Where to Buy Bitcoin? Best Options Explained
Cryptocurrency exchanges, brokers, trading platforms—the sheer number of providers can feel overwhelming for beginners looking to buy Bitcoin. So, where is the best place to buy Bitcoin?
Today, many user-friendly platforms and apps make purchasing Bitcoin simple and secure. Below, we’ll break down the top providers:
| Trading Platform | Top Providers |
|------------------|--------------|
| Crypto Exchanges | Bitvavo, Bitpanda, Kraken, OKX |
| CFD Brokers | XTB, Plus500 |
| Neobrokers | Scalable Capital, Trade Republic |
| Crypto Trading | Bitget, BingX, MEXC |
| Savings Plans | Bitvavo, Bitpanda, Bison |
Key Ways to Buy Bitcoin
- Buy Bitcoin on a Crypto Exchange
Ideal for beginners. User-friendly and widely trusted. Recommended: Bitvavo. - Buy Bitcoin Derivatives
For traders. Futures and CFDs allow leveraged trading. Recommended: Bitget. - Buy Bitcoin with PayPal
Convenient for PayPal users. Available on select platforms like Kraken. - Buy Bitcoin via Bank Transfer
Low fees, ideal for recurring purchases. Bitvavo supports this method. - Buy Bitcoin via Instant Transfer
Fast processing with low fees. Available on Bitvavo. - Buy Bitcoin with Credit Card
Quick but higher fees. Supported by Bitpanda. - Buy Bitcoin via German Providers
Regulated by BaFin for added security. Example: Bison. - Buy Bitcoin via Savings Plan
Automated long-term investing. Bitvavo offers this feature.
👉 Discover the best crypto exchanges
Buying Real Bitcoin vs. Derivatives
Buying Actual Bitcoin
Purchasing real Bitcoin means you own the asset outright. You can store it in a wallet, spend it, or hold it as an investment. Crypto exchanges like Bitvavo, Bitpanda, and Kraken are top choices.
Pros:
- Full ownership
- Control over funds
- Tax benefits after 12 months (in Germany)
Cons:
- Wallet management responsibility
- Transaction fees
Buying Bitcoin Derivatives
Derivatives like futures or CFDs let you speculate on Bitcoin’s price without owning it. Platforms like Bitget and BingX specialize in these products.
Pros:
- Leveraged trading
- Profit from price drops
Cons:
- Higher risk
- No actual Bitcoin ownership
Bitcoin ETFs and ETPs
Bitcoin ETFs track Bitcoin’s price but aren’t available in Germany due to regulations. Instead, Bitcoin ETPs are a viable alternative.
Recommended Platforms:
- Scalable Capital
- Finanzen.net Zero
👉 Learn more about Bitcoin ETPs
How to Buy Bitcoin: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose Your Investment Type
Decide between real Bitcoin, derivatives, or ETPs. - Select a Platform
Exchanges like Bitvavo or brokers like Scalable Capital. - Register & Verify
Complete KYC (ID verification). - Deposit Funds
Use bank transfer, card, or instant payment. - Buy Bitcoin
Execute your trade or set up a savings plan.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
Fees & Costs
Compare fees before buying. Bitvavo offers low trading fees (0.20%).
Best Time to Buy
Dollar-cost averaging (regular small purchases) reduces volatility risk.
Storing Bitcoin
Use a cold wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano) for long-term security.
Taxes
In Germany, selling after 12 months is tax-free. Track transactions with tools like CoinTracking.
FAQs
Do I Need to Buy a Whole Bitcoin?
No! You can buy fractions (e.g., 0.001 BTC).
Can I Buy Bitcoin with Small Amounts?
Yes—platforms like Bitvavo accept small investments.
Is Bitcoin Still Worth Buying?
It depends on market trends and risk tolerance. Research before investing.
Best Platform for Bitcoin?
Bitvavo (low fees, user-friendly) or Kraken (security-focused).
Can I Buy Bitcoin Anonymously?
Not easily—most platforms require ID verification.