As more people look to buy, sell, and hold digital currencies, the need for reliable, secure, and affordable on-ramp services has never been greater. UK crypto buyers are changing how they use digital assets. While many see it as an investment, 43% have cashed out to fiat, and 20% have spent crypto on goods and services. For many, platforms that allow instant purchase of cryptocurrencies using debit cards, bank transfers, or even Apple Pay are the entry point into the digital economy. However, with rising concerns around costs, transparency, and regulatory compliance, finding a provider that strikes the right balance between ease of use and trustworthiness is a pressing challenge.
MoonPay has long been one of the most recognised crypto payment providers, but it has not been without its drawbacks. While known for simplicity and wide availability, MoonPay is often criticised for high fees, limited payment flexibility, and delays in processing. In addition, many UK-based users have raised concerns about customer support responsiveness, verification hurdles, and regulatory alignment, making them increasingly cautious about relying solely on the platform. These issues leave everyday crypto users vulnerable to unnecessary costs and frustrations, especially when what they need is a smooth, fast, and affordable entry into crypto.
Why Would UK Users Consider a MoonPay Alternative?
While MoonPay has become one of the most well-known platforms for buying cryptocurrency with debit cards, bank transfers, and mobile payment methods, many UK-based users have found that it does not always meet their needs. One of the most common concerns is cost. MoonPay’s fees can be significantly higher than those of other providers once all charges are factored in. For someone making frequent or larger purchases, these costs quickly add up and make the platform less attractive.
Another challenge is payment flexibility. Although MoonPay supports popular methods like Apple Pay and debit cards, users in the UK often prefer direct local bank transfers for lower fees and quicker processing. In many cases, alternatives provide more seamless integrations with UK banking systems, making it easier for users to move between pounds sterling and digital assets.
Customer support and reliability are also recurring issues as many UK users report delays in verification, difficulties resolving transaction problems, and a lack of responsive service.
Lastly, there is the matter of regulatory alignment. The UK has been strengthening its cryptocurrency regulations under the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and many users want reassurance that their chosen provider operates within clear legal frameworks. Some MoonPay alternatives are better tailored to UK-specific compliance, which gives users added confidence in the security and legality of their transactions.
7 Best Alternatives to MoonPay in the UK
MEXC
MEXC is a Seychelles-based global cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2018 that has rapidly expanded to serve more than 10 million users in over 170 countries, establishing itself as a trusted venue for both beginners and experienced traders. The platform is particularly recognised for its extremely low trading fees, which make it an attractive alternative to providers like MoonPay, which are often criticized for higher transaction charges. While it is licensed in several jurisdictions, including Estonia, Switzerland, Canada, and Australia, it is not currently FCA-regulated in the UK, meaning compliance for local users may be less straightforward compared to fully UK-registered providers.
Key Features
- Ultra-low fees.
- High liquidity and fast execution speeds for seamless trading
- Advanced services, including spot, futures, staking, copy-trading, and demo trading.
- Strong security infrastructure: 2FA, cold storage, and proof-of-reserves.
Fees
- Spot trading: 0% maker - 0.05% taker
- Futures trading: 0% maker - 0.02% taker
- Deposits: Free for crypto assets
- Withdrawals: Network-based fees, depending on the asset
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 2,800 digital assets and more than 3,100 trading pairs
Why better than MoonPay
Thousands of supported cryptocurrencies at a fraction of the fees, while also delivering advanced trading features and deeper market access.
BitPanda
BitPanda is a leading cryptocurrency and digital investment platform headquartered in Vienna, Austria, as one of Europe’s most trusted providers, combining regulatory compliance, security, and ease of use. The platform supports a broad range of services, including cryptocurrency trading, staking, savings plans, and diversified crypto indices, positioning it as a versatile choice for both new and experienced investors. With more than 6 million users worldwide, it continues to expand its footprint as a reliable and feature-rich alternative for UK-based crypto users.
Key Features:
- Staking, recurring savings plans, and crypto indices features, providing additional ways to grow and diversify holdings.
- No fees on fiat deposits and withdrawals, with flat, transparent trading fees.
- Full compliance with UK FCA regulations and licensed under the EU’s MiCAR framework.
- Solid security infrastructure, including ISO 27001 certification, SOC 2 standards, cold storage, and 24/7 monitoring.
Fees: Trade fee ranges from 0.00% to 2.49%. Free for GBP and other supported fiat currencies via bank transfer, PayPal, and Apple Pay.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 600 digital assets available for trading and investment.
Why Better Than MoonPay:
Lower and more transparent fees, stronger UK regulatory compliance, and a significantly broader range of cryptocurrencies.
Transak
Transak is a leading global fiat-to-crypto on-ramp and off-ramp provider, known for its wide accessibility and strong regulatory standing. Although headquartered in Miami and incorporated in Delaware, the company operates internationally and is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring that its services meet the UK’s regulatory requirements for crypto asset firms. It is also noted for its advanced fraud prevention measures, boasting a fraud rate of less than 0.05%, which significantly enhances user safety. In addition, the platform has partnered with more than 350 applications globally.
Key Features:
- Instant crypto purchases rather than full exchange trading
- Enterprise-grade API and SDK integration.
- Global reach across 160+ countries
- Wide blockchain coverage
- Advanced fraud controls
Fees: Typically lower than MoonPay, ranging from 0.99% – 3.5% depending on payment method.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 170 cryptocurrencies supported across 75+ blockchains.
Why better than MoonPay
Stronger regulatory alignment in the UK, significantly lower fees on common payment methods, and far wider crypto and blockchain support.
Banxa
Banxa is a Melbourne-based payment infrastructure provider specialising in seamless fiat-to-crypto transactions. It operates internationally, including a UK affiliate, Banxa UK VASP, which is registered with the UK's FCA. It supports a wide range of payment methods, including Visa/Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SEPA, Faster Payments, and more, catering to diverse user preferences.
Key Features:
- On- and off-ramping.
- Treasury management for businesses.
- Integrated wallet solutions for secure storage.
- Global operations with a focus on compliance and user experience.
- Advanced account features that improve security and simplify transactions
Fees: 1.99% processing fee for card and Apple Pay transactions; other methods may have lower or no fees.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 175 cryptocurrencies, including flagship assets like Bitcoin and Ether, alongside lesser-known tokens like Pi and Concordium, supported on networks such as ERC20 and BEP20.
Why Better Than MoonPay:
Transparent fee structure and broader payment method support, particularly for UK users.
Spritz Finance
Spritz Finance is a US-based next-generation crypto on-ramp and off-ramp solution designed to seamlessly connect traditional finance with digital assets. Registered as a FinCEN-regulated money services business, the platform offers the Visa-powered SpritzCard, allowing users to spend cryptocurrency in real time at millions of merchants worldwide, bridging the gap between crypto holdings and everyday financial activity.
Key Features
- Direct GBP on- and off-ramp with full UK bank account support.
- Visa-powered SpritzCard enabling real-world spending of crypto.
- Coverage of 50,000+ tokens across 14 major blockchains.
- Bill payments in crypto, over 6,000 real-world bills supported.
- Instant or near-instant transaction processing with high limits
Fees
- Crypto-to-fiat off-ramp fees from 0.5%.
- GBP on-ramp fees around 1%
- No ongoing account or maintenance fees.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 50,000 tokens supported across 14 different blockchain networks.
Why Better Than MoonPay
Lower and more transparent fees with broader token support, direct UK banking integration, and a spend-ready Visa card.
Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the most established and widely used cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, headquartered in the United States and fully regulated under multiple jurisdictions. It is known for its beginner-friendly interface, making it easy for anyone to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies without needing advanced technical knowledge. Unlike MoonPay, which mainly functions as a fiat-to-crypto payment gateway, Coinbase provides a complete ecosystem that includes trading, staking, and secure storage options.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use mobile app and web platform.
- Advanced features like staking and trading, in addition to buying crypto.
- Insurance protection for digital assets held on the platform.
- Educational resources to help beginners understand crypto.
Fees: Usually between 0.5% to 3.99% depending on the payment method and transaction type.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 200+ cryptocurrencies available for trading and purchase.
Why better than MoonPay
Lower fees, stronger UK regulatory compliance, and a more comprehensive platform that goes beyond basic crypto purchases.
Ramp Network
Ramp Network is a London-based financial technology company that provides seamless fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat conversion services. The platform supports a wide variety of payment options, including debit and credit cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, offering greater flexibility than many of its competitors. It is particularly recognised for its fast transaction processing, intuitive interface, and direct integration into leading wallets and applications, which makes it highly accessible for both new and experienced users.
Key Features:
- FCA-registered cryptoasset business, ensuring compliance with UK AML and KYC standards
- Fast, user-friendly transaction flow with in-app and wallet integration
- Global coverage across 150+ countries and territories
Fees:
Ramp applies variable fees depending on the chosen payment method and region.
Supported Cryptocurrencies: Over 110 cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, SOL, DOGE, and TON.
Why better than MoonPay?
Stronger regulatory assurance under FCA registration, more flexible payment options, and a broader range of supported assets.
FAQS
Who is MoonPay’s Main Competitor in the UK Crypto Market?
Compared to MoonPay, Ramp Network stands out as its strongest competitor in the UK crypto market due to its FCA registration, broad payment method coverage, and integration with popular wallets. Its combination of regulatory credibility, faster processing, and support for over 110 assets positions it as a superior choice.
Which Alternative Platform to MoonPay is the Best for Beginners in Crypto?
For beginners, Coinbase stands out as the best among the most popular MoonPay alternatives. Its intuitive interface, educational resources, and insured custodial services make it accessible for first-time users. Unlike others, it combines ease of purchase with added features like staking and secure storage, providing newcomers with both safety and simplicity.
Do Better MoonPay Alternatives Really Exist for UK Crypto Users?
Yes, UK crypto users can confidently access platforms that are better than MoonPay, offering lower fees, faster processing, broader payment methods, and stronger regulatory compliance. This curated list shows that trustworthy, efficient, and UK-aligned alternatives exist, providing users with safer and more versatile options for buying, selling, and managing digital assets.
Conclusion
Exploring Moonpay alternatives in the UK requires careful attention to security, transparency, and transaction reliability. Users should prioritise platforms that offer verifiable compliance with local regulations and clear fee structures, as this reduces exposure to unexpected costs and delays. By doing so, they gain access to more predictable trading experiences, faster settlements, and diversified crypto options, which can improve portfolio management and support smoother entry into digital asset markets.
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