Top 7 Crypto Exchanges for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide on Where to Start

It's quite common for beginners in the Web3 industry to feel unsure of where to start when it comes to exchanging their cryptocurrency. The choice of crypto swap platforms is vast, their functionality is multifaceted, and the most important concerns remain trust and ease of use. 

Naturally, the question arises: "Where should I start my crypto journey?” To make sure you don't miss out on choosing the right platform, we have prepared a list of the top 7 crypto exchanges for crypto newbies!

ChangeNOW

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: $2

Maximum exchange limit: None

Supported assets: 1000+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: No; however, KYC protocols are triggered when suspicious activity is detected

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Yes

ChangeNOW is an instant exchange service that allows for buying, selling, and swapping over 1,000 digital assets in one place. Here, users can choose from over a million exchange pairs and even swap their cryptocurrencies across various blockchains, all in just a few simple steps. Additionally, ChangeNOW empowers users to purchase crypto with fiat money using various payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and many more.

ChangeNOW puts significant thought into the user experience, ensuring that even those with little or no crypto experience can navigate the platform easily and with peace of mind. While the non-custodial nature of the exchange (meaning that it doesn't control user funds), may be unfamiliar to most beginners, this is balanced by a sleek interface. Moreover, ChangeNOW provides highly supportive customer service that boasts a 99% success rate in resolving errors, even processing transactions if users mistakenly choose the wrong network or token.

The platform also eliminates mandatory registration and KYC, which is a big plus for individuals looking to keep their personal data private. However, signing up for a ChangeNOW Pro account unlocks additional perks, including a cashback program, AML address checks, unlimited crypto loans, automatic staking of the platform’s native NOW token, a balance storage feature for more seamless and cost-effective fund management, and more.

What makes ChangeNOW especially perfect for beginners is its lightning-fast and limitless exchanges. Users can make a swap with as little as $2 and convert crypto without upper limits, enjoying an average exchange time of just 5 minutes. What’s important, the platform makes it possible to track transaction status in real time directly on the exchange page.

Furthermore, ChangeNOW has a clear and transparent fee structure. It ensures that there are no hidden costs and all possible charges are included in the estimated rate, which is displayed before users initiate an exchange.

For those seeking mobility, ChangeNOW offers a standalone app, available on both Google Play and the App Store.

StealthEX

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: Varies by currency

Maximum exchange limit: No maximum limit for floating-rate exchanges

Supported assets: 1500+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: No; however, fiat purchases exceeding $700 require mandatory KYC

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Only Android app is available, with an iOS version in development

​​StealthEX is another excellent choice for beginners looking to buy and swap cryptocurrencies without feeling overwhelmed. With its intuitive interface and registration-free access, the exchange provides a simple and straightforward user experience. StealthEX doesn’t even require its users to go through Wallet Connect since it is compatible with any crypto wallet. The platform also simplifies cross-chain swaps for non-experts by eliminating the need for complicated bridging protocols.

Because of its non-custodial nature, there is no KYC for crypto swaps on StealthEX. However, if you want to purchase cryptocurrency with fiat on the platform, there's a $700 limit before identity verification becomes mandatory. The good news is that users who complete the KYC process can enjoy unrestricted fiat-to-crypto transactions. 

StealthEX works with multiple liquidity providers to secure competitive rates, which is especially handy during market volatility. When initiating a swap on the platform, users can select either fixed or floating rates. There is no maximum limit for floating-rate exchanges, allowing users to swap as much as they want. However, a minimum amount is required to ensure the transaction is included in the blockchain. The minimum amount differs depending on the currency and is displayed when entering the desired exchange. 

Additionally, StealthEX provides 24/7 customer support with an average response time of 10 minutes. Users often praise the support team for being swift and professional in resolving various exchange-related issues. Combined with the platform’s ease of use, a collection of over 1,500 assets, and robust security features, the high level of user satisfaction indicates that StealthEX is a reliable platform.

It’s worth noting that StealthEX is currently available only for desktop and Android users, with an iOS app in the pipeline.

Swapzone

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: Varies by exchange

Maximum exchange limit: Varies by exchange

Supported assets: 1600+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: No

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: No

Though not an exchange itself, Swapzone serves as a valuable resource for those who are just getting started with crypto. As an aggregator platform, it simplifies the process of finding the best platforms to exchange, buy, sell, stake, and borrow digital assets.

When it comes to swapping, Swapzone’s user-friendly interface ranks exchanges based on factors like rates and reliability, making it easy to compare options. Moreover, the platform’s curated list of exchanges can be filtered based on best fit, fees, and speed.

Designed for users who need convenience and privacy, Swapzone removes the hassle of lengthy KYC procedures, and registration with the service is optional. However, some of the exchanges Swapzone partners with require KYC verification, and you’ll need to comply with their requirements. 

After selecting an exchange, users can review detailed swap information, including user reviews, before proceeding. Once they confirm, Swapzone initiates the transaction, simplifying the process and streamlining the swapping experience across different platforms.

With its 24/7 live support, Swapzone is ready to give users a hand with any issue at every stage of the transaction. However, keep in mind that U.S.-based users may not be able to use the platform. Plus, Swapzone may charge some extra fees for providing aggregation services.

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: Varies by currency

Maximum exchange limit: No maximum limit for floating-rate exchanges

Supported assets: 500+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: No

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Yes

Changelly is a great option for beginners in the crypto world as it makes swapping over 500 cryptocurrencies a breeze. The platform allows for choosing between fixed or floating rates, giving users flexibility in how they handle market fluctuations.

Floating-rate swaps are almost unlimited, and a minimum exchange amount is approximately $3-$5, meaning that you can start small or go big with ease. Moreover, Changelly’s partnerships with major exchange platforms ensure competitive rates for your transactions, all completed in just 10 to 40 minutes, though this may feel slower compared to platforms like ChangeNOW.

Security is a priority for Changelly, as it doesn't store user deposits and only works with trusted partners. 24/7 live customer support is available, so help is always just a click away. With Changelly, users can also purchase crypto with fiat, albeit with strict buying limits, making it even more beginner-friendly.

With no KYC required for most transactions, getting started with Changelly is fast and hassle-free. For mobile users, the service offers a convenient app compatible with both iOS and Android, providing on-the-go access to crypto exchanges.

SimpleSwap

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: Varies by currency

Maximum exchange limit: None

Supported assets: 1000+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: No

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Yes

SimpleSwap is one more exchange that crypto rookies may want to consider for swapping their cryptocurrencies. True to its name, SimpleSwap is dedicated to providing straightforward and convenient crypto swaps. The platform features a minimalist interface, free from the clutter found on larger exchanges.

KYC is not required for crypto swaps unless flagged for security reasons, and SimpleSwap’s 24/7 support team is highly rated, helping users quickly resolve issues. These proactive measures have earned the exchange a strong reputation on review sites like Trustpilot.

With SimpleSwap, users can exchange unlimited amounts of any of over 1,000 supported assets by selecting their desired currency pair, entering the amount and wallet details, and simply waiting for the funds to be credited. The platform also supports fiat purchases through bank cards, though it’s important to note that all fiat-to-crypto transactions are subject to mandatory KYC.

Fees on SimpleSwap are floating, meaning they fluctuate with market conditions. However, the platform also offers fixed rates, ensuring users receive a predetermined amount of cryptocurrency, providing flexibility and control over transaction costs.

In addition to the web version, SimpleSwap can be accessed on both iOS and Android devices through a standalone app.

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum exchange limit: $1

Maximum exchange limit: None

Supported assets: 20+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: Yes

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Yes

Lykke is a cryptocurrency exchange known for its zero fees and intuitive interface. With a minimum swap limit of just $1 and support for fiat currencies like EUR, GBP, and CHF, it offers a seamless entry point for users. Although it supports over 20 cryptocurrencies, fewer than its competitors, it focuses on widely trusted assets, ensuring an easy experience for beginners.

Lykke adheres to KYC and AML compliance for secure transactions, though this can make registration more time-consuming. However, once verified, users benefit from fee-free deposits and withdrawals, making it highly cost-effective.

The platform is a strong option for those seeking a simple, secure, and budget-friendly environment to start their crypto journey. Lykke’s iOS and Android apps provide convenient, on-the-go access, allowing users to track balances, check transaction history, and make exchanges effortlessly.

Moreover, with 24/7 customer support, assistance is always available for any inquiries or issues, further enhancing the user experience.

Paybis

Beginner-friendly interface: Yes

Minimum purchase limit: Varies by currency and payment method

Maximum purchase limit: Varies by currency and payment method

Supported assets: 89+

Fiat purchases: Yes

KYC verification: Verification is required to get full access for all types of currencies

24/7 customer support: Yes

Mobile application for iOS and Android: Yes

Though Paybis doesn't offer crypto-to-crypto exchange options, crypto newbies can rely on its fiat-to-crypto capabilities. The platform allows users to purchase over 89 digital assets with a variety of fiat currencies. Users can deposit funds via credit or debit cards, PayPal, Revolut Pay, and SWIFT bank transfers.

Paybis requires KYC for full access, ensuring security and regulatory compliance. The platform makes onboarding swift, with registration typically taking less than five minutes, although verification may occasionally take up to 24 hours.

The service offers a low minimum purchase limit of $5 for Bitcoin, with verified accounts accommodating daily and monthly limits of up to $20,000 and $50,000 respectively. Note that ETH, ERC-20 tokens, and DOT have a separate minimum transaction limit of $10.

With transparent fees and 24/7 customer support, Paybis ensures users are well-informed and supported throughout their crypto journey. Its mobile apps for iOS and Android provide seamless fiat purchases on the go.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve covered the best crypto exchanges for beginners, the choice is yours. Each platform offers unique strengths tailored to newcomers in the crypto space.

ChangeNOW and StealthEX impress with their fast, seamless, and limitless swaps, while Swapzone simplifies comparison shopping. Changelly and SimpleSwap prioritize flexibility, offering versatile rate options. Meanwhile, Paybis and Lykke excel in fiat-to-crypto transactions, emphasizing transparency and security.

However, for a feature-rich experience, we recommend taking a closer look at ChangeNOW, as detailed in our previous review.