When investing in cryptocurrency, every dollar counts—especially when it comes to exchange fees. Whether you're a beginner or an active trader, choosing a low-fee crypto exchange in Canada can significantly boost your returns over time. A seemingly small fee difference, such as 0.1% vs. 0.6%, can add up quickly with frequent trading.
For example, buying $1,000 worth of Bitcoin via market order costs $1 on Binance but $6 on Coinbase—a $5 difference per trade. Multiply that across dozens of trades monthly, and the savings become substantial.
This guide highlights the 10 cheapest crypto exchanges in Canada, focusing on transparent pricing, supported assets, security, and user experience. We’ve evaluated each platform based on trading fees, deposit/withdrawal costs, staking opportunities, and regional availability to help you make informed decisions.
Top 10 Low-Fee Crypto Exchanges in Canada
1. Bitbuy
Launched in 2016, Bitbuy is one of Canada’s most trusted crypto exchanges, serving over 450,000 users nationwide. It supports around 40 popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA).
You can start trading with just $50, and both fiat and crypto deposits are free. Funding options include Interac e-Transfer, bank wire, and external wallet transfers.
Bitbuy also offers staking for ETH, SOL, ADA, ATOM, DOT, and MATIC, with annual rewards reaching up to 10%. Additionally, it provides an OTC desk for trades exceeding $20,000.
- Trading Fees: 0%–2%, based on 90-day trading volume
- Deposit Fees: Free
- Withdrawal Fees: 1.5% for fiat withdrawals (Interac and wire)
- Minimum Deposit: $50
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Pros:
- Free fiat and crypto deposits
- High staking yields (up to 10%)
- OTC trading for large orders
- 90% of assets held in cold storage with insurance
Cons:
- 1.5% fee on fiat withdrawals
2. VirgoCX
VirgoCX is a Canadian-focused exchange designed for ease of use and affordability. With support for over 60 cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, LTC, and XLM, it caters to both new and experienced traders.
One of its biggest advantages is free cash deposits and withdrawals, making it ideal for cost-conscious investors.
- Trading Fees: No direct commission; instead, a bid-ask spread of 0.5%–2.5% applies
- Card Deposit Fee: 2.99% (debit), 3.99% (credit)
- Minimum Deposit: $10
Pros:
- Zero deposit/withdrawal fees
- Advanced charting tools
- Multiple funding methods including Interac e-Transfer and bill payments
Cons:
- Relatively high bid-ask spreads
- Credit card fees are steep
3. Wealthsimple Crypto
Wealthsimple Crypto stands out as a commission-free platform offering trading in over 50 digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and Chainlink.
While there are no explicit trading, deposit, or withdrawal fees, Wealthsimple applies a bid-ask spread of 1.5%–2%—a common model among "no-fee" exchanges.
The platform also features staking for ETH, SOL, and ADA, with annual yields up to 4.6%. All hot wallet holdings are insured through Coincover, and cold storage is protected with $200 million in coverage.
- Trading Fees: Built into spread (1.5%–2%)
- Minimum Investment: $2
Pros:
- Truly no hidden fees beyond spread
- Strong security and insurance
- User-friendly interface perfect for beginners
Cons:
- Limited advanced trading tools
- Wire transfers may take up to 10 business days
4. Netcoins
Owned by BIGG Digital Assets, Netcoins operates across Canada and parts of the U.S., offering around 37 cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, DOT, and MATIC.
It’s known for its simplicity and low barriers to entry—users can start with just $10. Netcoins also supports Ethereum staking, allowing passive income generation.
Fiat deposits and withdrawals are free, though wire transfers below certain thresholds incur fees.
- Trading Fee: Flat 0.5% on all trades
- Minimum Investment: $10
Pros:
- Free fiat transactions
- Mobile app available (iOS & Android)
- Offers a crypto debit card
Cons:
- No advanced trading features
- Limited staking options
5. Kraken
Established in 2011, Kraken is a globally respected exchange now accessible in Canada. It supports over 70 cryptocurrencies and offers spot trading, margin trading (up to 5x leverage), and futures contracts.
Kraken also features an NFT marketplace and staking for more than 12 coins, with rewards reaching up to 24% APY.
- Maker Fee: 0.16%
- Taker Fee: 0.26%
- Minimum Deposit: $10
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Pros:
- Long-standing reputation and strong security
- Extensive product suite (futures, staking, NFTs)
- 24/7 customer support via phone and live chat
Cons:
- Fewer local funding options compared to domestic exchanges
- Kraken Pro may overwhelm beginners
6. Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the most recognized names in crypto, available in Canada with over 250 supported cryptocurrencies.
While its standard interface charges high fees (up to 0.6% taker fee), switching to Coinbase Advanced Trade reduces costs significantly with maker-taker pricing:
- Maker Fees: 0%–0.4%
- Taker Fees: 0.05%–0.6%
Coinbase also offers staking (up to 10% APY) and crypto loans using BTC as collateral.
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly design
- Excellent security measures
- Wide asset selection
Cons:
- High fees on basic platform
- Poor customer service reputation
7. CoinSmart (Now Part of Bitbuy)
Previously independent, CoinSmart has merged with Bitbuy but retains its brand identity. It supports 16 major cryptocurrencies and offers fast verification and same-day deposits.
Staking for ETH, SOL, MATIC, and DOT will soon be available with projected yields between 4%–12%.
- Trading Fees: 0.2% (single trade), 0.3% (double trade)
- Minimum Investment: $2
Pros:
- Instant verification
- Strong security with BitGo and Fireblocks custody
- OTC desk for trades over $25,000
Cons:
- Limited coin selection
- Fiat withdrawals take up to 5 days
8. Crypto.com
Based in Singapore but widely used in Canada, Crypto.com offers competitive fees and over 250 cryptocurrencies.
Its maker-taker model starts at:
- Maker Fees: 0%–0.075%
- Taker Fees: 0.05%–0.075%
Holding the platform’s native token (CRO) unlocks fee discounts and extra staking rewards (up to 2% additional APY).
Additional perks include automated trading bots, tax reporting tools, NFT marketplace access, and a crypto card offering up to 5% cashback.
Pros:
- Industry-low fees with CRO discounts
- Rich ecosystem (staking, DeFi, payments)
- Free tax calculation tool
Cons:
- Complex reward structure
- Customer service improvements needed
9. KuCoin (Not Available in Ontario)
Though not accessible in Ontario due to regulatory restrictions, KuCoin remains popular among Canadian traders elsewhere.
With over 700 supported coins, it's ideal for discovering emerging projects. Fees start at:
- Maker: -0.005% to 0.1%
- Taker: 0.025% to 0.1%
Holding KCS (native token) grants a 20% fee discount.
Pros:
- Ultra-low fees
- Massive altcoin selection
- Staking, P2P trading, NFT marketplace
Cons:
- Not available in key provinces
- Mixed user reviews regarding withdrawals
10. Binance (Exiting Canada)
Once the world’s largest exchange, Binance is currently withdrawing from the Canadian market due to new regulatory requirements.
While still functional for existing users, it’s no longer accepting new Canadian customers.
Previously offered features included:
- Over 350 coins
- Maker fees from 0.012%
- Taker fees from 0.024%
- BNB token holders received 25% fee discount
👉 Explore compliant alternatives with low fees and strong security.
How to Choose the Cheapest Crypto Exchange
When selecting a low-cost exchange, consider these factors:
- Fee Structure: Compare maker/taker fees vs. flat or spread-based models
- Supported Currencies: Ensure your preferred cryptos are available
- Funding Options: Look for free Interac e-Transfers or bank deposits
- Security Measures: Cold storage, insurance, two-factor authentication (2FA)
- User Experience: Simple interface for beginners; advanced tools for pros
- Regulatory Compliance: Only use exchanges registered with Canadian authorities
- Customer Support: Responsive service can save time during issues
Types of Crypto Exchanges
There are two primary types:
- Centralized Exchanges (CEX): Platforms like Bitbuy and Kraken act as intermediaries. They’re easy to use but require trust in the operator.
- Decentralized Exchanges (DEX): Such as Uniswap—non-custodial and permissionless—but require technical knowledge.
Hybrid models are emerging that combine benefits of both systems.
Understanding Crypto Exchange Fees
Common fee types include:
- Maker Fees: Lower cost when placing limit orders that add liquidity
- Taker Fees: Higher cost for market orders that remove liquidity
- Spread Fees: Hidden markup between buy/sell prices on “no-fee” platforms
- Deposit/Withdrawal Fees: Charged when moving funds in or out
- Volume-Based Discounts: Higher trading volume leads to lower rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees?
Kraken, Crypto.com, KuCoin, and Bitbuy offer some of the most competitive rates. For zero-commission models, consider Wealthsimple Crypto or VirgoCX (fees built into spreads).
Are any major exchanges leaving Canada?
Yes—Binance is exiting due to new regulations from Canadian securities commissions. Others like OKX and Deribit have also pulled out.
Who has cheaper fees than Coinbase?
Most platforms listed here—including Kraken, Bitbuy, CoinSmart, and Crypto.com—offer lower fees than Coinbase’s standard interface.
What are the best Binance alternatives in Canada?
Top replacements include Kraken, Bitbuy, CoinSmart, and Crypto.com—all offering robust features and lower costs.
Is staking available on cheap exchanges?
Yes—Bitbuy offers up to 10% staking rewards; Kraken offers up to 24%; Wealthsimple provides up to 4.6%.
Do I need to pay taxes on crypto trades?
Yes—Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) treats cryptocurrency as property. All trades are taxable events unless held in registered accounts like TFSAs or RRSPs.
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