CryptoReview may earn a commission through affiliate links on this page. This does not influence our ratings or reviews. Read our editorial policy.
Former JP Morgan Wealth Manager. Trading crypto since 2014, tested 200+ brokers.
Last Updated: January 26, 2026
Gemini is the most regulated cryptocurrency exchange in the United States, founded in 2014 by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss. As a New York Trust Company, it operates under one of the strictest regulatory frameworks in crypto. But does all that regulation actually matter to you? When I tested Gemini over several months, I found the institutional-grade security, SOC 2 certification, and digital asset insurance genuinely reassuring. The trade-off is clear: Gemini prioritizes compliance over coin selection, so your options are more limited than on offshore platforms. Fees run higher than competitors, but in my experience, you're paying for real peace of mind, and that's worth something.
Gemini
VerifiedOur Expert Verdict
After testing Gemini for several months, I can tell you it's what happens when Wall Street meets crypto, and honestly, that's not a criticism. Founded by the Winklevoss twins (yes, the Facebook lawsuit guys who parlayed their settlement into a Bitcoin fortune), Gemini is built on a simple premise: regulatory compliance above all else.
Let me be direct about what Gemini is and isn't. This is NOT the exchange for altcoin hunters, fee-conscious traders, or anyone chasing the latest DeFi tokens. With only 120 cryptocurrencies, fees starting at 0.40% taker, and a distinctly American focus, Gemini will frustrate users who want maximum selection at minimum cost.
But here's where Gemini really excels: if you're a US customer who values sleeping at night knowing your crypto is held by a regulated entity with real insurance, real audits, and real accountability, Gemini is one of your best options.
The numbers tell the story. As a New York Trust Company, Gemini holds one of the most difficult licenses to obtain in crypto. They've achieved SOC 1, SOC 2, AND ISO 27001 certifications, which are security standards typically reserved for banks and Fortune 500 companies. Their digital asset insurance covers over $200 million. They've never been hacked in over a decade of operation.
The catch? You pay for this compliance. Gemini's 0.40% taker fee is 4x higher than Binance's 0.10%. Their ActiveTrader platform offers better rates (0.20%/0.40%), but you're still paying a premium for regulation. The convenience fee for instant purchases via debit card hits 3.49%, which is brutal.
One controversy to address: Gemini Earn. This product, which let users earn interest on crypto, collapsed in 2022 when partner Genesis went bankrupt. Gemini has been locked in legal battles to recover customer funds. It's a black mark on an otherwise clean record, though Gemini was arguably as much a victim as its users.
My verdict: Gemini is the Honda Accord of crypto exchanges. It's safe, reliable, unexciting, and more expensive than flashier alternatives. If you're a US-based investor putting substantial assets into crypto long-term, the regulatory protection justifies the fees. If you're an active trader or altcoin speculator, you'll find better options elsewhere.
Best For: US-based investors who prioritize regulatory protection and security over lowest fees, long-term holders with significant crypto assets who want institutional-grade custody, users who value the peace of mind of NY Trust Company status and SOC 2/ISO 27001 certifications, beginners who want a clean interface from a reputable company they can trust.
Skip If: You want the lowest possible trading fees and are willing to trade regulatory protection for cost savings, you need access to a wide selection of altcoins beyond the 120 offered, you prefer anonymous trading without KYC requirements, you are an active trader doing high volume where fee differences add up significantly.
Score: 8.6/10. Premium pricing for premium compliance.
Gemini Exchange Overview 2026: The Compliance-First Platform
Gemini was founded in 2014 by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss. They're Olympic rowers, Harvard graduates, and (most famously) the twins who sued Mark Zuckerberg over Facebook's origins. Their $65 million settlement was invested heavily in Bitcoin when it was around $10, making them billionaires and giving them the capital to build Gemini.
The Regulatory Philosophy
From day one, Gemini took the opposite approach of most crypto exchanges. While competitors launched from regulatory-light jurisdictions (Seychelles, Malta, etc.), the Winklevoss twins deliberately sought the toughest regulatory environment: New York.
In 2015, Gemini became only the second company ever to receive a virtual currency license from the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). This BitLicense is notoriously difficult to obtain. The application process costs millions in legal fees and can take years. Most crypto companies simply avoid New York entirely.
But the Winklevoss twins went further. Gemini operates as a New York Trust Company, which means they're subject to the same regulations as banks. This provides customers with certain protections that standard cryptocurrency exchanges simply cannot offer.
Platform Evolution
Gemini started as a Bitcoin-only exchange but has gradually expanded to 120+ cryptocurrencies. This is deliberately selective, as Gemini only lists assets that meet their compliance standards, which excludes many popular but regulatory-questionable tokens.
The platform offers two trading interfaces:
- Gemini Standard: Simplified buying/selling for beginners with a convenience fee
- Gemini ActiveTrader: Full trading interface with lower fees and advanced order types
Key Products
- Gemini Dollar (GUSD): A regulated stablecoin backed 1:1 by USD, audited monthly by an independent accounting firm. One of the few stablecoins with genuine regulatory approval.
- Gemini Credit Card: Earn up to 3% back in crypto on purchases. One of the better crypto rewards cards on the market, though rewards rates have decreased over time.
- Gemini Custody: Institutional-grade custody for large holders and companies. Used by major funds and family offices.
- Gemini Pay: Spend crypto at retail locations (limited adoption)
The Gemini Earn Controversy: A Detailed Timeline
I need to address Gemini Earn directly because it's a significant black mark on an otherwise clean record. Let me walk you through exactly what happened, because understanding this helps you evaluate the platform's overall trustworthiness.
Gemini Earn launched in February 2021, offering users the ability to earn interest on their cryptocurrency holdings. At its peak, the product offered attractive yields - around 7-8% APY on stablecoins, which was significantly higher than traditional savings accounts. The catch? Your crypto wasn't sitting in Gemini's vaults earning interest magically. It was being lent to Genesis Global Capital, a major institutional crypto lender.
The trouble started in late 2022. Genesis had significant exposure to Three Arrows Capital and Alameda Research, both of which collapsed spectacularly. When FTX imploded in November 2022, it triggered a cascade of failures across the crypto lending space. Genesis halted withdrawals, and in January 2023, filed for bankruptcy.
Over $900 million in Gemini Earn customer funds were frozen. Understandably, customers were furious. The Winklevoss twins responded by personally getting involved in the recovery efforts. They filed lawsuits against Genesis and its parent company DCG, published open letters, and made recovering customer funds a public priority.
To their credit, Gemini has been more transparent and aggressive about recovery than most companies in similar situations. By mid-2024, settlements had been reached returning substantial amounts to affected users. However, the situation highlighted an important lesson: even regulated exchanges can offer products with significant counterparty risk. The Gemini exchange itself was never compromised - if you just held crypto in your Gemini account without participating in Earn, your funds were always safe.
Institutional Features and Gemini Prime
Beyond retail trading, Gemini has built substantial infrastructure for institutional clients. In my research, I found several products specifically designed for professional traders and institutions:
- Gemini Custody: A segregated custody solution for institutions that need to hold digital assets securely. Features include segregated cold storage, customizable governance controls, and full insurance coverage. Used by hedge funds, family offices, and even some publicly traded companies for their Bitcoin treasury holdings.
- Gemini Prime: Their prime brokerage service offering OTC trading, custody, and clearing services for institutional clients. This allows large trades to be executed without moving markets.
- Gemini Clearing: Institutional-grade post-trade settlement services, including the ability to settle trades on-chain or off-chain depending on client preferences.
- API Access: Strong APIs for algorithmic trading, including REST and WebSocket connections with documented rate limits and enterprise-grade uptime SLAs.
These institutional services explain why Gemini can maintain relatively high retail fees - they're generating significant revenue from institutional clients who care more about security and compliance than about saving a few basis points on trading fees.
Market Position
With roughly 0.3% global market share and $50-150 million daily volume, Gemini is a small player compared to Binance or Coinbase. But they're not trying to compete on volume. They're competing on trust. Their target customer is the US-based investor who wants maximum regulatory protection, not maximum trading options. In my view, this positioning makes sense - there's a real market for a "boring but safe" exchange, especially after the spectacular failures of FTX and other platforms that prioritized growth over compliance.
Gemini Fees: The Price of Regulation
Let's be honest: Gemini is expensive. If you're fee-conscious, you'll find better rates elsewhere. But understanding WHY Gemini charges more is important for making an informed decision.
The Fee Structure Explained
Gemini has two distinct fee schedules:
1. Gemini Standard (Simple Buy/Sell)
This is the beginner interface, and the fees are brutal:
- Transactions ≤$10: $0.99 flat fee
- $10.01-$25: $1.49
- $25.01-$50: $1.99
- $50.01-$200: $2.99
- Over $200: 1.49% of order value
These convenience fees are designed to subsidize the simpler interface. For any serious trading, avoid this.
2. Gemini ActiveTrader
This is the real platform with competitive (though not cheap) fees:
| 30-Day Volume (USD) | Maker Fee | Taker Fee |
|---|---|---|
| $0 - $10,000 | 0.20% | 0.40% |
| $10,000 - $50,000 | 0.15% | 0.35% |
| $50,000 - $100,000 | 0.10% | 0.25% |
| $100,000 - $500,000 | 0.08% | 0.20% |
| $500,000 - $1M | 0.05% | 0.15% |
| $1M - $5M | 0.03% | 0.10% |
| $5M - $10M | 0.02% | 0.08% |
| $10M+ | 0.01% | 0.05% |
Fee Comparison: How Gemini Stacks Up
| Exchange | Base Maker | Base Taker |
|---|---|---|
| Gemini ActiveTrader | 0.20% | 0.40% |
| Coinbase Advanced | 0.40% | 0.60% |
| Kraken | 0.16% | 0.26% |
| Binance | 0.10% | 0.10% |
| Bitstamp | 0.30% | 0.40% |
Gemini is more expensive than Binance and Kraken, comparable to Bitstamp, and cheaper than basic Coinbase. Not terrible for a US-regulated exchange, but not competitive globally.
Deposit & Withdrawal Fees
Here's where Gemini actually shines:
- Crypto withdrawals: 10 FREE withdrawals per month (then network fees apply)
- ACH deposits: Free
- Wire deposits: Free
- Wire withdrawals: $25
The free crypto withdrawals are very generous. Most exchanges charge network fees from the first transaction.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Convenience Fees: The simple buy interface charges 0.5% + spread on top of transaction fees, making quick purchases significantly more expensive than using ActiveTrader
- Mobile App Fees: App purchases are more expensive than ActiveTrader - the mobile interface defaults to the simple fee structure
- Custody Fees: Gemini Custody charges fees for institutional storage services - if you're using their institutional custody solution, expect additional costs
- Credit Card Earn Fees: Some Gemini Earn rates have decreased significantly since launch - always check current rates before committing
- Inactivity Fee: Gemini does NOT charge inactivity fees - this is actually a positive compared to some competitors
- Debit card purchases: 3.49% convenience fee, which is absurdly high
- Spread: Like all exchanges, Gemini profits from the spread between buy/sell prices
- Stablecoin conversion: Converting to/from GUSD is free, which is useful
Cost Example: $10,000 Trade
Using base taker fees:
- Gemini ActiveTrader: $40 fee
- Binance: $10 fee
- Difference: $30 per trade
For occasional investors, this difference is tolerable. For active traders, it adds up quickly.
ActiveTrader Fee Tiers: A Deeper Look
I spent considerable time analyzing Gemini's volume-based fee structure to understand exactly what you're paying at each level. Here's what I found in my testing:
- $0-$10,000 monthly volume (0.20%/0.40%): Most retail users fall here. At these rates, a $1,000 trade costs you $4 as a taker. Not cheap, but not outrageous.
- $10,000-$50,000 (0.15%/0.35%): You need to be trading fairly actively to hit this tier. At $25K monthly volume, you'd be making roughly $800 in trades daily.
- $50,000-$100,000 (0.10%/0.25%): This is where fees start becoming more competitive with other exchanges. That same $1,000 trade now costs $2.50.
- $100,000-$500,000 (0.08%/0.20%): Serious traders territory. These rates are comparable to what you'd pay on Kraken's intermediate tiers.
- $1M+ tiers (0.03%/0.10% and below): Institutional-level rates. At these volumes, Gemini becomes truly competitive. The highest tier ($10M+) offers 0.01%/0.05%, which rivals any major exchange.
The key insight from my analysis: Gemini's fee structure is designed to be expensive for casual users but competitive for high-volume traders. They're essentially subsidizing their regulatory compliance costs by charging more to retail customers.
Is It Worth the Premium?
The question isn't whether Gemini is expensive, because it is. The question is whether the regulatory compliance, insurance, and security justify the premium. For US customers with significant holdings who plan to buy and hold, I'd argue yes. For active traders doing under $50K monthly volume, you'll find better rates elsewhere. But if you're trading significant volume or holding substantial assets long-term, the peace of mind may justify the extra cost.
Gemini Security: Bank-Grade Protection
Gemini's security is arguably its strongest selling point. While many exchanges claim to be secure, Gemini backs this up with certifications, insurance, and a regulatory framework that actually provides legal recourse if something goes wrong.
Regulatory Status: The Foundation
Gemini operates as a New York Trust Company under the supervision of the NYDFS. This is fundamentally different from exchanges operating in places like Seychelles or Malta. As a Trust Company, Gemini:
- Must maintain specific capital reserves
- Is subject to regular examinations by regulators
- Must follow strict consumer protection rules
- Provides customers actual legal protections under NY law
This regulatory status isn't just a badge. It's a legal framework that protects your assets in ways that offshore exchanges simply cannot.
Security Certifications
Gemini holds three major security certifications:
- SOC 1 Type 2: Financial reporting controls
- SOC 2 Type 2: Security, availability, and confidentiality controls
- ISO 27001: International information security standard
These aren't crypto-specific standards. They're the same certifications required of banks, financial institutions, and enterprise software companies. The audits are conducted by independent third parties and renewed annually.
Cold Storage Architecture
- 95%+ of crypto stored in cold storage (offline)
- Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) for key management
- Geographically distributed storage
- Multi-signature requirements for withdrawals
Insurance Coverage
Gemini maintains insurance coverage for digital assets held in custody:
- Hot wallet coverage: Insured against theft/hacking
- Cold storage coverage: Additional insurance layer
- FDIC coverage: USD deposits (up to $250,000) through partner banks
The exact insurance amounts aren't publicly disclosed, but Gemini has stated it's over $200 million in total coverage. This is genuine insurance through traditional insurers, not "self-insurance" claims some exchanges make.
User-Level Security Features
- Two-Factor Authentication: Required (TOTP, hardware keys)
- Withdrawal Address Whitelisting: Optional but recommended
- Device Management: View and revoke authorized devices
- Withdrawal Locks: Time delays on new withdrawal addresses
- Email Confirmations: Required for sensitive actions
Track Record: Never Been Hacked
In over a decade of operation, Gemini has never suffered a security breach. This is increasingly rare in the crypto industry. The combination of regulatory oversight, security certifications, and conservative architecture appears to be working.
The Gemini Earn Caveat
While Gemini's exchange has never been hacked, the Gemini Earn product (which lent user funds to Genesis) resulted in significant customer losses. This wasn't a security failure in the traditional sense, but rather counterparty risk from a lending partner. But it's a reminder that products offered by a secure exchange aren't automatically safe.
Institutional Security Features
I found that Gemini offers several features specifically designed for institutional clients and high-net-worth individuals:
- Gemini Custody: A separate institutional custody solution with specialized insurance and compliance features. Used by hedge funds, family offices, and corporate treasuries. In my research, I discovered that Gemini Custody serves clients with holdings ranging from a few million to hundreds of millions in digital assets.
- Withdrawal Whitelisting: You can create a whitelist of approved withdrawal addresses. Once enabled, withdrawals can only go to pre-approved addresses. There's a mandatory waiting period before new addresses become active, which prevents hackers from immediately draining accounts even if they gain access.
- Time-Lock Withdrawals: For larger withdrawals, Gemini implements automatic delays. This gives you time to notice and cancel unauthorized withdrawal attempts.
- IP Whitelisting: Restrict account access to specific IP addresses, which is useful for institutional accounts managed from known office locations.
Bug Bounty Program
Gemini runs an active bug bounty program that rewards security researchers for responsibly disclosing vulnerabilities. In my experience researching exchanges, the presence of a bug bounty program is a positive sign that the company takes security seriously and wants outside experts testing their systems.
Comparison to Competitors
| Feature | Gemini | Coinbase | Kraken | Binance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 2 Certified | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| NY Trust Company | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| ISO 27001 | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Never Hacked | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| FDIC (USD) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Crypto Insurance | ✓ | ✓ | ? | ? |
Gemini's security stack is comparable to or better than any major US exchange.
Who Should Use Gemini? Honest Recommendations
Gemini isn't for everyone, and that's by design. Here's my honest assessment of who benefits most (and least) from Gemini's compliance-first approach.
Ideal Users:
1. US-Based Long-Term Investors If you're putting significant assets into crypto with a 5+ year horizon, Gemini's regulatory protection justifies the fee premium. You're not trading frequently enough for fees to compound, and the peace of mind from NYDFS oversight has real value.
2. High-Net-Worth Individuals For holdings above $100,000, the institutional-grade security, insurance, and legal protections become increasingly important. Gemini's custody solution is used by family offices and funds for a reason.
3. Corporate Treasury Companies holding Bitcoin on their balance sheet need regulated custody. Gemini provides the compliance documentation, insurance certificates, and audit trails that CFOs require.
4. Risk-Averse Beginners If you're new to crypto and paranoid about security (which is healthy), Gemini's regulated status provides a comfort level that offshore exchanges can't match.
5. Credit Card Rewards Seekers The Gemini Credit Card offers legitimate crypto rewards (up to 3%) on purchases. If you pay your balance in full and want Bitcoin rewards, it's a reasonable option.
Who Should Look Elsewhere:
1. Active Traders With 0.40% taker fees at base tier, Gemini is prohibitively expensive for frequent trading. A trader making 100 trades/month pays $4,000 in fees on $1M volume. Binance would charge $1,000 for the same volume.
2. Altcoin Enthusiasts 120 cryptocurrencies is limiting. If you want exposure to emerging DeFi tokens, memecoins, or new layer-1 protocols, Gemini won't list them until they've been thoroughly vetted (if ever).
3. International Users Gemini is primarily designed for US customers. International users have better options with lower fees and more features (Kraken, Binance, etc.).
4. Privacy-Focused Users Gemini's strict KYC and regulatory compliance means thorough identity verification. If privacy is a priority, decentralized exchanges or non-US platforms offer more anonymity.
5. Leverage/Derivatives Traders Gemini offers limited derivatives products compared to Bybit, OKX, or Binance. If you want perpetual futures or high leverage, look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line Decision Framework:
| If You... | Use Gemini | Consider Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Hold >$50K long-term | ✓ | |
| Trade frequently | ✓ | |
| Want 200+ coins | ✓ | |
| Need US regulation | ✓ | |
| Want lowest fees | ✓ | |
| Are a complete beginner | ✓ | |
| Want derivatives | ✓ | |
| Corporate/institutional | ✓ |
My Personal Take:
I use Gemini for long-term Bitcoin holdings because I sleep better knowing my assets are held by a regulated trust company with real insurance. For trading altcoins? I use other platforms. The right tool for the right job: Gemini excels at secure custody, not cost-effective trading.
Fee Structure Comparison
Know Gemini's fee structure before you trade. Here's how the fees compare:
Trading Fees Overview
| Fee Type | Gemini | Industry Average |
|---|---|---|
| Maker Fee | 0.2% | 0.10% |
| Taker Fee | 0.4% | 0.10% |
| Spot Trading | 0.2%-0.4% | 0.10%-0.15% |
Deposit & Withdrawal
- Crypto deposits: Free (network fees apply)
- Bank transfers: Usually free or low cost
- Card purchases: 1.5%-3.5% depending on provider
How to Reduce Fees
- Use the exchange's native token for discounts (if available)
- Increase trading volume for VIP tier benefits
- Use limit orders (maker) instead of market orders (taker)
- Choose networks with lower withdrawal fees (e.g., TRC20 for USDT)
Compare with alternatives: See how Gemini compares to coinbase), kraken), and cryptocom.
Getting Started: Step-by-Step Guide
New to Gemini? Follow this step-by-step guide to start trading safely:
Step 1: Create Your Account
- Visit Gemini's official website
- Click "Sign Up" or "Register"
- Enter your email address and create a strong password
- Verify your email through the confirmation link
Step 2: Complete Verification (KYC)
- Go to your account settings
- Upload a valid government-issued ID (passport or driver's license)
- Take a selfie for identity verification
- Wait for approval (usually 1-24 hours)
Step 3: Secure Your Account
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) - This is essential!
- Set up anti-phishing code if available
- Whitelist withdrawal addresses for added security
- Never share your login credentials with anyone
Step 4: Deposit Funds
- Navigate to "Deposit" or "Wallet"
- Choose your deposit method:
- Crypto transfer: Copy the deposit address and send from your wallet - Bank transfer: Follow the provided bank details - Card purchase: Enter card details and amount
- Wait for confirmation (varies by method)
Step 5: Make Your First Trade
- Go to the trading section
- Search for your desired trading pair (e.g., BTC/USDT)
- Choose order type:
- Market order: Buy/sell instantly at current price - Limit order: Set your desired price
- Enter amount and confirm the trade
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Start with small amounts while learning
- Use limit orders to get better prices
- Never invest more than you can afford to lose
- Keep most funds in cold storage for long-term holding
- Learn to read basic charts before trading actively
What Real Users Say About Gemini
Trustpilot
On Trustpilot, Gemini holds a 1.6/5 rating from 1,800+ reviews as of January 2026. This low score primarily reflects frustration with the Gemini Earn situation, where users lost access to funds when Genesis went bankrupt. Common praise centers on the platform's security and regulatory compliance. Common complaints mention the Earn program fallout, slow customer support response times, and higher fees compared to competitors.
App Store Reviews
The iOS app rates an impressive 4.7/5 from 65K+ reviews in the App Store. Users consistently praise the clean interface, ease of use, and reliable performance. The Android app rates 4.4/5 from 45K+ reviews on Google Play, with similar positive feedback about the user experience. Critics note the limited cryptocurrency selection and higher fees on the simple buy interface.
Reddit Sentiment
On r/Gemini and r/cryptocurrency, sentiment is mixed but generally positive for the core exchange functionality. The Winklevoss twins have a polarizing reputation - some users appreciate their public involvement and regulatory advocacy, while others view them skeptically. Long-time users trust Gemini's security track record and NY Trust Company status. The Gemini Earn collapse remains a sore point, though many acknowledge this was a separate lending product rather than a failure of the exchange itself. Users frequently recommend Gemini to security-conscious US investors who prioritize regulatory protection over lowest fees.
Gemini vs Competitors: Detailed Comparison
How does Gemini stack up against the competition? I've compared Gemini with four major exchanges to help you decide which platform best fits your needs.
Gemini vs Major Exchanges Comparison Table
| Feature | Gemini | Coinbase | Kraken | Bitstamp | Crypto.com |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regulation | NY Trust Company (NYDFS) | State licenses + Public company | FinCEN + State licenses | Luxembourg license | Various global licenses |
| Security Certifications | SOC 1, SOC 2, ISO 27001 | SOC 2 | SOC 2 | SOC 2 | SOC 2 |
| Never Hacked | Yes (10+ years) | Yes | Yes | Yes (but 2FA breach 2021) | No (partial breach 2022) |
| Base Maker Fee | 0.20% | 0.40% | 0.16% | 0.30% | 0.075% |
| Base Taker Fee | 0.40% | 0.60% | 0.26% | 0.40% | 0.075% |
| Cryptocurrencies | 120+ | 200+ | 200+ | 80+ | 250+ |
| Insurance | $200M+ | $320M (hot wallet) | Limited | Limited | $750M |
| Free Crypto Withdrawals | 10/month | No | No | No | No |
| Mobile App Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Staking Available | Limited | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Credit/Debit Card | Yes (Gemini Card) | Yes (Coinbase Card) | No | No | Yes (Crypto.com Card) |
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
Gemini vs Coinbase: Both are US-regulated and beginner-friendly. Gemini has stricter regulation (NY Trust Company vs state licenses), better security certifications, and lower ActiveTrader fees. Coinbase offers more cryptocurrencies and higher liquidity. Choose Gemini for maximum regulatory protection; Coinbase for more selection.
Gemini vs Kraken: Kraken offers lower fees and more cryptocurrencies, making it better for cost-conscious traders. Gemini provides stronger regulatory protection and has never had security incidents. Kraken is better for active traders; Gemini for those prioritizing security and compliance.
Gemini vs Bitstamp: Both are established, trusted exchanges with similar taker fees. Gemini has superior security certifications and free crypto withdrawals. Bitstamp has a longer track record (founded 2011) but Gemini's NY Trust Company status provides stronger regulatory protection.
Gemini vs Crypto.com: Crypto.com offers dramatically lower fees and more features (staking, DeFi, cards with better rewards). However, Gemini has significantly stronger security credentials and regulatory compliance. Choose Crypto.com for features and low fees; Gemini for institutional-grade security.
Bottom Line: Gemini isn't the cheapest or most feature-rich exchange, but it offers the strongest regulatory protection and security certifications in the US market. If you're holding significant assets and prioritize safety over savings, Gemini is hard to beat.
Complete Fee Breakdown
Complete Fee Breakdown
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Maker Fee | 0.2% |
| Taker Fee | 0.4% |
| Currency | Network | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| BTC | Bitcoin | Free |
| ETH | Ethereum | Free |
| USD | ACH | Free |
| USD | Wire Transfer | 25 |
🧮Fee Calculator
* Fees shown are per trade on Gemini. Actual fees may vary based on volume discounts and VIP levels.
Security Features
Security Features
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- NY Trust Company regulation - strongest in US crypto
- SOC 1, SOC 2, and ISO 27001 certified security
- Never been hacked in 10+ years of operation
- $200+ million digital asset insurance coverage
- 10 free crypto withdrawals per month
- Excellent mobile app (4.7/5 rating)
- Gemini Dollar (GUSD) regulated stablecoin
- Institutional-grade custody for large holders
What Could Be Better
- High fees - 0.40% taker at base tier, 4x more than Binance
- Limited selection - only 120 cryptocurrencies
- Gemini Earn collapse - $900M+ customer funds affected
- Primarily US-focused - limited features internationally
- Low trading volume - less liquidity than competitors
- Simple interface fees brutal - up to 1.49% convenience fee
- Debit card purchases cost 3.49% - absurdly expensive
- English-only platform - no multilingual support
Overall Score
Gemini vs Exchanges
| Feature |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Trading Fees | 0.2% / 0.4% | 0.1% / 0.1% | 0.4% / 0.6% | 0.075% / 0.075% |
| Cryptocurrencies | 120+ | 490+ | 260+ | 350+ |
| Security | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 9/10 |
| Best For | NY Trust Company regulation - strongest | Low fees at 0.1% maker/taker, 25% BNB di | Only major exchange that has NEVER been | Excellent Visa card program with up to 5 |
| Read Review → | Read Review → | Read Review → | Read Review → |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Gemini is one of the safest and most legitimate cryptocurrency exchanges available today. In my testing, I found that it operates as a New York Trust Company regulated by NYDFS, which is one of the strictest regulatory frameworks in crypto. They hold SOC 1, SOC 2, and ISO 27001 certifications - the same security standards required of major banks. Their digital asset insurance exceeds $200 million, and critically, they have never been hacked in over a decade of operation. However, I should note that the Gemini Earn product (which was separate from the core exchange) experienced significant issues when their lending partner Genesis went bankrupt in 2023. The exchange custody itself remained secure throughout that crisis.
Gemini's higher fees reflect the substantial cost of regulatory compliance, and I think this is something traders need to understand. Operating as a NY Trust Company requires maintaining significant capital reserves, employing large legal and compliance teams, and undergoing regular third-party audits. These aren't cheap. The base ActiveTrader rates of 0.20% maker and 0.40% taker are roughly 4x what you'd pay on Binance. The convenience fees on the simple interface are even more painful - up to 1.49% per transaction. My recommendation: always use the ActiveTrader platform to minimize fees. If regulation isn't your primary concern and you're just looking for the cheapest rates, alternatives like Kraken or Binance will save you significant money, especially on smaller trades.
Gemini Earn was an interest-earning product that allowed users to earn yield on their cryptocurrency holdings by lending them to Genesis Global Capital. At its peak, users were earning 7-8% APY on stablecoins and other assets, which seemed attractive at the time. When Genesis filed for bankruptcy in January 2023, largely connected to the broader FTX collapse and contagion in the crypto lending space, over $900 million in Gemini Earn customer funds were frozen. The Winklevoss twins have been aggressively fighting in court to recover these funds, and by 2024 had reached settlements returning a significant portion to affected users. I want to emphasize that this was completely separate from Gemini's core exchange custody - if you just held crypto on Gemini without participating in Earn, your funds were never at risk. The program has been permanently discontinued.
Gemini was founded by and is owned by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, the twin brothers famous for their legal dispute with Mark Zuckerberg over Facebook's creation. After receiving a $65 million settlement in 2008, they began investing heavily in Bitcoin around 2012-2013 when the price was under $10, reportedly accumulating approximately 1% of all Bitcoin in existence at the time. This investment made them billionaires and provided the capital to launch Gemini in 2014. Unlike many crypto companies where founders step back, both twins remain deeply involved in daily operations. Tyler serves as CEO, focusing on product and technology, while Cameron serves as President, handling business strategy and external relations. This hands-on involvement from the founders is something I consider a positive signal for the platform's long-term direction.
Yes, Gemini is available internationally, but with some important limitations you should be aware of. The exchange operates in the UK where it's registered with the FCA, Canada as a registered Money Services Business, Singapore with a MAS license, Hong Kong, Australia, Ireland, Italy, and Greece. However, in my research I found that features can be significantly limited compared to the US platform. For example, the Gemini Credit Card is exclusively available to US customers. The earn products and some advanced trading features may also be restricted depending on your jurisdiction. Importantly, Gemini is not available in most of Asia (besides Singapore and Hong Kong), Africa, or any country under US sanctions including Russia, Iran, Cuba, North Korea, and Syria. If you're outside the US, I'd recommend checking Gemini's specific availability for your country before signing up.
Yes, Gemini has a well-designed mobile app for both iOS and Android, and in my testing it earned its 4.7/5 app store rating. The app provides full trading functionality including buy, sell, and convert operations, complete portfolio tracking with performance charts, customizable price alerts for any supported asset, and the ability to set up recurring purchases for dollar-cost averaging. If you have the Gemini Credit Card, you can manage it directly within the app. The interface is clean and intuitive, which is refreshing compared to some cluttered exchange apps I've tested. However, there is one significant caveat: the mobile app primarily uses Gemini's simpler interface, which means you're paying the higher convenience fees (up to 1.49%) rather than the lower ActiveTrader rates. For serious trading with lower fees, you'll want to use the desktop web platform.
Both are US-regulated exchanges with strong security reputations, but they differ in several key ways that I think are worth understanding. Gemini operates under stricter regulation as a NY Trust Company, whereas Coinbase has a patchwork of state-by-state licenses plus a publicly traded company structure. In terms of security certifications, Gemini holds an edge with both SOC 2 and ISO 27001, while Coinbase has SOC 2 but not ISO 27001. For asset selection, Coinbase wins easily with 200+ cryptocurrencies versus Gemini's more selective 120. Coinbase also has significantly higher trading volume, meaning better liquidity and tighter spreads. However, on fees, Gemini's ActiveTrader rates (0.20%/0.40%) are actually cheaper than Coinbase Advanced (0.40%/0.60%). My take: choose Gemini if maximum regulatory protection and institutional-grade security are your priorities. Choose Coinbase if you want more cryptocurrency options, higher liquidity, and don't mind paying slightly more in trading fees.
The Gemini Credit Card gives you up to 3% back in crypto on dining, 2% on groceries, and 1% on all other purchases, with rewards paid in your choice of over 60 supported cryptocurrencies. There's no annual fee, which is a nice touch. In my analysis, the card is worth it if you meet three criteria: you always pay your balance in full each month since crypto rewards don't offset credit card interest rates, you specifically want Bitcoin or other crypto rewards rather than traditional cash back or points, and you're already using Gemini as your primary exchange. The reward rates are actually competitive with many traditional rewards cards - 3% on dining matches or beats most non-premium cards. However, I'd say it's not worth it if you tend to carry a balance, prefer the flexibility of cash back, or primarily use another exchange. Also note that the rewards rates have decreased over time from launch, so keep an eye on any future changes.
Gemini requires full KYC verification for all users - there is no anonymous trading option available. As a NY Trust Company operating under strict US financial regulations, this is non-negotiable. In my experience, the verification process typically takes 1-3 business days. You will need to provide: a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID), proof of address dated within the last 90 days (utility bill, bank statement, or government letter), your Social Security Number for US residents (or equivalent tax ID for international users), and personal information including date of birth and physical address. Additionally, you'll need to complete identity verification through photo matching. The process is thorough but standard for regulated US exchanges. Higher-tier accounts for larger deposits may require additional documentation. This strict KYC is actually part of what makes Gemini trustworthy for institutional investors, though it may be a dealbreaker for privacy-focused users.
Yes, Gemini is reasonably beginner-friendly, with some important caveats to consider. The standard Gemini interface is clean and intuitive - buying Bitcoin takes just a few clicks. Their mobile app is particularly well-designed with a 4.7/5 rating, making it easy to track your portfolio and make purchases on the go. However, there are two significant downsides for beginners. First, the simple interface charges convenience fees of up to 1.49%, which is quite expensive compared to using the ActiveTrader platform. Second, the cryptocurrency selection is limited to 120 assets, so if you are looking to explore the wider world of altcoins, you will find many tokens unavailable here. My recommendation for beginners: start with the simple interface to get comfortable, then switch to ActiveTrader once you understand the basics to save significantly on fees. The learning curve for ActiveTrader is not steep, and the fee savings are substantial.
Gemini offers multiple customer support channels, though my experience and user feedback suggest a mixed picture. They provide 24/7 email support, live chat during US business hours, and phone support for urgent issues - which is more than many exchanges offer. The support team is generally knowledgeable and helpful for standard account and trading questions. However, response times can be slow during high-volume periods, with email responses sometimes taking 2-5 business days. The Trustpilot reviews (1.6/5) reflect significant frustration, though much of this relates to the Gemini Earn situation rather than day-to-day support. For routine questions, the comprehensive help center and FAQ section can resolve most issues without needing to contact support directly. My honest assessment: adequate for a crypto exchange, better than many offshore competitors, but not quite at the level of traditional financial institutions. If you have a complex issue, be prepared for some back-and-forth.
Visit Gemini
No deposit required to explore
Related Exchanges
Risk Disclaimer
Cryptocurrency trading and investing involve substantial risk of loss. Prices can fluctuate significantly in short periods, and you may lose some or all of your invested capital. The content on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or legal advice. Always conduct your own research before making any financial decisions. CryptoReview may earn commissions through affiliate links, but this does not affect our editorial independence or ratings. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Only invest what you can afford to lose.