Gemini vs. Coinbase: Which is Better in 2025?

Gemini and Coinbase are two of the most reputable cryptocurrency exchanges in 2025. But which platform is the right fit for you? We'll break down the key differences, including fees, security features, and product offerings in this Gemini vs. Coinbase guide.

Key takeaways

• Coinbase offers a larger global user base, more supported assets, and a simpler interface for beginners.

• Gemini maintains a strong reputation for trust and security, but has reduced product offerings in recent years.

• Both platforms support staking, but Coinbase provides more options and higher liquidity.

• For most users, Coinbase is the more robust all-in-one crypto platform in 2025.

Gemini vs. Coinbase: Summary

Coinbase vs. Gemini: An overview

Coinbase and Gemini are two of the most prominent cryptocurrency exchanges in 2025, with distinct strengths and target audiences.

Coinbase

Coinbase was founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong and Fred Ehrsam in San Francisco. The exchange quickly positioned itself as a beginner-friendly gateway to cryptocurrency investing, prioritizing simplicity and regulatory compliance.

Today, Coinbase is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the United States and became the first major crypto platform to go public on the Nasdaq in 2021 under ticker COIN. The platform supports over 338 cryptocurrencies and serves millions of users across 100+ countries.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Extensive cryptocurrency selection with 260+ supported assets

• Extremely beginner-friendly interface with educational resources

• Available in 100+ countries worldwide

• Comprehensive ecosystem including staking, debit card, and institutional services

Cons:

• Higher trading fees on the standard platform

• Complex fee structure that can be confusing for new users

• Customer support response times have faced criticism during high-volume periods

Gemini

Gemini was founded in 2014 by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, known for their early involvement with Facebook and Bitcoin investments. Based in New York, Gemini built its reputation on a compliance-first approach and institutional-grade security measures.

The exchange holds a New York Trust Charter from the NYDFS and completed SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 examinations,  making it one of the most regulated crypto platforms. In September 2025, Gemini went public on the Nasdaq under ticker GEMI. Gemini offers 150+ cryptocurrencies and emphasizes security and professional trading tools.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Lower trading fees on ActiveTrader platform 

• Simple and organized interface for investors

• Professional trading tools with advanced order types and charting

• Institutional-grade custody solutions

Cons:

• Smaller cryptocurrency selection compared to Coinbase

• Higher fees on basic interface 

• Limited crypto staking options 

Gemini vs. Coinbase: Key features

Fees structure

Winner: Gemini 

Fees can significantly impact your trading profitability, especially with frequent transactions.

• Coinbase: Coinbase’s standard platform fees are higher and vary based on the transaction method and size. Coinbase provides a maker/taker structure, ranging from 0.00% to 0.60%.

• Gemini: Gemini's fee structure varies based on the platform used. The standard charges a fee ranging from $0.99 to $2.99 for orders under $200. For orders above $200, Gemini charges 1.49%. However, Gemini's ActiveTrader platform offers a lower fee between 0.00-0.40%. These rates decrease further with higher trading volumes.  

For active traders, Gemini's ActiveTrader platform provides more competitive fees than Coinbase 

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Winner: Coinbase

• Coinbase: Offers over 260 cryptocurrencies, offering a much broader selection for global users. 

• Gemini: Provides over 150 cryptocurrencies, focusing on more established coins and tokens.

If you’re looking to invest in emerging altcoins, Coinbase offers more opportunities.

User Interface

Winner: Coinbase

Coinbase is often recognized as having the most intuitive and beginner-friendly interface in the industry.

• Coinbase: Known for its user-friendly design. It presents a simple dashboard for beginners while seamlessly offering more feature-rich options for serious traders.

• Gemini: Offers a clean, minimalist design that prioritizes security and is easy to navigate. ActiveTrader interface is for advanced traders.

Customer Support

Winner: Tie

Both exchanges offer essential channels but share the industry-wide reputation for sometimes slow response times.

• Coinbase: Provides support via phone, email, and live chat. 

• Gemini: Offers support via email and live chat, often receiving praise for the quality.

Security

Winner: Tie

Both are highly secure. They have top-notch measures, such as hardware security modules and the storage of the majority of customer funds in offline cold storage. Both Coinbase and Gemini support two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometric logins, and undergo regular independent security audits.

• Coinbase: Boasts robust security, storing 98% of customer funds in cold storage and maintaining strong controls. The platform provides FDIC insurance on USD up to $250,000.

• Gemini: Holds the coveted SOC 2 Type 2 certification, validating its compliance with strict data security standards. It also offers insurance on digital assets.

Trust and reputation

Winner: Tie

Reputation plays a crucial role in choosing a cryptocurrency exchange.

• Coinbase: As the largest US-based exchange and a publicly traded company Coinbase has established significant trust. Despite some regulatory challenges, Coinbase remains the most widely trusted cryptocurrency exchange among beginners and institutions alike.

• Gemini: Built its reputation on regulatory compliance and security-first philosophy. The exchange commitment to the highest security standards. However, Gemini's reputation took a hit during the Gemini Earn scandal. 

While both platforms maintain strong reputations, Coinbase edges ahead due to its longer operating history and mainstream financial recognition.

Product offerings and strategy

Winner: Coinbase

Coinbase continues to expand its ecosystem with new products, innovations, and services. Its long-term strategy focuses on building a crypto-powered financial infrastructure for global users.

Coinbase offers:

• Coinbase Advanced

• Coinbase Wallet

• USDC

• Base blockchain

• On-chain payments

• DEX access

• Earn and staking

• Crypto debit card

• Derivatives trading 

Gemini offers:

• ActiveTrading platform

• Crypto Staking

• Earn program (limited availability)
  
  

While Gemini keeps its platform lean, Coinbase is aggressively expanding into on-chain finance, giving users more ways to engage with crypto.

Coinbase vs. Gemini: Which offers better staking rewards?

• Coinbase: Provides more staking options, higher liquidity, and a smoother staking experience for beginners.

• Gemini: supports staking only on a smaller group of assets, and availability varies by region.

Coinbase vs. Gemini: Which offers a better earning opportunity?

Both Gemini and Coinbase provide diverse earning opportunities across staking, rewards cards, and educational programs.

• Coinbase: Offers multiple earning opportunities including Coinbase Earn (learn and earn crypto rewards), staking on assets with APYs up to 15.25%.

• Gemini: Provides staking on assets like ETH and SOL with up to 6% APR. The platform offers crypto credit cards with competitive rewards. However, Gemini lacks an educational earn program comparable to Coinbase Earn.

They offer crypto staking on select cryptocurrencies. For rates, and terms vary by location and are subject to change. Confirm eligibility and staking/unstaking timing before purchasing.

Check out the free crypto profit calculator →

Coinbase vs. Gemini - Which one is better in 2025?

Choosing between Coinbase and Gemini depends on your experience level, trading frequency, and priorities. Both platforms offer robust security, regulatory compliance, and reliable service. Coinbase remains the better choice for beginners and investors seeking diverse cryptocurrency exposure. Gemini appeals to experienced traders who prioritize lower trading costs and advanced tools.

For most investors new to cryptocurrency, Coinbase is recommended due to its intuitive interface, educational resources, and extensive asset selection. However, active traders may find Gemini's ActiveTrader platform more cost-effective for frequent transactions.

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Frequently asked questions:

What's better, Gemini or Coinbase?

Coinbase is better for beginners and investors seeking diverse cryptocurrency options, while Gemini is better for experienced traders who prioritize lower fees and advanced trading tools. Coinbase offers superior ease of use and educational resources, making it ideal for newcomers.

Is Gemini a good crypto exchange?

Yes, Gemini is an excellent cryptocurrency exchange, particularly for security-conscious investors and active traders. The platform holds SOC 2 Type 2 certification and a New York Trust Charter, demonstrating strong regulatory compliance. 

Is my money safe with Gemini?

Gemini maintains institutional-grade security with cold storage for most customer funds, SOC 2 Type 2 certification, and insurance coverage. The exchange has never experienced a major security breach of funds held in exchange accounts, making it one of the safest platforms available.

Does Coinbase use Gemini?

No, Coinbase and Gemini are separate, competing cryptocurrency exchanges. They do not share infrastructure or services. 

Can I transfer from Gemini to Coinbase?

Yes you can transfer your crypto from Gemini to Coinbase or vice-versa. You can choose to withdraw from supported crypto from one platform and send to the deposit address on the same network to another exchange.