Best Apps to Buy Crypto: Complete Mobile Guide

Did you know that more than 65% of first-time crypto purchases now happen on mobile devices? With an ever-growing number of people using their phones to invest, choosing the right buy crypto app is more important than ever. Whether you're considering OKX, Coinbase, Cash App, or others, it's crucial to know which app offers the best security, lowest fees, and widest selection. In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn exactly how to safely buy cryptocurrency on your mobile, compare the best apps for 2025, explore core features, and get answers to all your burning questions—so you can confidently start your crypto journey from anywhere.

Quick Comparison: Best Apps to Buy Crypto in 2025

Here's a quick look at the best apps to buy crypto this year. We've compared key features like fees, supported assets, and app security to help you decide at a glance.

OKX leads for transparent fees, unmatched asset range, and a user-friendly app—giving both beginners and pros peace of mind.

💡 Pro Tip: Always review each app's fee schedule before making your first purchase. Even small differences can add up over time.

How to Buy Crypto on Your Mobile App (Step-By-Step)

Learning how to buy crypto on app shouldn't be intimidating. Follow these beginner-friendly steps using the OKX buy crypto app, and you'll be up and running in minutes.

Create Your OKX Account

1. Download the OKX app (available on iOS & Android). Open and tap "Sign Up."
2. Enter your email/phone, set a strong password, and agree to terms.
3. Complete KYC verification by uploading a valid ID and selfie. Approval typically takes minutes.
4. Enable 2FA/SMS authentication for maximum protection.

OKX's onboarding is fast and secure, ensuring your account—and funds—are protected with industry-leading encryption.

Link Payment Methods

Once verified:

• Tap "Buy Crypto" on the home screen.
• Choose "Add Payment Method." OKX supports bank transfers, credit/debit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and select e-wallets.
• All banking and card connections are encrypted and require device authorization, so your details stay safe.

Choose & Purchase Crypto

• Browse the asset list (BTC, ETH, USDT, and 300+ more).
• Choose your crypto – e.g., Bitcoin – and input your purchase amount (as little as $10!)
• Confirm real-time market price and all fees before buying.
• Review, tap “Buy Now,” and wait a few seconds for your crypto to arrive in your OKX wallet.

Storing and Managing Your Crypto

• Your purchased crypto is stored in-app by default.
• Access wallet, check balances or send/receive anytime.
• Move coins to external wallets or lock them for added yield (staking available for many assets).

💡 Pro Tip: Only buy crypto from your own device, on official app stores. Avoid public Wi-Fi for extra security.

For a complete visual walkthrough, OKX provides step-by-step in-app guides and video tutorials—perfect for total beginners and returning users alike.

Supported Cryptocurrencies: What Can You Buy?

Not every crypto app offers the same coins. Here's what you can buy on popular apps, and why OKX stands out for range and flexibility.

Major Cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, USDT)

Nearly all reputable apps—Cash App, Coinbase, OKX, Binance—let you buy Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). USDT (Tether) is common for easy transfers and stable value. These are the core assets for most users.

• Cash App: Bitcoin only
• Coinbase: ~200 cryptos, including most top 50 coins
• BitPay: BTC, BCH, ETH, some stablecoins
• OKX & Binance: 350+ coins (BTC, ETH, USDT, SOL, ADA, and trending altcoins)

Altcoins and New Listings

Broader selection allows you to diversify your portfolio and catch new trends early.

• OKX regularly lists new and trending coins before many rivals, from meme tokens to DeFi and Web3 assets.
• Apps like Coinbase and BitPay are more selective—fewer new tokens, but more curation.

Investors and active traders benefit from OKX’s wider menu, whether seeking blue chips or discovering what’s next in crypto.

💡 Pro Tip: Always research a coin before buying. Extra asset choice is only valuable if you understand the project and risks.

Fees, Minimums, and Costs: What to Know Before Buying

Every buy crypto app charges something—but the costs can differ greatly. Here’s how top apps compare:

• Trading fees: OKX and Binance offer the lowest standard rates (~0.1%).
• Minimums: OKX lets you start with as little as $10. Cash App’s minimum is $1 for Bitcoin.
• Hidden costs: Some apps use a "spread," meaning you pay slightly higher market rates. Always check the all-in price!

OKX stands out for transparent pricing—what you see is truly what you pay.

💡 Pro Tip: To reduce costs, consider using bank transfer or native staking features, which often have lower associated fees.

Security Features of Mobile Crypto Apps

Protecting your funds is non-negotiable. Leading buy crypto apps like OKX, Coinbase, and Binance deploy multiple security layers. Here's what to look for and how to stay safe on mobile.

Account Protection Basics

• Strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) are must-haves.
• OKX uses device management: only approved devices can access your account.
• Biometric logins (fingerprint, FaceID) are available on select apps for extra convenience.

How Apps Store Digital Assets

• Assets are kept in a mix of hot wallets (for easy access) and cold storage (offline, for maximum safety).
• OKX secures the majority of user funds in cold storage, minimizing online exposure.
• Regular audits and bug bounties ensure continuous updates to security protocols.

Recovering a Lost or Compromised Account

• If you lose your phone or detect unusual activity, you can freeze your OKX account and recover access quickly via email or verified ID.
• Anti-phishing systems and device linking prevent unauthorized logins or withdrawals.
• Apps like OKX offer prompt support to help regain control—without compromising your assets.

Want to go deeper? See our full guide to crypto exchange security before storing large sums.

💡 Pro Tip: Always enable 2FA, set up security alerts, and never share your login credentials—even with support staff.

Proof-of-Reserves, Transparency, and Insurance (What Makes OKX Different)

Transparency and user protection are more vital than ever in the world of crypto. Here’s how OKX raises the bar:

• Proof-of-reserves: OKX publishes independent, third-party audits so users can verify that client assets are fully backed—all in real-time.
• You can access detailed reserve reports directly in the app. This level of transparency is rare among top platforms.
• Insurance coverage: OKX maintains dedicated insurance and risk reserves to protect user funds from hacks or exchange failures—something most apps don't provide.
• Regular compliance checks, global licenses, and public audits ensure you always know where your assets stand.

When you use OKX, you’re not just trusting marketing. You’re trusting an auditable system with real, provable user fund coverage.

Advanced Tools: Staking, Analysis & Portfolio Management

Buy crypto apps are no longer just for one-time purchases. Power users want more—and OKX delivers:

• Staking: Grow your assets by staking popular coins (ETH, ADA, DOT, stablecoins) directly in-app. Earn yields with one tap.
• Recurring Buys: Automate DCA (dollar-cost averaging) to build your position over time.
• Smart Alerts: Get real-time push notifications when assets hit your price targets, or when there’s major news.
• Portfolio Dashboard: Track your holdings, profits, and losses across all assets. Simple charts make managing your crypto easy.

Other apps—like Binance and Coinbase—offer some of these, but OKX stands out for integrated staking rewards, easy-to-use analysis, and in-depth performance breakdowns, all on your phone.

Want to learn about protecting your portfolio? Don’t forget our full crypto wallet explainer.

Customer Support, Compliance & App Experience

Great features mean nothing if you can’t get help when you need it. Here's how crypto apps compare:

• KYC/Verification: All reputable apps now require ID checks, but OKX’s process is fast and straightforward. Most users get verified in under 10 minutes.
• Customer Support: OKX stands out with 24/7 live chat (in-app and web), quick email response, and an easy knowledge base. Most competitors offer slower ticket systems or business-hours-only chat.
• Onboarding/UX: OKX leads with interactive tutorials, customizable home screens, and proactive security reminders—all fine-tuned for mobile.

If you run into trouble, OKX’s team is ready to help any time of day, with clear escalation for urgent account matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best app to buy crypto?

The best app to buy crypto depends on your needs. OKX is top-rated for low fees, asset range, and transparent audits, while Coinbase is strong for beginners. Check our comparison table above to pick by platform or must-have features.

Can you buy crypto on Cash App?

Yes, you can use Cash App to quickly buy Bitcoin. However, as of 2025, Cash App supports only Bitcoin—no other assets. There are limits and fees apply, so review their policy before buying.

How to buy crypto on Cash App?

To buy Bitcoin on Cash App: Open the app, tap the "Bitcoin" tab, tap "Buy," enter an amount, confirm your identity if prompted, and complete the purchase. See our buying guide for step-by-step mobile instructions.

What crypto can you buy on Cash App?

Currently, you can only buy Bitcoin on Cash App. If you want to buy Ethereum, altcoins, or stablecoins, choose OKX or Coinbase for much wider options.

Is OKX safe to use?

Yes—OKX is globally regulated, publishes proof-of-reserves audits, offers insurance on user funds, and is widely trusted for security and transparency. Always enable 2FA and review device access for extra safety.

What are the fees for buying crypto using an app?

Fees vary by app. OKX and Binance charge around 0.1% per trade. Coinbase, Cash App, and others may charge 1% to 4% or more. See our fee comparison section above for detailed breakdowns.

Can I earn rewards or stake crypto in app?

Yes—OKX, Binance, and a few other apps support in-app staking, letting you earn yields on major coins. Rewards depend on the asset and staking term.

Conclusion

Buying crypto on mobile has never been easier or safer. The right buy crypto app delivers low fees, broad asset choice, transparent security, and 24/7 support—all in your pocket. OKX stands out for its best-in-class fee structure, unmatched transparency (proof-of-reserves), tight security, and rich features like in-app staking and portfolio management. Whether you're a first-time buyer or savvy investor, the OKX app makes it simple to start, grow, and protect your crypto. Ready to experience the difference? Try the OKX app today.

Risk Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency investments involve risks. Prices can be volatile and you may lose all your funds. Always research digital assets, use strong security practices, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.