

4. eToro Exchange Review

• Overview: eToro is a social trading platform founded in 2007 and headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel. It is available in over 100 countries and deals with over 120 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 120 coins
• Fees: eToro has a fee structure that ranges from 0.75% to 4.5%, depending on the payment method used. eToro is known for its social trading features, which allow users to copy the trades of other successful traders
• Pros:
  • Social trading features
  • Wide range of coins
  • Available in over 100 countries
• Cons:
  • Higher fees compared to other exchanges
• Visit eToro 

5. Capital.com Exchange Review

• Overview: Capital.com is a CFD trading platform founded in 2016 and headquartered in London, UK. It is available in over 200 countries and deals with over 2,000 assets, including cryptocurrencies.
• Tradable coins: Multiple cryptocurrencies
• Fees: Capital.com has a fee structure that ranges from 0.5% to 1.0%, depending on the asset traded. Capital.com is known for its CFD trading features, which allow users to trade on the price movements of cryptocurrencies without actually owning them
• Pros:
  • CFD trading features
  • Wide range of assets
  • Available in over 200 countries
• Cons:
  • Limited to CFD trading only
• Visit Capital.com 

6. MEXC Exchange Review

• Overview: MEXC is a global cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2018 and headquartered in Singapore. It is available in over 200 countries and deals with over 200 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 200 coins
• Fees: MEXC has a fee structure that ranges from 0.10% to 0.20%, depending on the trading volume. MEXC is known for its low fees and global user base
• Pros:
  • Low fees
  • Wide range of coins
  • Global user base
• Cons:
  • Limited fiat currencies accepted
• Visit MEXC 

7. Bithumb Exchange Review

• Overview: Bithumb is a South Korean cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2013 and headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. It is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in South Korea and deals with over 100 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 100 coins
• Fees: Bithumb has a fee structure that ranges from 0.15% to 0.25%, depending on the trading volume. Bithumb is known for its popularity among Korean users
• Pros:
  • Popular among Korean users
  • Wide range of coins
• Cons:
  • Limited global availability
• Visit Bithumb 

8. Gemini Exchange Review

• Overview: Gemini is a cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2014 and headquartered in New York, USA. It is available in over 50 countries and deals with over 40 coins.
• Tradable coins: Over 40 coins
• Fees: Gemini has a fee structure that ranges from 0.35% to 0.50%, depending on the trading volume. Gemini is known for its security features and regulatory compliance
• Pros:
  • High security and regulatory compliance
  • Wide range of coins
  • Available in over 50 countries
• Cons:
  • Higher fees compared to other exchanges
• Visit Gemini 

9. Uphold Exchange Review

• Overview: Uphold is a cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2014 and headquartered in London, UK. It is available in over 180 countries and deals with multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies.
• Tradable coins: Multiple cryptocurrencies
• Fees: Uphold has a fee structure that ranges from 0.65% to 3.95%, depending on the payment method used. Uphold is known for its multiple asset classes and ease of use
• Pros:
  • Multiple asset classes
  • Available in over 180 countries
• Cons:
  • Higher fees compared to other exchanges
• Visit Uphold 

10. Bitstamp Exchange Review

• Overview: Bitstamp is one of the world’s longest-running cryptocurrency exchanges, founded in 2011 and based in Luxembourg. It allows trading between fiat currency, bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies. Bitstamp supports deposits and withdrawals in USD, EUR, GBP, bitcoin, ALGO, XRP, Ether, litecoin, bitcoin cash, XLM, Link, OMG Network, USD Coin, or PAX
• Tradable coins: Bitstamp supports trading for up to 80 cryptocurrencies
• Fees: Bitstamp has a tiered fee structure that ranges from 0.50% to 0.10% depending on the trading volume. The fees are relatively competitive compared to other exchanges
• Pros:
  • Longest-running cryptocurrency exchange
  • Wide range of supported cryptocurrencies
  • Supports multiple fiat currencies
  • Regulated in the EU as a payment institution
• Cons:
  • Limited global availability
  • Limited information on additional features or services
• Visit Bitstamp 

How to Choose the Best Solana Exchanges

There are several factors that you should consider when selecting a Solana exchange. In this section, we’ll cover some of the key aspects that will help you select the best Solana exchange.

Variety of supported crypto & trading pairs

As a Solana user, you first need to check whether this digital currency is among the supported trading coins. Besides, the best crypto trading site should support a diverse range of cryptocurrencies. This is important because it ensures that you can access and explore a wide range of digital assets.

Also, with a broader selection, you can expand your trading portfolio. This also protects you from the risk of only holding one currency. What’s more, when an exchange has several cryptocurrencies, it attracts more users and increases market liquidity.

The Solana exchange’s liquidity

An exchange’s volatility is another crucial factor when you select the best crypto exchange. In a few words, volatility consists of the rapid and unpredictable price fluctuations in the crypto market. Checking the volatility of an exchange allows you to assess the level of risk to expect.

A volatile exchange may experience drastic price swings. This means that your Solana can gain or lose value quickly.

We always advise our readers to choose a crypto exchange with less volatility. As a beginner, this ensures a smoother trading experience. It also protects you from the risk of sudden and unexpected market movements.

Are the transaction fees considerable?

There are several transaction costs that you will be charged when you buy or sell Solana. These charges include maker/taker fees, withdrawal, and deposit fees.

Luckily, the fees at the best SOL trading platform are considerably low. However, this does not take away the fact that the chargers can potentially affect your returns.

High transaction fees will reduce your gains, especially when you process many transactions. This is why you should evaluate the costs involved with every transaction. This will also help you come up with ways to cut some expenses and increase your profitability.

Security measures

When you select the best SOL exchange, check the security features on the site. SOL best exchanges use strong security measures like two-factor authentication. These sites also use advanced SSL encryptions.

We always recommend you choose an exchange that offers cold storage, as this protects you against hackers.

Aside from this, ensure that the crypto exchange complies with key regulatory requirements. Some of these requirements include Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML). All these policies aim to provide a safe trading environment.

Licenses and geo-restriction

Licensing and geo-restriction are critical factors when selecting top Solana exchanges. A licensed site gives you peace of mind, knowing that the exchange operates within a regulated framework. This means that you can rest assured about security and accountability for your funds.

The best SOL exchanges are licensed by reputable financial authorities like FINRA and FinCEN.

It’s also important to only sign up at crypto exchanges that accept users from your region. Due to crypto restrictions, it is possible that some of our SOL exchanges may not accept users from your country.

Does the Solana exchange offer educational resources?

Access to education resources will help you navigate the volatile crypto market. As a beginner or expert, it is important to be updated with any news related to your coin. Be on the lookout for any emerging technologies, or changes in prices or regulations.

The crypto industry is a fast-paced environment. Because of this, you need reliable and up-to-date educational materials. This will help you decide whether to buy, hold, or sell your SOL.

Luckily, our best SOL exchanges have several resources for all crypto traders. For instance, you can learn about blockchain technology and how to trade Solana.

These sites also offer guidance on risk management strategies and technical analysis.

Types of Education Resources

Top SOL trading sites have a wide range of resources to cater to the varying needs of crypto users. Below are some of the educational materials that you can find.

• Crypto basics

These resources introduce you to the fundamental concepts of cryptocurrencies. They provide information about blockchain technology and popular coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. This information is often available in the form of blogs, guides, and video tutorials.

• Trading strategies

Resources that offer trading strategies and tips are valuable for crypto traders. Such educational material provides you with information about different trading techniques. You can also learn the technical details related to risk management strategies.

• Market analysis

Resources that offer market analysis help you understand the cryptocurrency market. They provide a detailed review of market trends and price movements. You can find these resources in market analysis reports and newsletters.

There are also podcasts and video content that provide such information. My favorite podcast for crypto market analysis includes The ‘Unchained’ by Laura Shin. ‘The Pomp Podcast’ by Anthony Pompliano is another recommendable option.

Supported payment methods

Solana exchanges support a variety of payment methods. These include e-wallets such as Paypal and bank transfers. E-wallets are popular since the transactions are processed fast with minimal fees. There are also exchanges that accept bank cards like Visa and Mastercard.

e-Wallets

E-wallets are among the top preferred banking options, mainly because of their wide acceptability. PayPal and Skrill are the common e-wallets in the best SOL exchanges. These two options are also renowned for their stringent security features. Better yet, you don’t have to share your banking details, enhancing anonymity and privacy. Other top e-wallets include MuchBetter, Jeton, and Neteller.

Credit/debit cards

Visa and Mastercard are convenient options to fund crypto exchanges. You can link the cards to your exchange account and make secure transactions. These cards have seamless integration with exchange platforms too. This means that you can share your card details without worrying about the safety of your data.

Bank transfer

Some crypto traders prefer bank transfer, which is supported by several SOL exchanges. The transaction process is pretty straightforward. You only need to initiate the transfer of funds from your bank account to your exchange's bank account. Unfortunately, this is not the most popular method among crypto users, since you will be required to share your banking information. The long transaction time of up to 3 working days is another drawback of using bank transfer.

Digital tokens

Digital tokens are revolutionizing the way we fund crypto exchanges. These tokens capitalize on blockchain technology to enable secure and transparent transactions. They also reduce intermediaries. This means that you can take part in initial token offerings (ITOs) to support the exchange's growth. In return, you’ll receive utility tokens. These tokens go towards trading, paying fees, or accessing exclusive services.

The 3 Types of ADA Exchanges

There are three types of Solana exchanges; centralized, decentralized, and hybrid. All these exchanges allow you to buy and sell Solana, but they operate differently. Continue reading to discover the exchange that meets your preferences.

Centralized exchanges (CEX)

A centralized exchange is like a market where you buy and sell a wide range of items. However, instead of physical items, you trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Solana on an exchange.

One of the outstanding features of a CEX is that a company assumes the role of a mediator, and oversees all activities on the platform. This organization exercises complete control over the platform, including the management of user balances and handling transactions. Generally, this centralized approach ensures the utmost security for your personal and financial information.

One notable advantage of centralized exchanges is their user-friendly nature. In this case, they are ideal for beginners. However, since a CEX is controlled by a single entity, it is important to trade on a reputable SOL trading platform.

Advantages of centralized exchanges

• Liquidity: Centralized exchanges have many users and trading activities. Hence, you are likely to find buyers or sellers for your SOL. This liquidity makes it easier and faster to execute trades.
• User-friendly interface: CEXs provide sleek platforms and interfaces. It makes it easier for beginners to navigate and trade cryptocurrencies. The exchanges have features like price charts, order books, and trade history. These tools help you to make informed decisions.
• Security measures: These exchanges put in place various security measures. They include encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and cold storage (keeping funds offline). Such features protect your funds and personal information.
• Customer support: CEXs often provide 24/7 customer support services to assist you with any issues. They can help address concerns, provide guidance, and resolve problems.

Disadvantages of Centralized Exchanges

• Lack of control: A centralized exchange is controlled by a single company. This means that the organization deals with your funds and personal information. In addition, this middleman has full control over your assets. If something goes wrong with the exchange, you may not have access to your funds.
• Centralized points of failure: Only one entity operates a centralized exchange. Such circumstances make exchanges vulnerable to hacking attempts or technical failures. This could lead to loss of funds or disrupted trading activities.
• Privacy concerns: During registration, you will be required to provide personal details. This can raise privacy concerns, as your data is stored and shared with third parties.
• Regulatory risks: These exchanges operate within regulatory frameworks. They are also subject to government rules and regulations.

Decentralized exchanges (DEX)

A decentralized exchange is an online platform where people can trade cryptocurrencies. There is no central authority, like a bank or a company, to oversee the transactions.

In this exchange, you have more control over your funds. You don't need to trust a centralized organization to hold your SOL. Instead, this exchange uses smart contracts.

Below is a simple outline of how a DEX functions.

Let's say you have some Bitcoin and want to trade it for Solana. On DEX, you can find someone who wants to trade their SOL for BTC. You both agree on the terms of the trade, like the amount and the price. Then, you send your Bitcoin to a smart contract using the DEX platform.

The smart contract will confirm that you have met the conditions. Among the requirements is whether you have enough Bitcoin and the other person has enough Solana. The trade will be initiated, and you’ll receive your SOL.

One of the outstanding aspects of DEXs is the fact that you have more control and privacy over your transactions.

Advantages of decentralized exchanges

• Control and Security: DEXs give you more control over your funds. You don't have to deposit money into a centralized platform. This reduces the risk of losing your funds due to hacking or fraud. Instead, you can control your cryptocurrencies until the trade is completed.
• Privacy: Decentralized exchanges often focus on user privacy. They don't need personal information or identity verification.
• Reduced Counterparty Risk: In a decentralized exchange, trades happen through smart contracts. These contracts enforce the terms of the trade. This means that you don’t have to rely on a third party, as the trade occurs between you and the seller/buyer.

Disadvantages of decentralized exchange

• Less user-friendly experience: As a beginner, using a DEX can be quite intimidating compared to a centralized exchange. In a CEX‘s interface, you can see all the cryptos available to buy/sell. On the other hand, the DEX interface is not always straightforward and requires some time to understand.
• Less liquidity: Decentralized exchanges may have lower liquidity compared to centralized exchanges. This is because there may be fewer people trading certain cryptocurrencies. As a result, you might find executing trades at desired prices and volumes challenging.
• Slower transaction speed: DEXs use consensus mechanisms to complete a trade. This means that you may experience slower transaction times compared to CEX.
• Limited trading options: These exchanges may have a narrower range of available cryptocurrencies. This limits your trading options, which can be quite limiting.

Hybrid Exchanges

A hybrid crypto exchange combines the features of both centralized and decentralized exchanges.

Most crypto traders prefer these exchanges, as they combine the best of both worlds. The best hybrid site has some CEX features, like fast transactions and reliable customer support.

Similarly, these sites have decentralized elements like allowing peer-to-peer trading. Also, users have control over their private keys.

A hybrid exchange aims to provide a balance between user convenience and security. It also allows you to enjoy a user-friendly interface and quick transactions. Still, you have control over your funds, and have access to the security features of decentralized systems.

Advantages of a hybrid crypto exchange

• User-friendly interface: Hybrid exchanges often focus on creating a simple and intuitive user interface. This is important, especially if you are a beginner.
• Faster transactions: The transactions at hybrid exchanges are processed faster compared to DEXs.
• Liquidity: These SOL exchanges generally offer higher liquidity. This is because they have many buyers and sellers. In this case, you are sure to buy or sell Solana at a considerable rate.
• Excellent customer support: Top Hybrid SOL exchanges have reliable customer support who work around the clock.

Disadvantages of a hybrid crypto exchange

• Centralization risks: Since hybrid exchanges have centralized components, they still pose some level of risk. For example, your funds could be compromised if the exchange faces security breaches or malfunctions. This is why we recommend you choose a reputable and secure crypto exchange.
• Trust requirements: With a hybrid exchange, you need to trust the operator to protect your funds and personal information.
• Limited control: You still have to forego some control over your funds. This is unlike fully decentralized exchanges, where you have complete control over your assets.

My Recommendation: Test Several Exchanges

If you already have an exchange that meets all your needs, why look further? In an already volatile industry, you don’t want to put all your eggs in one basket. In this section, I will explain why I recommend you spread your assets across several exchanges.

Not to worry, you already have a wide selection of reliable SOL exchanges recommended above. All our top SOL exchanges are safe and fully licensed.

So why should you trade with more than one Solana exchange?

Diversification of assets

Different exchanges may have varying listings of cryptocurrencies, token offerings, and trading pairs. When you deal with different exchanges, you’ll have access to a wider range of digital assets. As a result, they can diversify your portfolios. This variety helps you spread the risk and increase opportunities for profitable trades.

Liquidity and volume

Liquidity refers to how easy it is to buy or sell an asset without affecting its price. Different exchanges have different levels of liquidity and trading volume. When you use many exchanges, you can access greater liquidity. This also means you can compare the prices and settle for the most valuable trade.

Security and risk management

Cryptocurrency exchanges are vulnerable to hacking and security breaches. When you spread your assets across different exchanges, you reduce the risk of losing all your assets if one exchange is affected. However, before signing up, ensure that the exchange has established strong security measures. Top SOL trading platforms have extra features like two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your funds.

Availability of trading features and tool

Exchanges offer different trading features and tools. Our top SOL trading platforms have advanced trading tools, margin trading, and lending. Furthermore, some sites are CEX, while others offer decentralized exchange options. By exploring several sites, you’ll have access to a wider range of services that allow you to choose a platform that suits your trading strategies.

Price variations and arbitrage opportunities

Solana prices can vary across different exchanges. This is often due to key factors like supply and demand. When you explore other Solana trading platforms, you can compare prices and opt to trade at the sites with favorable margins.

Backup and redundancy

Technical issues or maintenance downtime can occur on a SOL exchange. You will lose access to your accounts during such situations until the issue is sorted out. Luckily, you can still continue your trading activities when you have accounts in other exchanges.

How Does a Solana Exchange Work?

A Solana crypto exchange is like a store where you can buy and sell SOL. To do so, you first need to create an account. The next step is to fund your account using any crypto or fiat currency. Since the exchange has hundreds of users, it provides a platform to trade your SOL. When you make a trade, the system updates your account balance accordingly.

How to use an Exchange

Using a crypto exchange might seem challenging, but it's very straightforward. First, create an account on the exchange's website. The registration process is usually straightforward, and you’ll only need to provide your email, username, and password.

The next step is to verify your account. Generally, you must confirm your email or provide identification documents. Once verified, you can now fund your account and start trading!

Explore the trading interface, which shows different cryptocurrencies and their prices. Choose the cryptocurrency you want to buy or sell.

Step-by-Step Outline of How to Buy Solana

Below are the steps to follow when buying Solana at any of our top Solana exchanges.

Choose a crypto exchange

The first step is choosing a trustworthy exchange that supports Solana trading. We have compiled a list of the best SOL trading platforms to save you the headache. The best exchange to buy SOL should be highly secure, user-friendly, and reasonably priced.

Sign up

After selecting the best Solana exchange, go ahead and register your account. You’ll be required to provide some details, including your email address and password. Some exchanges may request additional verification details. In most cases, you will have to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process. Here, you must submit your identification documents.

Secure your account

Once your account is ready, it is important to secure it. You can do so by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) using an authenticator app or SMS verification. This adds an extra layer of protection to your account.

Deposit

To buy Solana, you first have to deposit funds into your exchange account. Most exchanges support deposits in fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, and more. You can also use other cryptocurrencies Like ETH or BTC. Choose your preferred payment method and select the amount you wish to deposit. The best exchange to buy Solana supports a wide range of banking methods, including e-wallets and credit cards.

Place a buy order

You can now explore the available SOL trading pairs and select the type of order you wish to place. Market orders are the most common, and such an order is usually processed instantly at the current market price. Other options include limit orders, which give you the flexibility to set a specific price at which you want to buy.

Set the quantity and review the order

Enter the quantity of Solana you want to buy. Make sure it matches with the available funds in your account. Always review the details of your order. Take note of the total cost, fees, and any extra parameters you've set.

Execute the order

Confirm and execute the buy order if you're satisfied with the order details. The exchange will match your order with a similar sell order on the platform. Once the order is filled, the purchased SOL coins will be added to your exchange account.

Secure your Solana

After the purchase, transfer your SOL from the exchange to your personal crypto wallet. This is one of the ways you can ensure that our digital coins are secured. In a nutshell, it reduces the risk of losing your assets in case an exchange faces a security breach.

Solana Exchanges FAQs

How many Solana exchanges are there?

There are many Solana exchanges that allow you to buy and sell Solana. In this guide, we have put together a list of the best Solana exchanges. These SOL trading platforms are safe and have high liquidity.

What services do Solana exchanges offer?

Generally, Solana exchanges provide a safe platform where you can buy SOL using fiat currency or other cryptocurrencies. You can also sell your Solana and obtain a different crypto/fiat currency. Some users also trade their SOL with the aim of profiting from SOL price fluctuations.

What are the different types of Solana exchanges?

There are three main types of Solana exchanges; centralized, decentralized, and hybrid. In a centralized cryptocurrency exchange, a company acts as a middleman between the buyer and seller. On the other hand, in a decentralized platform, there is no middleman. This means that you have more control over your funds. Lastly, a hybrid exchange employs aspects of both CEX and DEX.