> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://blockdyor.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Bisq Review 2025: The Best Decentralised Bitcoin Exchange? - URL: https://blockdyor.com/bisq-review/ - Published: 2023-07-25T12:00:15.000Z - Updated: 2024-12-10T14:37:20.000Z - Description: Discover one of the top non-KYC Bitcoin exchange: Bisq. This decentralized, peer-to-peer platform has stood the test of time without corporate support. In this review, we'll examine Bisq's features, pros and cons, and determine if it's truly the best non-KYC exchange. - Author: Andrea Carnimeo - Tags: reviews ## What is Bisq? **Bisq** is a decentralized peer-to-peer (P2P) exchange that stands out for its longevity and high privacy. On Bisq, you can buy Bitcoin for national currencies and even crypto. Unlike traditional exchanges accessed through websites, Bisq is a **desktop-based** application that you install on your Windows, Linux or Mac computers. One of the key features of **Bisq** is its emphasis on **security** and **anonymity**. It is a non-KYC (Know Your Customer) exchange, meaning it does not require any personally identifiable information to trade. Bisq also uses a **non-custodial wallet**, allowing users to have complete control over their funds. **Bisq** is **FOSS** (free and open-source software), meaning its code is publicly available for inspection. The app supports the use of **Tor**, which provides anonymity, and employs end-to-end encryption for all communications. Bisq is one of the **few truly decentralized** exchanges because not only operates on a **decentralized network** but also has a **decentralized governance structure**. The users are allowed to participate in decision-making regarding the **exchange's** future. ![Bisq is a desktop app, a trading protocol and a distributed p2p network that all work together to form a decentralized Bitcoin exchange](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/What-Is-Bisq.jpg) Bisq is a desktop app, a trading protocol and a distributed p2p network that all work together to form a decentralized Bitcoin exchange | FEATURE | DESCRIPTION | | ---------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | ๐ŸŒ Website | bisq.network | | ๐Ÿ™๏ธ Location | Decentralized | | ๐Ÿ“… Year Founded | 2014 | | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Primary Token | Bitcoin (BTC) | | ๐Ÿ“ˆ Listed Crypto | ETH, LTC, BSQ & others | | ๐Ÿ’ฑ Trading Pairs | BTC/USD or BTC/EUR, BTC/AUD, BTC/GBP, or any other local currency | | ๐Ÿ’ต Supported FIAT | USD or EUR, AUD, GBP, or any other local currency | | ๐ŸŒ Supported Countries | Worldwide | | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Minimum Deposit | N/A | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Deposit Fees | Free | | ๐Ÿ’ฐ Daily Buying Limit | No daily limits. Buying limited to 0.01 BTC per trade until signed. After signing, limits increase to 50% in 30 days. Maximum trade size allowed after 60 days | | ๐Ÿ’ฑ Trading Fees | 1.3% (0.15% for the maker and 1.15% for the taker) | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Withdrawal Fees | Transactions to Bisq users' wallets: Subject to relevant Bitcoin fees. Transactions to external cryptocurrency wallets: Subject to relevant Bitcoin fees. | | ๐Ÿ“ฑ Mobile App | Desktop only. Apps for iOS, Android is just for notification purposes | | ๐Ÿ’ฌ Customer Support | bisq.chat (Matrix) | ## How Bisq works? ![Bisq Overview](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Overview.png) Bisq Overview **Bisq** is a **decentralized bitcoin exchange** network that operates as a peer-to-peer trading platform. Unlike traditional centralized exchanges, Bisq enables users to buy and sell bitcoin directly with each other **without the involvement of intermediaries** or trusted third parties. When using Bisq, individuals **download and run the Bisq application** on their desktop or laptop computers. This application serves as the interface for trading on the Bisq network. Bisq is a cross-platform application, meaning it can be used on different operating systems. To initiate a trade on Bisq, a user follows a series of steps. For example, if someone wants to buy bitcoin in exchange for fiat (let's say: US Dollar), they would configure Bisq with their USD payment method details, such as bank transfer or online payment. They can then browse the available offers on **Bisq's order book**, which displays offers from other users who are willing to sell bitcoin for USD. Once a **suitable offer** is found, the buyer agrees to purchase the seller's bitcoin for USD. ๐Ÿ’ก For security purposes, to initiate a trade both the buyer and seller must deposit BTC into a 2 of 2 multisig wallet. When the trade is completed, the security deposit will be refunded to the buyer and seller. The minimum is ****15% of trade amount** and maximum is 50% of trade amount (absolute minimum is 0.001 BTC). The agreed-upon payment method is used to send USD to the seller. The buyer notifies **Bisq** that the payment has been made. The seller then waits for the payment to arrive and **confirms** the receipt of the payment in Bisq. Once the payment is **confirmed**, the seller **releases** the bitcoin to the buyer, completing the trade. ## Who created Bisq? **Bisq**, formerly known as *Bitsquare*, was created by **Manfred Karrer**. He's an austrian now living in Barcelona, Spain. In the context of Bisq, it is more appropriate to refer to Manfred Karrer as the founder rather than the CEO, as Bisq operates under a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) structure. In this **decentralized model**, there are no CEOs or central leadership teams in the traditional sense. ๐Ÿ’ก Bisq isn't a company, but a software. Bisq's **DAO** structure empowers the stakeholders, including traders and contributors, as the true owners and decision-makers of the platform. Instead of relying on a single individual or a centralized authority for governance, the stakeholders collectively shape the direction and development of Bisq. This decentralized approach ensures that **decision-making power** is distributed among the community and helps to avoid the concentration of authority. By embracing the **DAO** model, Bisq establishes a more inclusive and democratic system, where the interests and contributions of all **stakeholders** are considered. It aligns with the broader **ethos of decentralization** and promotes a sense of **ownership** and **responsibility** among the Bisq community. ## Bisq Quick Review | Category | Feature | Score | | -------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----- | | **๐Ÿ” Privacy & Security (46/50)** | | | | ๐Ÿ•ต๏ธ Non-KYC | The exchange is non-KYC | 10/10 | | ๐Ÿ” Non-Custodial | The exchange is fully non-custodial, users can withdraw their funds | 10/10 | | ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Peer To Peer | The exchange is 100% P2P trading | 5/5 | | ๐ŸŒ Decentralization | The exchange is decentralized | 5/5 | | ๐Ÿ”’ Encryption | The exchange encrypts all confidential data transfers | 5/5 | | ๐ŸŒ TOR Connection | It's possible to connect to the exchange with TOR | 5/5 | | ๐Ÿ“‚ Open Source | The software used is fully open source | 5/5 | | ๐Ÿ“ฑ 2FA | The exchange doesn't offer two-factor authentication | 1/5 | | **๐Ÿš€ Features (41/50)** | | | | ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ User-Friendly UX | The platform might be challenging for a beginners | 4/5 | | ๐Ÿ’ต Fiat Onramp/Offramp | Fiat onramp and offramp methods are many | 3/5 | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Taker Fee | 1.15% | 4/5 | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Maker Fee | 0.15% | 5/5 | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Withdrawal Fee | Variable, based on Bitcoin network fees | 5/5 | | โ˜Ž๏ธ Customer Service | Available via X and email | 4/5 | | ๐Ÿ“š Documentation | Plenty of documentation on the official website | 5/5 | | ๐Ÿšฎ Altcoins | Bitcoin & Crypto | 5/5 | | โšก Lightning Network Withdrawal/Deposit | Lightning Network not supported | 1/5 | | ๐Ÿ’ง Liquid Network Withdrawal/Deposit | The exchange supports Liquid Network | 5/5 | | **๐Ÿงฑblockdyor Score (87/100)** | | | ## How To Get Started On Bisq Getting started on Bisq is a straightforward process. Unlike traditional exchanges, there is **no need to sign up** for an account. ![Bisq Getting Started Step 1](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Getting-Started-Step-1.jpg) Bisq Getting Started Step 1 - To begin, visit the official website of Bisq at ***bisq.network***. Take extra caution and double-check the URL in the address bar to ensure you are on the correct website. This step is crucial for preventing phishing attempts and safeguarding your information. - You can then proceed to click on the green button "**Download for**". The website will automatically select the installer compatible with your operating system. In alternative, you can click on "**All Downloads**" to view all the builds available. ๐Ÿ’ก Pro tip: for an additional layer of assurance, you can verify the integrity of your Bisq installer file to ensure it has not been tampered with. ![Bisq Getting Started Step 3](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Getting-Started-Step-2.jpg) Bisq Getting Started Step 3 - Once you have successfully downloaded and installed Bisq, simply click on the application to launch the software. ![Bisq Getting Started Step 3](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Getting-Started-Step-3.jpg) Bisq Getting Started Step 3 ## How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 1](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-1.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 1 Before proceeding to buy Bitcoin on Bisq, it is important to follow these steps to ensure the **security** of your account: 1. On the top menu, click on **Account**. 2. Click on **Wallet Password** submenu (1). Create a **password** for your Bisq wallet. Make sure it is strong and unique. Write it down on a piece of paper or, preferably, store it securely in a password manager. 3. Write down your **wallet seed** (2). This seed is a series of words that can be used to restore your wallet in case of any issues. Keep this seed in a safe and offline location. 4. Create a **backup** of your Bisq account and state. This backup will help you restore your account settings and transaction history if needed. Store this backup file in a secure location, such as an encrypted external drive or cloud storage with strong encryption. By completing these steps, you will significantly **enhance the security** of your Bisq account and be well-prepared to proceed with your Bitcoin transactions. ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 2](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-2.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 2 - To begin, you have the option to add a **fiat account** (1) or an **altcoin account** (2). For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on adding a **fiat account**, specifically a **Revolut** one. - Navigate to "**Create a new account**" and select the desired payment method (3), in this case, Revolut. - Enter the username or other relevant details as prompted. - Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on "**Save**" to save your account information. ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 3](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-3.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 3 - In the menu, click on "**Buy**" (1), then select "**Bitcoin**" (2). - Choose your **preferred fiat currency** from the options provided (3). - Select the payment method you previously added, in this case, **Revolut** (3). - Toggle on the option "**Offers matching my accounts**" (4) to filter the offers based on your verification status. - A list of available offers will be displayed (5). Review the offers and choose the one that suits your requirements. - If you find a suitable offer, click on the green "**Buy**" button to proceed to the next step. - The software will now update and verify if the selected offer is **still available**. Please be patient as it refreshes. ๐Ÿ’ก Since Bisq is a fully decentralized peer-to-peer exchange, it is important to note that the maker of the offer must be online in order to initiate and complete the trade. ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 4](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-4.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 4 - The seller is **online**, so you can go forward by clicking on **"Next step**". ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 4a](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-4a.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 4a ![](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-4b.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 4b The previous messages inform the user that to start a trade on Bisq, you need to send a deposit and fees to the trade wallet. Bisq will provide you with the address of the trade wallet and the specific amount to send. If you already have enough bitcoin in your Bisq wallet, you can click on **Transfer funds from Bisq wallet** and the funds will be automatically transferred to the trade wallet. If you don't have enough bitcoin in your Bisq wallet, you need to send the required amount (Funds needed) to the specified address (Trade wallet address). The trade wallet is used to **hold your security deposit** and fees. It will be used to pay your taker fee and transfer your security deposit into a **multisig escrow** transaction along with the seller's security deposit and the bitcoin being traded. The **multisig escrow** transaction is a smart contract involving you and the seller. It ensures that Bisq never takes custody of users' bitcoin or national currency funds. The transaction follows a **2-of-2 multisignature** Bitcoin setup. ![How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 5](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/How-To-Buy-Bitcoin-On-Bisq-Step-5.jpg) How To Buy Bitcoin on Bisq Step 5 - Pay the deposit and fees by sending funds to the Trade wallet address. - When you will have sent the funds to the trade wallet, you will see a button "**Review: Take offer to buy bitcoin**", click on it to confirm the details of your offer. - If everything is correct, click "**Confirm: Take offer to buy bitcoin**" to start the trade. - Wait for the Bitcoin network to confirm the transaction (about 10 minutes). - Once confirmed, pay the seller using the agreed payment method displayed on screen. - Mark the payment as sent in Bisq by clicking "**Payment started**". - The seller will be notified of the payment and **confirm its receipt**. - Bisq will **release** the purchased bitcoin and your security deposit. - Keep the bitcoin in your Bisq wallet or withdraw it to an external wallet. **Congratulations** on completing your trade on Bisq! ## Bisq Fees In recent times, fees at Bisq have seen an **increase**, but they remain highly favorable, particularly for the maker (seller) compared to the taker (buyer). Opting to pay with the native **BSQ token** can provide even more convenience and cost-effectiveness. BSQ usage is incentivized by Bisq through an approximate 50% discount. The discount may vary depending on the **BSQ/BTC rate**. To maintain this targeted discount, trading fees are periodically adjusted. | | BTC | BSQ | | ----- | ------ | ------ | | Maker | 0.0015 | 25.66 | | Taker | 0.0115 | 196.69 | The combined BTC trading fee rate is 1.3% (0.15% for the maker and 1.15% for the taker). To avoid minimal amounts, the absolute minimum fee is set at 0.00005 BTC. The combined BSQ trading fee rate aims at 0.65% (0.075% for the maker and 0.575% for the taker). To prevent minimal amounts, the absolute minimum fee is 0.03 BSQ. The **trading fee rates** and minimums are determined by **DAO parameters**, which require proposals and approvals through DAO voting. While BTC fee rates generally remain steady, BSQ rates are periodically adjusted to accommodate fluctuations in the BSQ rate. ### Payment Selection When creating or accepting an offer, traders have the flexibility to choose their **preferred method** of **paying trading fees**. The screen conveniently displays BSQ and BTC amounts, along with their fiat equivalents, for easy reference. Remember to select your preferred payment method for trading fees when creating or accepting an offer. ## Bisq Opinions ![Bisq Trustpilot](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Trustpilot.jpg) Bisq Trustpilot The **Trustpilot reviews for Bisq** are generally **average**, and there are only a few of them. However, it's crucial to recognize that Bisq is not a conventional company but rather a decentralized network of users who engage in trading using specialized software. Many reviews on Trustpilot seem **unaware of this** fact, while others may have faced financial losses due to not adhering to the trading rules. It's important to note that Bisq provides a high level of security, as you are not required to release your Bitcoin until the payment has been made by the buyer. ![Bisq Reddit](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Reddit.jpg) Bisq Reddit On subreddits like **/r/bitcoin** there are discussions about the concerns surrounding the potential **risk of money theft** when using payment methods like **Moneygram** on platforms like **Bisq**. However, other users have clarified that Bisq's security deposit system effectively manages such risks. The reason some people find it strange and uncomfortable that solutions like Bisq eliminate the involvement of third parties is because the **traditional banking system** has conditioned us to **rely on third parties** for complete control over our money. **Bisq operates differently**. It adheres to strict ethical principles regarding money ownership, ensuring that your funds are exclusively yours and cannot be accessed or taken by anyone else. ## Bisq Alternatives When it comes to finding **alternatives to Bisq**, due to its unique characteristics, the options are **not plentiful**. However, there are a couple of noteworthy alternatives worth considering: | | Bisq | BasicSwap | Robosats | | ------------------------ | ---------------- | --------- | ------------- | | ๐Ÿงฑ blockdyor Total Score | 87/100 | 71/100 | 84/100 | | ๐Ÿ•ต๏ธ Non-KYC | Yes | Yes | Yes | | ๐Ÿ” Non-Custodial | Yes | Yes | Yes | | ๐Ÿ‘ฅ P2P | Yes | Yes | Yes | | ๐Ÿ’ต Fiat Onramp/Offramp | Yes | No | Yes | | ๐Ÿ’ธ Taker/Maker Fees | From 1.15%/0.15% | 0%/0% | 0.175%/0.025% | 1. **BasicSwaps**: It is an excellent choice for private and secure crypto swaps. Similar to Bisq, it operates in a decentralized manner and does not require peer-to-peer (P2P) or know-your-customer (KYC) processes. What sets BasicSwaps apart is that it offers a 0% fee structure, making it an attractive option for users. 2. [Robosats](https://blockdyor.com/robosats/): This platform is lightning-based, which ensures fast and efficient transactions. Although Robosats is not decentralized, it still offers compelling features such as a competitive fee structure. The fees are split between the order maker and taker, with a respective share of 0.025% and 0.175%. Additionally, Robosats operates on a P2P basis and does not require KYC verification. These alternatives provide different features and benefits, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for decentralization, fees, and privacy. ## Bisq Pros And Cons | Pros | Cons | | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- | | โœ… Decentralized | โŒ Limited Liquidity | | โœ… Privacy | โŒ Learning Curve | | โœ… Security | โŒ Dispute Resolution might take some time | | โœ… Variety of Payment Options | โŒ You must already have Bitcoin in order to buy Bitcoin | | โœ… No KYC/AML | โŒ Security Deposit in BTC | | โœ… Fees lower than other P2P exchanges | โŒ Average BTC price higher than CEX prices | ## Bottom Line **Bisq** offers a **decentralized** and secure platform for trading Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. With its emphasis on privacy and user control, Bisq provides a unique and trustworthy trading experience. While it may have certain **limitations** and a learning curve for new users, the platform's benefits, such as the ability to trade directly with peers and the use of multi-signature escrow, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange. If you value privacy, security, and the principles of **decentralization**, Bisq is definitely worth considering, as it's quite **unique** among all the other p2p offers out there. ![](https://blockdyor.com/content/images/2023/07/Bisq-Logo.png) #### Bisq Evaluation Bisq boasts an impressive blockdyor Score of 87 out of 100, making it stand out as one of the longest-standing exchanges globally. With such a high rating, it encompasses all the essential characteristics, solidifying its reputation as one of the best exchanges in the industry. ****Reputation**: Bisq has been in the market for a significant period of time since 2014, successfully enduring both bear and bull markets. However, it's essential to note an incident that occurred a few years ago in 2020 when a hacker exploited a critical flaw in Bisq's update, resulting in the theft of $250,000 worth of cryptocurrency from seven traders. Bisq promptly issued a fix and committed to refunding the affected individuals from future revenues. ****Technology**: Bisq's decentralization is undoubtedly unique and represents a commendable achievement in Bitcoin exchange software. However, this decentralized approach does have its drawbacks. Both parties involved in a trade must be online with Bisq to initiate and complete transactions. Additionally, during the review, we observed high CPU consumption, even on the latest Apple Silicon models. Furthermore, there was an issue with Bisq's Mac installation, requiring a specific command to be entered in the terminal. ****Customer Service**: While there is no phone customer service or live chat, the Bisq Matrix and Reddit communities are quite active. The dispute process is multi-layered and secure. ****Fees**: Bisq recently increased its fees but still maintains very low rates, lower than most other peer-to-peer exchanges. ****Ease of Use**: Bisq is not particularly user-friendly. Firstly, it lacks a dedicated mobile app, and secondly, the Mac software is prone to glitches, lacks optimization, and can be challenging to install. We did not test the Windows version, but we hope it provides a better experience. There is also a conundrum: Bitcoin is needed to buy Bitcoin, due to the security deposit. Definitely not beneficial for adoption. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ### What is Bisq? Bisq is a decentralized peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange platform that allows users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies with national currencies directly with each other, without the need for intermediaries or a central authority. ### Is Bisq safe to use? Bisq prioritizes security and privacy. It employs various measures such as encrypted communication, multi-signature escrow, and a decentralized arbitration system to ensure secure and trustless trading. However, it's also important to add that some years ago the exchange was hacked, resulting in a quite significant loss for several users. ### How does Bisq handle disputes between traders? Bisq has a decentralized arbitration system in place to handle disputes between traders. If a dispute arises, an arbitrator, who is a trusted third party, will review the evidence provided by both parties and make a fair decision. This ensures that disputes can be resolved fairly and impartially without relying on a centralized authority.