If you’re looking for the best app to buy and hold cryptocurrency, you’re likely focused on three things: security, ease of use, and long-term reliability. I’ve tested multiple platforms over the years—some are great for trading, others for staking, but only a few excel as true “set-and-forget” options for long-term holders. Below, I break down the top contenders based on fees, security, supported assets, and passive income potential.
What Makes a Great “Buy and Hold” Crypto App?
Before listing the best apps, let’s define the criteria:
- Security – Cold storage options, insurance, and a strong track record against hacks.
- Low Fees – Minimal trading and withdrawal costs, especially for long-term holders.
- Staking & Passive Income – The ability to earn interest on idle crypto.
- User Experience – Intuitive design for beginners, but robust enough for advanced users.
- Supported Coins – A wide selection of major and promising altcoins.
Best Apps to Buy and Hold Crypto (2024)
1. Coinbase (Best for Beginners & Security)
- Pros:
- Insured custodial wallets (up to $250K FDIC for USD).
- User-friendly interface with educational rewards.
- Supports staking for Ethereum, Cardano, and others.
- Cons:
- Higher fees (~0.6% per trade) unless using Coinbase Advanced.
- Limited withdrawal options for non-US users.
Best for: New investors who prioritize security over cost.
2. Kraken (Best for Low Fees & Staking)
- Pros:
- Lower trading fees (0.16%–0.26%) than Coinbase.
- High-yield staking (up to 24% on some assets).
- Strong regulatory compliance.
- Cons:
- Slightly complex for absolute beginners.
- Fewer altcoins than Binance.
Best for: Investors who want a balance of low fees and staking rewards.
3. Binance.US (Best for Altcoin Selection)
- Pros:
- Largest selection of altcoins (100+).
- Lowest fees (0.1% spot trading).
- Strong liquidity for large orders.
- Cons:
- Regulatory uncertainty in the U.S.
- Customer support can be slow.
Best for: Those who want access to niche altcoins.
4. Gemini (Best for Passive Income & Security)
- Pros:
- Industry-leading security (SOC 2 certified).
- Gemini Earn offers up to 8% APY on idle crypto.
- Free withdrawals (10 per month).
- Cons:
- Limited staking options.
- Higher trading fees (~0.5%).
Best for: Security-conscious investors who want passive income.
5. Swan Bitcoin (Best for Bitcoin-Only Holders)
- Pros:
- Automated dollar-cost averaging (DCA) for Bitcoin.
- Ultra-low fees (0.99% for recurring buys).
- Non-custodial withdrawal options.
- Cons:
- Only supports Bitcoin (no altcoins).
- No staking or lending.
Best for: Bitcoin maximalists who want a hands-off approach.
Comparison Table
| Platform | Fees (Spot Trading) | Staking Rewards | Security | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | ~0.6% | Yes (4-5% APY) | High (FDIC-insured) | Beginners |
| Kraken | 0.16%-0.26% | Yes (up to 24%) | High (No major hacks) | Low-cost staking |
| Binance.US | 0.1% | Limited | Medium (Regulatory risks) | Altcoin traders |
| Gemini | ~0.5% | Earn (up to 8%) | Very High (SOC 2) | Passive income |
| Swan Bitcoin | 0.99% (DCA) | No | High (Non-custodial options) | Bitcoin DCA |
Key Considerations Before Choosing
- Self-Custody vs. Exchange Custody
- If you’re holding long-term, consider moving crypto to a hardware wallet (Ledger, Trezor).
- Exchanges are convenient but carry counterparty risk (e.g., FTX collapse).
- Tax Implications
- Staking rewards are taxable in the U.S. (treated as income).
- Transferring to a private wallet is not a taxable event.
- Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) Tools
- Apps like Swan Bitcoin and Coinbase Recurring Buys automate purchases.
Final Verdict
- Best Overall for Security & Ease: Coinbase
- Best for Low Fees & Staking: Kraken
- Best for Altcoin Holders: Binance.US
- Best for Passive Income: Gemini
- Best for Bitcoin-Only DCA: Swan Bitcoin
If I had to pick one for a beginner, I’d recommend Coinbase for its security and simplicity. For advanced users, Kraken offers the best mix of low fees and staking rewards.
