Best Binance Alternatives In 2025: The Complete Guide
Looking for alternatives to Binance? This guide highlights the top options, offering features like privacy, security, and ease of use. Explore platforms that suit your needs and prioritize seamless trading experiences.
Binance is one of the largest exchanges in the world, handling some of the highest daily trading volumes. It’s a popular platform for millions of users worldwide, offering access to a vast range of assets. In the U.S., it operates as Binance.US, while the global platform is simply Binance.
While the web and mobile apps are packed with features, they aren’t exactly the easiest to navigate. The sheer number of tools, charts, and options can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers, and the user interface can feel cluttered at times. On top of that, the high number of altcoins available on Binance can create confusion for traders who aren’t sure where to start or which coins to focus on.
Binance has also had its share of struggles in recent years. In the U.S., regulatory challenges forced it to scale back its operations in several states, with Binance.US no longer available in New York, Texas, and other states due to legal hurdles. Over in Europe, things haven’t been much smoother. Binance had to suspend EUR onramps for a certain period, after its payment partner decided to withdraw, adding to the uncertainty around the platform.
Then, of course, there was the incident with former CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ), who was sentenced to four months in prison and slapped with a $50 million fine for violating the Bank Secrecy Act—putting the exchange under even more scrutiny.
Without mentioning the lackluster customer support, or the several hacks happened in the past, given all these issues, it’s understandable why many are looking for alternatives to Binance. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. This guide will explore the best options available.
Best Binance Alternatives of 2025
This list includes a mix of exchanges and apps that are non-custodial, reliable and are quite easy to use and with good support. Also, we included platform that enforce just a light KYC, as well as those that don’t require KYC at all. However, you’ll likely find that the non-KYC or soft-KYC platforms rank higher in our assessment, because in our proprietary blockdyor score, we assign higher ratings to solutions that don’t impose strict KYC requirements. This metric helps us evaluate the quality of a platform, with privacy-friendly options earning extra points for user freedom and simplicity.
- 🥇 Pocket Bitcoin
- 🥈 Hodl Hodl
- 🥉 Bisq
- 🎖️ Bitcoin Voucher Bot
- 🎖️ Sideshift.ai
Pocket Bitcoin
👉 Click here to join Pocket Bitcoin and get € 5.00 in free BTC with the code BLOCKDYOR.
Key Specs
| Exchange | Availability | Taker / Maker Fees | blockdyor Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket Bitcoin | 🇪🇺🇨🇭 + more | 1.5% / 1.5% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 71/100 |
Why We Chose It
Pocket Bitcoin offers a straightforward, fiat-to-Bitcoin exchange via bank transfer with a soft-KYC process. Funds are directly deposited into your personal Bitcoin wallet, and there’s no need to create an account—the entire process is automated, including recurring purchases.
It’s a great option for those who prioritize self-custody and are focused solely on accumulating Bitcoin. Plus, for those who want to cash out into fiat, Pocket Bitcoin provides a sell option, making it a versatile and user-friendly alternative to more complex platforms like Binance.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low fees | ❌ No desktop app |
| ✅ Kraken quotes | |
| ✅ Vast Hardware wallet support |
Overview
Pocket Bitcoin is a web-based service that simplifies buying and selling Bitcoin with fiat currencies (EUR or CHF) directly from your bank account. Available on iOS and Android, it allows for seamless deposits into both software and hardware wallets.
The service operates on a fully non-custodial interface, ensuring your purchased Bitcoin is securely transferred directly to your specified Bitcoin address. You can easily input your Bitcoin address or connect your hardware wallet for added convenience. One of its standout features is that it doesn’t require KYC/AML verification or account creation—just a straightforward bank transfer to the provided Pocket Bitcoin account.
This easy-to-use platform prioritizes privacy and convenience, offering recurring payments and instant transactions to streamline the Bitcoin buying process. Pocket Bitcoin is a great alternative for users across Europe looking for a simple and private way to accumulate Bitcoin.
Full Review
Kate Porter
Hodl Hodl
👉 Sign up on Hodl Hodl now for a lifetime discounted trading fee of just 0.45%.
Key Specs
| Exchange | Availability | Taker / Maker Fees | blockdyor Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hodl Hodl | 🇪🇺🇨🇦 + more | 0.30% / 0.30% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 95/100 |
Why We Chose It
With over 8 years of experience, Hodl Hodl stands out as a Bitcoin-only, non-custodial, peer-to-peer platform that puts privacy first. It’s one of the top exchanges for buying, selling, and even lending Bitcoin with various currencies and payment methods—all without requiring KYC. As a non-custodial exchange, Hodl Hodl never holds user funds. Instead, it uses a secure multisig escrow system to ensure each transaction is highly secure.
In addition to trading, Hodl Hodl offers a peer-to-peer lending service, where users can lend or borrow funds anonymously and on their own terms. For every loan or trade, Hodl Hodl generates a unique multisig escrow address, providing an extra layer of security for both borrowers and lenders. This platform is ideal for those looking for a privacy-focused, flexible, and secure Bitcoin exchange experience.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low fees | ❌ Not available in the USA |
| ✅ Easy to use | ❌ No web based or mobile apps |
| ✅ Many offers for several currencies/payment methods |
Overview
Founded in 2016, Hodl Hodl is a pioneering peer-to-peer Bitcoin-only exchange that enables direct trading without intermediaries. Supporting both on-chain Bitcoin and the Lightning Network, it allows users to securely buy and sell Bitcoin.
What sets Hodl Hodl apart is its non-custodial design—it doesn’t hold user funds. Instead, trades are conducted through a multisig escrow system, which enhances security while giving users full control over their escrow keys. The platform supports a wide range of payment methods and fiat currencies, making transactions fast, flexible, and secure, all while leveraging the power of smart contracts.
Hodl Hodl is a go-to choice for privacy-conscious traders, offering global P2P trading with no KYC/AML requirements, low fees (0.6% split between parties), and a strong emphasis on anonymity. Beyond trading, Hodl Hodl also provides peer-to-peer lending, letting users borrow or lend funds on their own terms, all while maintaining privacy.
With its focus on security, anonymity, and user control, Hodl Hodl has become a trusted platform for Bitcoin enthusiasts seeking a decentralized and privacy-respecting trading experience.
Full Review
Andrea Carnimeo
Bisq
Key Specs
| Exchange | Availability | Taker / Maker Fees | blockdyor Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bisq | 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇪🇺 + more | 1.15% / 0.15% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 87/100 |
Why We Chose It
Bisq stands out as one of the most popular Bitcoin-only platforms, offering a high degree of privacy when buying and selling Bitcoin, making it a solid alternative to Binance for privacy-focused users. However, getting started on Bisq might feel overwhelming for beginners compared to the more user-friendly Binance platform.
A key difference is the Bitcoin security deposit requirement, meaning users must have Bitcoin upfront to initiate trades. While this might be a challenge for new users, it ensures a decentralized, non-custodial experience with no KYC—unlike Binance, which requires identification verification. Bisq also supports a variety of payment methods, offering more flexibility and privacy than traditional exchanges like Binance.
Additionally, Bisq is evolving with the introduction of Bisq 2, featuring a new “Bisq Easy” mode. This simplified version removes the need for security deposits, trading some security measures for ease of use. It’s designed to make the platform more accessible to beginners, something that Binance has already streamlined in its user interface but at the cost of privacy.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low maker fees | ❌ Taker fees are higher |
| ✅ High privacy | ❌ Too complex for beginners |
| ✅ The new Bisq Easy is the right direction | ❌ Security deposit needed |
Overview
Bisq is a renowned decentralized peer-to-peer (P2P) exchange, famous for its longevity and effective privacy features. Unlike Binance, which relies on centralized control and KYC, Bisq operates on a completely decentralized model, ensuring your privacy is prioritized from start to finish.
One of the standout features of Bisq is its Tor-only connectivity, which adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address. Users can trade Bitcoin for national currencies or other cryptocurrencies, all without needing to complete KYC procedures. Bisq runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac, and empowers users with full control over their funds through its non-custodial wallet system, unlike Binance, where the platform holds your funds.
Anonymity and security are key on Bisq, reinforced by end-to-end encryption and its commitment to being fully decentralized. The platform even offers users a voice in its governance via a DAO structure, setting it apart from Binance’s centralized operation.
While it may have a steeper learning curve compared to Binance, Bisq is the go-to for anyone valuing privacy, decentralization, and a true Bitcoin ethos. With its open-source foundation and community-driven governance, Bisq offers a truly unique and privacy-first trading experience, making it a standout alternative for those looking for a more secure and private way to trade Bitcoin.
Full Review
Andrea Carnimeo
Bitcoin Voucher Bot
👉 Click here to start buying No-KYC BTC with Bitcoin Voucher Bot.
Key Specs
| Exchange | Availability | Taker / Maker Fees | blockdyor Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin Voucher Bot | 🇪🇺 Europe | 2.5% / 2.5% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 80/100 |
Why We Chose It
Bitcoin Voucher Bot is an excellent alternative to Binance for privacy-conscious Bitcoin users, especially in Europe. With its strong privacy focus and simple, no-KYC setup, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to acquire Bitcoin without the hassle of identity verification.
The bot supports various voucher types, including on-chain, Lightning, and Liquid, offering users flexibility when purchasing Bitcoin. It also maintains a non-custodial approach, ensuring that users retain control over their funds throughout the process. With moderately low fees (2.5% for both takers and makers), Bitcoin Voucher Bot stands out for its commitment to privacy and ease of use.
Moreover, the ability to facilitate Euro-Bitcoin swaps through Telegram makes it easy for even new users to navigate the platform effortlessly. Bitcoin Voucher Bot offers a straightforward, anonymous, and reliable way to buy Bitcoin, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking an alternative to Binance.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy to use | ❌ Limited to Bitcoin only |
| ✅ Quick and simple payments | ❌ Mainly for advanced users |
| ✅ Secure, non-custodial | ❌ Fees aren't the lowest (2.5%) |
Overview
Bitcoin Voucher Bot offers a unique and privacy-focused way to purchase Bitcoin, setting it apart from centralized exchanges like Binance. Launched in 2019 by Massimo Musumeci, the service operates through Telegram, allowing users to securely buy Bitcoin without needing to go through KYC (Know Your Customer) verification.
The bot supports a range of voucher types, including Euro-to-Bitcoin swaps, VPN vouchers, and on-chain, Lightning, and Liquid network vouchers, giving users the freedom to choose their preferred transaction method. With a low 2.5% fee and a straightforward, no-fuss process, Bitcoin Voucher Bot maintains both user anonymity and flexibility.
In addition to its core services, Bitcoin Voucher Bot offers features like accumulation plans, which enable users to automate their Bitcoin purchases over time, and a refill function for easy top-ups. Though the platform is user-friendly, it’s best suited for those with a basic understanding of cryptocurrency transactions.
By operating without the need for centralized exchanges, Bitcoin Voucher Bot prioritizes security and minimizes the risk of data breaches. Its focus on privacy, simplicity, and non-custodial practices makes it a standout alternative to Binance, particularly for those who want to maintain their anonymity while buying Bitcoin in Europe.
Full Review
Andrea Carnimeo
Sideshift.ai
👉 Click here to sign up to SideShift.ai.
Why We Chose It
Sideshift.ai is a standout alternative to Binance, offering a unique blend of privacy, non-custodial trading, and support for multiple cryptocurrencies. Unlike Binance, which primarily focuses on Bitcoin and a variety of altcoins, Sideshift.ai allows you to swap not just Bitcoin, but also altcoins and stablecoins, making it ideal for users who want more flexibility in their crypto trading.
What sets Sideshift.ai apart is its commitment to privacy and ease of use. It enables trustless, peer-to-peer swaps without the need for a centralized exchange or KYC requirements, ensuring that users maintain control of their funds and personal information. There are zero fees for transactions, further enhancing its appeal for those seeking an efficient, low-cost alternative to Binance.
Key Specs
| Exchange | Availability | Taker / Maker Fees | blockdyor Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sideshift | 🌎 Worldwide | 0% (Market price has a premium BTC/L-BTC ~ 2%) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 80/100 |
Overview
SideShift.ai is a non-custodial, non-KYC crypto-to-crypto exchange that offers an excellent alternative to Binance, particularly for users seeking privacy and control over their funds. This platform allows seamless swaps between a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, altcoins, and stablecoins, with support for the Lightning Network and other networks like Liquid Bitcoin.
What makes SideShift.ai unique is its focus on decentralization and ease of use. Unlike Binance, which requires account registration and KYC verification, SideShift.ai doesn’t ask for any personal information, making it ideal for privacy-conscious users. It offers trustless swaps, where users maintain full control over their assets throughout the process.
SideShift.ai also facilitates fast, low-cost Bitcoin transactions by supporting the Lightning Network. Users can receive Bitcoin directly into Lightning wallets such as Aqua, Breeze, or Phoenix, adding extra convenience for those looking to make quick transfers. While the platform doesn’t support fiat currencies, its robust selection of digital assets and networks ensures it’s an optimal choice for anyone looking to swap crypto for Bitcoin, especially on the Lightning Network.
The exchange fees on SideShift.ai include network costs, which are reflected in the exchange rate. This means there are no surprises, but users should be aware of a slight premium as the platform incorporates these fees into the overall pricing.
For those seeking a simple, privacy-focused, and non-custodial alternative to Binance, SideShift.ai offers a user-friendly solution for swapping digital assets while prioritizing security and anonymity.
Deep Dive Into The Problem With Binance
While Binance has long been considered a dominant force in the cryptocurrency world, it’s not without its own set of serious issues. Over the years, a combination of regulatory concerns, security breaches, and questionable practices has driven many to seek alternatives. Here’s an in-depth look at the ongoing problems with Binance.
Legal Troubles and Regulatory Challenges
Binance has faced growing scrutiny from regulators worldwide, particularly in the United States. The platform has been banned or heavily restricted in several states, including New York, Texas, and California, due to concerns over compliance with local laws.
In 2023, Binance.US, the U.S.-based arm of the exchange, was forced to cease operations in multiple states following regulatory pressure from the SEC and CFTC. This has raised doubts about the platform’s long-term viability in certain regions, particularly in a market like the U.S., where cryptocurrency regulations are becoming stricter.
Breaking News: Changpeng Zhao, the billionaire founder of the giant cryptocurrency exchange Binance, was sentenced to four months in prison for money laundering violations. https://t.co/AyPaO2b91f
— The New York Times (@nytimes) April 30, 2024
Founder and ex-CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has also come under fire for his alleged links to questionable practices, including a lack of transparency around Binance’s operations. Reports have surfaced of Binance’s dealings with unregulated entities, further complicating the platform’s relationship with regulators. These ongoing legal issues have made Binance a risky option for users in regions with tightening laws.
KYC & Account Freezes
While Binance has made efforts to comply with international regulations, including introducing Know-Your-Customer (KYC) measures, many users still find the platform’s KYC process invasive. Like other exchanges, Binance requires users to submit personal identification, such as photos of their passports or IDs, proof of address, and sometimes video calls to verify their identity.
In addition, Binance has been known to freeze or even lock and offload accounts without clear reasons, which can be especially frustrating when users are looking to access their funds or complete a trade. This lack of transparency can make users feel vulnerable, and it has led to widespread complaints about customer support and account management.
Security Breaches and Hacks
Binance has been a target for multiple high-profile hacks, with millions of dollars worth of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies stolen from its platform. One of the most notable incidents was in 2019 when Binance suffered a $40 million hack, prompting the platform to temporarily suspend withdrawals and introduce new security measures.
While Binance reimbursed users for their losses through its Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU), these incidents have raised serious concerns about the platform’s ability to protect its users’ funds. The nature of cryptocurrency trading, with its irreversible transactions, makes security paramount, and Binance’s repeated breaches have put its reputation as a secure exchange in jeopardy.
Custodial Practices and Withdrawal Restrictions
Binance is a centralized, custodial exchange, meaning it holds users’ funds in its own wallets. While this is common among large exchanges, it goes against the grain of the decentralized ethos that many crypto users value. On Binance, you must trust the platform with your assets, and while the exchange offers numerous security measures, the risk of losing funds due to a hack, internal error, or regulatory action is still high.
Additionally, Binance has faced criticism for its withdrawal policies. Many users have reported delays or restrictions when trying to withdraw funds, especially in cases involving larger sums. In some instances, the platform has required additional KYC documentation for withdrawals, which can create unnecessary barriers for users who simply want to move their funds to self-custody.
Usability and Overwhelming Features
Binance’s user interface, while comprehensive, is often described as overwhelming for newcomers. With hundreds of altcoins, complex trading features, futures options, staking, and more, Binance can be daunting for anyone looking to simply buy and hodl Bitcoin. The focus on attracting traders for a wide variety of tokens and complex financial products can detract from the platform’s core service: a straightforward exchange for Bitcoin and other popular cryptocurrencies.
For users who are primarily interested in Bitcoin and not in trading altcoins or derivatives, Binance’s wide array of offerings might seem unnecessary. The cluttered interface and constant promotions for other assets can make it harder to find the essential tools and information you need for a simple Bitcoin transaction.
Bottom Line
Despite being one of the largest and most well-known exchanges globally, Binance has numerous problems that raise concerns for its users. From past legal issues, KYC practices, and security breaches to its custodial approach and cumbersome user interface, the platform has faced its fair share of setbacks.
For those seeking a more user-friendly, secure, and privacy-conscious platform, Binance may no longer be the top choice. Alternatives that focus on decentralization, non-custodial wallets, and simpler user experiences may better align with the values of many Bitcoin enthusiasts, providing more transparency, reliability, and privacy.
As regulatory crackdowns increase and Binance continues to face legal challenges, users would be wise to consider these alternatives and keep a close eye on Binance’s ongoing issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are some good alternatives to Binance?
Privacy-focused, non-KYC options such as Bisq, Hodl Hodl, and Bitcoin Voucher Bot are worth considering. These platforms cater to different user needs, from advanced trading tools to simple, privacy-oriented solutions.
Are there any non-KYC exchanges?
Yes, non-KYC exchanges like Bisq, Hodl Hodl, and Sideshift.io allow users to trade without identity verification. These platforms prioritize user privacy and operate in a decentralized or peer-to-peer manner, making them attractive to those seeking anonymity.
Why choose a Bitcoin-only platform over Binance?
Bitcoin-only platforms offer a focused experience without distractions from speculative altcoins. They are typically simpler to use, align with Bitcoin's ethos, and prioritize privacy and security. This makes them a great choice for users who value self-custody and a streamlined approach to cryptocurrency.
Do Binance alternatives support Lightning Network?
Many Binance alternatives support the Lightning Network for fast and cost-efficient Bitcoin transactions. Platforms like Kraken and Bitfinex have integrated Lightning, as well as wallets like Phoenix Wallet and Wallet of Satoshi, which specialize in seamless Lightning transactions.
Are there better customer service options than Binance?
Yes, some Binance alternatives provide more personalized customer support. For instance, Pocket Bitcoin is known for responsive service, and smaller platforms like Hodl Hodl often offer direct assistance, making them more approachable for users needing help.
What are the benefits of non-custodial platforms?
Non-custodial platforms allow users to maintain full control over their funds, minimizing risks such as exchange hacks or account freezes. They support the principle of decentralization and are ideal for users who prioritize security and self-sovereignty.