How to Buy Bitcoin in 2026
Updated February 2026 · 8 min read · By LiveCoinRate Research Team
Buying Bitcoin has never been easier. In 2026, dozens of regulated exchanges offer BTC purchases through bank transfer, credit card, and local payment methods. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, from choosing an exchange to securing your Bitcoin.
Step 1: Choose an Exchange
The three most popular exchanges for buying Bitcoin are Binance, Bybit, and OKX. Here's how they compare:
| Exchange | Spot Fee | Card Fee | Min Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Binance | 0.10% | 1.8% | $10 | Sign Up |
| Bybit | 0.10% | 2.0% | $20 | Sign Up |
| OKX | 0.08% | 1.5% | $10 | Sign Up |
Fee data as of February 2026. Affiliate links — we may earn a commission.
Step 2: Create and Verify Your Account
All major exchanges require identity verification (KYC). Prepare your government ID or passport. Verification typically takes 5-30 minutes for basic accounts. Once verified, you can deposit funds and start buying Bitcoin.
Step 3: Deposit Funds
Choose the cheapest deposit method for your currency:
USD: Bank wire (free on most exchanges) or ACH transfer
EUR: SEPA transfer (free, 1-2 business days)
INR: UPI or IMPS (instant, minimal fees)
NGN: P2P marketplace on Binance (most common method in Nigeria)
BRL: PIX transfer (instant and free)
Avoid credit card deposits if possible — the 1.5-2% fee adds up quickly on larger purchases.
Step 4: Buy Bitcoin
Once your funds are deposited, navigate to the spot trading section. For beginners, use the "Convert" or "Quick Buy" feature — it's simpler than the trading interface. For the best rates, use limit orders on the spot market.
Check the current Bitcoin price before buying:
Step 5: Secure Your Bitcoin
For long-term holding, consider transferring your BTC to a personal wallet. Hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) offer the highest security. For smaller amounts, the exchange wallet is convenient but less secure.