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As an Economics degree holder from the University of California Santa Barbara, he’s well versed in topics like cryptocurrency markets and taxation. Reviewed by:  David Kemmerer  Reviewed by: David Kemmerer Co-Founder & CEO David Kemmerer is the Co-Founder and CEO of CoinLedger. David has been deeply involved with the cryptocurrency industry since 2017. .jpg)  Our Editorial Standards: Our content is designed to educate the 500,000+ crypto investors who use the CoinLedger platform. Though our articles are for informational purposes only, they are written in accordance with the latest guidelines from tax agencies around the world and reviewed by certified tax professionals before publication. [Learn More](https://coinledger.io/about/editorial) on this page  Let’s walk through the cheapest ways to buy Bitcoin. In this guide, we’ll take you through [low-cost exchanges](https://coinledger.io/tools/lowest-fee-crypto-exchanges) — and discuss how you can minimize fees on your Bitcoin purchases. | Platform | Fee/Spread | Notes | |---|---|---| | Strike | 0\.93% average spread | Bitcoin-only | | River | 0% fee on recurring BTC purchases | Only available in the USA\! | | Swan Bitcoin | 0\.99% flat fee | No fees on first \$10,000 | | Kraken Pro | 0\.26% fee on most trades | Higher fees on the standard Kraken platform | | Coinbase Advanced Trade | 0\.40% fee on most trades | Users have complained that fees can be higher based on market conditions. | | Bisq | 1\.3% fee on most trades | Peer-to-peer network, no KYC required\! | | Cash App | 0% fee on BTC purchased through direct deposit | Fees may apply to other types of transactions\! | | Fold | No fees for Fold+ subscribers | More focused on Bitcoin rewards than Bitcoin purchases. | ## Popular Low-Fee Exchanges and Services  [Learn More](https://strike.me/) Strike Strike is an app designed to make it easy to buy, sell, and send Bitcoin. Strike offers a competitive fee structure, with an average 0.93% spread on Bitcoin purchases and zero withdrawal fees. **Spread: 0.1%-1%+** Pros & Cons  -  Zero fees on Bitcoin purchases -  No withdrawal charges -  Lightning Network integration for fast transactions -  Only Bitcoin available -  Some users have complained that Strike can have higher spreads than other platforms  [Learn More](https://river.com/) River Financial River Financial is a Bitcoin-focused exchange with zero fees on recurring Bitcoin buys. River is a great option for those who want to set up a recurring Bitcoin purchase! **Fees: 0% on recurring BTC purchase, 0-1% on other purchases** Pros & Cons  -  Zero fees on recurring Bitcoin purchases -  Supports Lightning Network for instant transactions -  Automated self-custody feature for secure storage -  All Bitcoin backed 1:1 in reserves -  Limited to Bitcoin only -  Only available in the United States  [Learn More](https://www.swanbitcoin.com/) Swan Bitcoin Swan Bitcoin is known for its low fees, especially for investors using a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy. The platform charges a 0.99% flat fee for Bitcoin purchases. **Fees: 0.99% flat fee (no fees on first \$10,000)** Pros & Cons  -  Low fees, especially for recurring purchases -  No fees on first \$10,000 of purchases -  Buy BTC instantly using bank transfer/bank wire -  Limited to Bitcoin only -  Not ideal for active traders  [Learn More](https://www.mzemndf8trk.com/227M44/2N721M/) Kraken Pro Kraken Pro — a free version of Kraken for experienced traders — features a competitive 0.40% taker fee for most trades, making it a great option for buying BTC and other cryptocurrencies. The platform offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies and advanced trading features. **Maker fees: 0-0.25%, Taker fees: 0-0.40%** Pros & Cons  -  Low fees for high-volume traders -  200+ cryptocurrencies (including Bitcoin) -  Advanced trading features (advanced charting, margin, and derivative trading for most non-US customers) -  Higher fees on the standard Kraken platform -  Some advanced features not available in the US  [Learn More](http://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/0Z3KOJ) Coinbase Advanced Trade While the standard Coinbase platform can be expensive, Coinbase Advanced is free to use and offers low fees (0.60% and lower). You can also get started with a Coinbase One subscription to unlock zero fees on \$10,000 worth of trades every month. **Maker fees: 0-0.40%, Taker fees: 0.05-0.60%** Pros & Cons  -  Lower fees compared to regular Coinbase -  260+ cryptocurrencies (including Bitcoin) -  User-friendly interface -  More expensive than some competitors -  Fees can vary depending on market conditions  [Learn More](https://bisq.network/) Bisq Bisq is a decentralized, peer-to-peer Bitcoin exchange that allows users to buy and sell Bitcoin without verifying identity. While it has higher fees than other options (0.15-1.15%), Bisq is a great choice for users who value decentralization and privacy. **Fees: Maker: 0.15%, Taker: 1.15%** Pros & Cons  -  No registration or KYC required -  Supports various payment methods -  Open-source software -  Decentralized governance model -  Requires a security deposit in Bitcoin to get started trading -  Lower liquidity compared to centralized exchanges -  Trades can take longer to complete -  More complex for beginners  [Learn More](https://cash.app/) Cash App Cash App is a financial app, payment platform, and banking alternative. When you direct deposit your paycheck on Cash App, you can convert a portion to BTC with no fees. **Fees: 0% on direct deposit, 0.75-3% for other BTC purchases (depending on size of order)** Pros & Cons  -  Fee-free Bitcoin purchases through direct deposit -  Simple and user-friendly interface -  Integrates with other financial services on Cash App -  Bitcoin only, no other cryptocurrencies available -  0\.75-3% fees on BTC purchases if you don’t use direct deposit  [Learn More](https://foldapp.com/) Fold Fold is a Bitcoin rewards platform that allows users to earn Bitcoin on everyday purchases and offers a Bitcoin debit card. Fold offers a Fold+ membership to card holders — a \$100 a year subscription that gives you access to fee-free BTC purchases. **Fees: 0% for subscribers, 1.5% fees on spot purchases for non-subscribers** Pros & Cons  -  No fees for Bitcoin purchases for Fold+ subscribers -  User-friendly mobile app -  Offers a Bitcoin rewards debit card -  Earn Bitcoin rewards on everyday purchases (rewards between 1-25% based on spinning a wheel) -  Limited availability (US-only) -  Primarily focused on Bitcoin rewards (exchange features are secondary) -  \$150 annual fee on debit card -  1\.5% fee on spot purchases for non-subscribers ## Understanding fees vs. spread To better understand Bitcoin transaction costs, it’s important to understand the difference between fees and spreads. - **Transaction fees**: A fee is the cost of buying/selling BTC. - **Spread**: The difference between the buy and sell price of Bitcoin on an exchange. A tighter spread means you’re getting a better price. While some platforms offer zero fees, they make money through spreads. Before you get started with an exchange, you should understand their fee and spread policies. ## Understanding maker and taker fees Many Bitcoin exchanges have two types of fees: maker fees and taker fees. Let’s explain what these fees are and when you’ll encounter them. ### What are maker fees? A maker is someone who adds liquidity to the marketplace. For example, if you place an order to buy Bitcoin at a lower price than the current market price, it will remain on the order book until a seller agrees to sell at that price. Maker fees are usually lower than taker fees because you’re helping the platform by increasing its liquidity. ### What are taker fees? A taker removes liquidity from the exchange by placing an order matching existing prices. For example, if you place a market order to buy Bitcoin instantly, you’ll pay the taker fee. Taker fees are typically higher because you’re reducing the platform’s available liquidity. ### Maker vs. Taker Fee Example Bitcoin is trading at \$30,000, and you decide to make a purchase. **Maker**: You place a limit order to buy Bitcoin at \$29,500. If the price drops and your order is filled, you’ll pay a maker fee (e.g., 0.25%). **Taker**: You place a market order to buy Bitcoin immediately at the current market price of \$30,000. In this case, you’ll pay a taker fee (e.g., 0.40%). ### Why Maker and Taker Fees Matter **Lower fees**: Maker fees are generally lower. If you're a patient trader, using limit orders can save you money. **Speed vs. Cost**: Taker fees apply when you need to buy Bitcoin quickly at the market price. That means that executing a trade quickly can come with a greater cost. ## How to minimize the cost of buying Bitcoin Looking for ways to minimize Bitcoin fees? Consider the following strategies: - **Use Bitcoin-only services**: Platforms focused solely on Bitcoin often provide better security and lower fees. - **Take advantage of direct deposit**: Some services allow fee-free Bitcoin purchases if you directly deposit funds. - **Consider annual subscriptions**: If you’re an active trader, subscriptions like Coinbase One offer reduced trading fees in exchange for a flat monthly/yearly fee. ## Hidden Costs of buying Bitcoin Don’t forget about the other types of fees you may encounter when buying Bitcoin: - **Deposit fees**: Some exchanges charge fees depending on your payment method. Typically, [credit card purchases](https://coinledger.io/learn/buy-crypto-with-a-credit-card) are subject to high fees. - **Withdrawal fees**: Some exchanges charge a fee for moving your cryptocurrency off the platform. - **Network transaction fees**: Fees vary depending on network usage, so it’s important to keep an eye out on current network fees. ## Comparing costs across exchanges The best exchange for you may differ depending on the size of your purchase and whether you plan to move your [Bitcoin to cold storage](https://coinledger.io/learn/bitcoin-cold-storage). - **Small purchase fees**: Some platforms charge higher fees for smaller purchases. For example, a \$100 purchase may have a much larger fee than a \$10,000 purchase. - **Large purchase fees**: For a \$10,000 buy, a hidden spread of 0.85% could make a difference of \$85. In this case, exchanges with no spreads like Kraken may be the most cost-effective option. - **Withdrawal fees:** If you’re planning to move your Bitcoin to a self-custody wallet, you should take note of withdrawal fees.These fees may vary depending on the type of cryptocurrency and the method of the withdrawal. ## Alternative ways to acquire Bitcoin If you prefer methods outside traditional exchanges, consider the following: - **Peer-to-peer platforms**: Services like Bisq, Hodl Hodl, and RoboSats allow users to trade Bitcoin directly with other users. - **Bitcoin ATMs**: Bitcoin ATMs are physical kiosks often found in malls, gas stations, and airports that allow you to buy and sell Bitcoin. While convenient, they tend to have higher fees than the exchanges listed above. - **Earning Bitcoin**: Some exchanges offer Bitcoin referral or [affiliate rewards](https://coinledger.io/tools/crypto-affiliate-programs) for helping to attract new customers. ## What to consider when choosing an exchange While minimizing fees is important, there are other factors to consider when choosing an exchange: - **Security**: Look for exchanges with a strong reputation for security. Read third-party reviews and understand the measures the platform takes to protect your crypto. - **Ease of use**: If you’re a beginner, you should choose an exchange with a user-friendly interface. - **Payment methods**: Look for exchanges with different payment methods like bank transfers, [debit cards](https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-debit-cards), or direct deposit. - **KYC:** While centralized exchanges require you to submit [Know Your Customer](https://coinledger.io/blog/non-kyc-exchanges) information, peer-to-peer exchanges allow you to make trades without submitting personal information. ## Tips for timing purchases and transfers BTC fees can vary depending on when you make your purchase. Here’s what you should know: - **Understand network congestion**: Bitcoin transaction fees fluctuate based on network demand. By timing your transaction, you can reduce associated fees. - **Use block explorers**: [Blockchain explorers](https://coinledger.io/learn/blockchain-explorers) for Bitcoin like [mempool.space](https://mempool.space/) can help you track current network fees and find the optimal time for your transaction. ## How to minimize Bitcoin fees Eventually, you may wish to [sell your Bitcoin](https://coinledger.io/blog/should-i-sell-my-bitcoin). Here are a few steps that you can take to minimize fees: - **Compare sell fees** across exchanges, as they may differ from buy fees. - Take advantage of subscription/loyalty programs that can help reduce fees. - **Use limit orders** to control the sale price. Limit orders allow you to pay maker fees (typically lower than taker fees) ## Conclusion If you’re getting started with your Bitcoin journey, you should find a [reputable exchange](https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-exchanges) that offers low fees and high security. Do your own research to see which platform best fits your unique needs. ## Frequently asked questions - How can I minimize Bitcoin trading fees?  To minimize transaction fees, you should use limit orders to pay maker fees, take advantage of platforms with recurring purchase options like River and Swan Bitcoin, and consider direct deposit options on platforms like Cash App. - What is a spread, and why does it matter?  A spread is the difference between the buy and sell price of Bitcoin on an exchange. A lower spread means you're getting a better price. Some platforms with zero fees use spreads to generate revenue, so it’s important to understand your exchange’s policies before making a purchase. - Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?  Yes. Hidden costs can include withdrawal fees, network transaction fees, and deposit fees (especially when using credit cards). Make sure to factor these in before choosing a platform. - What are the benefits of recurring Bitcoin purchases?  Platforms like River and Swan Bitcoin allow users to automate recurring buys, often with zero or reduced fees. This strategy, known as Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA), also helps reduce the impact of market volatility and build your Bitcoin holdings over time. - How can I avoid high network fees?  Use tools like mempool.space to find optimal times for making transactions. Fees tend to be higher when more people are using the Bitcoin network. ... CryptoTrader.Tax is now CoinLedger. [Learn more](https://coinledger.io/world-meet-coinledger)  [](https://coinledger.io/) ADDITIONAL RESOURCES [Bitcoin profit calculator](https://coinledger.io/crypto-profit-calculator) [Bitcoin Portfolio Tracker (Free)](https://coinledger.io/crypto-portfolio-tracker)  Track your crypto portfolio for free. Track your crypto portfolio for free. Claim your free preview tax report. .png) Join 500,000 people tracking their gains and losses with CoinLedger. Join 700,000 people tracking their gains and losses with CoinLedger. Join 500,000 people instantly calculating their crypto taxes with CoinLedger. %20\(1\).png) Written by: Dhiraj Nallapaneni Crypto Tax Writer Dhiraj Nallapaneni is a Crypto Tax Writer at CoinLedger. As an Economics degree holder from the University of California Santa Barbara, he’s well versed in topics like cryptocurrency markets and taxation. [About the Author](https://coinledger.io/team/dhiraj-nallapaneni)  Reviewed by: [David Kemmerer](https://coinledger.io/team/david-kemmerer) Co-Founder & CEO ![]() Edited by: ##### KNOWLEDGE BASE ## Demystify Crypto Taxes  ##### The Ultimate Crypto Tax Guide (2026) This guide breaks down everything you need to know about cryptocurrency taxes, from the high level tax implications to the actual crypto tax forms you need to fill out. 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Let’s walk through the cheapest ways to buy Bitcoin. In this guide, we’ll take you through [low-cost exchanges](https://coinledger.io/tools/lowest-fee-crypto-exchanges) — and discuss how you can minimize fees on your Bitcoin purchases. | Platform | Fee/Spread | Notes | |---|---|---| | Strike | 0\.93% average spread | Bitcoin-only | | River | 0% fee on recurring BTC purchases | Only available in the USA\! | | Swan Bitcoin | 0\.99% flat fee | No fees on first \$10,000 | | Kraken Pro | 0\.26% fee on most trades | Higher fees on the standard Kraken platform | | Coinbase Advanced Trade | 0\.40% fee on most trades | Users have complained that fees can be higher based on market conditions. | | Bisq | 1\.3% fee on most trades | Peer-to-peer network, no KYC required\! | | Cash App | 0% fee on BTC purchased through direct deposit | Fees may apply to other types of transactions\! | | Fold | No fees for Fold+ subscribers | More focused on Bitcoin rewards than Bitcoin purchases. | ## Popular Low-Fee Exchanges and Services Strike Strike is an app designed to make it easy to buy, sell, and send Bitcoin. Strike offers a competitive fee structure, with an average 0.93% spread on Bitcoin purchases and zero withdrawal fees. **Spread: 0.1%-1%+** River Financial River Financial is a Bitcoin-focused exchange with zero fees on recurring Bitcoin buys. River is a great option for those who want to set up a recurring Bitcoin purchase\! **Fees: 0% on recurring BTC purchase, 0-1% on other purchases** Swan Bitcoin Swan Bitcoin is known for its low fees, especially for investors using a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy. The platform charges a 0.99% flat fee for Bitcoin purchases. **Fees: 0.99% flat fee (no fees on first \$10,000)** Kraken Pro Kraken Pro — a free version of Kraken for experienced traders — features a competitive 0.40% taker fee for most trades, making it a great option for buying BTC and other cryptocurrencies. The platform offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies and advanced trading features. **Maker fees: 0-0.25%, Taker fees: 0-0.40%** Coinbase Advanced Trade While the standard Coinbase platform can be expensive, Coinbase Advanced is free to use and offers low fees (0.60% and lower). You can also get started with a Coinbase One subscription to unlock zero fees on \$10,000 worth of trades every month. **Maker fees: 0-0.40%, Taker fees: 0.05-0.60%** Bisq Bisq is a decentralized, peer-to-peer Bitcoin exchange that allows users to buy and sell Bitcoin without verifying identity. While it has higher fees than other options (0.15-1.15%), Bisq is a great choice for users who value decentralization and privacy. **Fees: Maker: 0.15%, Taker: 1.15%** Cash App Cash App is a financial app, payment platform, and banking alternative. When you direct deposit your paycheck on Cash App, you can convert a portion to BTC with no fees. **Fees: 0% on direct deposit, 0.75-3% for other BTC purchases (depending on size of order)** Fold Fold is a Bitcoin rewards platform that allows users to earn Bitcoin on everyday purchases and offers a Bitcoin debit card. Fold offers a Fold+ membership to card holders — a \$100 a year subscription that gives you access to fee-free BTC purchases. **Fees: 0% for subscribers, 1.5% fees on spot purchases for non-subscribers** ## Understanding fees vs. spread To better understand Bitcoin transaction costs, it’s important to understand the difference between fees and spreads. - **Transaction fees**: A fee is the cost of buying/selling BTC. - **Spread**: The difference between the buy and sell price of Bitcoin on an exchange. A tighter spread means you’re getting a better price. While some platforms offer zero fees, they make money through spreads. Before you get started with an exchange, you should understand their fee and spread policies. ## Understanding maker and taker fees Many Bitcoin exchanges have two types of fees: maker fees and taker fees. Let’s explain what these fees are and when you’ll encounter them. ### What are maker fees? A maker is someone who adds liquidity to the marketplace. For example, if you place an order to buy Bitcoin at a lower price than the current market price, it will remain on the order book until a seller agrees to sell at that price. Maker fees are usually lower than taker fees because you’re helping the platform by increasing its liquidity. ### What are taker fees? A taker removes liquidity from the exchange by placing an order matching existing prices. For example, if you place a market order to buy Bitcoin instantly, you’ll pay the taker fee. Taker fees are typically higher because you’re reducing the platform’s available liquidity. ### Maker vs. Taker Fee Example Bitcoin is trading at \$30,000, and you decide to make a purchase. **Maker**: You place a limit order to buy Bitcoin at \$29,500. If the price drops and your order is filled, you’ll pay a maker fee (e.g., 0.25%). **Taker**: You place a market order to buy Bitcoin immediately at the current market price of \$30,000. In this case, you’ll pay a taker fee (e.g., 0.40%). ### Why Maker and Taker Fees Matter **Lower fees**: Maker fees are generally lower. If you're a patient trader, using limit orders can save you money. **Speed vs. Cost**: Taker fees apply when you need to buy Bitcoin quickly at the market price. That means that executing a trade quickly can come with a greater cost. ## How to minimize the cost of buying Bitcoin Looking for ways to minimize Bitcoin fees? Consider the following strategies: - **Use Bitcoin-only services**: Platforms focused solely on Bitcoin often provide better security and lower fees. - **Take advantage of direct deposit**: Some services allow fee-free Bitcoin purchases if you directly deposit funds. - **Consider annual subscriptions**: If you’re an active trader, subscriptions like Coinbase One offer reduced trading fees in exchange for a flat monthly/yearly fee. ## Hidden Costs of buying Bitcoin Don’t forget about the other types of fees you may encounter when buying Bitcoin: - **Deposit fees**: Some exchanges charge fees depending on your payment method. Typically, [credit card purchases](https://coinledger.io/learn/buy-crypto-with-a-credit-card) are subject to high fees. - **Withdrawal fees**: Some exchanges charge a fee for moving your cryptocurrency off the platform. - **Network transaction fees**: Fees vary depending on network usage, so it’s important to keep an eye out on current network fees. ## Comparing costs across exchanges The best exchange for you may differ depending on the size of your purchase and whether you plan to move your [Bitcoin to cold storage](https://coinledger.io/learn/bitcoin-cold-storage). - **Small purchase fees**: Some platforms charge higher fees for smaller purchases. For example, a \$100 purchase may have a much larger fee than a \$10,000 purchase. - **Large purchase fees**: For a \$10,000 buy, a hidden spread of 0.85% could make a difference of \$85. In this case, exchanges with no spreads like Kraken may be the most cost-effective option. - **Withdrawal fees:** If you’re planning to move your Bitcoin to a self-custody wallet, you should take note of withdrawal fees.These fees may vary depending on the type of cryptocurrency and the method of the withdrawal. ## Alternative ways to acquire Bitcoin If you prefer methods outside traditional exchanges, consider the following: - **Peer-to-peer platforms**: Services like Bisq, Hodl Hodl, and RoboSats allow users to trade Bitcoin directly with other users. - **Bitcoin ATMs**: Bitcoin ATMs are physical kiosks often found in malls, gas stations, and airports that allow you to buy and sell Bitcoin. While convenient, they tend to have higher fees than the exchanges listed above. - **Earning Bitcoin**: Some exchanges offer Bitcoin referral or [affiliate rewards](https://coinledger.io/tools/crypto-affiliate-programs) for helping to attract new customers. ## What to consider when choosing an exchange While minimizing fees is important, there are other factors to consider when choosing an exchange: - **Security**: Look for exchanges with a strong reputation for security. Read third-party reviews and understand the measures the platform takes to protect your crypto. - **Ease of use**: If you’re a beginner, you should choose an exchange with a user-friendly interface. - **Payment methods**: Look for exchanges with different payment methods like bank transfers, [debit cards](https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-debit-cards), or direct deposit. - **KYC:** While centralized exchanges require you to submit [Know Your Customer](https://coinledger.io/blog/non-kyc-exchanges) information, peer-to-peer exchanges allow you to make trades without submitting personal information. ## Tips for timing purchases and transfers BTC fees can vary depending on when you make your purchase. Here’s what you should know: - **Understand network congestion**: Bitcoin transaction fees fluctuate based on network demand. By timing your transaction, you can reduce associated fees. - **Use block explorers**: [Blockchain explorers](https://coinledger.io/learn/blockchain-explorers) for Bitcoin like [mempool.space](https://mempool.space/) can help you track current network fees and find the optimal time for your transaction. ## How to minimize Bitcoin fees Eventually, you may wish to [sell your Bitcoin](https://coinledger.io/blog/should-i-sell-my-bitcoin). Here are a few steps that you can take to minimize fees: - **Compare sell fees** across exchanges, as they may differ from buy fees. - Take advantage of subscription/loyalty programs that can help reduce fees. - **Use limit orders** to control the sale price. Limit orders allow you to pay maker fees (typically lower than taker fees) ## Conclusion If you’re getting started with your Bitcoin journey, you should find a [reputable exchange](https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-exchanges) that offers low fees and high security. Do your own research to see which platform best fits your unique needs. ## Frequently asked questions - How can I minimize Bitcoin trading fees?  To minimize transaction fees, you should use limit orders to pay maker fees, take advantage of platforms with recurring purchase options like River and Swan Bitcoin, and consider direct deposit options on platforms like Cash App. - What is a spread, and why does it matter?  A spread is the difference between the buy and sell price of Bitcoin on an exchange. A lower spread means you're getting a better price. Some platforms with zero fees use spreads to generate revenue, so it’s important to understand your exchange’s policies before making a purchase. - Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?  Yes. Hidden costs can include withdrawal fees, network transaction fees, and deposit fees (especially when using credit cards). Make sure to factor these in before choosing a platform. - What are the benefits of recurring Bitcoin purchases?  Platforms like River and Swan Bitcoin allow users to automate recurring buys, often with zero or reduced fees. This strategy, known as Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA), also helps reduce the impact of market volatility and build your Bitcoin holdings over time. - How can I avoid high network fees?  Use tools like mempool.space to find optimal times for making transactions. Fees tend to be higher when more people are using the Bitcoin network.