The Canadian cryptocurrency market is growing rapidly, with projections indicating it will reach nearly a billion dollars in value by 2025. As more Canadians explore digital assets, choosing the right crypto exchange becomes crucial. With so many platforms available—each offering different fees, security levels, coin selections, and user experiences—it’s important to find one that aligns with your trading goals.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the top 7 crypto exchanges in Canada, evaluating them based on security, CAD deposit options, fees, ease of use, regulatory compliance, and unique features. Whether you're a beginner just buying Bitcoin or an advanced trader diving into futures and DeFi, this list has something for everyone.
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Top Crypto Exchanges in Canada: Our Picks
After reviewing over 30 platforms, we’ve narrowed down the best options based on real-world usability and reliability. Here are our top recommendations:
- Bitget – Overall Best Crypto Exchange in Canada
- Crypto.com – Best for Fiat Deposits and Everyday Spending
- Coinbase – Most Regulated Exchange
- Kraken – Safest Exchange for Canadians
- Bitbuy – Top Choice for Buying Bitcoin
- Shakepay – Best App for BTC and ETH Beginners
- Uniswap – Leading Decentralized Exchange (DEX)
These platforms stand out due to their strong security practices, local payment support, and adherence to Canadian financial regulations.
In-Depth Review of the Best Canadian Crypto Exchanges
Bitget – Overall Best Crypto Exchange in Canada
Bitget is a powerful choice for both new and experienced traders in Canada. It supports over 700 cryptocurrencies, allowing users to access a wide range of altcoins beyond just Bitcoin and Ethereum. One of its biggest advantages is direct CAD deposits via credit or debit card, making onboarding fast and simple.
Trading fees are highly competitive at just 0.1% for both makers and takers, especially when using the native BGB token, which unlocks additional discounts of up to 20%. For beginners, Bitget offers copy trading, enabling users to mirror strategies from proven traders.
Advanced users benefit from features like 125x leverage on futures contracts and professional-grade charting tools. The platform also emphasizes security with two-factor authentication, cold storage, and compliance with international standards.
Pros
- Low trading fees with BGB token benefits
- Copy trading ideal for learning
- Supports CAD deposits
- Strong security infrastructure
- Futures and spot trading available
Cons
- No direct bank withdrawals in CAD
- Interface may overwhelm absolute beginners
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Crypto.com – Best for Fiat Transactions and Crypto Spending
Crypto.com has gained popularity among Canadians thanks to its seamless integration with daily financial life. With support for over 350 cryptocurrencies, it’s a solid option for diversifying your portfolio.
One standout feature is the Crypto.com Visa card, which lets you spend crypto directly while earning cashback rewards—up to 8% on certain tiers. Staking the platform’s native CRO token boosts these rewards and unlocks other perks like higher interest rates and reduced fees.
Depositing CAD is easy through Interac e-Transfer or bank transfer, and there are no fees for deposits or crypto-to-crypto swaps. The mobile app is intuitive, making it perfect for first-time users.
Additionally, Crypto.com provides Canadian tax reporting tools, helping users stay compliant with CRA regulations.
Pros
- Over 350 supported coins
- Crypto Visa card with cashback
- Zero deposit and swap fees
- Built-in tax reporting for Canada
- User-friendly mobile experience
Cons
- Customer service response times can be slow
- Trading fees slightly higher than some competitors
Coinbase – Most Regulated Crypto Exchange in Canada
If regulatory compliance is your priority, Coinbase is one of the most trusted names in the industry. It’s registered as a Restricted Dealer with the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), ensuring it meets strict legal standards.
Canadians can buy crypto using Interac e-Transfer or debit cards, though credit card purchases aren’t supported. While transaction fees are relatively high—around 1.49% for bank transfers and 3.99% for card payments—Coinbase compensates with top-tier security, including insurance coverage up to $250,000 CAD.
The platform supports over 200 digital assets and offers advanced charting powered by TradingView, complete with technical indicators like RSI, MACD, and Bollinger Bands.
Another advantage is instant withdrawals to major Canadian banks, making it easy to cash out quickly.
Pros
- Regulated and insured platform
- Instant bank withdrawals
- Advanced trading charts
- Earn up to 10% APY through staking
- No fees on Interac e-Transfer buys
Cons
- High trading fees
- Purchase limits apply in some provinces
Kraken – Safest Crypto Exchange in Canada
Kraken has built a reputation as one of the most secure exchanges globally—and it’s especially popular among Canadian users. Since entering the market in 2016 through acquisitions like CaVirtEx, Kraken has grown to manage over $2 billion CAD in client assets.
It supports over 200 cryptocurrencies, including niche tokens not found on many local platforms. CAD deposits via Interac e-Transfer are simple, with low trading fees starting at 0.25% maker / 0.4% taker.
Kraken excels in security: it uses cold storage for 95%+ of funds, offers two-factor authentication, and provides 24/7 customer support tailored to Canadians.
Pros
- Excellent security track record
- Low trading fees
- Interac e-Transfer supported
- 24/7 customer service
- Compliant with Canadian regulations
Cons
- Limited advanced tools on basic tier
- Withdrawal fees vary by coin
Bitbuy – Best for Buying Bitcoin in Canada
Based in Toronto and founded in 2016, Bitbuy is one of Canada’s longest-standing crypto exchanges. With over 900,000 users, it's fully registered with FINTRAC and the Ontario Securities Commission, making it one of the most legally compliant platforms.
It supports 55+ cryptocurrencies, including major players like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Litecoin. New traders can use “Express Trade” for quick purchases, while pros can switch to “Pro Trade” mode for detailed analytics.
Trading fees start at 0.5%, and Interac deposits over $50 are free. Bitbuy also offers staking for select coins, with potential returns ranging from 2% to 11.23% APY.
Pros
- Fully regulated in Canada
- Over 90% of assets stored offline
- High staking rewards available
- Excellent local customer support
Cons
- Fewer altcoins compared to global exchanges
- No credit card purchases
- Lacks advanced trading features
Shakepay – Best Crypto App for BTC and ETH Beginners
Montreal-based Shakepay is designed specifically for Canadians who want a simple way to buy Bitcoin and Ethereum. With over 1.3 million users, it's known for its zero-commission model—though small spreads are built into prices.
The platform integrates deeply into everyday finance: you can receive direct deposits, send e-transfers, pay bills, and even get a prepaid Visa card offering up to 1% Bitcoin cashback.
Its “ShakingSats” feature gives users free Bitcoin daily just for logging in—a fun incentive for new investors.
Pros
- Zero trading fees
- Simple, clean interface
- Bitcoin cashback on spending
- Fully regulated across all provinces
Cons
- Only supports BTC and ETH
- No advanced trading options
- Spreads can be high during volatility
Uniswap – Best Decentralized Exchange in Canada
For users seeking full control over their assets, Uniswap is the leading decentralized exchange (DEX) in Canada. Operating across multiple blockchains including Ethereum, Polygon, and Arbitrum, it allows peer-to-peer trading without KYC.
You connect a wallet like MetaMask, then trade thousands of tokens—including low-cap gems not listed on centralized exchanges. A flat 0.3% fee applies to all swaps.
While gas fees on Ethereum can spike during congestion, Uniswap remains a go-to for privacy-focused traders and DeFi enthusiasts.
Pros
- No account or KYC required
- Access to thousands of tokens
- Earn passive income via liquidity pools
- Simple interface
Cons
- High gas fees possible
- No customer support or insurance
- Requires wallet management knowledge
How to Choose the Right Crypto Exchange?
When selecting an exchange, consider these key factors:
Regulatory Compliance
Always choose platforms registered with FINTRAC or provincial regulators like the OSC.
Fees
Compare trading, deposit, and withdrawal costs—small differences add up over time.
Supported Coins
Ensure the exchange offers the cryptocurrencies you want to trade.
Security
Look for cold storage, insurance, and two-factor authentication.
User Experience
Beginners should prioritize simplicity; advanced traders need robust tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is cryptocurrency legal in Canada?
Yes, crypto is legal in Canada as a digital asset. It’s not legal tender, but buying, selling, and trading are permitted through regulated platforms.
Which exchange has the lowest fees in Canada?
NDAX offers one of the lowest flat rates at 0.2%, with minimal deposit and withdrawal charges.
Can I use Binance in Canada?
No—Binance exited the Canadian market in 2023 due to new regulatory requirements like the Pre-Registration Undertaking (PRU).
Is staking crypto taxable in Canada?
Yes. Rewards from staking are considered business income and must be reported at their CAD value when received.
Do I need to pay taxes when swapping crypto?
Yes—trading one cryptocurrency for another (e.g., BTC to ETH) is a taxable disposition under CRA rules.
What happens if an exchange gets hacked?
On regulated platforms like Coinbase or Bitbuy, part of your funds may be insured. On DEXs like Uniswap, there is no protection—so self-custody matters.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best crypto exchange in Canada depends on your needs: beginners might prefer Shakepay or Crypto.com for simplicity; active traders may lean toward Bitget or Kraken; while those valuing decentralization can explore Uniswap.
Always prioritize platforms that are secure, compliant, and transparent about fees. And remember: every crypto transaction in Canada has tax implications—keep accurate records to stay compliant with the CRA.
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