How to Buy Cosmos · The first step to buying ATOM is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ATOM, we recommend:
How To Buy Cosmos
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How To Buy Crypto
Find a cryptocurrency by name or ticker, or explore buying guides by topic, blockchain network and exchange. Each guide brings together exchange availability and step-by-step instructions, with links to the concepts and tools you need to compare your options before buying.
Browse the buying guides
How To Buy dYdX
How to Buy dYdX · The first step to buying DYDX is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports DYDX, we recommend:
How To Buy WOO Network
How to Buy WOO Network · The first step to buying WOO is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports WOO, we recommend:
How To Buy Algorand
How to buy Algorand · The first step to buying ALGO is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ALGO, we recommend:
How To Buy Avalanche
How to Buy Avalanche · The first step to buying AVAX is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports AVAX, we recommend:
How To Buy Axie Infinity
How to Buy Axie Infinity · The first step to buying AXS is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports AXS, we recommend:
How To Buy The Graph
How to Buy The Graph · The first step to buying GRT is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports GRT, we recommend:
How To Buy PancakeSwap
How to Buy PancakeSwap · The first step to buying CAKE is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports CAKE, we recommend:
How To Buy Klaytn
How to Buy Klaytn · The first step to buying KLAY is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports KLAY, we recommend:
How To Buy FTX Token
How to Buy FTX Token· The first step to buying FTT is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports FTT, we recommend:
How To Buy Terra
How to Buy Terra · The first step to buying LUNA is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports LUNA, we recommend:
How To Buy SHIBA INU
How to Buy SHIBA INU · The first step to buying SHIB is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports SHIB, we recommend:
Buying cryptocurrency for the first time can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Our How to Buy Crypto section is designed to make the process simple, safe, and accessible—whether you’re purchasing Bitcoin, Ethereum, or lesser-known altcoins. These step-by-step guides walk you through everything you need to know: choosing the right platform, setting up a wallet, verifying your identity, and making your first purchase with confidence.
We cover a variety of buying methods including centralized exchanges, peer-to-peer platforms, crypto ATMs, and decentralized apps—highlighting the pros, cons, and risks of each. You’ll also learn how payment methods like credit cards, bank transfers, and even stablecoins can affect cost, speed, and security. Whether you’re using a mobile app or a hardware wallet, these guides are tailored to your experience level and regional availability.
For those looking to go deeper, we also explain how to store your crypto safely after buying, how to track portfolio value, and how to avoid common beginner mistakes. Whether you’re investing for the long haul or testing the waters with a small amount, this category gives you the tools to take your first step into the world of crypto with clarity and caution.
A little groundwork goes a long way
Before your next purchase or transfer, understand who controls access, where your crypto is going and what the trade will actually cost.
Protect access to your crypto
An exchange account and a self-custody wallet need different safeguards. Protect exchange logins with a unique password and strong two-factor authentication. For self-custody, your recovery backup is what lets you restore access.
Keep recovery words offline and private. A support agent or website asking for them is a reason to stop.
See a recovery example
Your phone breaks. An exchange may help you recover your account after identity checks. A self-custody wallet cannot reset your recovery phrase. Check your wallet’s official backup instructions before relying on it.
Choose the right transfer network
The asset, token version and network must be supported at the destination. A familiar ticker or a matching address format is not enough. Read the receiving platform’s deposit instructions before selecting a withdrawal network.
Check the address, any required memo or tag, fees and minimums. Consider a small test transfer first.
See a network example
Your destination accepts USDC on Ethereum. Selecting a cheaper network at the sending exchange does not make it an Ethereum transfer. Use a network both ends support; an ordinary withdrawal does not bridge tokens.
Understand the price you pay
Trading fees are only part of the cost. The spread, available liquidity and withdrawal charges also matter. A market order prioritizes execution; a limit order controls the price but may remain unfilled or fill only partly.
Check the order preview and the amount you will receive, then compare the full cost of your intended purchase and withdrawal.
Work through a cost example
Hypothetical example: a $200 trade with a 0.1% trading fee costs $0.20 in trading fees. A separate $5 withdrawal fee brings those charges to $5.20. Spread or slippage may add more; these are not quoted exchange rates.
