How to Buy Ethereum Classic · The first step to buying ETC is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ETC, we recommend:
How To Buy Ethereum Classic
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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 Solana
How to Buy Solana · The first step to buying SOL is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports SOL, we recommend:
How To Buy Stellar
How to Buy Stellar · The first step to buying XLM is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports XLM, we recommend:
How To Buy Polygon
How to Buy Polygon · The first step to buying MATIC is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports MATIC, we recommend:
How To Buy Uniswap
How to Buy Uniswap · The first step to buying UNI is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports UNI, we recommend:
How To Buy Internet Computer
How to Buy Internet Computer · The first step to buying ICP is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ICP, we recommend:
How To Buy Polkadot
How to Buy Polkadot · The first step to buying DOT is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports DOT, we recommend:
How To Buy XRP
How to Buy XRP · The first step to buying XRP is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports XRP, we recommend:
How To Buy Dogecoin
How to Buy Dogecoin · The first step to buying DOGE is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports DOGE, we recommend:
How To Buy Cardano
How to Buy Cardano · The first step to buying ADA is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ADA, we recommend:
How To Buy Binance Coin
How to Buy Binance Coin (BNB) · The first step to buying BNB is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports BNB, we recommend:
How To Buy Ethereum
How to Buy Ethereum · The first step to buying ETH is to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange that supports ETH, 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.
