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On the search to find the best place to buy Bitcoin online, you’ll inevitably come across a whole variety of options. But which one is the right choice for you?
Understanding the pros and cons is your first step to making the most informed purchasing decision. That’s what we’re here to help you with. In this article, we’ll explore the top ways to buy Bitcoin online, covering everything from centralized exchanges to spot Bitcoin ETFs.
By the end of this article, you’ll have the tools and knowledge you need to purchase Bitcoin online in the way that fits your needs the best.
Buying Bitcoin online isn’t the only way to get your hands on the world’s most popular cryptocurrency. In fact, you can always head to one of Bitcoin Depot’s Bitcoin ATMs (with over 8,800 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Australia as of July 2025).
There, you can purchase Bitcoin with cash — no bank account or credit card needed.
But if you’re looking to make a purchase in the comfort of your own home or even on the go, online is the way to go.
Why do so many people choose to buy Bitcoin online? Here are some of the top reasons:
As Bitcoin adoption grows, many different options are emerging for users like you searching for a fast, safe, and secure way to buy Bitcoin. In fact, around 28% of American adults own cryptocurrency of some kind* (as mentioned on security.org), and that number is only growing.
To help you find the best place to buy Bitcoin online, let’s explore some of the top options.
So, where is the best place to buy Bitcoin online? From our own online purchasing service to spot Bitcoin ETFs, here are some of the best ways to buy Bitcoin fast using a computer or smartphone.
Keep in mind that these options lean on convenient payment methods like credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and even Apple Pay or Google Pay.
If you want to make a purchase with cash, find your nearest Bitcoin ATM.
Of course, we have to start with Bitcoin Depot’s online service. Here, you can quickly and securely make a purchase in just a few simple steps. The best part? You don’t need an account to get started.
Oh, and you have access to much more than Bitcoin. With Bitcoin Depot, you can also purchase:
No matter your crypto choice, just move through the simple purchase process and get your coins fast. Keep in mind that we offer a direct ownership model. That means you’ll need your own digital wallet to make a purchase.
Lucky for you, all you need is the Bitcoin Depot mobile app (available on the Apple App Store* and the Google Play Store*).
There, you can find a non-custodial wallet option. That just means you have complete control over the crypto in that wallet. We offer a variety of wallet options within the app but be sure to use the correct type of wallet for each specific crypto.
For example, if you purchase Bitcoin, make sure you’re sending your purchase to a Bitcoin wallet.
Up next are centralized exchanges. These are a popular option for many new and experienced users.
There are dozens of options out there, with some exchanges in operation for over a decade. They often offer a huge variety of popular cryptocurrencies and provide advanced features and trading tools like technical charts or limit orders.
In most cases, a centralized exchange will take custody of your coins. That means they hold on to your Bitcoin on your behalf. In this situation, you’re trusting their security and could lose access to your coins if the platform fails or is hacked (which, unfortunately, is not an uncommon occurrence).
Another option that is growing in popularity is crypto-services available on everyday payment platforms. Most people have some exposure to these platforms already. They allow you to send a friend your share of a dinner out or make a purchase online without worry.
These days, though, you can independently manage, purchase, and send cryptocurrency.
While new, there’s no denying that this crypto feature is a huge step forward in terms of Bitcoin's mass adoption. Even so, these payment platforms often face the same challenges as centralized exchanges.
They hold custody of your Bitcoin, and they demand more of your personal information, which can potentially put you at risk in the event of hacks or data breaches.
Last on our list are spot Bitcoin ETFs.
Why? Because technically, you can make a purchase online using a broker service. But first, what are spot Bitcoin ETFs?
Basically, spot Bitcoin ETFs, also known as exchange-traded funds, put Bitcoin on the stock market. ETF providers purchase Bitcoin and offer customers the chance to purchase a portion of that Bitcoin.
But those ETF providers still have control over those coins. While you own a stake in the ownership, you don’t have access to send or manage your Bitcoin.
This can be a good choice for those already exposed to the stock market and looking to add crypto to their portfolios. But for most users, it can add a few extra steps to the purchasing process.
So, which one is right for you? Let’s compare these popular options against each other:
| Feature | Bitcoin Depot Online | Centralized Exchanges | Payment Platforms | Spot Bitcoin ETFs |
| Self-Custody (You Own Your Coins) | Yes | No (by default) | No | No |
| Ease of Use | High | Moderate | Very High | High |
| Best For | Those who want convenience and direct ownership | Advanced traders, those who value features over ownership | Quick small buy, those who want to leverage the apps they already use | Those with existing stock market experience or broker access |
| Coin Selection | Popular coins | Extensive | Limited | Bitcoin only |
From Bitcoin Depot’s online service to spot Bitcoin ETFs, these are some of the best places to buy Bitcoin online. Whether you’re just starting your crypto journey or are a veteran holder looking to add a few more coins to your portfolio, you have a wide selection of choices at your fingertips.
For the best blend of convenience and speed, with the huge added benefit of direct crypto ownership, Bitcoin Depot is your go-to choice.
To get started, head over to our online buying service or use the Bitcoin Depot mobile app to make a purchase.
*The information provided above is for informational purposes only. The inclusion of any particular 3rd party site does not imply an endorsement, sponsorship, or partnership between Bitcoin Depot and the 3rd parties listed above. While Bitcoin Depot endeavors to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided, we do not guarantee the reliability of any 3rd party’s information.