Best Crypto Exchanges in South Africa

Binance officially tightened compliance in the South African market in 2025 after the region introduced a licensing authority. Previously unregulated, the CEX had limited services in the country and even halted offerings like futures and margin trading in response to local rules.

Under the new rules, South African users must provide detailed information about both the sender and recipient of any crypto transactions on the platform.

For incoming deposits, traders must submit the sender’s full name, country of residence, and the origin of the transaction, including the originating exchange if applicable. For withdrawals, users must also provide similar details about the beneficiary. The platform displays a pop-up prompt to collect this data during the transaction process.

If users fail to provide the required details, Binance delays or cancels the transaction and returns the funds to the original sender. These measures reflect the CEX's efforts to align with South Africa’s crypto regulations and operate legally within the jurisdiction.

Key Features

When searching for the best Bitcoin exchange, South African traders can consider Binance because of the following features:

• Wide Range of Supported Crypto and Trading Methods. Binance lets you trade over 500 cryptocurrencies through spot trading, peer-to-peer (P2P) trading, and automated trading bots.
• ZAR On-Ramp Options. The platform enables local payment methods, including bank transfers via third-party partners, for buying crypto with South African Rand (ZAR).
• Binance Earn. With Binance Earn, users get rewards on a wide selection of over 300 cryptocurrencies through its various product offerings. You can find popular digital assets like Solana and Ethereum, as well as numerous stablecoins.

• Derivatives Trading Services. Specifically for derivatives products (futures, options, and leveraged tokens), Binance operates in South Africa through Binance Bahrain BSC and Brickhouse Trading Ltd. This legal structure allows the platform to offer such products in compliance with the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act.
• Robust Security Features. Binance implements the Cryptocurrency Security Standard (CCSS), a globally recognized framework for crypto exchanges. It uses end-to-end encryption and requires users to enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, Binance maintains the Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU), a reserve fund designed to cover losses in case of malicious attacks.

So, with all that on offer, South Africans can explore the crypto world knowing things are secure, and they've got lots of choices from one platform alone. Having different trading styles available and tons of cryptocurrencies means they can trade how they like.

Bybit is an exchange that has one of the biggest daily trading volumes (as of writing). It officially launched its cryptocurrency products and fiat on-ramp services in South Africa in 2023. The platform operates in the country as a juristic representative of Money Doc (Proprietary) Limited. Ben Zhou, Co-Founder and CEO of Bybit, shared his views on this move:

Our expansion into South Africa reaffirms Bybit's mission to make cryptocurrency trading accessible to all and to be compliant with local regulations.

To make crypto more accessible to South African users, Bybit introduces ZAR fiat on-ramp, enabling seamless deposits via local bank transfer, including instant EFT. This allows users to quickly and affordably buy or sell crypto.

On top of this, the CEX offers attractive bonuses to South African users. New users who deposit at least $100 and trade derivatives can earn rewards ranging from $15 up to $4,000.

There’s also a 5% cashback reward (in coupons) on ZAR deposits and a VIP upgrade program for high-volume traders or existing VIPs from other platforms, which includes perks like lower fees, welcome gifts, and priority support.

Key Features

Bybit can be your top option - not only because of its regulatory compliance and growing local support, but also for its various features, including:

• Advanced Trading Tools. Users can access futures and options trading with advanced charting, leverage settings, and real-time market data. The platform also supports copy trading, allowing beginners to mirror the trades of top-performing professionals with just a few clicks.
• Demo Trading. No need to feel overwhelmed about Bybit’s features, as it offers a risk-free demo trading mode where users can practice executing strategies with virtual funds. This is ideal for beginners who want to build confidence and test their expertise without risking real money.

• Low Trading Fees. Bybit is known for its competitive fee structure. Makers often pay little to no fees, while taker fees remain among the lowest in the industry, making it attractive for active traders looking to minimize costs.
• Islamic Account. Although Muslims make up only around 2% of South Africa’s population, offering a Shariah-compliant account reflects Bybit’s commitment to inclusivity. Muslim traders can align their strategies with Islamic principles by avoiding interest-based transactions or focusing on Shariah-compliant tokens.
• Standardized Protection. Bybit emphasizes security through a multi-layered approach, including strong login protocols, robust access controls, and real-time monitoring for suspicious activity.

These features make the CEX a compelling choice for South African traders seeking a secure, flexible, and inclusive platform. With low fees, user-friendly tools, and options that respect both trading strategy and personal values, Bybit can be your go-to crypto exchange in the region.

MEXC is a crypto exchange known for its accessibility and wide token selection.

For South African users, MEXC is accessible via Android, iOS, or the official website. With over 100,000 combined reviews on Google Play and the App Store, the platform maintains a strong reputation among users.

Many praise its ultra-low trading and withdrawal fees, calling it "the most affordable way to DCA and send tokens to a cold wallet".

MEXC also supports over 50 fiat currencies for crypto purchases, providing global users with various entry points to the market. However, ZAR is not directly supported for deposits or withdrawals, although South African users can still view prices in ZAR and participate in P2P trading.

Key Features

MEXC offers valuable features for its global user base, including South African users. Here's what they can expect:

• Advanced Trading Tools. Enjoy a professional-grade trading experience with features like spot and futures markets, real-time market data, and customizable charts. These tools help users execute complex strategies with ease. The exchange often lists newer or niche altcoins as well.
• Daily Airdrops. Users have the opportunity to receive daily crypto rewards through MEXC’s airdrop campaigns and promotions.

• Low Fees. MEXC maker fees are typically 0%, and taker fees are just 0.05%. This low-cost structure is particularly appealing to budget-aware traders, including those using DCA or regularly transferring funds between wallets.
• High Withdrawal Limits. Non-KYC users have a daily withdrawal limit of 10 BTC. This limit increases to 200 BTC for those with Advanced KYC verification and reaches 400 BTC for Institutional KYC level users.
• High Security. The platform uses a combination of multi-signature cold wallets, anti-phishing tools, and advanced monitoring systems to protect user assets. This multi-layered approach ensures a secure trading environment, even for those using it without full identity verification.

Overall, MEXC offers a balance between user privacy, functionality, and affordability, although the lack of direct ZAR support may be a drawback for some.

Coinbase, established in 2012, is a globally recognized cryptocurrency exchange with over 100 million users across more than 100 countries. With such a huge user base, the platform is also one of the best crypto exchanges South Africans can go with.

User reviews on the App Store and Play Store consistently praise the CEX for its user-friendly interface and strong security features. Many praise its intuitive navigation and clean design, making it ideal for beginners to buy, sell, and even learn about cryptocurrencies.

Unlike some countries that require multiple documents, such as credit card statements, bank statements, and utility bills, South Africans can typically complete verification using only a valid driver's license, passport, or national ID card.

Key Features

From various digital assets to advanced trading tools, here’s what makes Coinbase a solid option for South African traders:

• Adequate Cryptocurrency Selection. With access to over 250 cryptocurrencies, users can quickly diversify their investment portfolios.
• Robust Security. From automatic 2FA to multi-approval withdrawals through Coinbase Vault, the platform implements multiple layers of security to protect user accounts and funds.
• Coinbase Advanced. This pro feature is specifically designed for experienced users, offering a more complex interface. It has real-time order books, advanced charting, and various order types.

• Coinbase Wallet Integration. Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody crypto storage solution. South Africans can use it to store their private keys and interact with decentralized applications. It integrates seamlessly with the main exchange, giving users the flexibility to manage both centralized and decentralized assets.
• Coinbase One. Frequent traders can benefit from this subscription service, where members often get zero trading fees or higher annual percentage yield (APY) on staked crypto.

As you can see, the features above may appeal to South Africans seeking a secure and beginner-friendly platform.

While the CEX allows users to view cryptocurrency prices in ZAR through its converter tool, this feature is for informational purposes only. Bank transfers aren't currently supported either, but South African users can fund their accounts using international payment methods such as Visa or Mastercard debit and credit cards.

Easy Crypto is a regulated non-custodial cryptocurrency exchange that gives South African users full control over their digital assets.

While headquartered in New Zealand and operating in Australia, Easy Crypto has won multiple international awards, including the NZ Hi-Tech Awards 2023 and MoneyHub’s Favourite Crypto Retailer award. South African users can therefore benefit from the same secure infrastructure and intuitive experience that have made the platform successful across multiple regions.

The platform delivers your purchases directly to your crypto wallet with no hidden fees. Since it doesn’t hold your funds, you can manage the assets however you want.

To place an order, verify your account first by entering your name, mobile phone number, and submitting an ID. Then, type in a wallet address - you can use a software or hardware wallet like Ledger Flex or Trezor Safe 5.

Key Features

Here are the features of Easy Crypto, which is dubbed one of the best crypto exchanges in South Africa.

• Decent Options for Crypto. Buy, sell, and swap over 160+ cryptocurrencies on the exchange.
• Multiple Buying Options. Use the Auto-Buy feature to automate your crypto purchases on a daily, weekly, or monthly schedule, or the Multi-Coin Order to purchase bulk cryptocurrencies in one transaction. High-volume traders can go with the OTC service to get bigger fee discounts.

• Transparent Pricing Model. It charges a flat trading fee of 0.89% per transaction. A 0.4% foreign exchange fee also applies, allowing customers to access the global crypto market, which primarily operates in USD.
• Demo Tracker. Explore the platform's portfolio tracker without creating an account or making any transactions. This demo feature provides a simulated view of how the tracker displays investment performance, asset distribution, and potential returns over time.
• Easy Crypto Wallet. For a seamless experience with the exchange, sign up for the Easy Crypto Wallet. It enables you to create multiple wallet addresses from different blockchains.

If you're looking for the feel of a local exchange that values transparency in both pricing and privacy, Easy Crypto is a smart choice. With regulatory backing and clear fees, it gives South African users peace of mind while staying connected to the global crypto market.

When searching for a Bitcoin exchange, South Africans may already be familiar with VALR. It’s a crypto trading and staking platform rooted in South Africa but designed for global exposure.

Headquartered in Johannesburg, VALR has evolved into one of the largest exchanges in the region and has expanded its reach internationally. In fact, it has gained regulatory approval to operate in the European Union and has secured funding from popular venture capital firms like Coinbase Ventures and Pantera Capital.

That said, VALR’s tagline is:

Pro trading for everyone.

A statement that reflects the platform’s aim of providing professional-grade trading tools to a broader audience.

However, judging by the trading interface, which features detailed candlestick charts, order book depth, and advanced order types, I think the experience may be more suited to intermediate or advanced users, rather than "everyone" the platform claims to be.

While it may not be as extensive as some global exchanges, VALR still provides a fair spread of over 100 cryptocurrencies, offering a solid selection of digital assets for trading.

Key Features

Check this detailed overview of VALR's key features before deciding to make this your go-to platform:

• Multiple Trading Options. VALR offers several trading options to suit various investor profiles. These include spot, margin, and perpetual futures trading.
• ZAR Deposits and Withdrawals. The exchange supports ZAR deposits and withdrawals through bank transfers and South African credit or debit cards.
• Staking Services. The platform offers staking options for select cryptocurrencies, including Solana and Avalanche, providing an accessible way to earn passive income.

• Corporate Accounts. It lets businesses manage multiple portfolios under a single corporate account. The enterprise feature comes with controlled access levels and multiple transaction approvals.
• VALR Pay. It’s a payment solution that allows users to send and receive funds instantly without fees using their phone number, email address, or unique VALR Pay IDs. They can also make purchases at participating retailers such as Pick n Pay using a QR code.

For South Africans looking for a reliable and locally rooted exchange with global reach, VALR stands out as a strong option.

Luno is a globally recognized cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2013, with a mission to become the safest and most compliant platform for exploring digital assets. This commitment is backed by a robust security infrastructure.

The exchange stores customer cryptocurrencies in "deep freeze" wallets that are kept offline. It uses multi-signature hot wallets for faster transactions and relies on air-gapped systems to minimize attack risks.

Luno also supports two-factor authentication via SMS and app-based verification for web logins, while offering biometric login on its mobile app. On the internal side, every employee is required to use secure multi-factor authentication to access internal systems. Importantly, engineers can’t access application credentials or production servers.

From a compliance perspective, Luno is serious about combating money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT). It also holds the necessary licenses and registrations in the 40+ jurisdictions it operates, including South Africa, Indonesia, and Australia.

Key Features

For beginners who look for the best Bitcoin exchange in South Africa, Luno can be an appealing option due to these five reasons:

• User-Friendly Interface. Luno features an intuitive design with a simplified layout and large, touch-friendly buttons, making it easy to use across both desktop and mobile. The interface is also fully responsive, adapting smoothly to any screen size.
• ZAR Deposits and Withdrawals. You can fund your ZAR wallet via bank transfer (EFT) with ease. EFT deposits are free of charge and supported by major South African banks.
• Crypto Categories. For beginners unsure where to start, Luno provides categorized crypto collections in the [Explore] menu, making it easier to discover coins based on themes like trending tokens, stablecoins, and more.

• Flexible Tiers and Fees. Trading fees on Luno depend on your 30-day volume and whether you place a maker or taker order. Fees vary by deposit and withdrawal method. Based on my research, bank transfers are free, while instant deposits incur a 1.4% fee.
• Luno Pay. In South Africa, you can pay for goods and services using the Luno crypto wallet by scanning a QR code (currently accepted at Pick n Pay stores nationwide). The service is free, with limits ranging from R1 to R100,000 per transaction.

With its smooth design, local ZAR support, and educational features like categorized crypto collections, Luno is clearly geared toward making crypto more approachable, especially for casual South African traders.

If you prioritize regulation and compliance, Yellow Card is likely a good choice. As a licensed Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) authorized by the FSCA, the exchange proves its commitment to offering secure, transparent financial services within the country.

This licensing, along with the adherence to global AML standards, FATF Travel Rule requirements, and comprehensive KYC procedures across all jurisdictions, further demonstrates the platform's focus on regulatory compliance and user security.

Additionally, it’s registered on GoAML and with local Financial Intelligence Units, emphasizing their dedication to reporting on AML, sanctions, and financial crime matters. Consider checking the help desk to find licenses and registrations to make sure everything aligns with your expectations.

Key Features

Let's see how Yellow Card's features can help streamline your crypto journey:

• User-Friendly Platform. The platform is designed for ease of use, featuring simple account setup, an intuitive interface for trading and portfolio management, as well as iOS and Android apps.
• ZAR Integration. Yellow Card facilitates deposits and withdrawals in ZAR using various methods: third-party apps (MoMo), bank transfers, ATM deposits, and traditional bank deposits.

• Yellow Pay. With this, you can send money to friends and family across 20 African countries for free. The rates are calculated against USD (powered by USDT), giving you access to efficient, borderless payments at competitive rates and fees.
• Predictable Trading Fees. The exchange has a flat-rate pricing model for crypto trades (ZAR 18.02 per USDT or USDC when buying, and ZAR 18.54 when selling). This fixed-rate structure, although it may change based on specific circumstances, offers price predictability for easy cost estimation.
• Standardized Security Measures. The platform employs standardized security measures, including multi-signature technology and two-factor authentication.

Overall, Yellow Card stands out as a user-friendly and locally integrated crypto exchange tailored to the needs of traders across Africa.