The cryptocurrency market in the UK continues to expand, with trading volumes hitting over $144 billion globally and Bitcoin maintaining its place as the most traded digital asset worldwide. Yet, for many UK-based users, the real challenge isn’t just about investing. It’s about finding a reliable, affordable, and efficient exchange to carry out those trades. Trust in crypto platforms goes far beyond strong security measures. Users demand transparent fees, a wide variety of tokens, and simple, beginner-friendly tools that make crypto trading less intimidating.
For years, Gemini has been a well-known name in the industry, praised for its security-first approach and regulatory compliance. However, many traders and newcomers in the UK are beginning to look beyond Gemini. Limited support for newer altcoins, relatively high fees compared to competitors, and a platform experience that some find less accessible for beginners are among the reasons. This gap leaves many UK crypto users searching for Gemini alternatives in the UK that better match their needs. In this article, we highlight the top seven alternatives to Gemini in the UK, breaking down the unique advantages each platform offers.
Why Would UK Users Consider a Gemini Alternative?
While Gemini has earned a reputation for strong security measures and strict regulatory compliance, there are several reasons why UK users may look to alternatives. One key concern is its fee structure, which can be relatively high and difficult for beginners to navigate. Instant purchases and mobile transactions often come with added charges, making frequent trading or smaller transactions less cost-effective. Another limitation is Gemini’s restricted range of supported cryptocurrencies. Compared to other exchanges that offer access to thousands of digital assets, Gemini provides a more limited selection, which can be discouraging for users interested in exploring newer or niche altcoins.
In addition, Gemini does not currently provide derivatives trading for UK residents and offers only limited staking options, leaving more advanced users with fewer opportunities to diversify their strategies. While the platform’s ActiveTrader interface does allow users to access lower fees, it comes with a steeper learning curve, which may deter beginners who prefer a simpler experience. For these reasons, many UK traders are exploring Gemini competitors that deliver lower fees, broader asset availability, and features better suited to both new and experienced investors.
7 best Gemini Alternatives in the UK
Bitpanda
Bitpanda is a European digital asset platform established in 2014, originally launched to make investing in Bitcoin simple and secure. It has since expanded its offerings to include not only cryptocurrencies but also precious metals, ETFs, and fractional stocks.
Key Features
- Multi-asset investing (crypto, stocks, ETFs, precious metals).
- User-friendly mobile and desktop platforms.
- Regulated in the EU with strong security standards.
- Savings plan options for automated investing.
Fees: Built-in trading cost, a non-transparent fee incorporated into the transaction price.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 600 cryptocurrencies and 3000 stocks, ETFs, and metals.
Pros
- Wide variety of assets beyond cryptocurrencies.
- Beginner-friendly design with simple navigation.
- GBP deposits and withdrawals for UK users.
Cons
- Limited advanced trading tools for professionals.
- Restricted availability of derivatives and futures trading.
Best For:
Investing in both cryptocurrencies and traditional assets from one place.
eToro
eToro is a leading global multi-asset and social trading platform with all of its features and services fully available to users in the UK, with support for both GBP and EUR accounts, ensuring a seamless experience for local traders.
Key Features
- Social trading with CopyTrader
- Multi-asset trading (crypto, stocks, ETFs, commodities)
- Integrated eToro Money crypto wallet
Fees
- $5 (approx. £3.90) withdrawal fee
- $10 monthly inactivity fee after 12 months of no activity
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 130.
Pros:
- Social trading through CopyTrader
- Beginner-friendly and intuitive platform design
- GBP/EUR accounts for cost-efficient trading
- Broad cryptocurrency selection.
Cons:
- Higher trading costs plus spreads
- $10 monthly inactivity fee
Best For
Cryptocurrency trading with access to global markets, with the added benefit of social trading.
OKX
Founded in 2017 and based in Seychelles, OKX has grown rapidly to serve millions of users worldwide. Unlike Gemini, which has a smaller list of supported assets and higher fees for instant purchases, it provides a more cost-efficient, diverse, and user-friendly trading experience.
Key Features
- Spot and futures trading with advanced order types.
- Decentralised finance (DeFi) services through OKX Wallet.
- Web3 integration, including NFT marketplace and dApps.
- AI-powered trading bots and portfolio tools.
Fees: Spot trading fees start as low as 0.08% (maker) and 0.10% (taker) for regular users.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 350.
Pros
- Wide selection of cryptocurrencies, including emerging altcoins.
- Lower trading fees compared to Gemini.
- Integrated staking, savings, and earning opportunities
- Strong liquidity and advanced trading tools
Cons
- Limited fiat deposit methods compared to some UK-focused exchanges
- Regulatory concerns, as it is not headquartered in the UK
Best For:
Access to a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, advanced trading tools, and low-cost futures and derivatives markets.
MEXC
MEXC is a global cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2018 and has quickly gained recognition for its deep liquidity, rapid token listings, and comprehensive suite of trading products, ranging from spot and futures markets to leveraged ETFs and NFT indices.
Key Features:
- Diverse product offerings, including ETFs and NFT indices.
- Advanced tools such as copy-trading and launchpad access.
- Strong security protocols, including multi-signature wallets and cold storage.
Fees:
- Spot trading: 0% for makers and 0.05% for takers.
- Futures trading: 0% for makers and 0.02% for takers.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 3,000.
Pros:
- Extensive token availability.
- Low trading fees.
- Strong technical security framework.
Cons:
- Not FCA-regulated in the UK.
- Mobile app not directly available in UK app stores.
Best For:
Active traders and altcoin enthusiasts.
Bitget
Bitget, established in 2018 and headquartered in Seychelles, has grown into one of the leading global exchanges, particularly known for its strengths in derivatives trading and its innovative copy-trading (social trading) feature.
Key Features
- Copy-trading functionality.
- Public proof-of-reserves system for greater transparency
- Integrated Web3 and NFT wallet through Bitget Wallet
Fees
- Spot trading: 0.10% maker and taker, reduced to 0.08% with BGB token
- Futures trading: 0.02% maker and 0.06% taker
- No deposit fees; withdrawal fees vary by asset and network
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 600.
Pros:
- Competitive and transparent fee structure.
- Fee discounts when using the native BGB token.
- “GetGas” feature for streamlined multi-chain transactions.
Cons:
- Advanced features may overwhelm complete beginners
- High leverage options (up to 125×) present elevated risk
Best For:
Broad range of cryptocurrencies, low fees, and advanced features, including copy-trading and derivatives.
Kraken
Kraken is one of the world’s longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges, founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, USA. Unlike Gemini’s limited token selection, it offers a broader range of cryptocurrencies, more flexible trading options, and features such as margin and futures trading.
Key Features
- Kraken Pro with advanced charts and order types.
- Cryptowatch integration for real-time market analysis.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) desk for high-volume traders.
- Staking services with up to double-digit annual rewards.
- Fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-crypto trading pairs.
Fees: Maker fees start at 0.16%, and taker fees at 0.26% (with reductions for high-volume traders).
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 300.
Pros
- Wide selection of cryptocurrencies beyond major coins.
- Competitive fee structure with reduced costs on Kraken Pro.
- Advanced trading options, including margin and futures.
Cons
- Limited payment options compared to some exchanges
- Higher fees on instant buy compared to Pro trading
Best For
Active traders and long-term investors.
Uphold
Uphold is a multi-asset trading platform founded in 2013, known for its ability to support not only cryptocurrencies but also fiat currencies, precious metals, and even U.S. equities, making it a more versatile option than many traditional crypto-only exchanges.
Key Features
- Trading across multiple asset classes (crypto, fiat, metals, U.S. equities).
- “Anything-to-Anything” instant asset conversion.
- Automatic recurring transactions and scheduling.
- Environmental focus with a pledge to become fully carbon neutral.
Fees
- Trading fees: 1.4% to 2.95% for BTC, ETH, and altcoins, higher for low-liquidity assets.
- No deposit fees for bank transfers; withdrawal fees vary by method.
Supported Crypto: Over 250.
Pros:
- Transparent fee structure with no hidden costs.
- Full accessibility and regulatory compliance in the UK.
- Beginner-friendly interface with recurring transaction options.
Cons:
- Limited advanced charting and analysis tools compared to trading-focused platforms.
- Lacks derivatives trading options for advanced users.
Best For
Multi-asset trading, with the added benefit of direct “Anything-to-Anything” swaps.
FAQS
Who is Gemini’s Main Competitor in the UK Crypto Market?
In the UK crypto market, BitPanda stands out as Gemini’s main competitor. It offers a broader digital asset range, advanced trading functions such as margin and futures, and competitive pricing, making it significantly better than Gemini for both active traders and long-term investors.
Which Alternative Exchange to Gemini is the Safest?
Bitpanda stands out as the safest option and the best alternative to Gemini for UK users seeking a secure trading environment. Regulated under stringent European Union standards, it employs solid security protocols, offers insured wallets, and maintains transparent operational practices, ensuring both asset protection and regulatory compliance.
Which Crypto Exchange is Easier for Beginners than Gemini?
Among the most popular Gemini alternatives, eToro stands out as the easiest option for beginners due to its simple interface, guided trading tools, and social trading feature, which allows users to replicate strategies from experienced traders while minimising complexity and risk.
Conclusion
When exploring alternatives to Gemini, it is essential for users to carefully evaluate transaction structures, platform reliability, and support quality, as these factors can directly reduce costs, enhance trading efficiency, and provide a safer, more confident environment for managing digital assets.
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