Key Takeaways
- Most people need two kinds of app: an exchange to buy crypto and a wallet to store it.
- Coinbase and Kraken are our top exchange apps for beginners.
- Exodus and MetaMask are leading self-custody wallet apps.
- Hardware wallet companion apps like Ledger Live and Trezor Suite are best for long-term storage.
There are thousands of crypto apps, and fake ones are a common scam. This guide covers the reputable apps we recommend for each job: buying, storing, using DeFi and tracking your portfolio.
Best crypto apps at a glance
| App | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Coinbase | Exchange | Beginners buying their first crypto |
| Kraken | Exchange | Security and lower fees |
| Exodus | Self-custody wallet | Multi-coin beginners |
| MetaMask | Self-custody wallet | DeFi and Web3 |
| Ledger Live | Hardware wallet app | Long-term storage with a Ledger |
| Trezor Suite | Hardware wallet app | Long-term storage with a Trezor |
| CryptoBear Portfolio Tracker | Tracker | Tracking holdings without connecting accounts |
Best apps for buying crypto
Coinbase
The easiest app for first-time buyers, with guided onboarding, recurring buys and price alerts. Use Coinbase Advanced in the same app to reduce fees.
Kraken
A clean beginner app plus the powerful Kraken Pro app for lower-cost trading, backed by one of the best security records in the industry. Compare them in Coinbase vs Kraken.
Outside the US, Binance and Bybit offer low fees and wide coin selection. See best crypto exchanges for beginners.
Best wallet apps
Exodus
A beautifully designed multi-coin wallet for desktop and mobile with built-in swaps and Trezor integration. Ideal if you hold several different coins.
MetaMask
The standard wallet for Ethereum and EVM-compatible apps, with Solana support added. Best for DeFi, NFTs and Web3. See also MetaMask vs Phantom.
Best apps for long-term storage
Ledger Live and Trezor Suite are the companion apps for the leading hardware wallets. They let you view balances, buy, swap and stake, while transactions must be approved on the physical device.
Best apps for tracking and planning
Use our free portfolio tracker, DCA calculator and profit calculator to track and plan without handing over account access. Browse all our crypto tools.
How to stay safe with crypto apps
- Download apps only from official websites or links on them; scammers publish fake wallet apps.
- Check the developer name and review count in app stores.
- Lock apps with biometrics and a strong passcode.
- Never enter your recovery phrase into an app you didn't install to restore a wallet.
- Be wary of apps promising guaranteed returns. Read how to spot crypto scams.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best crypto app for beginners?
Coinbase is the easiest place to buy crypto. For storing it yourself, Exodus is a friendly first wallet.
Are crypto apps safe?
Reputable apps from established companies are generally safe when you use strong security. Fake apps and phishing are the biggest risks.
Should I keep my crypto in an exchange app?
Exchange apps are convenient for buying and trading, but for long-term savings a self-custody or hardware wallet gives you full control.
This guide is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. App features and availability change; confirm details with each provider.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments are volatile and risky. Some links may be affiliate links — see our disclosure.