1Bitcoin vs Bitbuy:
Honest Comparison for Canadians
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 1Bitcoin.ca | Bitbuy |
|---|---|---|
| Assets supported | Bitcoin only | 15+ cryptocurrencies |
| Custody model | Non-custodial | Custodial |
| Buy fee | 3.49% | 0.20–0.50% |
| Sell fee | 0.49% | 0.20–0.50% |
| Minimum purchase | $20 CAD | $50 CAD |
| FINTRAC registered | ✅ M21226416 | ✅ |
| Self-custody delivery | ✅ Direct to wallet | ❌ Manual withdrawal required |
| Bitcoin delivered to wallet | Immediate | After withdrawal |
| Founded | 2020 | 2013 |
| Users | 20,000+ | 500,000+ |
| Mobile app | ✅ | ✅ |
The Key Difference: Custody
1Bitcoin.ca
Non-custodial by design.
Bitcoin is delivered directly to your wallet immediately after purchase.
We never hold your Bitcoin.
Bitbuy
Custodial model.
Bitcoin remains on the platform until you manually withdraw it.
The platform controls the keys until withdrawal occurs.
Why custody matters:
In 2019, Canadian exchange QuadrigaCX collapsed and customers lost approximately $190M in Bitcoin because the exchange controlled customer funds.
Fees: Who's Cheaper?
1Bitcoin.ca
Flat-rate pricing with no hidden spreads.
Simple process: Interac e-Transfer → Bitcoin delivered to wallet.
Bitbuy
Lower stated maker/taker fees for active traders.
Additional spreads and order-book complexity may increase effective costs.
Example: On a $1,000 purchase, 1Bitcoin.ca costs approximately $34.90, while Bitbuy may cost roughly $5–15 before spreads.
Bitcoin-Only vs Multi-Crypto
1Bitcoin.ca Philosophy
Bitcoin-only by design.
No altcoins, no stablecoins, no distractions.
Bitbuy Offering
Supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many other cryptocurrencies.
Who Should Use Each?
Choose 1Bitcoin.ca If:
- You want Bitcoin specifically
- You prioritize self-custody
- You value simplicity
- You're a long-term holder
Choose Bitbuy If:
- You trade multiple cryptocurrencies
- You want lower trading fees
- You prefer a larger exchange
- You actively trade on-platform
Our Verdict
For Canadians who want true Bitcoin ownership with direct wallet delivery and non-custodial security, 1Bitcoin.ca is the stronger choice.
For traders or multi-crypto investors, Bitbuy may be worth considering.
The decision ultimately comes down to philosophy: custody your Bitcoin yourself, or trust an exchange to hold it for you.
Buy Bitcoin at 1Bitcoin.ca — Non-Custodial, FINTRAC Registered →
FINTRAC M21226416 | Non-Custodial | Bitcoin-Only | 20,000+ Canadians | Since 2020
See also: 1Bitcoin.ca vs Shakepay | 1Bitcoin.ca vs Newton | Best Bitcoin Exchange Canada | Buy Bitcoin in Canada