The cryptocurrency market in Canada continues to expand rapidly, with growing adoption and increasing regulatory clarity. As more Canadians explore digital assets for investment, savings, or everyday transactions, the demand for reliable and user-friendly Canadian crypto exchanges has surged. With over 3% of the population already engaging in crypto trading, finding the best crypto exchange in Canada is essential for both beginners and experienced investors.
Canada’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation sets it apart globally. Unlike jurisdictions with loose oversight, Canadian crypto platforms must register as Money Service Businesses (MSBs) and comply with strict anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements enforced by FINTRAC. This regulatory rigor ensures a safer trading environment and boosts investor confidence.
Additionally:
- Cryptocurrency use is legal in Canada, though not recognized as legal tender.
- Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Initial Token Offerings (STOs) must be registered with provincial securities regulators.
- All major exchanges operate under oversight from bodies like the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC).
With this foundation of trust and transparency, let’s explore the top 10 crypto platforms available to Canadian traders today—each offering unique advantages in security, fees, supported assets, and ease of use.
👉 Discover how to start trading crypto securely on a trusted global platform.
Bitbuy – Leading Canadian Crypto Exchange
Bitbuy stands out as one of the most reputable crypto exchanges in Canada, serving over 350,000 users and facilitating more than $4 billion in cumulative trading volume. Founded in 2016, Bitbuy was the first exchange to receive formal approval from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), solidifying its status as a regulated and trustworthy platform.
Why Choose Bitbuy?
- Offers 15 top cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC)
- Low trading fees at just 0.2% per transaction (0.1% on Pro Trade)
- Supports Interac e-Transfer deposits with near-instant processing
- Ranked among Canada’s Top Growing Companies by The Globe and Mail
Bitbuy prioritizes security with enterprise-grade encryption, cold storage for assets, and a privately maintained codebase. Its intuitive mobile app and web interface make it ideal for both new and experienced traders.
Is Bitbuy Safe?
Yes—Bitbuy is considered one of the safest crypto exchanges in Canada. It complies with all federal regulations, conducts regular audits, and maintains robust cybersecurity protocols. In 2021, it was recognized by Deloitte as one of Canada’s fastest-growing tech companies, reflecting its strong operational foundation.
👉 Learn how to buy Bitcoin and other major cryptos with confidence.
Coinberry – Fully Canadian-Owned Platform
Coinberry is a proudly Canadian exchange based in Toronto, launched in 2017. It focuses exclusively on the domestic market and only supports CAD transactions. The platform gained regulatory approval from the OSC in 2021, reinforcing its legitimacy.
Key Features
- Over two dozen cryptocurrencies available for trading
- Only allows withdrawals for BTC, ETH, and LTC
- Partnerships with municipalities like Innisfil and Richmond Hill
- Registered with FINTRAC and compliant with PIPEDA
While limited in withdrawal options, Coinberry offers fast processing times and a simple onboarding experience. It's particularly appealing to users who value local support and community-driven initiatives.
Coinberry Fees
Trading fees vary between 0% and 2.5%, depending on market conditions. There are no deposit fees, but a $50 minimum trade requirement applies. Withdrawal fees are minimal:
- BTC: 0.0005%
- ETH: 0.0063%
- LTC: 0.02%
Despite some limitations, Coinberry remains a solid choice for Canadians seeking a homegrown, compliant exchange.
Binance Canada – Global Giant with Local Challenges
As the largest crypto exchange in the world, Binance offers access to over 500 digital assets and serves more than 28 million users globally. However, its presence in Canada is complicated.
Regulatory Status
The OSC declared Binance unauthorized to operate in Ontario, limiting its services for many Canadian users. Despite this, many still access Binance through international versions or peer-to-peer (P2P) trading.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extremely low trading fees (0.1%)
- Wide range of altcoins and DeFi tokens
- Binance Card and staking options available
Cons:
- Regulatory scrutiny in multiple countries
- Not fully compliant with Canadian securities laws
- Risk of future restrictions
While Binance offers unparalleled variety and low costs, regulatory uncertainty makes it a riskier option compared to fully licensed domestic platforms.
Coinbase Canada – Beginner-Friendly International Option
Coinbase is one of the most recognized names in crypto, with over 73 million global users. Though U.S.-based, it remains popular among Canadians due to its clean interface and educational resources.
Key Highlights
- Over 100 tradable cryptocurrencies
- Insurance protection for stored assets
- Simple onboarding process ideal for beginners
However, Coinbase does not support direct bank transfers from Canadian financial institutions. Users can only buy crypto via debit card or sell through PayPal—limiting flexibility.
Fees
Standard trading fees are 0.5%, with lower rates on Coinbase Pro. Debit card purchases incur a 3.99% fee, while PayPal withdrawals are charged 2.5%.
Despite higher fees, Coinbase remains a trusted gateway for those new to crypto investing.
CoinSmart – Fast Onboarding & Competitive Rates
Launched in 2018, CoinSmart caters to Canadian traders seeking speed and simplicity. Based in Toronto, it offers 16 major cryptocurrencies with competitive pricing.
Standout Features
- Trading fees from 0.2%
- Same-day deposits via Interac e-Transfer
- Supports CAD, USD, and EUR funding
Its verification process is quick, allowing users to start trading within hours. While the app has received mixed reviews, the platform continues to improve its feature set.
Kraken Canada – Advanced Tools for Serious Traders
Founded in 2011, Kraken is known for its advanced trading tools and strong security record. It offers over 110 cryptocurrencies and supports both spot and futures trading (except in Ontario).
Ideal For:
- Intermediate to advanced traders
- High-volume investors
- Users seeking detailed market analytics
Kraken’s fee structure is tiered based on trading volume, starting at 0.26% for takers and dropping significantly for large traders.
Although some features are restricted in Canada, Kraken remains a top choice for those prioritizing functionality over simplicity.
Mogo Crypto – Bitcoin-Only Simplicity
Mogo, a long-standing fintech company since 2003, entered the crypto space with a focused offering: Bitcoin-only trading.
Best For Beginners
- Simple interface designed for first-time buyers
- 1% flat fee on all BTC trades
- Educational tools integrated into the app
Mogo doesn’t allow transfers to external wallets, which limits flexibility but enhances security for novice users. Available nationwide except in Quebec.
NDAX – Calgary-Based Exchange with Speed
The National Digital Asset Exchange (NDAX) launched in 2018 and quickly gained traction for its fast verification and reliable service.
Advantages
- Over two dozen cryptocurrencies supported
- Fixed 0.2% trading fee
- Instant ID verification
However, NDAX charges a steep $25 CAD fee for bank withdrawals, which may deter frequent traders.
Despite this drawback, its transparency and speed make it a strong contender among Canadian exchanges.
Netcoins – One of Canada’s Oldest Exchanges
Operating since 2014 from Vancouver, Netcoins is one of the longest-running crypto platforms in the country.
What It Offers
- Eight supported cryptocurrencies
- Free fiat deposits and withdrawals
- Minimalist, easy-to-use interface
With a 0.5% trading fee, Netcoins isn’t the cheapest option—but its stability and compliance record inspire trust. Lacks a mobile app and advanced features, making it better suited for casual investors.
Newton – Spread-Based Pricing Model
Founded in 2018, Newton serves over 200,000 Canadian users with a unique pricing model based on spread rather than fixed fees.
Unique Aspects
- No deposit or withdrawal fees
- Over 60 cryptocurrencies available
- Newton Pro platform in development
While spreads can fluctuate, this model sometimes results in lower effective costs than traditional fee structures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the safest crypto exchange in Canada?
A: Bitbuy is widely regarded as the safest due to its OSC registration, strong security practices, and industry recognition.
Q: Which exchange has the lowest fees?
A: Bitbuy and NDAX offer competitive 0.2% trading fees, while Binance charges just 0.1%, though with regulatory caveats.
Q: Can I buy crypto with Interac e-Transfer?
A: Yes—Bitbuy, CoinSmart, and NDAX all support Interac e-Transfer deposits.
Q: Are crypto exchanges legal in Canada?
A: Yes—licensed exchanges operate legally under MSB regulations and FINTRAC compliance.
Q: Do I need to pay taxes on crypto gains?
A: Yes—crypto profits are taxable as capital gains or business income by the CRA.
Q: Which platform is best for beginners?
A: Mogo and Coinbase offer intuitive interfaces and educational tools ideal for new investors.
Choosing the best Canadian crypto exchange depends on your priorities—whether it's low fees, regulatory compliance, asset selection, or ease of use. As the market evolves in 2025, expect tighter integration between traditional finance and digital assets.
Regardless of your experience level, always prioritize platforms that are transparent, secure, and fully compliant with Canadian law.
👉 Start your crypto journey on a secure, high-performance exchange today.