Spin the wheel to earn up to $200 in rewards with Coinbase

  • Trade 200+ assets securely
  • Top up without fees with Interac e-Transfer
  • Instant sell & withdraw
  • Simple & secure onboarding flow

Bitbuy, which launched in 2016, is the go-to exchange for Canadians who want to buy and sell crypto with confidence. Known for its strong regulatory compliance, robust security, and user-friendly experience, the exchange makes trading digital assets simple and safe. They provide crypto tools you need to buy, sell, and manage your crypto within a secure, Canadian-regulated environment.

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Pros

  • Regulated and compliant with Canadian laws.

  • Free fiat deposits for all users.

  • Strong security with 95% cold storage.

  • User-friendly interface for easy trading.

  • Transparent and competitive fee structure.

Cons

  • Available only to Canadian residents.

  • Limited selection of cryptocurrencies.

  • No live chat or phone support.

Bitbuy at a Glance

Notable Features

Canadian focus, Express & Pro Trade, intuitive interface, mobile apps, fast KYC.

Fees

0.2%-0.5% trading, free deposits, variable withdrawals.

Cryptocurrencies

25+ supported, including BTC, ETH, LTC, ADA, SOL

Security Features

95% cold storage, mandatory 2FA, routine security audits, insured BTC cold storage.

KYC Requirements

Mandatory ID, selfie, proof of address, instant or manual verification.

Maximum Daily Deposit Amount

Interac e-Transfer: max CAD$10,000/day – Wire Transfer: no maximum (unlimited)

In-depth Details: What’s to Like and What You Should Know

Bitbuy crypto exchange is a straightforward, easy-to-use platform available on both mobile and desktop, ideal for anyone looking to manage cryptocurrencies without hassle. You can buy, sell, stake, and hold more than 25 popular coins, as well as access both standard and advanced trading options.

They provide live order books, fast funding and withdrawals, and well-designed crypto wallet services. For larger trades or specialized needs, they also offer Private Wealth, OTC, and corporate accounts, with dedicated service for high-volume transactions and business clients. Everything is backed by intuitive wallet management, portfolio tracking, and seamless Canadian dollar funding and withdrawals.

History and Background

Bitbuy’s history begins in 2013 when it was founded by Adam Goldman in Toronto, originally under the name InstaBT. The company quickly recognized the growing demand among Canadians for a straightforward and secure way to access cryptocurrencies.

As demand rose, the platform grew its offerings, rebranding to its current name and expanding its services beyond basic Bitcoin transactions to include a broader range of cryptocurrencies and features. In 2021, they became the first crypto platform in Canada to be regulated as both a marketplace and a restricted dealer, marking a significant milestone.

Safety and Security

This is a fully regulated Canadian crypto exchange, registered with the Ontario Securities Commission and compliant with national laws. The platform enforces strict anti-money laundering measures, offers enhanced identity verification, and implements the Travel Rule for secure transactions. They also have very high standards for legal compliance and operational oversight.

Here are some of the things that caught my eye:

  • Cold Storage: 95% of user assets are stored offline.
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Users must enable 2FA with Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator; SMS is not recommended due to SIM swap risks.
  • Identity Verification: Every account must pass enhanced KYC checks.
  • Wallet Architecture: Funds are separated into hot, warm, and cold wallets.
  • Insurance Coverage: Bitcoin holdings in cold storage are insured through a third-party provider.
  • Account Monitoring: Automated systems monitor transactions and withdrawals to detect suspicious activities.
  • KYC/AML Compliance: They enforce Canadian requirements for anti-money laundering and customer identification.
  • Regular Audits: Annual security audits are performed by independent firms such as CipherBlade, with public proof-of-reserves.
  • Travel Rule Implementation: Crypto transfers comply with Canada’s Travel Rule, protecting user data during transactions.

My Overview: This exchange is super easy to use and keeps your crypto safe, perfect if you want a reliable, Canadian platform that actually puts security first.

Special features

Staking is available for a range of coins, enabling you to earn rewards without needing technical expertise. It features instant, commission-free deposits through Interac e-Transfer, and supports quick fiat withdrawals.

They also boast features like auto dollar-cost averaging and handy portfolio tracking tools. Their mobile and desktop apps offer a consistent experience. Additionally, an educational hub provides resources and guides for beginner and advanced traders.

Usability

The platform feels refreshingly straightforward, whether I’m using the mobile app or the desktop version. Buying and selling crypto takes just a few clicks, with clear instructions and an uncluttered interface. Switching between Express and Pro modes is easy, letting me pick the level of detail I want for my trades.

The account dashboard is also well organized, so I can quickly track my portfolio or make deposits and withdrawals without hassle. Overall, this platform keeps my trading experience smooth and intuitive.

Customer support

Support is available through an online contact form and email, providing users with assistance on account issues, deposits, and trading. There’s no live chat or phone support for regular users, but comprehensive help articles and a web support center are available to guide you through platform features and resolve common questions.

They do provide premium support to Private Wealth, OTC, and corporate clients. These users get direct access to dedicated account managers and can speak with live traders by phone during extended business hours.

Mobile Apps

The mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices, offering seamless trading and portfolio management wherever you go. You can buy, sell, stake, and manage over 25 cryptocurrencies, with clear navigation and quick funding in Canadian dollars.

The app includes Express Trade for simple orders and Pro Trade for advanced charting and order types, plus features like dark mode and biometric log in for added convenience. Both Lite and advanced options are integrated for user flexibility.

Other useful features you should know about

  • Auto Dollar-Cost Averaging: Set recurring crypto purchases to build your portfolio automatically over time.
  • Recurring Orders: Schedule regular buy or sell orders for hands-off investing.
  • Portfolio Analytics: View detailed performance metrics and asset breakdowns directly in the app.
  • Price Alerts: Receive notifications when selected cryptocurrencies hit your chosen price levels.
  • Bitbuy Academy: Access tutorials and educational guides for beginner and advanced traders.
  • Transaction Receipts: Download and export your trade history for records and tax purposes.
  • Multiple Fiat Payment Options: Fund your account through Interac e-Transfer, wire transfer, or bank deposit.

Express Trade and Pro Trade

Bitbuy Express Trade offers a simple, beginner-friendly interface for quick and easy buying and selling of crypto, perfect for people who want minimal features and fuss.

The Pro Trade option provides more detailed charting, live order books, and advanced order types like limit and market orders, catering to experienced users who want deeper market analysis and greater control over trades. Both versions are accessible via mobile and desktop apps.

Feature

Express Trade

Pro Trade

User Interface

Simple, beginner-friendly, uncluttered

Detailed, advanced, designed for experienced users

Fees

Standard, flat trading fees

Lower fees for advanced options and orders

Order Types

Market orders only

Market and limit orders; live order book

Charting Tools

Basic charts, price overview

Advanced charting, market depth, live stats

Ideal Use Case

Quick buys/sells, easy access

Advanced trading, market analysis, more control

The True Cost of Trading on This Exchange

There is no charge for membership or account maintenance fees. Trading costs include a spread markup (0.5%–1.85%) for Express trades, 0.5% maker/taker fees for Pro Trade, no deposit fees, and 1.5% withdrawal fees for bank and wire transfers. Staking commission ranges from 25% to 30%, and crypto withdrawal fees vary by asset, so always confirm specifics before moving funds.

Bitbuy Maker/Taker Fee Schedule (Spot Trading)

Fee Tier
Trading Volume
Maker Fee
Taker Fee
Tier 1
Up to $250,000
0.50%
0.50%
Tier 2
$250,000 – $1M
0.20%
0.30%
Tier 3
$1M – $5M
0.10%
0.20%
Tier 4
$5M+
0%
0.10%

Does Bitbuy charge a monthly fee?

There is no monthly fee for account maintenance or platform access. You only pay trading fees, withdrawal fees, and payment-specific charges when conducting transactions.

How To Set Up a Bitbuy Exchange Account

If you want to try out the platform for yourself, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Go to bitbuy website or download the mobile app.
  2. Click “Get Started” and enter your email, username, password, and phone number.
  3. Confirm your email address via the link sent to your inbox.
  4. Verify your phone number with the SMS code provided.
  5. Complete your profile with personal details and address.
  6. Upload identification documents and a selfie as required.
  7. Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for account security.
  8. Wait for identity verification approval before you start trading.

Once your identity is verified, which is usually instant, you’ll be ready to start trading. If a manual identity review is needed when documents can’t be verified automatically, the process takes between 1 and 3 business days to complete.

What Can You Buy on Bitbuy?

You can buy, sell, and hold over 25 carefully selected cryptocurrencies, all available in Canadian dollars for easy funding and withdrawals. The platform focuses on established and liquid coins, so you get reliable access to the most popular digital assets without the clutter of obscure tokens.

Why You Should Trust CryptoVantage: How I Reviewed Bitbuy

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

Bitbuy Alternatives

For anyone considering this exchange, comparing it with other platforms is key to finding the right fit. Our comparative Bitbuy review articles dive deep into features, fees, and user experience to help you see exactly where they stand among today’s top exchanges.

Final Thoughts: Is Bitbuy Worth It?

This provider is a great choice for Canadians who want a straightforward, trustworthy crypto platform with competitive fees and excellent regulatory compliance. Its clear interface, fast funding, and focus on the most established coins make it worth a try for both newcomers and those seeking a reliable trading experience.

FAQs


No. It is exclusively for Canadian residents and requires account verification with Canadian documentation.


e-Transfers are typically processed within a few hours, though in some cases it can take up to one business day for funds to appear.


They charge a 1.5% fee for CAD bank and wire withdrawals. Crypto withdrawal fees vary by asset and are clearly listed before confirming your transaction.


Withdrawal issues can result from incomplete verification, pending security reviews, network congestion, or insufficient funds. Check your account status or contact support for specific guidance.


Bitbuy is great for Canadians seeking simplicity and strong local compliance, whereas Coinbase offers broader coin support and advanced features. The best choice depends on your location and trading needs.

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About the Author

Evan Jones

Evan Jones was introduced to cryptocurrency by fellow CryptoVantage contributor Keegan Francis in 2017 and was immediately intrigued by the use cases of many Ethereum-based cryptos. He bought his first hardware wallet shortly thereafter. He has a keen and vested interest in cryptos involving decentralized backend exchanges, payment processing, and power-sharing.

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