Comparison of Coinbase vs Bitflyer [ 2025 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Coinbase

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Bitflyer

Main points

Fees

0,40%/0,60%

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

3.5 – Higher fees but strong security and ease of use.

4.0 – Competitive fees with some discounts for high-volume trading.

Level

0,40%/0,60%

0,10%

Brief explanation

Coinbase is known for its relatively higher fee structure, which can be a significant consideration for its users. The exchange charges a flat fee for smaller transactions and a percentage of the transaction amount for larger ones. Fees vary depending on the payment method used, such as credit/debit cards or bank transfers, and the country of the user. Additionally, Coinbase applies a spread of about 0.50% for cryptocurrency purchases and sales. While the fees may be higher compared to some other platforms, they are often justified by the high level of security, user-friendly services, and the robust infrastructure that Coinbase offers to its customers. This makes it especially appealing to new entrants to the cryptocurrency market who seek ease of use and reliability.

BitFlyer structures its commission fees with an aim to be transparent and competitive, though they are often perceived as slightly higher than some of its global competitors. The exchange charges a flat fee for transactions, which can vary slightly depending on the market conditions and the specific services used. For instance, trading Bitcoin typically incurs a fee of about 0.1% to 0.15%, but this can differ for other cryptocurrencies or more complex transactions such as futures or options trading. Importantly, these fees contribute to the high level of security and regulatory compliance that BitFlyer offers, making it a trusted platform despite the slightly higher costs.

Coinbase

Year Founded: Established in 2012, Coinbase has a long-standing presence in the cryptocurrency market. This extensive history not only showcases its resilience and adaptability but also its ability to innovate and grow alongside the rapidly evolving crypto ecosystem.
Number of Users: With millions of users globally, Coinbase is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges. This large user base not only demonstrates trust and satisfaction among a significant portion of the crypto community but also contributes to its robust trading volume and liquidity.
Security Methods: Coinbase employs state-of-the-art security measures including two-factor authentication, cold storage of 98% of customer funds, and insurance to protect against theft or breaches of the online storage. This comprehensive approach to security helps ensure user funds are protected at all times.
Possible Regulation: Coinbase is known for its strong regulatory compliance, operating in accordance with major regulatory bodies in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. This adherence to strict regulatory standards ensures operational transparency and security for its users.
Reputation and Reviews: Over the years, Coinbase has built a solid reputation within the cryptocurrency community. Positive reviews from users and its standing in the industry as a reliable, easy-to-use platform further affirm its credibility and reliability as a top choice for both new and experienced cryptocurrency users.

Read Coinbase review

Bitflyer

Year Founded: BitFlyer has been operational since 2014, giving it a long-standing presence in the cryptocurrency world. This longevity in the rapidly evolving digital currency landscape speaks to its stability and enduring commitment to its users.
Security Methods: BitFlyer employs rigorous security measures, including compliance with multiple regulatory standards across jurisdictions. It uses advanced encryption and follows strict internal security protocols to safeguard user data and funds.
Possible Regulation: The exchange is one of the few that has successfully navigated the strict regulatory environments of Japan, the United States, and Europe. It holds significant licenses, including the prestigious New York BitLicense, enhancing its credibility and trustworthiness.
Reputation and Reviews: BitFlyer's reputation in the crypto community is strong, bolstered by positive reviews from users who praise its user-friendly platform and security practices. Its regulatory compliance further reinforces its reputation as a trustworthy platform.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: With a substantial trading volume and high liquidity, BitFlyer offers users the advantage of better price stability and the ability to execute large transactions with minimal impact on the market price, making it a reliable platform for trading major cryptocurrencies.

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Product selection

Native token

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Yes

Cripto/debit card

Yes

Full name

Coinbase Global, Inc.

bitFlyer, Inc.

Regulation

Regulated in the EE. UU. y varios otros países

Regulated in Japón

Year founded

2012

2014

Founder

Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam

Yuzo Kano

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Coinbase	FEATURES	Bitflyer
Coinbase allows relatively low minimum trade amounts, making it accessible for beginners.	Minimum Trade	BitFlyer allows relatively low minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners.
Fees are higher than average but justified by high security and user-friendly services.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Fees are slightly higher than average, which may deter frequent traders.
Offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies, catering to both popular and niche market interests.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Offers a moderate selection of major cryptocurrencies, but lacks variety in altcoins.
Provides a robust selection of trading pairs, allowing diverse trading strategies.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Supports a solid range of trading pairs, suitable for most traders’ needs.
Highly transparent about security measures, fees, and operational procedures.	Website Transparency	High transparency regarding security practices and compliance, fostering user trust.
The card is widely accepted, allows users to earn cryptocurrency rewards on purchases, and integrates seamlessly with Coinbase accounts, enhancing the user experience for everyday transactions.	Credit/Debit Card	bitFlyer offers a prepaid card in Japan, which can be used for online and in-store purchases. This card allows users to spend their crypto directly, making it convenient for daily use.
Offers secure wallet services with a majority of assets stored in cold storage.	Storage Offering	Provides secure cold storage options, ensuring safety for user funds.
Provides competitive staking rewards and incentives for various cryptocurrencies.	Staking and Rewards	Offers basic staking features and rewards but not as extensive or competitive as other exchanges.
Both platforms are user-friendly and highly functional, providing excellent trading experiences.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both mobile and desktop platforms are user-friendly, well-designed, and reliable.
Offers adequate support, though response times can vary during peak periods.	Customer Service	Generally responsive and helpful customer service, though some users may experience delays.
Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes, with some limits and fees that vary by region.	Deposit and Withdraw	Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes, but could be improved with more payment methods.

Key features

Analysis tools

User-friendly charts, basic tools

Basic to intermediate charting tools

Mobile APP

Yes

Security

High 4,9/5

Additional features

Staking, Coinbase Earn educational rewards, recurring buys, Coinbase Pro exchange

Spot trading, margin trading, Bitflyer Lightning exchange, recurring buys

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

100+

10+

User-friendliness

Coinbase is known for its highly user-friendly interface, making it one of the best choices for beginners. The platform is simple to navigate, and buying and selling cryptocurrencies is straightforward and hassle-free.

Bitflyer features a simple and intuitive interface, ideal for beginners. The platform focuses on providing a seamless trading experience, making it easy for new users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies.

Value for money

Provides reasonable value for money with higher fees but strong security features and a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for beginners.

Provides reasonable value for money with low trading fees and a user-friendly platform, making it a good choice for beginners.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia

Japan, United States, Europe

Best for

Great for beginners who prioritize security and ease of use, despite higher fees compared to other exchanges.

Great for beginners and experienced traders in Japan, the US, and Europe who want a user-friendly platform with competitive fees.

Base currencies available

USD, EUR, GBP, BTC

JPY, USD, EUR, BTC

Account

Trading

Coinbase is one of the most popular exchanges, especially for beginners. It offers a user-friendly platform, high security, and a good range of cryptocurrencies. However, its fees are higher compared to some other exchanges.

Bitflyer provides a secure and easy-to-use platform with a decent selection of cryptocurrencies. It is particularly popular in Japan. However, it lacks some of the advanced trading features found on other major exchanges.

Deposit and withdrawal

Coinbase supports a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, usually within a day, but fees can be higher compared to other exchanges .

Bitflyer offers secure and efficient deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers and crypto deposits. Withdrawals are processed within a day, and fees are competitive .

Account opening process

Coinbase offers a user-friendly and seamless account opening process. Users need to provide personal information, verify their identity, and typically get their account approved within a day. It’s secure and efficient .

Bitflyer’s account opening process is easy and efficient. Users need to provide personal information, verify their identity, and address. The process is fully digital and typically takes less than a day.

KYC required?

Yes

Customer Service

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

Bitflyer offers customer support via email and live chat. The support team is responsive, and support is available 24/7, making it convenient for users needing immediate help.

Security

Coinbase employs extensive security measures, including 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, making it a highly secure platform for investors .

Bitflyer ensures high security with 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by Japanese authorities, ensuring strong security for investors.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

As Threenvest reviews Coinbase, it is evident that this platform stands out as a robust and user-friendly gateway into the world of cryptocurrency trading. Ideal for both novice and experienced traders, Coinbase provides an intuitive interface, extensive educational resources, and a suite of trading options that cater to a broad spectrum of investment strategies. The security measures employed by Coinbase are commendable, with best practices like cold storage of funds, insurance, and stringent compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring a secure environment for digital asset trading. However, despite its many strengths, Coinbase does exhibit some limitations when compared against the broader landscape of cryptocurrency exchanges. The fee structure, particularly for small transactions and casual traders, can be notably higher than some of its competitors, which might deter those seeking more cost-effective trading options. Additionally, while Coinbase offers a substantial range of cryptocurrencies, it may not match the sheer volume of trading pairs available on platforms like Binance or Kraken. Nevertheless, Threenvest believes that for users who prioritize a secure, straightforward, and well-regulated trading experience, Coinbase remains an excellent choice. Our comprehensive review finds that while no platform is without its flaws, Coinbase’s commitment to security, ease of use, and continuous improvement align well with the needs of most cryptocurrency enthusiasts and investors.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert on our website, I recommend BitFlyer for users new to cryptocurrency trading due to its user-friendly interface and robust security measures. While its trading fees are a bit higher and the variety of cryptocurrencies somewhat limited, BitFlyer’s strong regulatory compliance and excellent platform stability make it a reliable choice for those prioritizing security and ease of use. If you’re starting your crypto journey, BitFlyer is a commendable option to consider.

View all comparisons against Coinbase

View all comparisons against Bitflyer

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.