Published Nov, 22 2024

How to Buy Bitcoins Instantly: The Bitcoin Depot ATM Experience

Wondering how to buy Bitcoins instantly? We get it. While sending Bitcoin through a wallet-to-wallet transfer won’t take but a few moments, getting your hands on Bitcoin in the first place can be a different story. If you’re leaning on an exchange to purchase your coins, you might be waiting days for holds to clear […]
A close-up of a Bitcoin ATM screen showing a welcome message and a yellow 'TOUCH THE SCREEN TO GET STARTED' button. A hand is reaching out to touch the screen. The ATM display indicates it's part of a network of Bitcoin ATMs across the US and Canada.

Wondering how to buy Bitcoins instantly? We get it. While sending Bitcoin through a wallet-to-wallet transfer won’t take but a few moments, getting your hands on Bitcoin in the first place can be a different story.

If you’re leaning on an exchange to purchase your coins, you might be waiting days for holds to clear or your bank transfer to finally post to your account. 

There has to be a better way. Well, that’s where Bitcoin ATMs come into the picture.

Let’s explore these convenient BTC purchasing machines and show you how you can go from cash to coins quickly. 

Why Buy Bitcoins at a Bitcoin ATM?

If you’re wondering how to buy Bitcoins instantly, you probably have a few options on your radar. Unfortunately, not all of them will get you from cash to coins quickly. 

“What about a Bitcoin ATM?” you might ask. Well, you’re beating us there. 

A Bitcoin ATM (BTM) is one of the few ways you can get a hold of Bitcoin fast. This is especially the case if it’s your first time dipping your toes in the crypto water.

BTMs offer unparalleled convenience. No need to wait for lengthy verification processes or bank transfers — which can take up to 24 hours for a domestic transfer* (as mentioned inaa.org). If you’re not a fan of waiting around, a BTM might be your best bet.

They’re also super accessible. 

Bitcoin Depot alone operates a network of over 8,300 BTM locations across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico (as of October 2024). Moreover, we pride ourselves on making the process as painless as possible. Our BTMs are user-friendly, even for the crypto-novices.

The best part? You get access to your coins near-instantly. Which, in the fast-paced world of Bitcoin, can really make a difference.

Plus, if you’ve got cash in hand, there really is no better way to transform your paper bills into digital coins. So, now you’ve got the skinny on why BTMs are a great choice to buy bitcoins instantly. 

But how can you get started?

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buy Cryptocurrency Instantly

Ready to turn your cash into Bitcoin? Here’s how to make it happen at a Bitcoin Depot BTM:

  1. Create a Digital Wallet: To kick off your Bitcoin Depot BTM adventure, you'll need a trusty digital wallet. Don’t have one? No worries. The Bitcoin Depot mobile app makes wallet creation a breeze.
  2. Enter Your Information: At the BTM, start by selecting your desired amount. Next, enter your phone number, name, and email address. These verification requirements can vary depending on the purchase amount and location.
  3. Verification Time: Keep your phone handy because a 5-digit verification code is headed your way. Once you receive the code, enter it at the kiosk. Easy, right?
  4. Provide Your Wallet Address: Remember that digital wallet you created earlier? It's time for it to shine! You can either scan your Bitcoin Depot wallet QR code in the app or enter your address manually. Just be careful when entering manually; mistakes on the blockchain are impossible to fix. Pro tip: You can find your Bitcoin Depot wallet address by tapping the "Receive" button or the QR code icon in the app's top left corner
  5. Complete Your Purchase: The moment you’ve been waiting for — it’s time to insert your cash into the BTM. Once the transaction is complete, choose whether you'd like a printed or emailed receipt (or both if you're feeling extra organized).

Presto! Just like that, your crypto will be on its way to your wallet. 

Wondering where you can find our BTMs? Well, we’ve got you covered. Head on over to our convenient BTM locator tool to find your nearest Bitcoin Depot location. If you’ve already got the Bitcoin Depot mobile app downloaded, you also have access to the locator tool on your smartphone or other mobile device.

Common Questions About Our BTMs

Have some burning questions about BTMs and need some answers before you buy Bitcoin instantly? We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to satisfy inquisitive minds like yours.

What's a Digital Wallet and Which One Should I Use?

Think of a digital wallet as a virtual safe for your Bitcoin. It’s the only way to send and receive Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Each wallet has a unique address. It’s kind of like your crypto’s home address. When it comes to wallet options, you have quite a few to choose from. For more information on these options, be sure to explore our article on Bitcoin Wallets. Moreover, we offer a non-custodial wallet through the Bitcoin Depot mobile app, which offers ultimate control over your Bitcoin

How Is a BTM Different from a Regular ATM?

A BTM is a physical machine that allows you to purchase Bitcoin with cash. The process is simple and not too different from what you’d expect from a traditional ATM. In the case of BTMs, though, you’re inserting cash and receiving Bitcoin.

How Much Can I Purchase at Once?

How much you can purchase from a BTM depends on a few factors, like your location and local regulations. We can’t speak for other BTM operators, but here at Bitcoin Depot, minimum purchase amounts start at $20 and max out between $3,000 and $15,000 per day. We’re proud to support a maximum purchase amount of $15,000, provided certain conditions are met. 

For more information, be sure to check out our blog post, “Bitcoin ATM Limits: What You Need to Know.”

Can I Buy and Sell Bitcoin at a Bitcoin Depot ATM?

You can only purchase BTC through a Bitcoin Depot BTM. But don’t worry. Once you have your BTC in your wallet, you’re free to send it off to a platform that supports selling functionality* (learn more about selling your Bitcoin at bankrate.com). 

Do You Sell Cryptocurrencies Besides Bitcoin?

No, at this time, you can only purchase Bitcoin through our BTMs.

Ready to Buy Bitcoin Instantly®? 

So, there you have it. The basics of what you need to know if you want to buy Bitcoins instantly. From the entire process of making a purchase to some common questions about our BTMs, you now have the knowledge you need to start your own crypto journey.

All along the way, Bitcoin Depot is here to help.

Not only do we operate the largest network of BTMs across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada — with over 8,300 locations (as of October 2024) — but we also offer unparalleled customer service. 

That means no matter where you are or what you need, you’ve always got Bitcoin Depot’s support.

So, what are you waiting for? Find your nearest Bitcoin ATM to get started.

*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 sites 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.