Did you know that according to report, it is estimated that 6.1 million people, 10.71% of Kenya’s total population, currently own cryptocurrency? Statistics show that the cryptocurrency market in Kenya is expected to reach $40 million by 2025.
So far, Kenya is one of the largest Bitcoin markets in Africa. For a lot of people, Bitcoin is both a profitable investment and a practical means of transacting in the digital economy of today. Day by day, people are diving into the crypto space and knowing the top 10 best platforms to buy Bitcoin in Kenya.
Things to Consider When Choosing A Crypto Platform to Buy Bitcoin In Kenya
When choosing a crypto platform to buy Bitcoin in Kenya, it’s important to consider several things to ensure a seamless trading experience.
1. Security Measures
Ensure to choose an exchange platform with robust security such as two-factor authentication, advanced encryption techniques, and cold storage to protect your details and transactions.
2. Fee Structures
Check out the platform’s fee structure like the withdrawal charges, trading fees, deposit, and additional costs. Go for exchange platforms with competitive rates, and transparent fees, to enable you to get value for your money.
3. Payment Methods
Make sure the platform you intend to choose has flexible payment options such as M-PESA, mobile money services, and bank transfers that facilitate seamless transactions within Kenya.
4. Regulatory Compliance
Make sure to select a platform that adheres to local regulations and complies with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements.
5. Customer Support
Ensure to select a platform that has credibility with a responsive customer support team. This way you can be sure to have a seamless experience while trading.
6. User Experience and Interface
Trying to navigate your way on a platform you want to purchase Bitcoin can be stressful. So, ensure you pick a platform that has a user-friendly interface to make your trading experience quick and smooth.
7. Reputation and Reviews
What are people saying about them? Reviews go a long way in highlighting the reputation of exchange platforms. So, make sure they have verified reviews that are positive and have good ratings.
10 Best Platforms to Buy Bitcoin in Kenya
1. Binance
This is one of the largest crypto exchange platforms in the world. Binance offers Kenyan traders access to buy, sell and trade multiple digital currencies.
It’s ideal for experienced traders and beginners can also navigate with guidance. Binance has advanced trading tools like futures and margin trading, which is good for trading on the go. The platform gives access to plenty of educational resources for newcomers.
- Supported Payment Methods: Bank transfer, M-PESA, bank transfers, cryptocurrency deposits and credit/debit cards.
- Trading Fees: 0.1% for spot trading. Discount is also available for using Binance Coin (BNB).
- Security Features: Cold wallet storage, two-factor authentication (2FA), and Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU).
- User Interface Rating (4.5/5): Has advanced tools for experienced traders.
Pros:
- Binance has a wide range of cryptocurrencies available to you and high liquidity.
- With Binance Coin (BNB) you enjoy discounted trading fees.
- There are comprehensive educational resources if you are just starting.
Cons:
- The platform can be overwhelming for beginners due to its advanced features.
- The customer support options are limited.
- There are regulatory restrictions in some regions.
2. Coinbase
Coinbase makes it easy for Kenyans interested in crypto trading to buy, sell, and manage digital assets with ease. It is one of the top 10 platforms to buy Bitcoin in Kenya thanks to its user-friendly interface. Since 2012, it has become one of the most trusted exchange platforms to buy Bitcoins in Kenya.
- Supported Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and PayPal (for withdrawals).
- Trading Fees: With up to 0.6% per transaction, it is higher than some competitors.
- Security Features: Two-factor authentication, insurance for funds and biometric login options.
- User Interface Rating (4.8/5): Very user-friendly and perfect for beginners.
Pros
- The interface is extremely user-friendly and is perfect for beginners.
- It has high security, which includes insurance for stored funds.
- For some cryptocurrencies, Coinbase supports staking rewards.
Cons
- Coinbase fees are high when you compare the platform to other platforms.
- The payment options in some regions are limited.
- There are fewer features for experienced traders.
3. Kraken
Kraken is another exchange platform where you can buy Bitcoin in Kenya. You can also trade Ethereum alongside many altcoins, to help you diversify your portfolio. Kraken supports margin and futures trading, Ethereum staking, and offers rewards when you stake its native token, KRAK.
- Supported Payment Methods: Cryptocurrency deposits and bank transfers.
- Trading Fees: Depending on the trade volume, it ranges from 0.10%–0.26%.
- Security Features: Two-factor authentication, cold storage, and regular audits.
- User Interface Rating (4.3/5): It has advanced trading tools.
Pros
- You enjoy low trading fees, especially if you are a high-volume trader.
- Presence of robust security measures which includes regular audits.
- You have access to a wide variety of trading pairs and tools.
Cons
- There are fewer payment options for Kenyan users.
- Due to its advanced and complex interface, it may be a bit difficult for beginners.
- There is very slow customer support, especially during peak times.
4. Paxful
If you’re in Kenya and you want to buy Bitcoin, Paxful is one of the top peer-to-peer Bitcoin marketplaces to trade. Here, buyers and sellers connect directly. You enjoy flexibility when you trade as prices vary based on individuals. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, you can buy or sell Bitcoin on Paxful with ease
- Supported Payment Methods: Bank transfer, M-PESA, and over 300 other methods.
- Trading Fees: While buyers pay no fees, sellers pay a 1% fee.
- Security Features: Two-factor authentication and escrow system.
- User Interface Rating (4.2/5): Good for P2P trading.
Pros
- You enjoy a wide range of payment methods, including M-PESA.
- There are no fees for buyers in P2P trades.
- Paxful has an active user base and strong community support.
Cons
- There is a high risk of scam if you are not careful while trading.
- The seller fees (1%) are high.
- When you compare Paxful to centralized exchanges, it has limited features.
5. Remitano
Remitano is another peer-to-peer (P2P) crypto trading platform where you can buy Bitcoin in Kenya. Aside from the direct access buyers and sellers have, you also get to enjoy instant coin swaps, altcoin investment, and payment gateway.
- Supported Payment Methods: Cryptocurrency deposit, M-PESA, bank transfers.
- Trading Fees: 1% for P2P trades.
- Security Features: Two-factor authentication, escrow system, and live chat support.
- User Interface Rating (4.0/5): Although it’s slightly outdated, it’s easy to navigate.
Pros
- There is a secure escrow system for P2P trading.
- The customer support team is very responsive.
- Seamless integration with M-PESA and other mobile money services.
Cons
- The fees are higher than that of centralized platforms.
- Limited cryptocurrency offerings.
- The user interface is slightly outdated.
6. Luno
Luno allows users to effortlessly buy, sell and store digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. It supports multiple payment methods, enabling traders who want to convert fiat into crypto. Currently, Luno serves millions of traders across over 40 countries, including regions like Africa, Asia, and Europe.
- Supported Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and mobile money although this varies by region.
- Trading Fees: Taker fees range from 0.1% to 0.25%, depending on trading volume and Maker fees are 0%.
- Security Features: Cold storage for funds, two-factor authentication (2FA), and compliance with local regulations.
- User Interface Rating (4.2/5): Easy to navigate and beginner-friendly.
Pros
- Perfect for beginners thanks to its user-friendly interface.
- Presence of cold storage and 2FA
- It is accessible to new users as it supports fiat-to-crypto transactions.
Cons
- Limited selection of cryptocurrencies compared to larger platforms.
- Lack of advanced trading tools for experienced traders.
- Availability is restricted to certain countries.
7. Yellow Card
Specifically designed for the African market, Yellow Card is a crypto exchange platform that is popular among traders in Kenya and Nigeria. If you are a beginner in crypto trading, this platform is perfect for you.
- Supported Payment Methods: Mobile money (e.g., M-PESA), and cryptocurrency transactions.
- Trading Fees: Competitive fees for trades and withdrawals but Zero fees for deposits.
- Security Features: Encryption, Two-factor authentication, and compliance with local regulations.
- User Interface Rating (4.2/5): Simple and easy to navigate for beginners.
Pros
- A good platform for beginners thanks to its simple interface.
- Minimal transaction costs.
- Supports multiple payment methods like bank transfers and mobile money.
Cons
- It has a narrower range of cryptocurrencies for trading.
- Slow response times especially during peak trading periods.
- The platform lacks advanced tools and features for experienced traders
8. BitPesa
Now operating under AZA Finance, BitPesa is a digital foreign exchange and payment platform that facilitates transactions to and from Africa, in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and DRC. It offers a bridge between local currencies and digital assets, allowing users to effortlessly buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies.
- Supported Payment Methods: Mobile money (e.g., M-PESA), cryptocurrency transactions and bank transfers.
- Trading Fees: This varies depending on the region and transaction type.
- Security Features: Secure transaction processing, encryption, and compliance with financial regulations.
- User Interface Rating (4.0/5): Although it’s designed for businesses and individuals, it might feel complex for casual users.
Pro
- Seamless cross-border payments in multiple currencies.
- Integrates with mobile money platforms like MPESA for convenience.
- Competitive rates for crypto transactions and currency exchange.
Cons
- Limits features for individual users as it focuses primarily on businesses.
- Cryptocurrency trading options are limited.
- Depending on the country’s features and availability.
9. Pursa
Pursa is a modern-day crypto exchange platform where you can buy, sell and trade cryptocurrencies. If you’re new in the crypto space, you should make use of this platform for your transactions because of its intuitive interface and responsive customer support,
- Supported Payment Methods: Bank transfer, mobile money, M-PESA and other local payment options.
- Trading Fees: No fixed platform fees. The fees vary depending on the seller.
- Security Features: Escrow system to protect transactions.
- User Interface Rating (4.0/5): Seamless for P2P trading.
Pros
- You enjoy flexible payment options.
- Presence of a secure escrow system.
- Active community for P2P trading.
Cons
- Limited to P2P trading without centralized features.
- Presence of higher risks as a result of reliance on individual sellers.
- Smaller cryptocurrency selection
10. LocalBitcoins
LocalBitcoins is another peer-to-peer Bitcoin marketplace on our list of top 10 platforms to buy Bitcoin in Kenya, in 2025. It allows traders to buy and sell Bitcoin using multiple payment methods. If you’re in Kenya and you want to experience flexible Bitcoin trading with direct access to buyers and sellers, LocalBitcoins is for you.
- Supported Payment Methods: PayPal, bank transfers, cash deposits, mobile money, etc. The payment method also varies by region.
- Trading Fees: Buyer typically pays no fee but sellers pay a 1% fee for sellers.
- Security Features: Two-factor authentication, escrow service and user reputation ratings.
- User Interface Rating (4.0/5): Not as modern as some competitors but it’s simple and functional.
Pros
- Accepts multiple payment methods, including local options like M-PESA.
- It allows direct P2P trading and offers flexibility in pricing.
- Presence of an escrow system which secures transactions between buyers and sellers.
Cons
- There is no support for other cryptocurrencies as it is only for Bitcoin trading.
- Higher fees for sellers compared to centralized platforms.
- Higher risk of scams compared to centralized exchanges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Best Platforms To Buy Bitcoin In Kenya
Is buying Bitcoin legal in Kenya?
Yes, buying and selling Bitcoin in Kenya is legal. Many crypto platforms operate in Kenya within the country’s regulatory framework.
What is the minimum amount required to start trading?
The minimum amount you need to start trading Bitcoin varies by platform. On some platforms, you can start trading with as little as $10 or even less.
What payment methods are available on these platforms?
A lot of platforms support bank transfers, mobile money, and crypto payments such as USDT.
Conclusion
Bitcoin has come to stay, and there’s likely no going back. It is the most valuable digital asset you can think of having in your digital wallet today, and you make some money from it.
You can buy bitcoin in Kenya from any of the above-listed platforms and join the league of bitcoin owners worldwide.
