Top 7 Most Trusted Crypto Exchanges in 2026

There is no definitive count of active cryptocurrency exchanges. Estimates generally range from around 200 to as many as 2,000 platforms. This wide variation stems from differences in how exchanges are defined and categorized. Some classifications distinguish between centralized and decentralized exchanges, while others are based on activity levels, such as high-volume platforms versus newer or less active ones. Additional factors—including liquidity, user traffic, trading volume, and the types of assets offered—are also commonly used to identify and classify platforms considered to be exchanges.

One of the most important parameters for understanding which exchange is best suited for your needs is the trustworthiness of exchanges in the space. Here is our list of the top 7 most trusted crypto exchanges of 2026: 

1. Binance

Binance is one of the world’s largest exchanges by volume and liquidity. It was launched in 2017 and has ultra-deep liquidity, spot & futures trading, staking, NFTs, and a Launchpad ecosystem. The platform has something for everyone, including high-volume traders, institutions, and users looking for a holistic crypto experience. 

The platform also offers P2P markets, fiat-to-crypto rails, and lending products. There are more than 300+ million registered users in 180+ countries. Binance also has an Academy that provides educational content and community programs for beginner and advanced traders. Security is an important part of the Binance ecosystem; they use 2-FA and advanced encryption along with anti-phishing mechanisms. 

2. ChangeNOW

ChangeNOW is a non-custodial cryptocurrency exchange that has been active since 2017. Withsupport for over 1,500+ cryptocurrencies, 70+ fiat currencies, and 110+ blockchains, users can make swaps in a matter of seconds. The platform is non-custodial, and users have full control over their funds. They also have more than 8 million users worldwide and partner with Guarda, Exodus, Trezor, and Bitcoin.com.

ChangeNOW has both fixed and floating rates and also allows for fast swap, along with an advanced search option for transaction history. They also have a ChangeNOW Pro version, which allows for cashbacks on swaps (starting from 0.1% on each transaction), reduced fees, and unlimited crypto loans.

3. Coinbase

Coinbase was founded in 2012 and has established itself as one of the most popular platforms among crypto users. It started out as a simple Bitcoin trading service and grew into a full-fledged platform offering products and services for both retail and institutional users. 

The platform has spot trading and advanced trading options along with fiat support via bank transfers, cards, and other payment options. There is also a centralised custodial wallet and a non-custodial Coinbase wallet, giving users the option to choose convenience or self-custody. 

4. Kraken

Kraken was founded in 2011 and is one of the oldest exchanges in the world. The platform has built its reputation as a transparent, regulated, and compliant exchange that holds international licenses and registrations across various countries. It offers a wide range of spot trading pairs and supports major fiat currencies as well. 

There are also staking options available for some assets, and advanced tools and APIs are available for advanced users. This includes portfolio analytics, algorithmic trading, recurring buys, and institutional-grade data feeds. Kraken stores the majority of its assets in cold storage facilities, thereby reducing the exposure to online threats. Hot wallets that are used are continuously monitored as well. 

5. Bybit 

Bybit is one of the most prominent exchanges, especially in the derivatives aspect, and was founded in 2018. Initially, the platform gained popularity for its fast-matching engine, minimal downtime, and trader-friendly interface, especially during periods of high market volatility. The platform has more than 30 million users around the world and offers perpetual futures contracts and high-leverage trading along with advanced order types and deep liquidity. 

The Bybit platform offers a Web3 wallet, an NFT marketplace, and an on-chain access layer, showing its shift towards a CeFi-DeFi hybrid participation. The platform has a 2FA and biometric login system and anti-phishing measures. 

6. Bitget

Bitget is an exchange founded in 2018 that has over 25 million users in over 100 countries around the world. It has spot and derivatives trading options along with copy trading, which lets users automatically replicate the trades of experienced traders. There is also an Earn service, which lets users stake and save with both flexible and fixed-term options. 

The platform also has a Web3 wallet, which is non-custodial and enables interactions with decentralized applications. The majority of the user funds are held in multi-signature cold wallets with limited hot-wallet exposure. 

7. Gemini

Gemini is an exchange that started out in 2014 and supports over 70 cryptocurrencies. The spot trading function on the platform caters to both new and experienced traders. There is also an ActiveTrader advanced trading platform that has multiple order types, API access, and real-time charts for advanced traders. The platform also offers fiat on and off ramps for major currencies and a Gemini Custody function that gives secure storage solutions for institutional clients.

To ensure security for accounts, there are various measures in place, 2-FA, withdrawal whitelisting, and hardware security key support are some of them. The exchange also has both mobile and desktop interfaces designed for all kinds of traders. 

Final word

Trust has become the defining factor that separates reputable exchanges from others. Cold-storage, multi-signature wallets, proof-of-reserves reporting, insurance funds, and real-time risk monitoring are some of the factors that determine the industry expectations for exchanges. Additionally, every user needs to do their own research before they choose an exchange that fits their requirements. 

Disclaimer. Readers are encouraged to do their own research. Ambcrypto is not liable for any outcomes related to the use of information, products, or services mentioned. This content may include affiliate or partner links.