Hey there! If you‘re looking to start buying and trading cryptocurrency from your smartphone, you‘ve come to the right place. I‘ve tested and researched dozens of crypto apps as an experienced blockchain analyst. In this post, I‘ll share the 5 best crypto apps to use in 2022 based on security, functionality, coin selection and beginner-friendliness.
The Top 5 Crypto Apps for New and Experienced Investors
I understand evaluating and comparing crypto apps can be confusing with so many options to choose from nowadays. So I‘ll give you my top 5 recommendations if you want a secure and full-featured app to buy and trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Solana and other popular digital assets from your iOS or Android device:
1. Coinbase – The best for simplicity and buying your first cryptocurrency
2. Binance – My top pick for low fees and advanced trading options
3. Crypto.com – Excellent for rewards, cashback and spending crypto
4. Exodus – Great integrated wallet and exchange features
5. Gemini – Secure U.S. regulated app with active trader tools
I‘ll dive into the key features and benefits of each app in detail below. But in short, here‘s who each one is best suited for:
- Coinbase – Beginners who want an easy on-ramp to crypto
- Binance – Active traders who deal in multiple cryptocurrencies
- Crypto.com – Maximizing rewards and crypto spending
- Exodus – Intermediate users who desire integrated wallet/exchange
- Gemini – Those who value regulatory compliance and security
Now let‘s look at the top features that make these 5 apps stand out…
What to Look for in a Great Crypto App
As an IT security professional turned blockchain analyst, I have some technical criteria I look for when evaluating cryptocurrency apps:
- Strong encryption and security protocols to protect your coins and personal data. This includes things like 2-factor authentication, biometrics, cold wallet storage, FDIC insurance for USD balances, etc.
- Reasonable fees associated with buying, selling, depositing and withdrawing cryptocurrencies. Apps that offer low percent-based or flat fees are preferable.
- An intuitive, easy-to-use interface. Clean, well-organized screens and layouts make navigating the app straightforward.
- Availability on both iOS and Android mobile platforms. This gives you flexibility to use the app on your smartphone or tablet device.
- Strong customer service via live chat, phone, email ticketing and FAQ/help documentation. Prompt responses to any issues are vital.
- Active development team that frequently improves the app and fixes bugs. Regular app updates demonstrate a commitment to the platform.
Using these criteria, let‘s explore the 5 cryptocurrency apps I recommend most in 2022…
1. Coinbase – Best for Crypto Beginners
Coinbase is widely considered the best crypto app for those new to digital currencies. The straightforward signup process, clean interface and educational resources make it ideal for beginners.
Here are some key advantages of Coinbase:
- Extremely simple to use with an intuitive layout. Anybody can get started quickly.
- Supports 50+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Dogecoin, Polygon and more.
- Backed by trusted investors like Union Square Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz and Y Combinator.
- Strong security with 98% of user funds kept in offline cold storage. Keys are encrypted and distributed geographically.
- FDIC insurance covers USD wallet balances up to $250,000 for further peace of mind.
- Users can earn crypto through Coinbase‘s learn and earn program. You watch short videos to get small amounts of cryptocurrencies.
- Reasonable fees range from 0.5% up to a maximum of 4.5% depending on payment type. Competitive for an app catering to beginners.
- The separate Coinbase Pro platform provides advanced charting and trading functionality for more active investors.
Coinbase is probably the easiest on-ramp for those looking to make their first crypto purchase. The interface prioritizes simplicity in a way that’s welcoming for total newcomers. If you get stuck, Coinbase provides phone support and extensive help articles that clearly explain crypto basics.
Over 98 million verified users trust Coinbase, making it a reputable choice for your first crypto app.
2. Binance – My Top Choice for Altcoin Trading
As a cryptocurrency trader and investor myself, Binance is my top choice for active trading thanks to low fees, security features and hundreds of coin options.
Some reasons I prefer Binance:
- Access to over 500 altcoins and 1,000+ trading pairs. Much wider selection than Coinbase.
- Advanced trading features include margin trading, P2P funding and crypto derivatives like futures/options.
- Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) insures user funds from hacking losses and accidents.
- Binance Academy offers free guides and videos for learning about crypto. Helpful for beginners too.
- Maker/taker fee model results in very competitive 0.1% fees for high-volume traders.
- Trust Wallet app acquired by Binance provides secure and decentralized wallet storage.
- Binance Visa card allows users to convert crypto to fiat and spend balances anywhere Visa is accepted.
- Binance Charity initiatives aim to transparently donate to causes using blockchain.
Binance consistently ranks as the top cryptocurrency exchange worldwide in terms of trading volume. For active traders or those looking to diversify beyond Bitcoin, Binance provides access to a deep liquidity pool across an extensive range of crypto markets – over 1,400 as I write this.
The Binance interface can feel overwhelming to brand new users. But with some familiarity, its advanced tools, low fees and broad altcoin support make it a top choice for serious traders.
3. Crypto.com – Best for Maximizing Rewards
Crypto.com is quickly making a name for itself as a crypto rewards and payments app thanks to generous incentives and a flashy metal Visa card.
Here are some key features:
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Generous rewards, cashback and rebates on the Crypto.com Visa card that make spending crypto worthwhile. Some examples:
- Up to 8% back on all purchases
- 100% rebate for Netflix, Spotify, Prime, Airbnb, etc.
- Loungekey airport lounge access
- No annual or monthly fees
- Ability to load the card with crypto and spend anywhere Visa is accepted. Converted to fiat automatically at time of purchase.
- Up to 14.5% yield on crypto holdings through Earn accounts and staking. Rates 5-10X higher than traditional savings.
- Stake the platform‘s CRO token to boost card rewards and unlock better account features.
- Supports 100+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Avalanche, Polygon and more.
- Crypto.com App has over 10 million users and 1,000 employees worldwide.
Crypto.com is still building out its platform, products and services. But its generous rewards programs and flashy Visa card make it one of the best crypto apps if you want to maximize what you can earn on your holdings beyond just price appreciation.
The ability to spend crypto seamlessly via Visa makes this a functional app as digital currencies become more mainstream.
4. Exodus – Integrated Wallet and Exchange
Exodus provides an easy-to-use crypto wallet app with built-in exchange features. For intermediate users who want more functionality than just a basic wallet, Exodus is a top pick.
I like Exodus for the following reasons:
- Beautiful intuitive interface with graphs and charts that make portfolio monitoring easy.
- Supports 100+ cryptocurrencies including all majors like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, etc.
- Built-in crypto exchange allows swaps between supported assets without leaving the app. Easy way to trade.
- Interest yields provided on certain assets like SOL, Algo, Tezos; rates from 5-7% APY.
- Excellent customer support via email and web ticketing for any issues 24/7.
- Security features like encrypted private keys, pin code and biometrics keep funds safe.
- No sign-up required to get started. Wallet creation takes just minutes.
Exodus provides an integrated solution beyond just a wallet. The in-app exchange is convenient for trading between cryptocurrencies directly. Portfolio and network fee tracking help give you a comprehensive view of your holdings.
For hodlers and crypto enthusiasts who want a little more than just a basic wallet, Exodus is tough to beat. The user-friendly design makes it accessible for beginners too once the app is downloaded.
5. Gemini – the Secure Regulated Crypto App
Gemini was founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss of Facebook fame. It‘s a licensed New York trust company built for both individuals and institutions.
Here are some reasons I recommend Gemini:
- As a trust company, Gemini is held to strict capital reserve requirements and banking compliance standards.
- FDIC insurance covers USD balances up to $250,000 for that added peace of mind.
- Low maker/taker fees range from 0.35% down to 0.1% for larger traders. Competitive pricing.
- Excellent security with 95% of assets held offline in cold storage. Hot wallet funds insured.
- Regulation builds trust. Gemini adheres to all applicable money transmission laws.
- Good for beginners but also has a robust ActiveTrader platform with orders, charts and analytics.
- Allows users to earn interest up to 7.4% APY on certain cryptocurrencies through Gemini Earn.
- Gemini Dollar (GUSD) stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar.
For U.S. residents, Gemini can offer that extra peace of mind that comes from an exchange regulated under New York banking laws. Your information and funds enjoy strong protections.
Between the beginner-friendly mobile app and ActiveTrader platform, Gemini accommodates both casual and active crypto traders. If you appreciate compliance and security like I do, Gemini is a leading choice to consider.
Get Started With the Best Crypto App Today
Hopefully this breakdown gives you a good sense of the top cryptocurrency apps available in 2022 based on extensive research and testing.
To quickly recap:
- Coinbase – The simplest app for beginners to buy their first Bitcoin or Ethereum.
- Binance – My top recommendation for active traders who want low fees and access to hundreds of altcoins.
- Crypto.com – Excellent card rewards and account interest rates for maximizing crypto earnings.
- Exodus – User-friendly integrated wallet and exchange features make this a great intermediate option.
- Gemini – Regulatory compliance and security for U.S. residents who value oversight.
Ultimately there is no one "best" crypto app for everyone. You‘ll want to consider your specific investing goals, technical needs and security preferences.
Are you a total beginner looking for an easy on-ramp to crypto? Then an app like Coinbase is likely the best starting point.
Do you enjoy actively trading altcoins and want advanced analytics? Binance has the features you need.
Is maximizing rewards and interest rates on your holdings a priority? The Crypto.com card has you covered.
My recommendation is to get started with one of the apps on this list to buy and sell your first cryptocurrencies safely and securely. You can always expand to additional apps later as you get comfortable.
I hope you found this overview comparison helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions! Happy and safe crypto investing.
