Coinbase and Coinbase Pro are two leading cryptocurrency platforms offered by Coinbase Global, Inc. While both are free to join, they cater to different user needs—Coinbase simplifies the experience for beginners, whereas Coinbase Pro provides advanced tools for serious investors. Below, we break down the key differences, benefits, and ideal use cases for each platform.
What Are Coinbase and Coinbase Pro?
Coinbase
Designed for beginners, Coinbase offers a streamlined interface to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. It emphasizes ease of use with minimal trading options and educational incentives (e.g., earning crypto for watching tutorials).
Coinbase Pro
Tailored for active traders, Coinbase Pro includes advanced features such as real-time charting, multiple order types (market, limit, stop), and API access. It also supports more cryptocurrencies and has lower fees for high-volume trading.
Key Features Compared
Shared Features
- Crypto Wallet: Built-in storage with a mix of cold/hot security.
- Educational Tools: Videos covering crypto basics.
- Coinbase Card: Visa debit card linked to your crypto balance.
Coinbase Pro Exclusives
- Advanced Trading: Margin trading, stop orders, and limit orders.
- Expanded Cryptocurrencies: Over 50 coins, including niche options like Amp (AMP) and Quant (QNT).
- Real-Time Charting: Tools like exponential moving averages for market analysis.
👉 Explore Coinbase Pro’s advanced tools
Security and Fees
Security
- Coinbase: 98% cold storage, 2% insured hot storage. Requires use of its built-in wallet.
- Coinbase Pro: Compatible with external wallets (e.g., hardware wallets) for greater control.
Fees
- Coinbase: High fees (up to 3.99% for debit/credit purchases), less transparent pricing.
- Coinbase Pro: Maker-taker fee model (as low as 0%–0.6%), ideal for frequent traders.
User Experience
- Coinbase: Simple, intuitive interface for beginners.
- Coinbase Pro: Complex but powerful, with charts and order options that may overwhelm novices.
Who Should Use Which Platform?
| Feature | Coinbase | Coinbase Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Beginners | Active traders |
| Trading Options | Basic | Advanced |
| Fees | Higher | Lower |
| Cryptocurrencies | ~50+ | Expanded selection |
👉 Maximize savings with Coinbase Pro
FAQ
1. Can I use Coinbase Pro without a Coinbase account?
No—you need a Coinbase account to access Pro, but both are free.
2. Which platform has better security?
Both are secure, but Pro allows external wallet integration for added control.
3. Is Coinbase Pro worth it for beginners?
Only if you’re ready for advanced tools; otherwise, start with Coinbase.
Final Thoughts
While Coinbase is ideal for learning, Coinbase Pro’s lower fees, advanced tools, and broader crypto selection make it the clear choice for serious investors.