Comparison of Bitstamp vs Altcoin Trader [ 2024 ]

The crypto exchanges compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is the Bitstamp vs Altcoin Trader comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Bitstamp

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Altcoin Trader

Main points

Fees

≤0,30%

Earns

Yes

Customer service

4/5

0,10%

Fees

Yes

Earns

4/5

Customer service

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

4.1 – Reasonable fees with discounts for high-volume trading.

3.5 – Competitive fees within South Africa but higher for international transactions.

Level

≤0,30%

0,10%

Brief explanation

Bitstamp structures its commission fees to accommodate both high-volume traders and casual users effectively. The platform utilizes a tiered pricing model based on the 30-day trading volume, making it highly competitive within the cryptocurrency exchange market. For lower volumes, the fees start at 0.50% per trade and can decrease to as low as 0.0% for substantial trading volumes, making it especially attractive to frequent traders. This fee structure not only enhances trading flexibility but also encourages more significant trading activity by reducing costs as users climb the tiers.

AscendEX maintains a competitive and transparent fee structure, which is essential for both casual and serious traders. The platform typically charges a flat fee for both makers and takers, simplifying calculations for users. These fees are generally aligned with industry standards, ensuring that traders can engage in frequent trading activities without excessive costs. Additionally, AscendEX may offer tiered discounts based on the user’s monthly trading volume, which incentivizes higher trading activity with lower fees. For users looking to minimize costs while maximizing trading opportunities, AscendEX’s fee structure is designed to support a wide range of trading strategies and volumes, making it a compelling choice for those who value straightforward and equitable financial dealings in their trading platform.

Bitstamp

Year Founded: Bitstamp's establishment in 2011 makes it one of the oldest cryptocurrency exchanges in operation, demonstrating long-term industry resilience and reliability. This longevity supports trust as it indicates sustained compliance with regulatory changes and evolving market dynamics over more than a decade.
Security Methods: Bitstamp employs robust security measures including multi-sig technology, cold storage of assets, and comprehensive hot wallet insurance. These practices significantly reduce the risk of theft and fraud, ensuring a secure trading environment for users' funds.
Regulation: Bitstamp was one of the first cryptocurrency exchanges to be licensed in Europe, receiving approval as a fully regulated payment institution in Luxembourg. This regulatory oversight assures users of Bitstamp’s commitment to adhering to strict financial and legal standards, enhancing its trustworthiness.
Reputation and Reviews: Over the years, Bitstamp has maintained a strong reputation for reliability and integrity. Positive reviews often highlight its user-friendly platform and responsive customer service, bolstering confidence among both new and experienced traders in the cryptocurrency community.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: Bitstamp consistently ranks among the top exchanges in terms of trading volume and liquidity. This not only ensures that users can execute trades quickly and at desired prices but also indicates a healthy and active trading environment supported by a large user base.

Altcoin Trader

Security Methods: AscendEX employs a comprehensive array of security measures including SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, and cold storage of assets. These rigorous security protocols ensure that users’ data and funds are protected against unauthorized access and cyber threats, fostering a secure trading environment.
Reputation and Reviews: Since its inception in 2018, AscendEX has built a solid reputation within the cryptocurrency community. User reviews often highlight the platform's reliability, wide range of services, and user-friendly interface, underscoring its standing as a reputable exchange in the crypto market.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: AscendEX supports a high trading volume and liquidity, which is crucial for traders looking to execute large trades without significantly affecting the market price. This high liquidity not only facilitates better price discovery but also enables efficient entry and exit from positions.
Customer Service: AscendEX is known for its robust customer support, offering quick and helpful responses to user inquiries and issues. This commitment to excellent customer service enhances user experience and trust, particularly for new traders who may need assistance navigating the platform.
Withdrawal and Deposit Policies: The platform’s policies on withdrawals and deposits are clear, secure, and user-centric, ensuring a smooth process for moving funds into and out of the exchange. AscendEX’s efficient handling of these critical operations reinforces its reliability and the trust users place in it.

Comparison sponsored by the best exchange

eToro

eToro Special Offer*

Earn up to 4.90% APY on uninvested cash with eToro USA.

Account Minimum

Get started with just $100.

And 1% fee on all cryptocurrency trades.

Direct link to the website

Product selection

Native token

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Full name

Bitstamp Ltd.

Altcoin Trader (Pty) Ltd.

Regulation

Regulated in Luxemburgo

Not regulated

Year founded

2011

2014

Founder

Nejc Kodrič, Damijan Merlak

Richard de Sousa

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Bitstamp	FEATURES	Altcoin Trader
Bitstamp allows users to start trading with a relatively low minimum, accommodating small-scale traders effectively.	Minimum Trade	AscendEX allows small minimum trades, making it accessible for users with smaller capital.
Bitstamp’s fee structure is competitive but not the lowest in the market, balancing fairness with service quality.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Competitive fees, especially favorable for high-volume traders with further discounts available.
Bitstamp supports a robust selection of popular cryptocurrencies, catering well to both mainstream and niche market participants.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Offers a broad range of over 100 cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trader demands.
The platform offers a solid range of crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, providing good options for diverse trading strategies.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Features an extensive array of trading pairs, facilitating varied and flexible trading strategies.
Bitstamp is known for its clear, user-friendly website that provides extensive information on fees, policies, and trading options.	Website Transparency	Generally transparent about fees and terms, though some details on security could be clearer.
Bitstamp lacks a branded exchange card, which limits its versatility for users seeking integrated payment solutions for everyday purchases.	Credit/Debit Card	AscendEX lacks an exchange card feature, which could enhance the usability of cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions and offer additional benefits to its users.
Bitstamp offers secure storage options including cold storage, ensuring high security for user funds against potential cyber threats.	Storage Offering	Provides secure storage options with cold storage and multi-factor authentication.
Currently, Bitstamp does not offer staking services or rewards, which limits opportunities for earning through investment holding.	Staking and Rewards	Offers competitive staking rewards and various incentives for participation in trading activities.
Both Bitstamp’s mobile app and desktop platform are highly intuitive and reliable, though some users desire additional features.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both mobile and desktop platforms are well-designed, offering full functionality and ease of use.
Bitstamp provides dependable customer service, but response times can vary, especially during high demand periods.	Customer Service	Robust customer support with responsive service via multiple channels.
Deposits and withdrawals are handled efficiently on Bitstamp with support for multiple payment methods, though some fees may apply.	Deposit and Withdraw	Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes are in place, although adding more fiat options could improve accessibility and convenience.

Key features

Analysis tools

Basic charting tools, technical indicators

Basic charting tools

Mobile APP

Security

High 4,9/5

High 4,5/5

Additional features

Institutional services, staking, Bitstamp Earn program, fiat on/off ramps

Instant EFT payments, savings wallets, recurring buy orders, OTC trading

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

30+

20+

User-friendliness

Bitstamp features a clean and intuitive interface that is easy for beginners to use. The platform is designed to provide a seamless trading experience, making it easy to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.

Altcoin Trader is known for its simple and user-friendly interface, which makes it accessible for new traders. The platform focuses on ease of use, ensuring that buying and selling cryptocurrencies is straightforward.

Value for money

Offers good value for money with competitive fees and a reliable trading platform, suitable for both retail and institutional traders.

Delivers decent value for money, especially for South African users, with competitive fees and easy access to local banking options.

Countries of operation

Global, including United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany

South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho

Best for

Ideal for both retail and institutional traders seeking a reliable exchange with competitive fees and a strong reputation.

Best for South African investors looking for easy access to local banking options and competitive fees, making it ideal for regional users.

Base currencies available

USD, EUR, GBP, BTC

ZAR, BTC

Account

Trading

Bitstamp is one of the oldest and most reputable exchanges, offering high security and a straightforward trading platform. It supports a decent range of cryptocurrencies but has higher fees compared to some newer exchanges.

Altcoin Trader is ideal for users looking to trade a variety of altcoins. The platform is easy to navigate, but its fee structure is slightly higher than average. Additionally, the platform’s customer support could use improvement.

Deposit and withdrawal

Bitstamp offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal options, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and crypto deposits. Withdrawals are processed quickly, with competitive fees.

Altcoin Trader provides bank transfer and cryptocurrency deposit options. Withdrawals are usually processed within 24 hours. Fees are relatively low, making it accessible for beginners.

Account opening process

Bitstamp offers a seamless account opening process. Users need to submit personal information and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and usually completed within a day, making it efficient and user-friendly.

Altcoin Trader has a simple account registration process. It requires basic personal information, proof of identity, and address verification. The process is quick, usually taking less than a day, making it accessible for new users.

KYC required?

Yes

Customer Service

Bitstamp offers extensive customer support through email, live chat, and a help center. Support is available 24/7, and the response times are quick, making it reliable for users globally.

Altcoin Trader provides support through email and live chat. The support team is responsive and helpful, but the lack of 24/7 availability can be a downside for users needing immediate assistance.

Security

Bitstamp offers robust security with 2FA, SSL encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, making it a highly secure platform for investors .

Altcoin Trader employs standard security measures like 2FA and encryption. It lacks regulation from major financial bodies, which could be a concern for some investors regarding the safety of their funds.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

As an expert on our website, I highly recommend Bitstamp for traders looking for a reliable and secure platform with a good range of cryptocurrencies. Its robust security measures and regulatory compliance make it a trustworthy choice. While its fees aren’t the lowest, the platform’s ease of use, strong customer service, and comprehensive trading options balance the scales, making Bitstamp a solid option for both newcomers and experienced traders in the cryptocurrency space.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert reviewer on our website, I highly recommend AscendEX for both new and experienced traders looking for a comprehensive crypto trading platform. Its robust security measures, extensive range of cryptocurrencies, and competitive trading fees make it a reliable choice. The platform’s user-friendly interface, coupled with excellent customer support, ensures a smooth trading experience, making it well-suited for anyone looking to delve into the crypto market.

Read bitstamp review

View all comparisons against Bitstamp

Read altcoin trader review

View all comparisons against Altcoin Trader

How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).

For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.