Christy Lynn
Quick answer: Coinbase is better if crypto is your focus. It has far more coins, staking on more assets and lower-fee advanced trading. Robinhood is better if you want crypto alongside stocks and ETFs in one app, with no separate commission (prices include a spread), crypto transfers, and ETH and SOL staking.
Coinbase vs Robinhood at a glance
- Best for: Coinbase suits crypto-focused investors; Robinhood suits stock investors adding some crypto
- Coins: Coinbase lists hundreds; Robinhood a smaller curated list
- Pricing: Coinbase charges fees and a spread on simple trades; Robinhood has no commission but includes a spread
- Transfers: both allow crypto deposits and withdrawals
Coinbase overview
Coinbase, founded in 2012, is the largest US-based crypto exchange and has been publicly traded on the Nasdaq since 2021. It supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies, staking on major proof-of-stake coins, and Coinbase Advanced for lower-fee trading. Open a Coinbase account or read our Coinbase review.
Robinhood overview
Robinhood offers commission-free stocks, options, ETFs and crypto in one app. It now supports crypto transfers in and out, ETH and SOL staking for US customers, and a self-custody Robinhood Wallet, and it acquired the Bitstamp exchange in 2025. Robinhood Gold ($5 per month) adds extra features. See how to buy crypto on Robinhood.
Coins available
Coinbase offers a much larger crypto selection. Robinhood focuses on major and popular coins, though its list has grown.
Fees
Robinhood doesnโt charge a separate commission on crypto, but the price includes a spread. Coinbaseโs simple Buy includes a spread plus a fee, while Coinbase Advanced uses lower maker-taker fees and is often cheapest for larger trades.
Staking, cards and extras
- Staking: Coinbase stakes more coins. Robinhood offers ETH and SOL staking in the US.
- Stocks: only Robinhood offers stocks, options and ETFs alongside crypto.
- Wallets: both offer self-custody wallets (Coinbase Wallet and Robinhood Wallet).
Security and regulation
Both are US-regulated, publicly traded companies that store most crypto in cold storage and offer two-factor authentication. As with any app, enable the strongest login protection available.
Which should you choose?
- Choose Coinbase if you want lots of coins, staking variety and advanced trading.
- Choose Robinhood if you mainly invest in stocks and want a few major coins in the same app.
See also Robinhood alternatives and Webull vs Robinhood.
Frequently asked questions
Is Robinhood crypto really free?
Thereโs no separate commission, but Robinhood earns from the spread built into the price, so you still pay a cost.
Can I move crypto from Robinhood to Coinbase?
Yes. Robinhood supports crypto withdrawals for many coins.
Which is better for beginners?
Both are easy to use. Coinbase is better for learning about crypto specifically, and Robinhood if you already invest in stocks there.
