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Gemini Review 2025: Features, Fees, and Security Explained
Gemini is a leading cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2014 by the Winklevoss twins — best known for their early involvement in Bitcoin and their portrayal in 2010 film, The Social Network (2010), about the origins of Facebook.
Gemini exchange is one of the best crypto exchanges around. It has earned a reputation as a trusted, transparent, and reliable trading platform. Find out more in this in-depth review:
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Why Gemini Exchange Stands Out
- A trusted, and secure cryptocurrency exchange
- Gemini is a New York trust company regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS).
- Gemini Derivatives offers customers a trusted venue to trade derivatives.
- The world’s first SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certified crypto exchange and custodian
- Multiple product offerings: The Gemini Credit Card®, Gemini Staking*, Gemini ActiveTrader, Gemini Derivatives**
Pros
Industry-leading security with cold storage and multiple certifications
Available in all 50 US states and over 60 countries
User-friendly interface suitable for beginners and advanced traders
Advanced trading tools with ActiveTrader platform integration
Insurance protection for digital assets and uninvested cash
Cons
High trading and deposit fees compared to competitors
Limited selection of cryptocurrencies (around 70–80)
No user control over private keys; custodial wallet only
Customer support is limited to email and chat; no phone support
Staking and crypto-to-crypto trading options are limited
Gemini at a Glance
Notable Features
User-friendly interface, recurring buys, Gemini Earn for interest, staking, advanced ActiveTrader platform, Gemini Mobile, Pay, Institutional, and a crypto rewards credit card
Fees
Instant buy: 1.49% (orders over $200) + 0.50% convenience fee. ActiveTrader: 0.40% taker / 0.20% maker (lower with higher volume). ACH/wire/crypto deposits: free; debit card: 3.99%
Cryptocurrencies
70+
Security Features
SOC 1 & SOC 2 Type 2 certified, ISO 27001, annual penetration testing, required 2FA, hardware security key support, address allowlisting
KYC Requirements
Full legal name, date of birth, address, phone, email, SSN (US), plus photo ID; proof of address for some users
Maximum Daily Deposit Amount
No maximum for ACH, wire, or crypto deposits for most users; debit card and PayPal deposits are limited to $1,000 per day
Get Started
In-depth Details: What’s to Like and What You Should Know
Gemini is known for its rigorous regulatory standards and strong focus on security. They operate globally and are recognized as one of the safest crypto exchanges, praised for their transparency and user-centric approach. For the more advanced user, they offer ActiveTrader, a more sophisticated platform, which is more modern. It features a deep order book, more trading opportunities, and a whole host of progressive tools.
💡 Quick tip from us: ActiveTrader is definitely not for beginners. If you’re new to crypto, we’d advise you to start off with the standard platform.
History and Background
Gemini officially launched in 2015, to address the need for a secure, compliant cryptocurrency exchange in the United States. The platform quickly expanded internationally, offering services in over 60 countries.
Notable milestones include the introduction of the first daily bitcoin auction and the launch of the Gemini dollar (GUSD), a fully regulated stablecoin. Gemini holds a New York trust license and multiple global licenses – additionally, it undergoes regular audits and bank examinations.
Safety and Security
It’s safe to say, Gemini is an industry leader in safety and security standards, making it a trusted platform for crypto investors. This exchange combines robust regulatory compliance with advanced technical protection, and that goes for the standard platform and ActiveTrader. On top of the regular independent audits, they maintain strict operational protocols to protect your assets and data.
Here are some of the things that caught my eye:
- Cold storage safeguarding: Most user assets are stored offline in secure cold wallets.
- Insurance coverage: Hot wallet assets are insured against theft and cyberattacks.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Required for all users, with hardware security key support.
- SOC 1 & SOC 2 Type 2 certifications: Regular third-party audits and penetration testing.
- Device and IP approval: New devices and IPs require explicit user approval.
- Regulatory oversight: Operates as a New York trust company under strict regulatory standards.
My Overview: I really appreciate how Gemini is serious about security. You can restrict access to your information, so your crypto can only be withdrawn to wallets you’ve personally approved. I love having that peace of mind.
Special features
This exchange provides a suite of unique products and tools for everyday users and advanced traders. You can stake popular coins like Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon directly on the platform, with yields that adjust based on network conditions. Recent rates have ranged from 0.6% to 2.6% APY. They also offer the Gemini Mastercard crypto credit card, which allows you to earn crypto with every purchase. Users can also enjoy Gemini Pay, so you can spend crypto at participating retailers. For NFT enthusiasts, Gemini owns Nifty Gateway, a dedicated NFT marketplace.
Advanced traders can take advantage of Gemini’s ActiveTrader platform, which features high-speed execution, customizable layouts, advanced charting, and access to over 300 trading pairs and crypto derivatives (outside the US). The Gemini Dollar (GUSD) is their own US dollar-backed stablecoin, providing a regulated, transparent option for stablecoin trading and DeFi
Usability
I found Gemini’s interface clean and intuitive, whether you’re using the web platform or the mobile app. Switching between the basic and advanced trading modes is seamless. Features like price alerts and recurring buys make it easy to automate your investing habits.
Customer support
Gemini provides support via email, online forms, and a chatbot on their website. While there is a phone number for credit card support, most exchange-related issues are handled through email or the support portal, and response times can be slow. Some users report waiting days for a reply. The self-help resources on the site are helpful for common questions, but reaching a real person for urgent matters can be challenging.
Other useful features you should know about
Gemini has packed its platform with unique features that make it an attractive option for many people. Here are some standout offerings that caught my attention:
- Gemini Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android, the app mirrors the desktop platform, enabling you to trade, set price alerts, and manage your portfolio on the go. The mobile experience is smooth and intuitive, with real-time market data and customizable notifications.
- Gemini Pay: This feature lets you spend your crypto directly at participating retailers.
- Gemini Credit Card: Earn crypto rewards on every purchase, automatically deposited into your Gemini account. It’s an easy way to grow your portfolio while you shop.
- Gemini Dollar (GUSD): A fully regulated, US dollar-backed stablecoin, GUSD provides transparency and stability for trading, earning, or DeFi activities.
- Gemini Earn and Staking: Earn interest or staking rewards on supported assets like Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon.
- Nifty Gateway: Gemini’s NFT marketplace, acquired in 2019, enables you to buy, sell, and explore NFTs.
- Cryptopedia: Gemini’s educational hub, with hundreds of articles covering crypto basics, security, and advanced trading strategies
- Customizable Alerts: Set up personalized notifications for price movements or portfolio changes, so you never miss an opportunity.
Gemini ActiveTrader: For the Serious Trader
Gemini’s ActiveTrader platform is purpose-built for experienced crypto traders who need advanced functionality and a professional trading environment.
ActiveTrader provides high-speed trade execution, modern charting tools, you can enjoy TradingView integration, and a deep order book. This platform allows you access to over 300 trading pairs, including spot and derivatives markets (dependent on your location, check availability beforehand). You can also leverage up to 100x on perpetual futures in select jurisdictions.
This platform supports sophisticated order types, like market, limit, stop-limit, immediate-or-cancel (IOC), fill-or-kill (FOK), and maker-or-cancel (MOC) orders, so you’ll always have granular control over your trading strategies. The Dual Markets feature enables you to monitor and trade two markets simultaneously.
A key advantage is the dynamic maker-taker fee model, which actually has lower fees than Gemini’s basic interface. Fees start at 0.20% (maker) and 0.40% (taker), and drop with higher trading volumes. Customizable dashboards, real-time price tickers, and access to APIs make ActiveTrader is an exceptional tool for anyone who wants to do more than just buy and sell orders.
Key differences between Gemini Basic and ActiveTrader:
The True Cost of Trading on This Exchange
Gemini’s fee structure can be a bit complex at first glance, with different rates depending on how and where you trade. Instant buy and sell orders on the mobile app or basic web platform come with a 0.50% convenience fee, plus a transaction fee that ranges from $0.99 (for trades under $10) to 1.49% (for trades over $200). Crypto-to-crypto conversions are also charged at 1.49%.
Gemini’s ActiveTrader platform uses a tiered maker-taker fee model. Stablecoin-to-USD pairs enjoy lower fees, with just a 0.01% taker fee and no maker fee.
Deposits via ACH are free. Debit or credit card deposits incur a 3.99% fee. Most crypto withdrawals are free up to a certain limit, but debit card withdrawals have a 1.75% fee. For staking, Gemini takes a 15% cut of any rewards earned.
Gemini’s instant buy fees are higher than some competitors, but the platform offers much lower fees for high-volume traders and people using the ActiveTrader interface.
The tiered maker-taker fee structure on Gemini applies specifically to orders placed via the ActiveTrader interface (on both web and mobile) and to limit orders on the basic platform.
Stablecoin pairs (e.g., USDC/USD, DAI/USD, USDT/USD, GUSD/SGD, GUSD/GBP) have a fixed fee at all tiers:
- Maker Fee: 0.00%
- Taker Fee: 0.01%
Fees are recalculated daily based on your trailing 30-day trading volume.
Does Gemini charge a monthly fee?
Gemini does not charge a monthly fee for standard accounts or trading on its platform. There is no subscription or recurring fee required to use Gemini’s basic or ActiveTrader services. All costs are transaction-based, such as trading fees or deposit/withdrawal fees. Users only pay fees when they make trades, deposits, or withdrawals.
What Can You Buy on Gemini?
Gemini enables the purchase of a wide selection of cryptocurrencies. All the major assets, like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, are supported. You’ll also find popular stablecoins like Gemini Dollar (GUSD) and USD Coin (USDC), and trending tokens like Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, and Avalanche. Gemini frequently adds new assets, giving you access to both established and up-and-coming coins.
How To Set Up a Gemini Exchange Account
If you want to try out Gemini for yourself, here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the Gemini website or download the Gemini app and click on “Get Started” or “Sign Up”.
- Enter your full name, email address, and create a strong password.
- Agree to the terms and conditions and complete the CAPTCHA if prompted.
- Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox.
- Provide your personal information, including date of birth and residential address, as required by regulations.
- Complete identity verification (KYC) by uploading a government-issued ID and, if requested, a selfie for additional security.
- Link a payment method like a bank account or crypto wallet to fund your account.
- Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for enhanced account security.
- Start trading!
Once you’ve completed these steps and your identity is verified, you can begin buying, selling, and trading crypto on Gemini. Verification times may vary, but you should be able to access the platform soon after submitting your documents.
Why You Should Trust CryptoVantage: How I Reviewed Gemini
The CryptoVantage methodology for rating the best crypto exchanges on the market incorporates different aspects of the digital asset trading experience. Some of the things we look at include:
- Trade volumes and asset availability
- Trading features and tools
- Security
- Transparency, reputation and support
- Fees and added costs
- Ease of use
Gemini Alternatives
Gemini is a solid crypto exchange, but it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. If you’re interested in seeing how Gemini compares to other popular platforms, check out our in-depth comparison articles:
Final Thoughts: Is Gemini Worth It?
Gemini is one of the first exchanges I mention when someone asks for a secure and trustworthy place to start with crypto. If you value peace of mind, transparent operations, and a platform that puts safety first, Gemini is a great choice. With features like staking, a crypto rewards card, and access to NFTs, Gemini offers more than basic trading if you want to expand your crypto experience.
FAQs
Gemini is widely regarded as a secure and compliant exchange, with strong security protocols. Gemini crypto exchange has, however, faced regulatory and legal challenges, including a major data breach in 2022 and lawsuits related to its now-defunct Earn program. Gemini is a licensed and regulated entity with insurance on digital assets, but customer service and withdrawal issues have been reported. Overall, Gemini is considered trustworthy for security and compliance, but you should be aware of its mixed customer feedback.
Gemini and Coinbase both rank among the top US crypto exchanges, but each has strengths and weaknesses. Gemini is known for its security, regulatory compliance, and lower fees on its ActiveTrader platform. Coinbase offers a wider selection of cryptocurrencies, a more intuitive interface for beginners, and a broader global reach. Gemini may appeal more to people who prioritize security and advanced trading tools. Coinbase could be preferred for its ease of use and broader crypto selection. Ultimately, which is “better” depends on your priorities.
Yes, Gemini is fully legal and regulated in the United States. It operates as a licensed trust company under the New York State Department of Financial Services and is available in all 50 states.
Gemini’s withdrawal fees depend on the method and asset:
- ACH (bank transfer): Free.
- Wire transfer: $25 per withdrawal.
- Crypto withdrawals: Fees are dynamic and reflect current network (miner) fees for each blockchain.
- Debit card withdrawals: 1.75% fee.
You get 10 free crypto withdrawals per month; after that, standard network fees apply. Always check the withdrawal page for the most current fee before making a transaction, as fees can fluctuate with network activity.
