Netcoins vs Bitbuy: Complete Canadian Crypto Exchange Comparison (2026)

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, or tax advice. Cryptocurrency is a volatile asset class, and you should do your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Exchange features, fees, and regulatory status can change; always verify current details directly on each platform's official website.

TL;DR

Netcoins and Bitbuy are two of Canada's most established, fully regulated crypto exchanges, and both are strong choices for Canadian investors. Netcoins stands out for its broader cryptocurrency selection (60+ coins), competitive flat 0.5% trading fee, SOC 2 certifications, and hybrid Fireblocks/BitGo custody model. Bitbuy, now backed by Robinhood following the C$250M WonderFi acquisition [Source], offers a dual Express/Pro trading interface with lower fees on its Pro platform, strong insurance coverage through BitGo, and OSC-registered marketplace status. Your best choice depends on whether you prioritize coin variety and simplicity (Netcoins) or advanced trading tools and institutional backing (Bitbuy).

Quick Comparison Summary

Founded

• Netcoins: 2014, Vancouver, BC
• Bitbuy: 2016, Toronto, ON (now owned by Robinhood via WonderFi)

Parent Company

• Netcoins: BIGG Digital Assets (TSXV: BIGG), publicly traded
• Bitbuy: Robinhood Markets (NASDAQ: HOOD), via WonderFi acquisition [Source]

Trading Fees

• Netcoins: Flat 0.5% on all trades [Source]
• Bitbuy: Express Trade 0.2% commission + spreads (0.5%-1.85%); Pro Trade ~0.1% maker / 0.2% taker [Source]

Supported Cryptocurrencies

• Netcoins: 60+ coins [Source]
• Bitbuy: ~60+ coins [Source]

Regulation

• Netcoins: FINTRAC registered, restricted dealer (CIRO membership in progress) [Source]
• Bitbuy: FINTRAC registered, OSC registered restricted dealer, CIRO member dealer [Source]

Security Certifications

• Netcoins: SOC 2 Type 2 certified (August 2025) [Source]
• Bitbuy: Third-party proof-of-reserve audits, BitGo custody [Source]

Custody Model

• Netcoins: Fireblocks (hot wallets) + BitGo (cold storage) [Source]
• Bitbuy: BitGo cold storage (95%+ in cold storage) [Source]

Staking

• Netcoins: Yes, up to 15% APR (ETH, SOL, ATOM, DOT, and others) [Source]
• Bitbuy: Yes, up to ~13.4% on select assets [Source]

Funding Methods

• Netcoins: Interac e-Transfer (free), bank wire, crypto deposits [Source]
• Bitbuy: Interac e-Transfer (free), bank wire (free), crypto deposits [Source]

Registered Users

• Netcoins: 250,000+ users
• Bitbuy: 375,000+ registered users

Trustpilot Rating

• Netcoins: ~4.0 stars [Source]
• Bitbuy: ~4.2 stars [Source]

Mobile App (iOS)

• Netcoins: 4.8 stars (116 ratings) [Source]
• Bitbuy: 4.6 stars (6,000+ ratings) [Source]

Fees and Pricing Compared

Understanding the true cost of trading is one of the most important factors when choosing an exchange. Both Netcoins and Bitbuy take different approaches to pricing, and the "cheaper" option depends on how you trade.

Netcoins Fee Structure

Netcoins uses a straightforward, flat 0.5% fee on all trades [Source]. This applies uniformly whether you are buying or selling, regardless of trade size. The simplicity of this model is one of its key advantages: what you see is what you pay. There are no hidden spreads to worry about and no tiered structures to navigate.

For deposits, Interac e-Transfers are free with no fees charged by Netcoins. Bank wire deposits above $3,000 CAD are free, while wires at or below $3,000 CAD carry a $30 processing fee [Source].

Bitbuy Fee Structure

Bitbuy's pricing is more layered. On the Express Trade platform (designed for beginners), Bitbuy charges a 0.2% commission per side, but this is supplemented by a spread that ranges from 0.5% to 1.85% depending on the asset and market conditions [Source]. In adverse market conditions or low-liquidity situations, the spread can increase by an additional 2%.

The Pro Trade platform offers significantly lower fees: approximately 0.1% for makers and 0.2% for takers [Source]. This makes Bitbuy Pro one of the most competitively priced options in the Canadian market for active traders.

Both platforms offer free Interac e-Transfer deposits. Bitbuy also does not charge for bank wire deposits [Source], though the minimum for wire deposits is $10,000 CAD.

The Bottom Line on Fees

For casual investors making occasional purchases, Netcoins' flat 0.5% fee is transparent and easy to understand, though it is slightly higher than Bitbuy's Pro rates. For active traders who are comfortable with an advanced interface, Bitbuy Pro's maker/taker model offers meaningfully lower per-trade costs. However, beginners using Bitbuy's Express Trade may end up paying comparable or even higher total costs when accounting for the spread.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Both exchanges have expanded their offerings significantly in recent years. Netcoins currently lists over 60 cryptocurrencies [Source], covering major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano alongside a growing selection of mid-cap and emerging tokens.

Bitbuy has also grown its catalogue to approximately 60+ tradable assets [Source], though some listed assets may be trade-only, meaning they could have restrictions on buying or selling at certain times. Historically, Bitbuy maintained a more conservative "blue-chip" approach, focusing on the most established cryptocurrencies, but this gap has narrowed as both platforms add new tokens.

For investors looking specifically for niche altcoins or newly launched tokens, neither platform will match the thousands of listings on unregulated global exchanges. However, both Netcoins and Bitbuy cover the vast majority of assets that Canadian investors typically seek.

Funding Methods

Getting Canadian dollars into your account quickly and affordably is a key consideration for domestic users.

Netcoins

Netcoins supports Interac e-Transfer (free, recommended for amounts under $10,000 CAD), bank wire transfers, and direct cryptocurrency deposits [Source]. Interac e-Transfers on Netcoins are processed quickly, and the platform recommends this method for most users due to fast turnaround times. It is worth noting that direct credit card crypto purchases are not available on Canadian exchanges due to Canadian banking restrictions.

Bitbuy

Bitbuy offers the same two primary fiat funding methods: Interac e-Transfer and bank wire transfer, both of which are free [Source]. Interac e-Transfer deposits on Bitbuy range from $10 to $15,000 CAD and can take up to one hour during periods of heavy traffic. Bank wire transfers require a $10,000 minimum and typically settle within one to two business days [Source]. Cryptocurrency deposits are also accepted.

Verdict on Funding

Both platforms are nearly identical in funding options and costs. The main difference is Netcoins' slightly lower minimum for bank wires and its free wire transfers above $3,000. Both offer free Interac e-Transfer deposits, which is the most popular funding method for Canadian crypto users.

Security and Insurance

Security is arguably the most critical factor when choosing a crypto exchange, as the custodial nature of these platforms means your assets are held by a third party.

Netcoins Security

Netcoins employs a hybrid custody model using Fireblocks for hot wallet management and BitGo for cold storage [Source]. Fireblocks uses multi-party computation (MPC) technology, which distributes encrypted key fragments across different environments, eliminating any single point of compromise. BitGo provides institutional-grade cold storage with multi-signature protections, keeping the bulk of assets offline in air-gapped systems.

A significant differentiator for Netcoins is its SOC 2 Type 2 certification, achieved in August 2025 [Source]. This is a rigorous third-party audit that evaluates security controls, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy over an extended period. SOC 2 Type 2 is widely recognized as one of the highest security certifications in the technology industry and is relatively rare among Canadian crypto exchanges. Netcoins also launched a public SOC Trust Center, making its compliance documentation more accessible [Source].

Bitbuy Security

Bitbuy partners with BitGo for custodial services and maintains an industry-leading cold storage policy. The platform stores 95% or more of customer assets in cold wallets, with an average cold storage ratio of 98.12% across all assets [Source].

Bitbuy has a notable edge in insurance coverage. In addition to BitGo's $680 million USD insurance scheme covering custodied assets, Bitbuy has purchased a separate crime policy providing additional coverage over its cold storage wallets [Source]. Cash holdings are insured up to $1 million per account through CIPF (Canadian Investment Protection Fund) protection. Bitbuy also publishes regular proof-of-reserve reports through independent third-party audits.

Security Verdict

Both platforms take security seriously, but they shine in different areas. Netcoins offers superior technical security certification through its SOC 2 Type 2 audit, and its dual-custodian model (Fireblocks + BitGo) provides defense in depth. Bitbuy counters with stronger published insurance coverage and its high cold-storage ratio with transparent proof-of-reserve reporting. The backing of Robinhood's capital and infrastructure also gives Bitbuy additional long-term stability assurances.

Regulation and Compliance

Canada has one of the world's more developed regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrency exchanges, and both Netcoins and Bitbuy operate within this framework.

Netcoins

Netcoins is registered with FINTRAC as a Money Services Business [Source]. The company submitted a membership application to CIRO (Canadian Investment Regulatory Organisation) in May 2024 and continues to operate under regulatory relief provisions while completing the membership process [Source]. Netcoins is publicly traded through its parent company BIGG Digital Assets on the TSXV (ticker: BIGG), which provides an additional layer of transparency through public financial disclosures and regulatory oversight.

Bitbuy

Bitbuy has a strong regulatory resume. It is registered with FINTRAC, holds OSC (Ontario Securities Commission) registration as a restricted dealer, and is a CIRO member dealer [Source]. Bitbuy was among the first Canadian crypto platforms to achieve this level of regulatory recognition and has used "first registered crypto marketplace in Canada" as a core part of its brand messaging.

With the completed Robinhood acquisition, Bitbuy now has the compliance infrastructure and resources of a major NASDAQ-listed company behind it, which may further strengthen its regulatory positioning going forward.

Regulation Verdict

Bitbuy currently holds a slight regulatory edge with its completed OSC registration and CIRO membership, while Netcoins is actively working through the CIRO membership process. That said, both platforms are fully FINTRAC-registered and operate legally within Canadian regulations. Netcoins' public listing on the TSXV through BIGG Digital Assets provides meaningful transparency that many private exchanges cannot match.

User Experience and Mobile App

Netcoins

Netcoins is known for its clean, beginner-friendly interface. The platform prioritizes simplicity, making it easy for first-time crypto buyers to navigate the purchasing process without feeling overwhelmed. The Netcoins mobile app is highly rated on iOS at 4.8 stars [Source], though with a smaller review count (116 ratings) compared to Bitbuy. The platform is designed around a brokerage model where users buy and sell directly from Netcoins rather than matching orders on a live order book.

Bitbuy

Bitbuy offers two distinct interfaces. Express Trade is its beginner-friendly option, providing a streamlined experience for simple buy and sell transactions. Pro Trade is an advanced platform featuring live order books, charting tools, and multiple order types (limit, market, and stop orders), giving experienced traders more control over their execution.

Bitbuy's iOS app holds a 4.6-star rating with over 6,000 ratings [Source], reflecting broader user feedback. However, its Google Play rating is notably lower at approximately 2.0 stars with around 1,000 ratings, suggesting a less polished experience on Android devices. [CITATION NEEDED: Current Google Play rating for Bitbuy app]

UX Verdict

Netcoins wins on pure simplicity and iOS app quality. Bitbuy wins on versatility, offering both a simple and advanced trading experience within one platform. If you are an experienced trader who wants order book access and limit orders, Bitbuy Pro is the better fit. If you want a straightforward, consistently rated mobile experience, Netcoins has an edge.

Customer Support

Both platforms offer customer support through multiple channels, including email, live chat, and comprehensive help centers.

Netcoins provides support through its Zendesk-powered help center, email, and in-app support. The platform's Trustpilot reviews frequently highlight responsive customer service as a positive, with a rating of approximately 4.0 stars from over 500 reviews [Source].

Bitbuy maintains a detailed support portal and offers email and chat-based assistance. With a Trustpilot rating of approximately 4.2 stars from over 1,200 reviews [Source], Bitbuy has a slightly higher aggregate score and a larger review volume, suggesting consistent support quality. However, common complaints on both platforms include occasional delays in withdrawal processing and verification timelines, issues that are unfortunately common across the Canadian crypto industry due to regulatory compliance requirements.

Staking and Earning Features

Staking has become an important feature for crypto investors who want to earn passive income on their holdings, and both platforms offer regulated staking services.

Netcoins Staking

Netcoins offers staking with returns up to 15% APR, available on assets including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cosmos (ATOM), Polkadot (DOT), and others [Source]. Specific rates vary by asset: ETH earns approximately 3.0-4.5% APR, SOL offers around 5.0-6.0% APY, and ATOM can yield 11.0-15.0% APY [Source]. Bonding and unbonding periods vary by network. For instance, ETH has approximately 3 days bonding and 11 days unbonding, while ATOM features instant bonding but a 21-day unbonding period.

Bitbuy Staking

Bitbuy offers staking with returns up to approximately 13.43%, available in a fully regulated environment [Source]. Bitbuy was the first TSX-listed company and one of the only OSC-registered crypto trading platforms in Canada to receive regulatory approval to offer staking. A key advantage of Bitbuy's staking program is that staked assets are not loaned out. They are held at a 1:1 ratio, and users can unstake and withdraw at any time, subject to each network's unbonding period [Source].

Staking Verdict

Both platforms offer competitive, regulated staking programs. Netcoins appears to offer slightly higher maximum APR rates (up to 15% on ATOM), while Bitbuy's regulatory approval for staking and its transparent 1:1 asset-backing model may appeal to more risk-conscious investors. The specific rates you earn will depend on which assets you choose to stake and current network conditions.

Unique Features

Netcoins Unique Features

• OTC Desk: Netcoins offers an OTC (over-the-counter) trading desk designed for high-volume execution, with access typically starting at trades over $25,000 CAD [Source]. This is valuable for institutional clients and high-net-worth individuals who need to execute large trades without significant market impact.
• Private Wealth Services: Netcoins provides private wealth services for high-net-worth clients seeking personalized crypto investment support [Source].
• Bitcoin ATMs: Netcoins operates a network of Bitcoin ATMs across Canada, providing physical access points for buying and selling cryptocurrency.
• API Trading: For developers and algorithmic traders, Netcoins offers API access for programmatic trading.
• SOC Trust Center: Netcoins provides a publicly accessible SOC Trust Center, making its security and compliance documentation transparent and available for review [Source].

Bitbuy Unique Features

• Pro Trade Platform: Bitbuy's advanced trading interface with live order books, charting, and multiple order types is a standout feature for experienced traders who want more control than a simple brokerage model provides.
• Robinhood Backing: Following the C$250M WonderFi acquisition [Source], Bitbuy now benefits from the financial resources, technology infrastructure, and brand recognition of one of the world's largest retail trading platforms. This could translate into enhanced features, better liquidity, and continued investment in the Canadian platform.
• Insurance Coverage: Bitbuy's layered insurance model, including BitGo's $680M coverage plus its own supplementary crime policy, plus CIPF protection for cash holdings up to $1M, is among the strongest in the Canadian market [Source].
• Institutional Staking: Bitbuy offers dedicated institutional staking services for corporate clients, a feature that sets it apart in the Canadian institutional crypto space [Source].
• Proof-of-Reserve Reports: Regular third-party audited proof-of-reserve reporting gives users transparency into asset backing.

Who Should Choose Netcoins?

Netcoins is likely the better choice if you:

• Value simplicity and transparency. Netcoins' flat 0.5% fee means you always know exactly what you are paying, with no hidden spreads or tiered structures to decode.
• Want a broader selection of cryptocurrencies. With 60+ coins, Netcoins offers strong coverage for investors who want to explore beyond the top 10 assets.
• Prioritize verified security certifications. Netcoins' SOC 2 Type 2 certification is a rigorous, independently audited security standard that few Canadian crypto exchanges have achieved.
• Need OTC or private wealth services. If you are a high-net-worth individual or institution looking to make large trades, Netcoins' OTC desk and private wealth offering may be better suited to your needs.
• Prefer a consistently excellent mobile experience. The 4.8-star iOS app rating reflects a polished mobile product.
• Appreciate public company transparency. Netcoins' parent company (BIGG Digital Assets) trades on the TSXV, providing quarterly financial disclosures and regulatory oversight beyond what private exchanges offer.

Who Should Choose Bitbuy?

Bitbuy is likely the better choice if you:

• Are an active trader who wants low fees. Bitbuy Pro's approximately 0.1%/0.2% maker/taker fee structure is significantly cheaper than Netcoins' flat 0.5% for high-frequency traders.
• Want an advanced trading interface. If you need limit orders, stop orders, live order books, and charting tools, Bitbuy Pro provides a much more feature-rich trading experience than Netcoins' brokerage model.
• Prioritize insurance and asset protection. Bitbuy's layered insurance model (BitGo coverage, supplementary crime policy, and CIPF protection) provides some of the strongest published protections in the Canadian market.
• Value established regulatory recognition. As a CIRO member and OSC-registered restricted dealer, Bitbuy has the most complete regulatory profile of any Canadian crypto exchange.
• Want the backing of a major global brand. With Robinhood's acquisition of WonderFi, Bitbuy now has access to significant capital, technology, and infrastructure that could drive future platform improvements.
• Need institutional staking services. Bitbuy's dedicated institutional staking program is designed specifically for corporate and institutional clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Netcoins or Bitbuy cheaper?

It depends on how you trade. Netcoins charges a flat 0.5% fee on all trades, which is simple and predictable. Bitbuy Pro offers lower fees at approximately 0.1% maker / 0.2% taker, but this requires using the advanced interface. Bitbuy Express Trade includes spreads ranging from 0.5% to 1.85%, which can make the effective cost similar to or higher than Netcoins for casual traders. Active traders will generally pay less on Bitbuy Pro; occasional investors may find Netcoins more straightforward.

Are both Netcoins and Bitbuy safe?

Yes. Both platforms are registered with FINTRAC and operate under Canadian securities regulations. Netcoins holds a SOC 2 Type 2 certification and uses a dual Fireblocks/BitGo custody model. Bitbuy maintains 95%+ cold storage through BitGo with substantial insurance coverage. Both are considered reputable, regulated platforms within Canada's crypto landscape.

Which exchange has more cryptocurrencies?

As of early 2026, both platforms offer approximately 60+ tradable cryptocurrencies. Netcoins and Bitbuy have both expanded their listings significantly over the past two years. For the most current list, check each platform's official website, as new tokens are added periodically.

Can I transfer crypto between Netcoins and Bitbuy?

Yes. Both platforms support cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals. You can send crypto from your Netcoins wallet to your Bitbuy wallet (or vice versa) by using the standard deposit/withdrawal process. Network fees will apply, as they are determined by the blockchain network rather than the exchange.

Does Bitbuy still operate independently after the Robinhood acquisition?

Yes. Following Robinhood's acquisition of WonderFi (Bitbuy's parent company) for approximately C$250 million [Source], Bitbuy continues to operate its existing products and services. The WonderFi leadership team has remained in place as part of Robinhood Crypto, and Robinhood has indicated its intention to grow its Canadian presence through the acquisition.

Do Netcoins and Bitbuy both offer staking?

Yes. Both platforms offer regulated staking services for select proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies. Netcoins offers staking with returns up to 15% APR across assets including ETH, SOL, ATOM, and DOT. Bitbuy offers staking with returns up to approximately 13.4%. Both platforms received regulatory approval to offer staking services in Canada, which is a requirement under current CSA guidelines.

Which platform is better for beginners?

Both platforms are beginner-friendly, but in different ways. Netcoins' entire platform is built around simplicity, with a single clean interface and flat pricing. Bitbuy's Express Trade is also designed for beginners, though the existence of two separate interfaces (Express and Pro) can be slightly more confusing at first. For a pure "I just want to buy some Bitcoin" experience, both work well. Netcoins may feel slightly more streamlined for complete newcomers.

Key Takeaways

• Both are legitimate, regulated choices. Netcoins and Bitbuy are among Canada's most established crypto exchanges, both operating under FINTRAC registration and Canadian securities oversight. You are not compromising on legitimacy with either platform.
• Fee transparency vs. fee minimization. Netcoins offers a flat 0.5% fee that is simple and predictable. Bitbuy Pro offers lower rates (0.1%/0.2%) for advanced traders, but Express Trade fees plus spreads can be comparable for casual users.
• Security approaches differ but both are strong. Netcoins differentiates with its SOC 2 Type 2 certification and dual-custodian model. Bitbuy differentiates with layered insurance coverage and transparent proof-of-reserve reporting.
• Bitbuy has a regulatory head start. With completed OSC registration and CIRO membership, Bitbuy currently holds the more complete regulatory profile. Netcoins is actively progressing through the CIRO membership process while operating under interim regulatory relief.
• Robinhood's backing is a significant development for Bitbuy. The C$250M acquisition brings institutional-grade capital and infrastructure to Bitbuy, which could accelerate feature development and liquidity improvements.
• Netcoins offers more unique services. Bitcoin ATMs, a private wealth division, API trading, and the SOC Trust Center give Netcoins a broader service offering beyond standard exchange functionality.
• Your best choice depends on your profile. Beginners and investors seeking simplicity may prefer Netcoins. Active traders seeking the lowest fees and advanced tools may prefer Bitbuy Pro. Both are good platforms serving the Canadian market well.

Sources

• Bitbuy Fees Page: https://bitbuy.ca/en-ca/fees
• Bitbuy Insurance and Regulation: https://bitbuy.ca/en-ca/guides/bitbuys-commitment-to-insurance-regulation
• Bitbuy Staking: https://bitbuy.ca/en-ca/staking
• Bitbuy Staking Rewards and Rates: https://support.bitbuy.ca/hc/en-us/articles/10843120676237-Assets-That-Can-be-Staked-and-Staking-Rewards-Rates
• Bitbuy Supported Cryptocurrencies: https://support.bitbuy.ca/hc/en-us/articles/360059580371-Which-cryptocurrencies-does-Bitbuy-offer
• Bitbuy Funding Methods: https://support.bitbuy.ca/hc/en-us/articles/26792829520525-How-can-I-add-Canadian-Dollars-to-my-account
• Bitbuy Trustpilot: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bitbuy.ca
• Bitbuy iOS App: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/bitbuy-buy-bitcoin-canada/id1476837869
• Bitbuy Institutional Staking: https://bitbuy.ca/en-ca/institutional-staking
• FINTRAC MSB Registry (Netcoins): https://www10.fintrac-canafe.gc.ca/msb-esm/public/detailed-information/msb-details/7b226d73624f72674e756d626572223a3134323136392c227072696d617279536561726368223a7b226f72674e616d65223a226e6574636f696e73222c2273656172636854797065223a317d7d/
• Netcoins Fees: https://netcoins.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038528812-What-are-your-rates-fees
• Netcoins Account Funding: https://netcoins.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360057572071-Account-Funding-Dollars
• Netcoins Safety and Security: https://www.netcoins.com/safety-security
• Netcoins Custody: https://www.netcoins.com/custody
• Netcoins Enterprise and OTC: https://www.netcoins.com/enterprise-and-otc-services
• Netcoins Private Wealth: https://www.netcoins.com/private-wealth
• Netcoins SOC Trust Center Announcement: https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/08/19/3135698/0/en/Netcoins-Reinforces-Leadership-in-Regulated-Crypto-with-New-SOC-Trust-Center.html
• Netcoins SOC Trust Center (BIGG Digital): https://biggdigitalassets.com/press-releases/netcoins-reinforces-leadership-in-regulated-crypto-with-new-soc-trust-center/
• Netcoins Staking Bonding Periods: https://www.netcoins.com/blog/understanding-bonding-and-unbonding-periods-when-staking-with-netcoins
• Netcoins Trustpilot: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/netcoins.ca
• OSC Registered Crypto Platforms: https://www.osc.ca/en/industry/registration-and-compliance/registered-crypto-asset-trading-platforms
• OSC Netcoins Decision: https://www.osc.ca/sites/default/files/2025-09/oth_20250929_netcoins.pdf
• Robinhood WonderFi Acquisition Announcement: https://newsroom.aboutrobinhood.com/robinhood-to-acquire-wonderfi/
• Savvy New Canadians - Netcoins vs Bitbuy: https://www.savvynewcanadians.com/netcoins-vs-bitbuy/

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