Custodial platforms hold your Bitcoin until you withdraw. Every platform listed above except 1Bitcoin.ca is custodial by default.
What this means: If Celsius, BlockFi, Voyager, or FTX had been custodial-only with no withdrawal option — which they were, effectively — users lost everything when those platforms failed in 2022.
1Bitcoin.ca is non-custodial. Your Bitcoin goes directly to your wallet on purchase. We never hold it.
Our recommendation: For any amount you intend to hold long-term, use a non-custodial platform and store Bitcoin in a hardware wallet.
| Platform | Fee Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1Bitcoin.ca | Transparent spread | Shown before purchase |
| Shakepay | Hidden spread | ~1.5% |
| Newton | Hidden spread | ~0.5–0.7% |
| Bitbuy | Trading fee | 0.20% + spread |
| Coinbase | Simple buy fee | Up to 3.99% |
| Bitcoin ATMs | Flat fee | 8–15% |
All platforms listed above are registered with FINTRAC as Money Services Businesses. This is a legal requirement for all Canadian crypto platforms. Avoid any platform that claims to serve Canadians without FINTRAC registration.
Safety depends on what you mean. For regulatory safety, any FINTRAC-registered platform. For custody safety, non-custodial platforms like 1Bitcoin.ca.
Fees vary based on payment method and trade size. Comparing “zero fee” claims is misleading — look at the total cost including spread.
No. All FINTRAC-registered Canadian platforms require identity verification (KYC) to comply with Canadian financial law.
Yes. Shakepay, Newton, Bitbuy, and 1Bitcoin.ca are all Canadian-owned and operated platforms.
Interac e-Transfer-based platforms like 1Bitcoin.ca are among the fastest options.
Pricing is transparent upfront—no hidden spreads or complex fee structures.
You can spend hours comparing exchanges—or choose a simpler path.
1Bitcoin.ca is built for Canadians who want to buy Bitcoin quickly, securely, and without unnecessary friction.
