Two contrasting models compete for crypto execution and regulation. Coinbase Advanced runs a native exchange with DeFi and custody, while IG offers crypto CFDs with broad regulatory backing.
Coinbase Advanced outscores IG on the overall editorial score, at 4.5 versus 4.2.
Find out which crypto exchange best suits your trading profile.
Choose Coinbase Advanced if…
Choose Coinbase Advanced if you want a native exchange with DeFi access and proof of reserves.
Choose IG if…
Choose IG if you prefer crypto CFDs with weekend markets and strong regulatory oversight.
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
IG wins for security thanks to a broader regulator network and cross-jurisdiction oversight.
| Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.5/ 5 | 4.2/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | $2 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads From | N/A | 0.6 pips |
| Taker Fee | 0.60% | N/A |
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | Coinbase Advanced | IG |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Pass | Fail |
| Proof of reserves published | Pass | Fail |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Fail | Pass |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Fail |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Pass | Fail |
| DeFi integration | Pass | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Fail | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Pass |
The scores are close: Coinbase Advanced rates 4.5/5 and IG rates 4.2/5. Coinbase Advanced has a marginal edge in our scoring, but the difference is small enough that your specific priorities — fees, platforms, or regulatory jurisdiction — should guide the final choice.
IG lists a spread from 0.6. Current spread data is not available for Coinbase Advanced. Check both exchanges' full fee schedules, including maker/taker rates, for up-to-date pricing.
IG has no minimum deposit, while Coinbase Advanced requires at least $2. This makes IG more accessible for traders looking to start with a smaller crypto investment.
IG holds top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC, DFSA), providing stronger investor protections. Coinbase Advanced may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
IG stands out for beginners: it has a lower entry point and provides negative balance protection, which caps losses at your deposited amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
IG supports margin or futures trading with up to 2:1 leverage. Coinbase Advanced appears to be spot-only based on our data; confirm current product availability on each exchange's website.
Coinbase Advanced charges $0.6 per trade on commission-based accounts. Commission details for IG are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing. Crypto fees are typically quoted as maker/taker rates rather than fixed per-trade commissions; check each exchange's fee schedule for volume-based discounts.
Coinbase Advanced supports Coinbase Advanced Trade, while IG supports ProRealTime, Proprietary Web/Mobile, TradingView, MetaTrader 4. Coinbase Advanced has exclusive access to Coinbase Advanced Trade. IG has exclusive access to ProRealTime and Proprietary Web/Mobile and TradingView and MetaTrader 4.
Coinbase Advanced scores better on fee criteria (no deposit fee, no inactivity fee). Always check both exchanges' current fee schedules, as maker/taker rates and withdrawal fees vary and are subject to change.
Coinbase Advanced offers staking while IG does not according to our data. Staking lets you earn passive yield on your crypto holdings directly through the exchange. Check Coinbase Advanced's supported coins, lock-up terms, and estimated yields before committing.
In our data: Coinbase Advanced has DeFi integration. DeFi and NFT features vary between platforms. Check each exchange's current Web3 integrations and supported chains before making a decision.
Coinbase Advanced wins for lower fee exposure due to no deposit or inactivity fees.
Coinbase Advanced wins with 250 coins versus IG's 70.
Coinbase Advanced wins for DeFi and Web3 with access and integrations.
Coinbase Advanced wins for beginners with strong custody and regulatory clarity.
Coinbase Advanced offers staking and yield-earning options while IG does not, making Coinbase Advanced the better choice for holders who want to earn passive income on their crypto.
| N/A |
| N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | None | £12/month (after 24 months) |
|---|
| Deposit Fee | Free | Free |
|---|
| Deposit methods | CryptoBank transferACHPayPalCredit cardDebit card | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardPayPal |
|---|
| Withdrawal methods | CryptoBank transferACHPayPal | Bank transferDebit cardPayPal |
|---|
| Withdrawal Fee | Network fee for crypto; free bank transfer | Free |
|---|
| Regulators | NYDFS FinCEN | FCA ASIC DFSA FMA CMVM BaFin Finanstilsynet Finanstilsynet Finansinspektionen CBI NFA KNF |
|---|
| Cold Storage | Yes | No |
|---|
| Proof of Reserves | Yes | No |
|---|
| Staking | Yes | No |
|---|
| DeFi Integration | Yes | No |
|---|
| NFT Trading | No | No |
|---|
| 500+ Coins | No | No |
|---|
| P2P Trading | No | No |
|---|
| Crypto Earn / Savings | No | No |
|---|
| Token Launchpad | No | No |
|---|
| Active bonuses | 2 offers | None |
|---|
Dig deeper into each broker’s features, fees, and regulation.
Score 4.2 / 5
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