Gemini Crypto Exchange
U.S. Status
Supported Coins
Our Rating
Spot Trading Fee
For Active Trader, 0.40% for taker trades and 0.20% for maker trades. The more you trade, the lower the fees – can decrease to as low as 0% – 0.03%.
Gemini is a U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange founded by the Winklevoss twins in 2014. It is known for its strong security features, user-friendly interface, and compliance with regulations.
Gemini allows users to buy, sell, and store +150 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Gemini’s own stablecoin, Gemini Dollar (GUSD).
The platform offers two main trading options: a simple web and mobile exchange for beginners and ActiveTrader, an advanced platform with lower fees, faster order execution, and professional tools.
Additionally, users can stake certain cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH) and Polygon (MATIC) to earn rewards.
While Gemini is known for its security, it has relatively high trading fees compared to competitors. Its customer support is mainly email-based, and some users have reported slow response times.
Does Gemini charge inactivity fees?
No, Gemini does not charge inactivity fees. However, storing assets on the exchange does not generate interest, so some users prefer to transfer funds to external wallets.
Can I stake my crypto on Gemini?
Yes, Gemini supports staking for Ethereum (ETH) and Polygon (MATIC). Solana (SOL) is also available for non-U.S. users. However, Gemini’s staking rewards are lower than other exchanges and charges a 15% staking fee.
Can I use Gemini for crypto lending?
No, Gemini’s Earn program was shut down due to regulatory issues, and users are no longer able to lend crypto for interest. Other lending platforms, like Nexo or BlockFi, offer similar services, but always research risks before lending crypto.
How long do Gemini withdrawals take?
Crypto withdrawals are usually processed within minutes, depending on network congestion. Fiat withdrawals via ACH take 4-6 business days, while wire transfers are typically completed within 24 hours.
What happens if I send crypto to the wrong address on Gemini?
Unfortunately, crypto transactions are irreversible. If you send funds to the wrong address, Gemini cannot recover them, so always double-check wallet addresses before sending crypto.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Strong Security & Compliance | High Trading Fees |
Available in All 50 U.S. States | Limited Crypto Selection Compared to Competitors |
Beginner & Advanced Trading Options | Limited Staking Options |
NFT & Web3 Integration | Mixed Customer Support Reputation |
Crypto Rewards Credit Card | Complicated Fee Structure |
Institutional-Grade Storage & Trading |
Supported Cryptocurrencies & Assets
Gemini offers a selection of +150 cryptocurrencies, including popular coins, stablecoins, and NFTs. The platform supports major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC), along with several altcoins and emerging tokens.
In addition to cryptocurrencies, Gemini provides access to stablecoins, including its own Gemini Dollar (GUSD), a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin. It also lists other widely used stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).
Gemini extends its offerings to NFTs through its Nifty Gateway platform, where users can buy, sell, and store non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
While Gemini supports many popular assets, its selection is smaller than some larger exchanges.
Is Gemini Available In The US?
Yes, Gemini is fully available in all 50 U.S. states, making it one of the few cryptocurrency exchanges with nationwide regulatory approval.
It operates under the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS) and complies with strict U.S. regulations, ensuring a secure and legally compliant trading environment.
However, some features are not available to U.S. customers due to regulatory restrictions.
Derivatives trading and Staking Pro are currently unavailable in the U.S., and the Gemini Earn lending program was shut down due to legal issues with the SEC.
Gemini’s Legal Issues & Trustworthiness
Gemini has faced legal challenges, mainly related to its Gemini Earn program. In January 2023, the SEC charged Gemini and its partner Genesis Global Capital with offering unregistered securities through the Earn program.
This led to customers being unable to withdraw funds. Genesis later filed for bankruptcy, and Gemini agreed to return $1.1 billion to Earn customers and pay a $37 million fine in February 2024 for compliance failures.
However, Gemini’s core exchange remains operational and compliant with U.S. regulations.
Main Features For Crypto Investors
Here are the key features that I found most appealing in Gemini:
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Understanding Gemini’s Fee Structure: Not The Cheapest Platform
Gemini’s fees are higher than many competitors, especially for small trades. The platform charges a convenience fee (0.5%) on web and mobile trades, plus an additional transaction fee based on trade size.
For ActiveTrader users, fees are based on a tiered maker/taker model:
Spot Trading Fees |
|---|
$0.99 – 1.49% (Web & Mobile), 0.20% – 0.40% (Active Trader)
For Gemini’s website or mobile app users are charged 0.50% convenience fee For Active Trader, 0.40% for taker trades and 0.20% for maker trades. The more you trade, the lower the fees – can decrease to as low as 0% – 0.03%. |
Other fees include:
- Debit card deposits: 3.49%
- Crypto withdrawals: Free for up to 10 per month; after that, fees vary by token.
- Fiat withdrawals: ACH and wire transfers are free, but international bank transfers may have fees.
While Gemini offers top-tier security, its complex and costly fee structure can be a downside for casual traders.
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Regulated & Insured: A Look at Its Gemini Security Features
Gemini prioritizes security and compliance, making it one of the safest cryptocurrency exchanges.
Users are required to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification before trading, which enhances platform security.
The platform uses two-factor authentication (2FA), withdrawal whitelisting, and device approval to protect user accounts.
Most assets are stored in cold storage, reducing hacking risks, while Gemini’s hot wallet is insured against security breaches.
Regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS), Gemini follows strict compliance measures, including SOC 2 Type 2 certification and ISO 27001 security standards.
These certifications ensure high-level protection for user funds.
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Gemini’s Interface: Smooth Trading Experience for All Levels
Gemini is designed for both beginners and experienced traders, offering a clean and intuitive interface. The platform’s web and mobile apps make it easy to navigate, even for first-time crypto investors.
Beginners can use the basic exchange, which allows for quick crypto purchases with a simple buy/sell interface. Features like recurring buys and portfolio tracking make managing investments effortless.
For experienced traders, Gemini ActiveTrader provides advanced charting tools, fast order execution, and multiple order types.
The mobile app mirrors the desktop platform’s functionality, ensuring a seamless experience on the go.
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Gemini ActiveTrader vs. Gemini Standard
Gemini ActiveTrader is the platform’s advanced trading interface, designed for experienced traders who need faster execution, lower fees, and better tools.
Unlike the basic exchange, ActiveTrader offers:
- Lower maker/taker fees, reducing trading costs.
- Advanced charting tools for in-depth market analysis.
- Multiple order types, including limit, market, and stop orders.
- High-speed execution, making it ideal for day traders.
Gemini ActiveTrader | Gemini Standard | |
|---|---|---|
Trading Fees | 1.49% per trade | 0.40% – 0.03%
|
Interface | Simple, beginner-friendly | Advanced charts & trading tools
|
Order Types | Market orders only | Market, limit, stop orders |
Execution Speed | Standard | High-speed execution |
Best For | Beginners & casual traders | Active & professional traders |
If you're serious about crypto trading, switching to ActiveTrader can help save money on fees and improve your trading efficiency.
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Deposit & Withdraw With Gemini: How It Works
Gemini offers multiple ways to deposit and withdraw funds, supporting both fiat and crypto transactions.
Users can fund their accounts via bank transfers (ACH), wire transfers, debit cards, and crypto deposits. ACH and wire transfers are free, but debit card deposits come with a 3.49% fee.
Withdrawals are processed quickly, but ACH transfers may take 4-6 days, while wire transfers are faster.
Crypto withdrawals are generally instant, but Gemini offers up to 10 free crypto withdrawals per month, depending on the asset.
For international users, Gemini supports various fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, and more. However, some withdrawal limits apply based on account verification levels.
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NFT & Web3 Features: What Gemini Offers?
Gemini supports NFT trading and Web3 integration through its Nifty Gateway platform.
This NFT marketplace allows users to buy, sell, and store NFTs, offering access to exclusive collections from top artists and brands.
Unlike other NFT marketplaces, Nifty Gateway allows purchases using credit cards, debit cards, and crypto, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Users can store their NFTs in Gemini’s secure custodial wallet or transfer them to their own blockchain wallets.
Beyond NFTs, Gemini integrates with Web3 applications, allowing users to participate in blockchain gaming, DeFi staking, and decentralized exchanges.
However, its Web3 offerings are limited compared to other crypto exchanges with broader DeFi integrations.
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Staking & Rewards on Gemini
Gemini allows users to stake select cryptocurrencies and earn passive rewards in return.
Currently, staking is available for Ethereum (ETH) and Polygon (MATIC) for U.S. users, while Solana (SOL) is available for non-U.S. users.
Rewards are automatically distributed but come with a 15% staking fee deducted by Gemini.
This fee is higher than some competitors, so you may want to check other platforms for better rates.
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Gemini Customer Support & Reputation
Gemini offers email and chatbot support, but no live phone support for individual users. While its Help Center includes FAQs and guides, many users report slow response times and difficulty resolving issues.
The platform has mixed customer reviews, with some praising its security and reliability, while others complain about account freezes, withdrawal delays, and poor customer service.
Gemini has a low Trustpilot rating (around 1.2/5), similar to many crypto exchanges.
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Can You Trade with Leverage on Gemini?
Unlike some major exchanges like Binance and Kraken, Gemini does not currently offer margin trading or crypto futures for U.S. users.
However, international users may have access to crypto derivatives and futures trading through Gemini’s ActiveTrader platform in select regions.
For traders looking for leverage, Gemini’s primary focus is on spot trading, meaning all trades must be fully funded by the user.
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Gemini Credit Card – Earn Crypto on Every Purchase
Gemini offers a crypto rewards credit card, allowing users to earn crypto on every purchase without annual fees.
Unlike traditional rewards programs, Gemini’s card automatically converts cashback into Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other cryptocurrencies of your choice.
Users earn:
- 3% back on dining
- 2% back on groceries
- 1% back on all other purchases
Rewards are deposited instantly into your Gemini account, letting you start earning from price appreciation right away.
The card works anywhere Mastercard is accepted and includes security features like instant card freezing, fraud protection, and no foreign transaction fees.
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Gemini OTC: Trade Crypto Privately with Gemini’s OTC Desk
Gemini offers OTC (Over-the-Counter) trading, allowing large-volume crypto transactions to be executed off the public exchange.
This is ideal for institutional investors, hedge funds, and high-net-worth individuals looking to avoid market impact and slippage when making big trades.
Unlike traditional exchange orders, OTC trades do not appear in the public order book, ensuring greater privacy and price stability.
Gemini acts as a trusted third party, verifying both sides of the trade and facilitating a secure settlement process.
When Gemini May Be a Good Choice And Who Should Skip It?
Like any financial product, Gemini may not be the best option for everyone. Below are the types of users who may benefit from using Gemini and those who might want to look elsewhere:
When Gemini May Be a Good Choice | Who Should Look Elsewhere |
|---|---|
Security-Conscious Investors | High-Frequency & Low-Cost Traders
|
U.S.-Based Crypto Traders | Users Who Need a Large Crypto Selection |
Beginners Who Want a Simple Interface | Traders Looking for Futures & Margin Trading |
Long-Term Holders & Institutional Investors | Crypto Staking Enthusiasts |
NFT & Web3 Enthusiasts |
4 Simple Steps to Set Up the Gemini Account
Let's see the main steps when setting up an account with Gemini:
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1. Sign Up for a Gemini Account
To create a Gemini account, visit Gemini.com or download the Gemini mobile app.
Click “Get Started” and enter your full name, email address, and a secure password. You will also need to verify your email before proceeding.
Gemini requires users to be at least 18 years old to open an account.
Our tips:
🔹 Use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
🔹 Make sure to use a valid email and phone number, as both are required for verification.
🔹 If you don’t see the verification email, check your spam/junk folder.
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2. Verify Your Identity (KYC Process)
Gemini requires Know Your Customer (KYC) verification before you can start trading.
You’ll need to upload a government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license) and a selfie for identity confirmation. The exchange may also request proof of residence like a utility bill or bank statement.
Our tips:
🔹 The verification process can take a few minutes to a few days, depending on demand.
🔹 Make sure your ID photo is clear, without glare or blurriness, to avoid delays.
🔹 U.S. users must provide their Social Security Number (SSN) to comply with regulations.
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3. Link a Payment Method
Once verified, you can deposit funds into your Gemini account by linking a bank account (ACH or wire transfer), debit card, or crypto wallet.
ACH and wire transfers are free, but debit card deposits come with a 3.49% fee.
ACH deposits take 4-6 days to fully clear, while wire transfers are faster.
Our tips:
🔹 If depositing crypto, double-check wallet addresses to avoid irreversible losses.
🔹 Your bank name must match your Gemini account name to avoid funding issues.
🔹If using a debit card, consider the higher fees before making a deposit.
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4. Start Trading & Secure Your Account
Now that your funds are deposited, you can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies on Gemini.
If you're a beginner, you can start with the basic trading interface. Advanced traders can switch to ActiveTrader for lower fees and more tools.
Our tips:
🔹 Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect your account from unauthorized access.
🔹 Consider whitelisting withdrawal addresses to prevent hackers from sending funds elsewhere.
🔹 Use Gemini’s price alerts to track market movements and make informed trades.
🔹 Learn about Gemini's fee structure before trading to avoid unexpected charges.
FAQ
Yes, Gemini is fully regulated and operates under the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS). It follows strict compliance rules, making it one of the most secure and legally compliant crypto exchanges in the U.S.
No, Gemini does not currently offer a demo or paper trading feature. Users must deposit real funds to trade, but beginners can start with small amounts to familiarize themselves with the platform.
Yes, Gemini operates in over 60 countries worldwide, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and Singapore. However, some features, like derivatives trading and Staking Pro, are unavailable to U.S. users due to regulations.
Gemini has never been hacked, but if it were, user funds in the hot wallet are covered by digital asset insurance. Most assets are stored in cold storage, which is significantly harder to breach.
Yes, Gemini provides tax reporting tools and allows users to download transaction history. U.S. users receive a Form 1099-MISC if they earn over $600 in crypto rewards or staking.
Review Crypto Exchanges
How We Rated Crypto Exchanges: Review Methodology
At The Smart Investor, we evaluated crypto exchanges based on their overall value, security, and trading experience compared to other leading alternatives. Our hands-on testing focused on key factors that matter most to traders and investors, including fees, security, liquidity, and available assets. Each exchange was rated based on the following criteria:
- Fees & Costs (15%): We prioritized exchanges with low trading fees, competitive spreads, and transparent pricing. Some platforms had hidden withdrawal fees or costly trading structures.
- User Experience & Interface (15%): A fast, intuitive, and well-designed platform scored highest. Some exchanges felt clunky or slow, impacting trade execution and overall experience.
- Security & Regulation (20%): We favored exchanges with strong encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, and regulatory compliance. Some lacked proper security, making them high-risk.
- Trading Tools & Features (30%): The best exchanges offered advanced charting, real-time market data, order types (limit, stop-loss), and automation tools. Some lacked depth, limiting professional traders.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies (10%): We rated exchanges higher if they supported a broad range of cryptocurrencies, including major coins, altcoins, and stablecoins. Some had limited selections, restricting options.
- Liquidity & Execution Speed (5%): Exchanges with high liquidity, deep order books, and fast execution times scored highest. Lower-rated platforms had frequent slippage or delays.
- Additional Features (5%): We favored exchanges with staking, lending, fiat on-ramps, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi integration. Some lacked these extras, making them less versatile.
