Comparison of Coinbase vs Gemini [ 2025 ]

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

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Coinbase

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Gemini

Main points

Fees

0,40%/0,60%

Earns

Yes

Customer service

4/5

0,20%/0,40%

Fees

Earns

4/5

Customer service

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

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

Level

0,40%/0,60%

0,20%/0,40%

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.

Gemini’s commission structure is multifaceted, tailored to accommodate both high-volume traders and those just starting out. For smaller transactions, particularly those made via the mobile app or web interface, the fees can be relatively high, which might deter low-volume or novice traders. However, as trading volume increases, the fees become more competitive, aligning with industry standards to favor more active traders. The exchange employs a tiered fee schedule, which decreases per transaction fees for users who have a higher 30-day trading volume. This tiered system is designed to incentivize and reward frequent trading with lower transaction costs. Overall, while Gemini’s fees are competitive at higher volumes, they can be considered steep for users making smaller or infrequent trades.

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

Gemini

Security Methods: Gemini employs state-of-the-art security measures, including the use of cold storage for the majority of the assets, two-factor authentication, and strict operational protocols. This rigorous approach to security minimizes the risk of hacking and unauthorized access, ensuring the safety of user funds.
Possible Regulation: As a New York trust company, Gemini operates under the regulatory oversight of the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS). This compliance with one of the strictest regulatory frameworks in the cryptocurrency world underscores Gemini's commitment to legal and ethical operations.
Reputation and Reviews: Gemini has built a strong reputation within the cryptocurrency community for its transparency and reliability. User reviews often highlight the platform's user-friendly interface and the peace of mind that comes with trading on a regulated exchange.
Transparency: Gemini is known for its clear and straightforward communication regarding its operations, fees, and security measures. This level of transparency is critical in building trust with users and is indicative of the exchange's commitment to fair and open practices.
Withdrawal and Deposit Policies: Gemini offers structured and secure withdrawal and deposit policies, including FDIC insurance on USD deposits. These policies are clearly outlined, easy to understand, and designed to protect users' interests, making it easier for traders to manage their funds efficiently and with confidence.

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Product selection

Native token

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Yes

Cripto/debit card

Yes

Full name

Coinbase Global, Inc.

Gemini Trust Company, LLC

Regulation

Regulated in the EE. UU. y varios otros países

Regulated in the EE. UU.

Year founded

2012

2015

Founder

Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam

Tyler y Cameron Winklevoss

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Coinbase	FEATURES	Gemini
Coinbase allows relatively low minimum trade amounts, making it accessible for beginners.	Minimum Trade	Gemini allows for relatively low minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners but has a minimum threshold.
Fees are higher than average but justified by high security and user-friendly services.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Fees are competitive at higher trade volumes but can be relatively high for smaller transactions.
Offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies, catering to both popular and niche market interests.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Gemini offers a solid selection of major cryptocurrencies but lacks variety in lesser-known altcoins.
Provides a robust selection of trading pairs, allowing diverse trading strategies.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Offers a variety of crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, covering most popular combinations.
Highly transparent about security measures, fees, and operational procedures.	Website Transparency	Gemini excels in providing clear and comprehensive details on its operations and policies.
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	This card provides up to 3% back in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies on dining purchases, 2% on groceries, and 1% on all other purchases, making it a valuable addition for users looking to integrate their crypto investments with everyday spending.
Offers secure wallet services with a majority of assets stored in cold storage.	Storage Offering	Provides top-notch digital asset security with the majority of assets in cold storage.
Provides competitive staking rewards and incentives for various cryptocurrencies.	Staking and Rewards	Gemini offers staking and rewards but with limited options compared to other exchanges.
Both platforms are user-friendly and highly functional, providing excellent trading experiences.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both mobile and desktop platforms are highly intuitive, stable, and feature-rich.
Offers adequate support, though response times can vary during peak periods.	Customer Service	Customer support is knowledgeable and responsive, though not available 24/7.
Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes, with some limits and fees that vary by region.	Deposit and Withdraw	Deposits and withdrawals are secure with clear policies, though some methods may have fees.

Key features

Analysis tools

User-friendly charts, basic tools

Basic charting tools

Mobile APP

Yes

Security

High 4,9/5

Additional features

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

Gemini Earn, staking, Gemini Pay, Gemini dollar (GUSD)

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

100+

40+

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.

Gemini 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.

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.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia

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 who prioritize security and ease of use, despite higher fees.

Base currencies available

USD, EUR, GBP, BTC

USD, BTC, ETH

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.

Gemini is known for its high security and regulatory compliance. It offers a user-friendly platform and a good range of cryptocurrencies but has higher fees compared to some 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 .

Gemini offers secure deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, usually within a day, with competitive fees .

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 .

Gemini provides a user-friendly and secure account opening process. Users need to submit personal information and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and usually completed within 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 .

Gemini provides 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 .

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 .

Gemini employs comprehensive security measures, including 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, ensuring high 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

In conclusion, Gemini stands out as a robust and reliable cryptocurrency exchange, making it a solid choice for users ranging from beginners to experienced traders. At Threenvest, we recognize Gemini’s commitment to security and regulatory compliance as one of its strongest selling points. This adherence not only ensures the safety of user assets through measures like cold storage and insured hot wallets but also instills confidence due to its regulatory status under the New York State Department of Financial Services. However, it’s important to note that while Gemini excels in security, its fee structure, particularly for low-volume traders, can be a deterrent compared to other platforms that offer lower fees for small transactions. Additionally, Gemini’s user interface, both on the web and mobile app, is designed with clarity and ease of use in mind, which is a significant advantage for those new to cryptocurrency trading. The exchange also provides a range of educational resources that enhance user understanding and engagement with the market. However, the limited selection of altcoins might pose a restriction for users looking to diversify into less mainstream cryptocurrencies. At Threenvest, while we appreciate the security and user-friendly aspects of Gemini, we also advise potential users to consider their trading volume and investment goals when choosing an exchange. Overall, Gemini is recommended for those who prioritize security and a regulated environment, but it may be less suited for those seeking lower fees or a wider range of cryptocurrencies.

View all comparisons against Coinbase

View all comparisons against Gemini

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.