Best Place to Buy Ethereum in the UK (2023)

I remember when I first bought Ethereum (ETH), it was overwhelming and I felt out of my depth.

If you’re feeling this way or you’re looking for the best place to buy Ethereum, this guide is for you.

I will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can securely purchase ETF with confidence.

I’ll cover key aspects like selecting the right exchange, payment methods, and security precautions.

Quick answer: how to buy Ethereum in the UK? To buy Ethereum in the UK, start by registering on a cryptocurrency exchange that lists ETH and accepts UK customers. Complete the required identity verification, then deposit GBP via bank transfer, credit card, or other supported methods. Once your account is funded, you can buy Ethereum through the exchange’s trading platform.

How to Buy Ethereum UK

You can buy Ethereum in the UK from crypto exchanges such as eToro, Uphold, and Coinbase.

If you’re wondering how to invest in Ethereum for the first time, the following five steps can get you started:

1. Choose your investment strategy
2. Select a cryptocurrency exchange
3. Explore storage and digital wallet options
4. Decide how much to invest
5. Manage your investments

What is the current price of Ethereum?

The current live price of Ethereum (ETH) in GBP and its price over the last 30 days:

Best Place to Buy Ethereum Compared for UK Investors

Here I’ve compared the best sites to purchase Ethereum in the UK based on four key factors you must consider and compare:

Rank	Crypto exchange	Fees to Buy Ethereum	Deposit fees	Number of Crypto	GBP Deposit Methods
1	eToro	1% + market spread	0.5%	90+	Bank transfer, debit card, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money
2	Uphold	1% trading fee & 1% spread fee	Debit card fee of 3.99%	250+	Bank transfer (ACH), debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay
3	Coinbase	1% commission + 0.5% spread fee	Debit card fee of 3.99%	250+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, PayPal
4	Kraken	From 0.26%	£1 fee on bank transfers	230+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SWIFT
5	Revolut	1.49%	2.5%	80+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SWIFT

Where to Buy Ethereum UK? Reviews of the Best Places

Crypto is moving fast in the UK, here are some statistics that highlight the movement.

• As of 2023, nearly 4.97 million people in the UK hold some form of crypto asset, which is nearly 10% of the population¹.
• The revenue in the cryptocurrency market in the UK is projected to reach US$1.89bn in 2023, with an annual growth rate of 18.84%².
• Almost 500 businesses in the UK accept cryptocurrency as a payment method³.

As you can see, crypto and Ethereum are gaining traction in the UK and reshaping the financial scene daily⁴.

The complexities put many people off, but I’m here to shine some light on it and help UK investors choose the best way to buy Ethereum for them.

Having worked in the retail investment & crypto sector in London over the last four years, I had the opportunity to experience the rise in cryptocurrency first-hand.

Additionally, in my role working for one of the UK’s leading financial companies, “a trustworthy and respected provider of news, education and market analysis for the everyday investor”, I was able to work with and test some of the biggest cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms on the market.

Using my experience in this field, I’ve compiled a list of the best places to invest in Ethereum based on four key criteria:

1. Fees to buy Ethereum (as a base fee)
2. Deposit fees
3. Number of cryptos available
4. GBP deposit methods

Factors such as usability, education materials, and additional features were also considered.

All the platforms I’ve reviewed below are regulated by the UK’s financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and have apps available on Android and iOS.

1. eToro – Overall best place to buy Ethereum UK

Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.

eToro stands out as an excellent choice for buying Ethereum in the UK. Its platform is intuitive, creating an engaging trading experience reminiscent of a dynamic trading floor.

As a social trading and investment platform, eToro offers the ability to purchase, sell, and trade various cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum.

It operates under the regulation of the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring a secure environment for your investments.

A standout feature of eToro is the CopyTrader tool. This innovative feature enables you to mirror the trading strategies of successful traders, offering insights and potential for more profitable trades.

Moreover, eToro provides a variety of payment methods, such as bank transfers, debit cards, and e-wallets. This flexibility makes it convenient for users to deposit funds and start trading Ethereum.

For those in the UK seeking a trustworthy and user-friendly platform to invest in Ethereum, eToro is a top recommendation.

Finally, it’s worth noting that as of 2023, eToro announced that they reached 30 million registered users worldwide⁵.

On top of this, they have an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot (which is quite rare for crypto exchanges), with over 18,000 reviews.

Read my complete eToro review.

Key rating criteria:

Fees to buy Ethereum	Deposit fees	Number of crypto	GBP deposit methods
1% + market spread	0.5%	90+	Bank transfer, debit card, Neteller, Skrill, eToro Money

2. Uphold – Best ETH exchange for a large selection of other altcoins

Uphold is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for buying Ethereum in the UK.

The platform streamlines the purchase of Ethereum, supporting various payment methods like bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and even other cryptocurrencies. This flexibility makes it hassle-free for UK residents to start investing in Ethereum.

A notable aspect of Uphold is its competitive fee structure, offering some of the lowest fees in the industry for Ethereum purchases.

Security is a top priority at Uphold, with transactions processed through secure gateways and robust multi-layered security measures protecting users’ personal information and funds.

Uphold’s established reputation as a trustworthy platform is backed by its history of efficient and reliable service to its users.

Overall, for those in the UK seeking a straightforward and secure platform to buy Ethereum, Uphold is an excellent choice.

Read my complete Uphold review.

Key rating criteria:

Fees to buy Ethereum	Deposit fees	Number of crypto	GBP deposit methods
1% trading fee & 1% spread fee	Debit card fee of 3.99%	250+	Bank transfer (ACH), debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay

3. Coinbase – Beginner-friendly place to buy Ethereum in the UK

Coinbase is an excellent platform for buying Ethereum in the UK, offering a range of features to enhance your investment experience.

The platform allows you to set price alerts for Ethereum, enabling timely and informed buying or selling decisions.

Coinbase is also known for its robust security measures. It incorporates two-factor authentication and cold storage solutions to safeguard your investments against potential cyber threats.

Furthermore, Coinbase takes an extra step in securing your assets by providing insurance coverage for user funds, giving an additional safety net for your Ethereum holdings.

In summary, Coinbase presents a user-friendly and secure environment for purchasing, selling, and storing Ethereum in the UK.

Read my complete Coinbase review.

Key rating criteria:

Fees to buy Ethereum	Deposit fees	Number of crypto	GBP deposit methods
1% commission + 0.5% spread fee	Debit card fee of 3.99%	250+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, PayPal

4. Kraken – Cheapest way to buy Ethereum UK

Kraken emerges as a formidable choice for buying Ethereum in the UK, catering to both frequent traders and beginners.

Established shortly after Bitcoin’s creation, Kraken offers a vast selection of 237 cryptocurrencies.

It’s known for user-friendly mobile apps, comprehensive educational resources, and continuous customer support, ensuring a smooth trading experience for newcomers.

For the more advanced, Kraken Pro delivers an all-encompassing trading interface with low fees, high liquidity, and robust risk management tools.

The exchange’s fees are competitive, ranging from 0.16% to 2%, positioning it as one of the most cost-effective options for active traders.

Kraken also rewards users who stake their cryptocurrencies, with potential annual earnings of up to 24%, though this is variable. Transparency is a key aspect of Kraken, with regular proof of reserves audits providing users assurance of asset backing.

Opening an account with Kraken is free, with a minimum first trade value of $10. Fees are scaled based on order size and type, making it accessible for various trading strategies and volumes.

Overall, Kraken stands out for its blend of accessibility for beginners and depth for experts, backed by strong security and clear fee structures.

Key rating criteria:

Fees to buy Ethereum	Deposit fees	Number of crypto	GBP deposit methods
From 0.26%	£1 fee on bank transfers	230+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SWIFT

5. Revolut – Best if you want your mobile banking & Ethereum in one place

Revolut offers a seamless choice for buying Ethereum in the UK, particularly for those who value the convenience of managing banking and cryptocurrency from a single app.

This British fintech company has integrated a crypto exchange feature into its online banking app, offering the ability to buy, hold, and sell an array of 80 cryptocurrencies swiftly.

With Revolut, once you’ve set up your account and added funds, you can start investing in cryptocurrencies immediately.

Though its fees may be higher than specialised crypto exchanges, the ease of use could justify the cost for users who prefer an all-in-one financial solution.

Revolut also offers additional perks such as sending crypto to friends, staking options with competitive APYs, earning free tokens through quizzes, making payments with crypto via your card, and rounding up transactions to invest spare change into crypto.

For those prioritising a user-friendly platform that simplifies the Ethereum investment process, Revolut presents a compelling choice.

Read my complete Revolut review.

Key rating criteria:

Fees to buy Bitcoin	Deposit fees	Number of crypto	GBP deposit methods
1.49%	2.5%	80+	Bank transfer, credit card, cryptocurrency, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SWIFT

How to Buy Ethereum UK – Step-by-Step Guide

To buy Ethereum, follow these general steps:

1. Choose a Cryptocurrency Exchange: Select a reputable cryptocurrency exchange that supports Ethereum. Some popular exchanges include eToro, Uphold, and Coinbase.
2. Create an Account: Sign up for an account on the chosen exchange. Provide the required information and complete any necessary verification process.
3. Fund Your Account: Deposit funds into your exchange account. Most exchanges accept fiat currencies like USD, EUR, or GBP. Alternatively, you can deposit other cryptocurrencies to trade for Ethereum.
4. Place an Order: Once your account is funded, navigate to the trading section and search for Ethereum. Choose the trading pair that matches the currency you deposited. Common pairs include ETH/USD, ETH/GBP, or ETH/BTC.
5. Set the Order Details: Specify whether you want to buy Ethereum at the current market price (market order) or a specific price (limit order). Enter the amount of Ethereum you wish to purchase.
6. Review and Confirm: Double-check the order details, including the amount and price. Confirm the order and wait for it to be executed.
7. Securely Store Your Ethereum: After your purchase is complete, consider transferring your Ethereum to a personal wallet for enhanced security. Wallet options include hardware wallets, software wallets, or online wallets.

Remember to conduct thorough research, compare fees, and consider the security measures of the chosen exchange before making your purchase.

Stay vigilant against phishing attempts and use strong security practices to protect your account and assets.

What Is Ethereum?

Ethereum is a decentralised, open-source blockchain platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts and decentralised applications (DApps).

It was proposed by Vitalik Buterin in 2013 and launched in 2015.

Unlike Bitcoin, which primarily serves as a digital currency, Ethereum is designed as a programmable platform. Its native cryptocurrency is called Ether (ETH), and it acts as a means of value exchange within the Ethereum network.

Ethereum’s distinguishing feature is its ability to support smart contracts. These are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into the code.

Smart contracts eliminate the need for intermediaries and allow for trustless and transparent execution of agreements.

Developers can leverage Ethereum’s platform to build and deploy decentralised applications, ranging from decentralised finance (DeFi) protocols and tokenised assets to gaming and decentralised exchanges.

Ethereum’s vast ecosystem and large developer community have contributed to its widespread adoption and influence in the blockchain space.

Additionally, Ethereum has undergone significant upgrades, with the most notable being Ethereum 2.0.

This upgrade aims to improve scalability, security, and sustainability by transitioning the network from a proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism to a more energy-efficient proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

Overall, Ethereum plays a vital role in driving innovation in blockchain technology, offering a versatile platform for the creation of decentralised applications and the execution of smart contracts.

Here’s a video guide that goes into more detail about what Ethereum is:

How Does Ethereum Work?

Ethereum operates as a decentralised, programmable blockchain platform.

It employs a combination of innovative technologies and protocols to facilitate its functioning.

Here’s a simplified overview of how Ethereum works:

1. Blockchain Infrastructure: Ethereum operates on a distributed network of computers, known as nodes, that collectively maintain a decentralised ledger called the blockchain. This blockchain contains a record of all transactions and smart contracts executed on the Ethereum network.
2. Smart Contracts: Ethereum’s key feature is its ability to execute smart contracts. Smart contracts are self-executing agreements with the terms written in code. They automatically execute actions and transactions when predefined conditions are met. Smart contracts enable trustless and transparent interactions without the need for intermediaries.
3. Ether (ETH): Ethereum has its native cryptocurrency called Ether (ETH). It serves multiple purposes within the Ethereum network, including compensating participants for computational efforts (mining or validating transactions) and as a means of exchange for value transfer.
4. Gas and Transaction Fees: To prevent abuse and prioritise network resources, Ethereum utilises a concept called gas. Gas is a unit that measures the computational effort required to execute operations or smart contracts on the network. Each operation has a gas cost associated with it. Users must pay transaction fees in Ether to cover the gas cost of their operations.
5. Consensus Mechanism: Ethereum currently operates on a proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism. Miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems, and the first miner to find a valid solution adds a new block of transactions to the blockchain. However, Ethereum is transitioning to a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, known as Ethereum 2.0, where validators are chosen to create new blocks based on the amount of Ether they hold and are willing to “stake” as collateral.
6. Decentralised Applications (DApps): Ethereum allows developers to build decentralised applications (DApps) on its platform. These DApps leverage smart contracts and interact with the Ethereum blockchain, enabling a wide range of use cases such as decentralised finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), gaming, and more.

By combining these elements, Ethereum creates a decentralised platform for the execution of smart contracts and the development of innovative decentralised applications, revolutionising various industries by introducing trust, transparency, and programmability to digital interactions.

Commonly Asked Questions About Ethereum

What is Ethereum 2.0?

Ethereum 2.0, or ETH 2.0, is a major upgrade to the Ethereum blockchain. It replaces the current energy-intensive proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism with a more efficient proof-of-stake (PoS) mechanism.

Ethereum 2.0 introduces shard chains for increased scalability, a Beacon Chain for coordination, and incorporates improvements like EIP-1559. This upgrade aims to enhance scalability, security, and sustainability, enabling Ethereum to support more transactions and decentralised applications (DApps).

What is staking?

Staking in the context of Ethereum refers to the process of participating in the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade by holding and locking up Ether (ETH) as collateral to support the network’s security and consensus.

Validators stake their ETH to earn rewards and help secure the Ethereum network through the proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

Will Ethereum overtake Bitcoin?

It is uncertain whether Ethereum will surpass Bitcoin in terms of market capitalisation or dominance. Both cryptocurrencies serve different purposes and have their unique strengths within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. The future outcome and dominance of each cryptocurrency are influenced by various factors and remain unpredictable.

Is Ethereum a good investment?

Whether Ethereum is a good investment depends on various factors, including individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions.

Ethereum has shown significant growth and has gained attention due to its widespread adoption, development activity, and the potential for decentralised applications (DApps) built on its platform.

It has also experienced price volatility, as is common in the cryptocurrency market.

Before considering any investment, it is important to conduct thorough research, understand the underlying technology, and evaluate the potential risks and rewards associated with investing in Ethereum or any other cryptocurrency.

Can I buy ETH with GBP?

Yes, it is possible to buy Ethereum (ETH) with GBP (British Pound). There are several ways to do this:

1. Cryptocurrency Exchanges: Many reputable cryptocurrency exchanges allow you to trade GBP for Ethereum. You can create an account on a cryptocurrency exchange that supports GBP deposits and withdrawals, complete any necessary verification processes, and then proceed to buy Ethereum using your GBP funds.
2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Trading Platforms: P2P platforms facilitate direct transactions between buyers and sellers. You can find individuals willing to sell Ethereum in exchange for GBP and arrange the transaction accordingly.
3. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Desks: OTC desks specialise in handling large cryptocurrency transactions. They can assist you in buying Ethereum with GBP, especially for larger trades that may require personalised assistance and support.

When using any of these methods, it’s essential to research and choose a reputable platform or service provider.

Consider factors such as fees, security measures, liquidity, and user reviews to ensure a reliable and trustworthy transaction.

What is the best way to purchase Ethereum?

To buy Ethereum, first select a suitable crypto exchange. Then follow the steps below:

1. Register an account
2. Deposit your fiat currencies using a bank transfer, debit/credit card, or e-wallet
3. Search for ETH
4. Select ‘Trade’
5. Enter the amount of Ethereum you want to buy
6. Confirm your order

What is ETH trading?

ETH trading refers to the buying and selling of Ethereum (ETH) on various cryptocurrency exchanges or trading platforms.

It involves speculating on the price movements of Ethereum to make a profit from the price fluctuations.

ETH trading can be done through different types of trading strategies, including short-term trading (day trading or scalping) or long-term investing.

Traders may use technical analysis, chart patterns, and market indicators to identify potential entry and exit points for their trades.

Trading ETH allows individuals to take advantage of the price volatility of Ethereum and potentially generate profits based on their market predictions.

It is important to note that trading cryptocurrencies, including ETH, carries risks due to the volatile nature of the market.

It is advisable to educate yourself about trading strategies, manage risks, and consider the advice of financial professionals before engaging in ETH trading.

What happens after I buy Ethereum?

After you buy Ethereum, several things can happen depending on your intentions and actions:

Holding: You can choose to hold onto your Ethereum as an investment, expecting its value to potentially increase over time. By securely storing your Ethereum in a cryptocurrency wallet, you can monitor its price movements and decide when to sell or use it for other purposes.

Trading: If you’re interested in actively trading Ethereum, you can use cryptocurrency exchanges or trading platforms to take advantage of price fluctuations. Traders aim to profit from short-term price movements by buying low and selling high. This involves monitoring the market, analysing charts, and implementing trading strategies.

Using Ethereum: Ethereum is more than just a cryptocurrency; it’s a decentralised platform that enables the creation of smart contracts and decentralised applications (DApps). You can use your Ethereum to interact with DApps, participate in decentralised finance (DeFi) protocols, or access various services and applications within the Ethereum ecosystem.

Transferring or Sending: Ethereum can be sent or transferred to other individuals or addresses. If you need to make a payment or send Ethereum to someone else, you can initiate a transaction by specifying the recipient’s Ethereum address and the amount you want to send.

Remember, it’s essential to ensure the security of your Ethereum by using reputable wallets, following best practices for storing private keys, and staying informed about potential security risks or scams in the cryptocurrency space.

Is Ethereum legal in the UK?

Yes, Ethereum (ETH) and other cryptocurrencies are legal in the UK. The UK government recognises cryptocurrencies as property, and they are subject to existing laws and regulations.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the regulatory body responsible for overseeing financial activities in the UK, has implemented regulations to combat money laundering and ensure consumer protection in the cryptocurrency space.

Cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers in the UK must comply with these regulations, including Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements.

It’s important to note that the legal status and regulatory environment surrounding cryptocurrencies can vary from country to country.

While cryptocurrencies are legal in the UK, it’s advisable to stay updated on any changes in regulations and consult with legal and financial professionals for specific guidance related to your situation.

Is Ethereum taxed in the UK?

Yes, Ethereum (ETH) and other cryptocurrencies are subject to taxation in the UK.

The tax treatment of Ethereum follows the guidelines provided by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the UK’s tax authority.

In general, the tax obligations related to Ethereum in the UK can include the following:

1. Capital Gains Tax (CGT): If you dispose of Ethereum by selling, exchanging, or gifting it, you may be liable for capital gains tax on any profits made. The taxable amount is typically calculated as the difference between the acquisition cost (purchase price) and the disposal proceeds (sale price).
2. Income Tax: If you receive Ethereum as payment for goods or services, it may be subject to income tax. The value of the Ethereum received will be included as part of your taxable income.
3. Mining and Staking: If you mine or stake Ethereum, the value of the newly acquired coins may be considered taxable income at the time of receipt.

It’s important to keep detailed records of your Ethereum transactions, including acquisition costs, sale proceeds, and dates of transactions.

This information will be necessary for accurate tax reporting.

Consulting with a tax professional or accountant who is familiar with cryptocurrency taxation in the UK is recommended to ensure compliance with tax regulations and reporting requirements.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing Ethereum in the UK is straightforward with platforms like eToro, Uphold, and Coinbase, each offering unique features like strong security, social trading, and competitive fees.

When selecting a platform, consider factors such as security, fees, and ease of use.

With careful research and a clear investment strategy, buying Ethereum in the UK can be both convenient and potentially rewarding.

FAQs

1. https://www.fca.org.uk/publication/research-notes/research-note-cryptoasset-consumer-research-2023-wave4.pdf ↩︎
2. https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/fintech/digital-assets/cryptocurrencies/united-kingdom ↩︎
3. https://uk.style.yahoo.com/most-popular-cryptocurrency-2021-uk-093057693.html ↩︎
4. https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/study-highlights-growing-significance-of-cryptocurrencies ↩︎
5. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1262787/etoro-registered-users/ ↩︎

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