When we talk about crypto in Africa, South Africa leads the way. An average South African spends $51.38 per year on cryptocurrency, more than anyone else on the continent, including Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco.
This shows how quickly crypto is growing in the country and how many people see it as a tangible way to invest and make transactions. Choosing the proper exchange is vital if you’re looking for the best platforms to buy, sell, and trade crypto in South Africa. Here are the best crypto exchanges in South Africa for 2025.
Key Takeaway
- Crypto trading is legal in South Africa, with exchanges operating under regulatory frameworks ensuring compliance and security.
- UEEx is the best overall exchange for South African traders, offering 300+ cryptocurrencies, diverse trading options, and strong security measures.
- Factors like security, trading fees, payment methods, and supported cryptocurrencies play a key role in choosing the right exchange.
- Trading on UEEx in South Africa involves signing up, verifying identity, depositing funds, and selecting a preferred trading option.
Top Crypto Exchanges in South Africa (2025)
| Exchange | Trading Fees | Best For | Max Leverage | Available Assets | Fiat Support– South African Rand(ZAR) | Security Features | Unique Features |
| UEEx | Spot Trading: 0.09% Futures Trading: 0.05% Margin Trading: 0.08 % – 0.10% Stock Trading: 1.50% | Best Overall | 200x | 300+ | No | Stores 93% of user funds in cold wallets Proof of Reserve | UE Coin Miner app Copy trading Access to US and Hong Kong stocks. Notable privacy feature, providing each user with 2000 unique addresses. |
| Bitmama | Does not publicly disclose its transaction fees. | Easy Fiat-Crypto Conversion | N/A | 10+ | Yes | Two-factor authentication | Crypto card to pay for goods and services GreenBox for a crypto giveaway |
| Bybit | Spot Trading: 0.1000% / 0.1000% taker/maker fee Perpetual & Futures Trading: 0.0550% / 0.0200% taker/maker fee) Fiat Trading Fee: Vary as the level increases | Deposit Reward and Leverage Trading | 100x | 300+ | No | 2FA, Cold storage Regulated by VARA Dubai and Cyprus SEC | AI-powered tools like TradeGPT Automated bots Bybit cards for convenient crypto transactions Offers innovative features like Bybit Web3 platform and NFTs |
| Yellow Card | Sell – ZAR 18.63 / USDT or USDC Buy – ZAR 19.09 / USDT or USDC | Secure and Accessible Trading Options | N/A | Not Specified | Yes | SOC 2 Type 2 attestationPIN setup, two-factor authentication (2FA), and biometric login options. | Deep liquidity pools First licensed Stablecoin on-ramp/off-ramp on the continent |
| AltCoinTrader | 0.1% of trade value(Limit Fee). 0.75% of trade value for Market Fee (Easy Buy & Sell) | Easy Buy and Sell | N/A | 33+ | Yes | Two-factor authentication Proof of reserves Hot and cold wallet | Easy Save to earn rewards Built-in charting tools |
| VALR | Spot Trading: 0.080% / 0.100% maker/taker for crypto quote, 0.180% / 0.350% maker/taker for fiat quote, 0.050% / 0.100% maker/taker stable to stable quote (Volume incentives) Futures Trading: 0.030% / 0.070% maker/taker (Volume incentives) Simple Buy/Sell: 1.6% fee | Simple and Advanced Trading Tools | 20x | 75+ | Yes | Cold and hot wallet storage Two-factor authentication (2FA) Reserve system that protects all funds | OTC trading Liquid staking solutions |
| Binance | Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases) Futures Trading Fees: 0.0200% Maker / 0.0500% Taker(fees reduce as users climb the VIP levels). Paying fees with BNB grants users an additional 10% discount. | Beginners and Experienced Traders | 125x | 350+ | No | Offline cold storage, two-factor authentication, multi-signature and threshold signature schemes (TSS) and Advanced Data Encryption | 24/7 support in 40 languages Educational resources from Binance Academy Launchpad and NFT marketplace Copy trading and trading bots |
| PrimeXBT | Maker fee always 0.01% Ttaker fee varies by volume (<$5,000,000 monthly volume – 0.045% Taker fee) | Access to CFDs Market | 1:100 | 60+ | No | Multi-signature cold storage Two-factor authentication Withdrawal address whitelisting | Trading platform such as Webtrader, the PrimeXBT app, or MT5 Copy Trading and $10,000 demo account Built-in live exchange rate tool |
| Kraken | Spot Trading Fees: Range 0.25% / 0.40% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes) Futures Trading: 0.0200% / 0.0500% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes) | Crypto and NFT | 50x | 200+ | No | Utilizes cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA) | Provide educational resources and automated rewards Provides deep liquidity across markets |
UEEx – Best Overall Exchange for New and Experienced Traders
UEEx comes first on our list as the best overall crypto exchange for traders in South Africa. With over 21 million users across 110+ countries, it offers a reliable platform for buying, selling, and managing digital assets. Traders can access 300+ cryptocurrencies, 230+ trading pairs, and trading options like spot trading, leverage trading, copy trading, and auto investing.
Security and compliance are key priorities. UEEx is licensed under US MSB and Canada MSC, ensuring strong anti-money laundering measures and transparent fund management through proof-of-reserves reports. Its native token, UE Coin, adds value by supporting transactions, staking, and governance within the platform.
Pros
- Regular proof-of-reserves reports enhance transparency and trust.
- Stores 93% of users’ assets in cold storage.
- Implements multi-level verification, SAFU fund protection, and advanced security measures to keep digital assets safe.
- Supports various trading options, including spot, leverage, and copy trading.
- Offers free deposits, reducing trading costs.
- Provides 24/7 customer support for quick assistance.
- Has a user-friendly interface designed for both beginners and experienced traders.
- Accepts various payment methods for added convenience.
Cons
- It has high leverage (200x), which may pose a risk of losing funds, especially to new traders.
Fees and Deposits
- Spot Trading: 0.09%
- Futures Trading: 0.05%
- Margin Trading: 0.08 % – 0.10%
- Stock Trading: 1.50%
- Deposit Fee: Free
- Withdrawal Fee: Vary by cryptocurrency. Charges 0.002 BTC for BTC withdrawal on Bsc network, 1 USDT for USDT withdrawal on TRC20 and Bsc network.
- Payment Methods: Multiple options include Apple Pay, Visa, bank transfer, and credit/debit cards.
Bitmama – Best Crypto Exchange for Easy Fiat-Crypto Conversion
In 2017, Bitmama started as a P2P digital currency exchange. Over the years, it has expanded into a global platform where users can trade, buy, and sell over 10 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether (USDT), Celo, and Stellar. Available in 100+ countries, Bitmama makes crypto transactions straightforward and secure.
With Bitmama, you can do more than just trading. Get a crypto card to pay for goods and services, shop online from stores like Amazon and ASOS, send and receive both fiat and crypto worldwide, and even stake your assets for rewards. If you’re in South Africa, Bitmama offers a reliable way to manage crypto and everyday payments effortlessly.
Pros
- Provides crypto debit cards for both physical and virtual transactions.
- Users can spend up to $10,000 monthly using their Bitmama crypto card.
- It allows users to shop from international stores like Amazon and ASOS, which is easy with Bitmama.
- The platform offers exciting crypto giveaways through Bitmama GreenBox.
- Users can stake their crypto assets and earn passive income over time.
- Crypto payments can be made without first converting to fiat.
- It offers a vibrant community that allows users to connect, chat, and share insights.
- Two-factor authentication enhances account security.
Cons
- Doesn’t support leverage trading.
- The number of available cryptocurrencies supported is limited.
- Crypto card availability and usage may depend on regional restrictions.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: Does not publicly disclose its transaction fees.
- Deposit: Free
- Payment Methods: Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Card.
Bybit – Best Exchange for Deposit Reward and Leverage Trading
Launched and gained popularity in 2018, Bybit has become a top choice for crypto traders in South Africa. With over 50 million users worldwide, it offers a secure and transparent platform regulated by Dubai, Cyprus, and Kazakhstan authorities.
Bybit supports over 300 cryptocurrencies and provides multiple trading options, including spot and leverage trading. You can trade with AI-powered tools like TradeGPT, use automated bots, or buy crypto instantly with its P2P platform at zero fees. The exchange offers deposit rewards, a tiered fee structure, and earning programs.
Whether you’re looking for advanced trading features or simple ways to grow your portfolio, Bybit provides the tools you need. Its security, competitive fees, and strong global presence make it an excellent option for South African traders.
Pros
- Competitive and low trading fees.
- Access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies.
- Offers copy trading, which allows users to follow and learn from expert traders.
- High-speed trading with up to 100,000 transactions per second.
- Multiple deposit options, including crypto, fiat, P2P trading, and one-click purchase.
- 24/7 customer support for reliable assistance.
- It offers derivatives, NFTs, crypto earning programs, and a convenient Bybit Card.
Cons
- The fee is high for lower-volume traders.
- Limited educational resources.
- High leverage of up to 100x can lead to significant loss of funds.
Fees and Deposits
- Spot Trading: 0.1000%/0.1000% taker/maker fee (vary as level increases)
- Perpetual & Futures Trading: 0.0550%/0.0200% taker/maker fee (vary as level increases)
- Fiat Trading Fee: Vary as the level increases
- Deposit: Free
- Withdrawal: Vary across different cryptocurrencies.
- Payment Methods: Card payments, Instant bank transfers
Yellow Card – Best Crypto Exchange for Secure and Accessible Trading Options
Yellow Card makes buying and selling cryptocurrency simple and secure for South Africans. Launched in 2019, it has expanded across Africa, offering competitive rates, deep liquidity, and commercial trading solutions. You can trade Bitcoin, USDT, USDC, PYUSD, and more using local payment methods like bank transfers and mobile money.
Security is a priority, with PIN protection, strong passwords, and constant login monitoring. Whether you’re an individual or a business, Yellow Card provides reliable access to crypto markets, making it a trusted choice for trading digital assets in South Africa.
Pros
- The app and newsletter provide regular crypto insights, tutorials, and company updates.
- Offers deep liquidity pools to ensure competitive rates and minimal slippage for crypto trading.
- Users can secure their accounts with PIN setup, two-factor authentication (2FA), and biometric login.
- Local and cross-border transfers are free, making transactions more cost-effective.
- The platform is SOC 2 Type 2 certified, ensuring high security and data protection.
- Has a Yellow Card app for buying, selling, and transferring Stablecoins and digital assets.
Cons
- Advanced trading tools and features may not be available on the platform.
- The platform mainly supports stablecoins like USDT, USDC, and PYUSD.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading: Sell – ZAR 18.63 / USDT or USDC and Buy – ZAR 19.09 / USDT or USDC
- Deposit: Not disclosed
- Withdrawal Fees: 12 ZAR for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
- Payment Methods: Bank transfers and mobile money
AltCoinTrader – Best Crypto Exchange for Easy Buy and Sell
AltCoinTrader is a solid choice for quickly buying and selling cryptocurrencies in South Africa. Founded in 2015, this platform supports over 33 cryptocurrencies and allows users to trade directly without leverage or margin positions. Before making a trade, you can analyze market trends using built-in charting tools.
AltCoinTrader also offers extra benefits beyond trading. With Easy Save, you can earn rewards on your crypto with no fees or lock-in periods. The platform frequently runs airdrops and giveaways, giving users more value.
Deposits are simple, and AltCoinTrader supports ZAR bank transfers, Swift payments, and Capitec Pay. Security is a priority; assets are stored in hot and cold wallets. Fully licensed as a Crypto Asset Service Provider and Financial Service Provider (FSP# 53614), AltCoinTrader ensures safe and efficient trading.
Pros
- It offers Easy Save, allowing users to earn crypto rewards without fees or lock-in periods.
- Users can analyze market trends with built-in charting tools before making trades.
- Deposits are supported via ZAR bank transfers, Swift payments, and Capitec Pay.
- Account verification helps increase trading levels and security.
- Uses two-factor authentication and proof of reserves to enhance platform security.
- Crypto assets are stored in both hot and cold wallets for added protection.
Cons
- Users must be logged in to escalate issues or file complaints.
- Limited to spot trading, with no margin or leveraged trading options.
- Supports fewer cryptocurrencies compared to global exchanges.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: 0.1% of trade value(Limit Fee). 0.75% of trade value for Market Fee (Easy Buy & Sell)
- FIAT Deposit: The bank determines a 0.5% Maximum of R95.00 Cash or EFT fee. Additional 5% for all CASH deposits. International Deposits vary by volume (R1 – R1000 = R10 fee, R1000.01 – R2000 = R40 fee). 2% of Deposit via Capitec Pay.
- Crypto Deposit: Free
- Fiat Withdrawal: R16 + 0.5% Maximum of R95.00. Instant withdrawals range from R60 – R140
- Crypto Withdrawal: Vary by cryptocurrency. 0.00762600 BNB to withdraw BNB, 0.00215000 BTC to withdraw BTC.
- Payment Methods: Bank transfers, Swift payments, and Capitec Pay
VALR – Best Crypto Exchange With Simple and Advanced Trading Tools
Headquartered in Johannesburg, VALR has been a trusted crypto exchange in South Africa since 2018. It offers a secure platform for trading over 75 digital assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and XRP. Whether you prefer spot, margin, or futures trading with up to 20x leverage, VALR provides options for different trading needs.
Thanks to easy ZAR deposits and conversions, buying and selling crypto is hassle-free. The platform’s liquid staking solutions allow users to earn passive income, while its institutional-grade API supports advanced trading.
Security is a top priority, with cold and hot wallet storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), and a reserve system that protects all funds. Fast onboarding and dedicated customer support make VALR a reliable choice for South African traders.
Pros
- Supports spot, margin, futures, and OTC trading with competitive fees.
- Users can earn passive income through liquid staking solutions.
- Customer support is responsive, with private support channels for corporate clients.
- The referral program offers up to 30% commission on trading fees.
- Funds are fully reserved, ensuring maximum financial security.
- VALR Pay allows users to send payments instantly without fees.
- Offers maker rewards that let traders earn by adding liquidity to order books.
- Advanced security features protect user accounts, including Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
Cons
- Limited selection of supported fiat currencies beyond ZAR for deposits and withdrawals.
- There is no direct integration with popular international payment methods like PayPal.
Fees and Deposits
- Spot Trading: 0.080% / 0.100% maker/taker for crypto quote, 0.180% / 0.350% maker/taker for fiat quote, 0.050% / 0.100% maker/taker stable to stable quote (Volume incentives)
- Futures Trading: 0.030% / 0.070% maker/taker (Volume incentives)
- Simple Buy/Sell: 1.6% fee
- Fiat Deposit: 0.13% (Minimum $10) for USD via Wire transfer, 0.13% (Minimum €1) for EUR via Wire or SEPA transfer, 3.9% for ZAR Deposit via Card, Free (No minimum deposit) for ZAR deposit via EFT
- Crypto Deposit: Free
- Fiat Withdrawal: 30 Free monthly withdrawals (R8.50 thereafter) for ZAR Normal Withdrawals. Auto-enabled & free to Standard Bank, R30 to RTC, and other banks for ZAR Fast Withdrawals.
- Crypto Withdrawal: Vary by cryptocurrency (Displayed on the crypto withdrawal screen)
- Payment Methods: Bank transfer, Credit card, SEPA bank transfer, VALR Pay ID
Binance – Best Crypto Exchange for Beginners and Experienced Traders
Since 2017, Binance has grown into one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges, serving over 250 million users in 180+ countries. In South Africa, it offers access to more than 350 cryptocurrencies and supports over 50 fiat currencies, including SGD.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or trading, Binance provides multiple options. You can use the Spot market for direct trades, Margin trading for leverage up to 125x, or P2P to buy and sell crypto through local payment methods. Features like Copy Trading and Trading Bots make it easy to automate strategies.
Security is a top priority, and cold storage, two-factor authentication, and Proof of Reserves ensure funds are fully backed. Binance Academy also offers educational resources to help you trade with confidence.
Pros
- Supports over 800 payment options through P2P trading, making buying and selling crypto easy.
- Multiple trading options include Spot, Margin, and high-leverage trading for different strategies.
- Advanced tools like Copy Trading and Trading Bots help automate and optimize trades.
- Users can trade more than 350 cryptocurrencies, offering various investment choices.
- Binance Academy and Binance Research provide comprehensive educational resources for all levels of traders.
- High trading volume ensures strong liquidity, allowing faster and more efficient transactions.
- Proof of Reserves guarantees that user assets are fully backed at a minimum of 1:1.
- 24/7 customer support is available in over 40 languages for seamless assistance.
- Users can earn passive income through Binance Earn, Launchpad, and NFT marketplace opportunities.
Cons
- Advanced trading tools may be complicated for newbies to use.
- Withdrawal fees are sometimes very high.
Fees and Deposits
- Spot and Margin Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for(Fees may vary as the level increases). Users who pay fees with Binance Coin (BNB) enjoy a 25% discount on trading fees.
- Futures Trading Fees: 0.0200% Maker / 0.0500% Taker(fees reduce as users climb the VIP levels). Paying fees with BNB grants users an additional 10% discount.
- Deposit Fee: Free for crypto deposits and varies for fiat deposits
- Withdrawal Fee: Vary with each cryptocurrency
- Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards and bank transfers.
PrimeXBT – Best Crypto Exchange With Access to CFDs Market
Serving traders in South Africa and beyond, PrimeXBT offers more than just crypto trading. With access to CFDs on forex, stocks, commodities, and indices, you can trade multiple markets from a single platform. Over 100 assets and 60+ Crypto are available, including BTC/USD, EUR/USD, SP500, gold, and oil.
Security and efficiency are a priority. PrimeXBT uses multi-signature cold storage, two-factor authentication, and withdrawal address whitelisting to protect your funds. Whether you prefer trading on the web, mobile app, or MT5, the platform ensures flexibility.
New users receive exclusive bonuses. With a $20,000 compensation fund, 24/7 human support, and a 100% reserve ratio, PrimeXBT provides a secure and rewarding trading experience for South African traders seeking more market opportunities
Pros
- It allows users to trade multiple assets from one platform, including forex, stocks, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies.
- Practice risk-free with a $10,000 demo account to refine trading strategies.
- Follow expert traders through the Copy Trading feature to maximize potential profits.
- Get 24/7 human support via live chat and email for quick assistance.
- Use real-time price charts to track market movements and make informed decisions.
- Instantly convert currencies with a built-in live exchange rate tool.
- Buy crypto easily using a bank transfer, Visa, or Mastercard.
- Trade on your preferred platform, Webtrader, the PrimeXBT app, or MT5.
Cons
- Does not support deposits via local South African payment methods.
- High-leverage options(1:100) can lead to significant losses if not managed properly.
- South Africa’s FSCA does not regulate it, which may concern some traders.
Fees and Deposits
- Crypto Futures Trading: Maker fee always 0.01%, taker fee varies by volume (<$5,000,000 monthly volume – 0.045% Taker fee)
- Deposit: Free ($1 minimum deposit)
- Withdrawal Fee: Depend on the vendor or chosen blockchain (Starting from $0.5)
- Payment Methods: Bank transfer, Visa/Mastercard.
Kraken – Best Exchange for Crypto and NFT
Kraken is one of the best platforms for trading crypto and NFTs in South Africa. Since 2011, it has served over 10 million users across 190+ countries, offering a secure and efficient way to buy, sell, and earn rewards. It supports over 200 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, and Cardano, and provides plenty of trading options.
Kraken offers margin trading with up to 50x leverage for those looking to maximise their trades. You can also earn passive income through automated staking with up to 12% competitive APRs. The platform is backed by 24/7 customer support and educational resources, making it a strong choice for South Africans interested in crypto—whether you’re just starting out or already trading actively.
Pros
- Supports margin trading and futures, allowing for various trading strategies.
- Easily accessible on desktop and mobile, ensuring smooth trading on any device.
- Keeps user funds secure with cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Offers affordable deposits in EUR and competitive rates for U.S. deposits.
- Includes a Learn Center with educational resources for both new and experienced traders.
- Provides some of the lowest trading fees compared to other crypto exchanges.
- 24/7 customer support for quick assistance anytime.
Cons
- Verification processes can sometimes take longer.
- The advanced tools can be overwhelming for new traders.
Fees and Deposits
- Minimum Deposit: $10 (Beginner-friendly)
- Spot Trading Fees: Range 0.25% / 0.40% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes)
- Futures Trading: 0.0200% / 0.0500% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes)
- Deposit Fees: Free
- Withdrawal Fees: Vary by cryptocurrency
- Payment Methods: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa/Mastercard, Plaid ACH
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Exchange in South Africa
Before signing up for a crypto exchange, it’s important to choose a platform that fits your needs. Here are key factors to keep in mind:
Security Measures
| Exchange | Security Features |
| UEEx | Stores 93% of user funds in cold wallets Proof of Reserve |
| Bitmama | Two-factor authentication |
| Bybit | 2FA, Cold storage Regulated by VARA Dubai and Cyprus SEC |
| Yellow Card | SOC 2 Type 2 attestationPIN setup, two-factor authentication (2FA), and biometric login options. |
| AltCoinTrader | Two-factor authentication Proof of reserves Hot and cold wallet |
| VALR | Cold and hot wallet storage Two-factor authentication (2FA) Reserve system that protects all funds |
| Binance | Offline cold storage, two-factor authentication, multi-signature and threshold signature schemes (TSS) and Advanced Data Encryption |
| PrimeXBT | Multi-signature cold storage Two-factor authentication Withdrawal address whitelisting |
| Kraken | Utilizes cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA) |
Your funds and personal data should be protected at all times. Look for exchanges that use cold storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), and proof of reserves. UEEx stores 93% of user funds in cold storage, while Kraken and PrimeXBT also offer strong security with 2FA and multi-signature cold storage. Choosing a secure platform reduces the risk of hacks and fraud.
Trading Fees
| Exchange | Trading Fees | Deposits | Withdrawals |
| UEEx | Spot Trading: 0.09% Futures Trading: 0.05% Margin Trading: 0.08 % – 0.10% Stock Trading: 1.50% | Free | Vary by cryptocurrency. Charges 0.002 BTC for BTC withdrawal on the BSC network and 1 USDT on both TRC20 and BSC network to withdraw USDT |
| Bitmama | Does not publicly disclose its transaction fees. | Free | Not disclosed |
| Bybit | Spot Trading: 0.1000% / 0.1000% taker/maker fee Perpetual & Futures Trading: 0.0550% / 0.0200% taker/maker fee) Fiat Trading Fee: Vary as the level increases | Free | Vary across different cryptocurrencies. |
| Yellow Card | Sell – ZAR 18.63 / USDT or USDC Buy – ZAR 19.09 / USDT or USDC | Not disclosed | 12 ZAR for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) |
| AltCoinTrader | 0.1% of trade value(Limit Fee). 0.75% of trade value for Market Fee (Easy Buy & Sell) | FIAT Deposit: The bank determines a 0.5% Maximum of R95.00 Cash or EFT fee. Additional 5% for all CASH deposits. International Deposits vary by volume (R1 – R1000 = R10 fee, R1000.01 – R2000 = R40 fee). 2% of Deposit via Capitec Pay. Crypto Deposit: Free | Fiat Withdrawal: R16 + 0.5% Maximum of R95.00. Instant withdrawals range from R60 – R140 Crypto Withdrawal: Vary by cryptocurrency. 0.00762600 BNB to withdraw BNB, 0.00215000 BTC to withdraw BTC. |
| VALR | Spot Trading: 0.080% / 0.100% maker/taker for crypto quote, 0.180% / 0.350% maker/taker for fiat quote, 0.050% / 0.100% maker/taker stable to stable quote (Volume incentives) Futures Trading: 0.030% / 0.070% maker/taker (Volume incentives) Simple Buy/Sell: 1.6% fee | Fiat Deposit: 0.13% (Minimum $10) for USD via Wire transfer, 0.13% (Minimum €1) for EUR via Wire or SEPA transfer, 3.9% for ZAR Deposit via Card, Free (No minimum deposit) for ZAR deposit via EFT Crypto Deposit: Free | Fiat Withdrawal: 30 Free monthly withdrawals (R8.50 thereafter) for ZAR Normal Withdrawals. Auto-enabled & free to Standard Bank, R30 to RTC, and other banks for ZAR Fast Withdrawals. Crypto Withdrawal: Vary by cryptocurrency (Displayed on the crypto withdrawal screen) |
| Binance | Trading Fees: 0.1000% / 0.1000% Maker / Taker for Spot and margin (Fees may vary as the level increases) Futures Trading Fees: 0.0200% Maker / 0.0500% Taker(fees reduce as users climb the VIP levels). Paying fees with BNB grants users an additional 10% discount. | Free for cryptocurrencies. Fees for fiat deposits vary depending on the chosen payment method and currency. | Vary by crypto. |
| PrimeXBT | Maker fee always 0.01% Ttaker fee varies by volume (<$5,000,000 monthly volume – 0.045% Taker fee) | Free ($1 minimum deposit) | Depend on the vendor or chosen blockchain (Starting from $0.5) |
| Kraken | Spot Trading Fees: Range 0.25% / 0.40% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes) Futures Trading: 0.0200% / 0.0500% maker/taker (lower fees for higher trading volumes) | Free | Vary by cryptocurrency |
High fees can affect your profits, so it’s important to compare costs. UEEx offers competitive fees ranging from 0.05% to 0.09%, while Bybit and Binance provide lower fees for higher trading volumes.
In contrast, Bitmama does not publicly disclose its transaction fees, making cost transparency a concern. Always check how much an exchange charges for trading, deposits, and withdrawals before committing.
Available Cryptocurrencies
| Exchange | Available Assets |
| UEEx | 300+ |
| Bitmama | 10+ |
| Bybit | 300+ |
| Yellow Card | Not Specified |
| AltCoinTrader | 33+ |
| VALR | 75+ |
| Binance | 350+ |
| PrimeXBT | 60+ |
| Kraken | 200+ |
If you plan to trade more than just Bitcoin and Ethereum, the number of supported coins matters. UEEx and Bybit offer 300+ cryptocurrencies, while Binance supports 350+. On the other hand, PrimeXBT only supports 60+ coins, and AltCoinTrader has just 33+, which may feel limiting if you’re looking for variety.
Payment Methods
A good exchange should make it easy to deposit and withdraw funds in South African Rand (ZAR). UEEx supports multiple payment methods, including bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit/debit cards.
AltCoinTrader, VALR, PrimeXBT, and Yellow Card also allow ZAR deposits using various payment options. A platform with flexible deposit and withdrawal methods saves you from conversion fees and long processing times.
Regulation and Compliance
Trading on a regulated exchange adds an extra layer of trust. UEEx is licensed under US MSB and Canada MSC, while AltCoinTrader is fully licensed as a Crypto Asset Service Provider and Financial Service Provider (FSP# 53614) in South Africa.
Choosing a compliant exchange ensures the platform follows financial laws and security standards, giving you peace of mind.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support can make all the difference when you run into issues. A good exchange should offer 24/7 support through live chat, email, and phone. Look for platforms with a responsive team that can quickly assist with technical problems, account issues, or transaction delays.
Ease of Use
A simple and well-designed platform makes trading much easier. Whether you’re using a desktop or mobile app, the exchange should be easy to navigate. Some platforms also provide educational resources, like Binance’s Academy, to help users understand crypto trading better. If you’re just getting started, an intuitive platform will save you time and frustration..
How to Start Trading on UEEx in South Africa
To start trading on UEEx in Kenya, follow these easy steps:
Open an Account
Go to the UEEx website and navigate to the top right corner of the homepage, where you’ll see the “Sign Up” button. Click on it. On the next page, fill in your details, including your phone number or email, a secure password, and an invitation code (if you have one) for commissions. Once done, click on “Sign Up.”
You’ll receive a verification code sent to your email or phone. Enter this code to confirm and activate your account. You’re now ready to start trading on UEEx!
Deposit Funds
To start trading immediately, go to the “Asset Management” section of the UEEx platform. In this section, find the “Recharge” option under your selected asset and choose the cryptocurrency or fiat option you prefer.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the deposit process. The time it takes for your deposit to clear will depend on the cryptocurrency or fiat currency you use, as well as the required block confirmations or deposit processing time. Once your funds are deposited, you’re all set to begin trading!
Start Trading
Now that you have successfully funded your account, it’s time to start trading. Simply click “Trade” next to your chosen asset. You’ll then need to choose an order type:
- Market Order: This option buys or sells immediately at the current market price.
- Limit Order: With this, you can set a specific price for buying or selling.
The next thing is to enter the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy or the fiat currency you wish to spend. Once you’ve reviewed your order, click “Buy” or “Sell” to complete the transaction and start trading!
Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in South Africa?
Yes, crypto exchanges are legal in South Africa. While cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender, trading and owning crypto is allowed. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) oversees crypto-related activities, and exchanges must register as Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) under South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
This ensures compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and financial regulations. Choosing a regulated exchange provides better security and legal protection. However, always check if a platform follows local compliance standards before trading. Read more here.
Conclusion
You’ve now seen how crypto exchanges in South Africa offer a mix of security, affordability, and accessibility. Whether you’re buying Bitcoin for the first time or trading with advanced strategies, finding the right platform makes all the difference.
Each exchange has unique benefits, from low fees to strong security measures. Now, it’s up to you to choose the one that fits your goals. Start trading with confidence and take advantage of the opportunities crypto offers in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Crypto Exchange Is Best in South Africa?
UEEx is the best crypto exchange in South Africa, offering 300+ cryptocurrencies, low fees, strong security, multiple trading options, and 24/7 customer support.
Is Bybit Available in South Africa?
Yes, Bybit is available in South Africa, offering spot and leverage trading, AI-powered tools, and multiple deposit options.
What Crypto Does Elon Musk Own?
Elon Musk has publicly stated that he owns Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Dogecoin (DOGE), with Dogecoin being his favorite due to its meme culture and utility.
Is Luno Legit in South Africa?
Yes, Luno is legit in South Africa. It is a registered crypto exchange that complies with local regulations, offers secure trading, and has been operating in the country for years.
Where Can South Africa Buy Bitcoin?
South Africans can buy Bitcoin by visiting the UEEx website, creating an account, completing verification, and funding their wallet to start trading securely.
