Netcoins vs Coinbase: Complete Comparison for Canadian Crypto Users (Updated 2026)

Disclaimer: This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Cryptocurrency investing involves significant risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always do your own research before choosing a platform or making any investment. Fees, features, and supported assets may change without notice. Information is current as of February 2026.

TL;DR

Netcoins and Coinbase are both legitimate, regulated options for Canadian crypto investors, but they are built for different users. Coinbase is a global powerhouse with 200+ cryptocurrencies, a massive product ecosystem (self-custody wallet, crypto card, staking), and brand recognition in 40+ countries. Netcoins is a Canadian-built exchange purpose-designed for the Canadian market, offering 60+ cryptocurrencies, seamless Interac e-Transfer funding, phone-based customer support, and specialized services like OTC trading and Private Wealth management. If you want the broadest possible coin selection and a global ecosystem, Coinbase is a strong choice. If you want a platform built from the ground up for Canadian banking, Canadian regulation, and Canadian customer service, Netcoins is the better fit.

Quick Comparison Summary

Netcoins at a Glance

• Founded: 2014, Vancouver, BC
• Parent company: BIGG Digital Assets (TSXV: BIGG), publicly traded [Source]
• Supported cryptocurrencies: 60+ [Source]
• Fee model: Competitive flat fee structure (approximately 0.5% trading fee) [Source]
• Regulation: FINTRAC registered, securities-registered across all Canadian provinces and territories [Source]
• Security: SOC 2 Type 1 certified, Fireblocks (hot wallet) + BitGo (cold storage) custody [Source]
• Staking: Yes, up to 15% APR on select assets [Source]
• Users: 250,000+ [Source]
• Customer support: Phone, email, and chat with a Canadian-based team [Source]
• Trustpilot: 4.0 stars [Source]
• iOS App Store: 4.8 stars (116 ratings) [Source]

Coinbase at a Glance

• Founded: 2012, San Francisco, California, USA
• Public company: NASDAQ: COIN [Source]
• Supported cryptocurrencies: 200+ (availability varies by region) [Source]
• Fee model: Spread-based for simple trades (~0.5% spread + service fee); Advanced Trade uses maker/taker model starting at 0.60%/1.20% [Source]
• Regulation: Registered as a Restricted Dealer in Canada (CSA, April 2024) [Source]
• Security: Approximately 98% cold storage, NASDAQ-listed with public audit requirements [Source]
• Staking: Yes, available in Canada for select assets (ETH ~2.15%, SOL, ATOM, DOT, and others) [Source]
• Users: 100M+ globally [Source]
• Customer support: Primarily email and chatbot; phone callbacks for account takeover cases [Source]
• Trustpilot: 1.6 stars (approximately 13,000 reviews as of early 2026)

Fees and Pricing Compared

Fees are one of the most significant factors for Canadian crypto users, and the two platforms take very different approaches. Coinbase uses a layered fee structure that varies depending on which interface you use, while Netcoins keeps things simpler with a flat fee model.

How Netcoins Charges

Netcoins applies a straightforward flat fee of approximately 0.5% per trade, with no hidden surcharges beyond the applicable spread [Source]. CAD deposits via Interac e-Transfer are free and processed instantly, and fiat withdrawals are also free [Source]. This transparent model means you can calculate your cost per trade upfront without surprises.

How Coinbase Charges

Coinbase's fee structure depends on which product you use:

• Simple Buy/Sell Interface: Coinbase charges a spread of approximately 0.5% per transaction plus a service fee. For Canadian users funding via debit card, the service fee can be as high as 3.99%. Bank transfer fees are lower at approximately 1.49% [Source].
• Advanced Trade: This interface uses a maker/taker fee model. For traders with under $1,000 in monthly volume, fees start at 0.60% maker and 1.20% taker. These rates decrease with higher volume, dropping to 0.35% maker and 0.75% taker at the $1,000-$10,000 tier, and continuing lower from there [Source].
• Coinbase One Subscription: For $30 USD/month, Coinbase One eliminates trading fees (though a spread still applies), and includes boosted staking rewards and priority support [Source].

How CAD Funding Affects Costs

This is a critical consideration for Canadians. Netcoins was built around Canadian banking infrastructure, so Interac e-Transfer deposits are instant and free. Coinbase has added Interac e-Transfer support for Canadian users, but some users have reported complications including name-matching issues and delays [Source]. Additionally, Coinbase has been reported to charge a 1% fee on some Interac withdrawals to Canadian bank accounts [Source], whereas Netcoins offers free CAD withdrawals.

The Bottom Line on Fees

For casual Canadian buyers using the simple interface, Netcoins is consistently less expensive than Coinbase's simple buy/sell due to Coinbase's layered service fees on top of the spread. Active traders willing to use Coinbase Advanced Trade can achieve competitive rates at higher volume tiers, but the entry-level Advanced Trade fees (0.60% maker / 1.20% taker) are actually higher than Netcoins' flat 0.5% for most retail users. Coinbase One's $30/month subscription can make sense for frequent traders, but the spread still applies. For most Canadian users, particularly those making occasional purchases, Netcoins' simpler and lower fee structure will result in lower total costs.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Coinbase: 200+ Cryptocurrencies

Coinbase offers one of the widest coin selections of any exchange available in Canada, with over 200 cryptocurrencies for trading [Source]. This includes virtually every major asset (BTC, ETH, SOL, ADA, DOT, MATIC, AVAX, LINK) as well as a large range of smaller-cap altcoins, DeFi tokens, and emerging projects. For investors who want access to newly listed assets or niche tokens, Coinbase's breadth is a genuine advantage.

Netcoins: 60+ Cryptocurrencies

Netcoins supports over 60 cryptocurrencies, covering all the most popular assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Polkadot, Dogecoin, Cosmos, and many more [Source]. While the selection is smaller than Coinbase's, it covers the vast majority of what most Canadian investors actually trade.

Why This Matters

If you are specifically interested in small-cap or newly launched tokens, Coinbase's larger selection is a meaningful advantage. However, for most Canadian investors building a portfolio around established top-50 or top-100 assets, Netcoins' 60+ coins will cover their needs. Quality of execution, fees, and funding convenience may matter more than having access to the 200th-ranked token.

Funding Methods

How easily you can move Canadian dollars in and out of an exchange is one of the most practical considerations for Canadian users.

Netcoins Funding Options

• Interac e-Transfer: Instant, free, available 24/7 [Source]
• Wire transfer (CAD and USD)
• Bank draft
• Credit card
• EFT (Electronic Fund Transfer)
• Crypto deposits

Netcoins was purpose-built for Canadian banking. Interac e-Transfer is the primary funding method, and it works seamlessly because the platform was designed around it from the beginning. Minimum deposit is $10 CAD for Interac e-Transfer and $500 for wire transfers [Source].

Coinbase Funding Options (Canada)

• Interac e-Transfer (added for Canadian users) [Source]
• Debit card
• Wire transfer
• Crypto deposits

Coinbase has expanded its Canadian funding options over time, and Interac e-Transfer is now supported. However, as a US-headquartered platform, its Canadian banking integrations have been added retroactively rather than being foundational. Some Canadian users have reported friction with deposits, including name-matching requirements on Interac transfers that caused failed deposits [Source].

Key Difference

Both platforms support Interac e-Transfer, but Netcoins' implementation is more mature and deeply integrated into the platform. For Canadian users who want a "set it and forget it" funding experience in CAD, Netcoins provides the smoother path. Coinbase's debit card option offers additional flexibility, but the higher associated fees (up to 3.99%) make it an expensive alternative.

Security and Custody

Both platforms treat security as a top priority, which is appropriate given the value of assets they custody.

Netcoins Security

Netcoins uses a dual-custodian model with institutional-grade infrastructure. BitGo Trust Company provides cold storage for at least 80% of client crypto assets, while Fireblocks secures the remaining hot wallet holdings (up to 20%) [Source]. The platform achieved SOC 2 Type 1 certification, demonstrating independently audited security controls [Source]. BitGo itself maintains SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications [Source]. As a subsidiary of publicly traded BIGG Digital Assets (TSXV: BIGG), Netcoins is also subject to public company audit and disclosure requirements.

Coinbase Security

Coinbase stores approximately 98% of customer funds in offline cold storage [Source]. As a NASDAQ-listed company (COIN), Coinbase is subject to extensive public reporting requirements, including SEC filings and regular financial audits. The company carries crime insurance that protects a portion of digital assets held in hot storage. Coinbase also offers Coinbase Vault for users who want additional withdrawal delay protections on their accounts.

Neither Platform Has Suffered a Major Breach

Both Netcoins and Coinbase have maintained strong security track records. Neither has experienced a catastrophic loss of customer funds due to a hack, though Coinbase has dealt with social engineering attacks targeting individual accounts (as have most large exchanges globally).

Key Difference

Coinbase's scale as a NASDAQ-listed company brings world-class insurance and audit infrastructure. Netcoins' dual-custodian model with BitGo and Fireblocks, combined with SOC 2 certification, provides institutional-grade security at a more focused Canadian scale. Both approaches are credible and well-implemented.

Regulation and Compliance

Netcoins Regulatory Status

• Registered with FINTRAC as a Money Services Business (MSB) [Source]
• Registered with securities regulatory authorities across all Canadian provinces and territories, including the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) and the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) [Source]
• Parent company BIGG Digital Assets is publicly traded on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: BIGG) [Source]

Coinbase Regulatory Status

• Registered as a Restricted Dealer in Canada under the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) as of April 2024 [Source]
• NASDAQ-listed (COIN) in the United States, subject to SEC reporting requirements [Source]
• Licensed or registered in 40+ countries globally [Source]
• Coinbase has stated its intention to eventually apply for CIRO investment dealer membership and ATS registration in Canada [Source]

What "Restricted Dealer" Means

Coinbase's Canadian registration is as a "Restricted Dealer," which is a special registration category the CSA uses for firms that do not fit standard dealer categories. This permits Coinbase to operate legally in Canada, but it comes with specific conditions and limitations that differ from full investment dealer registration. Netcoins, by contrast, has been operating under Canadian securities registration and FINTRAC compliance since its founding.

Key Difference

Both platforms are legally authorized to serve Canadian customers. Netcoins has deeper roots in the Canadian regulatory framework, having been founded and regulated in Canada for over a decade. Coinbase brings the credibility of a NASDAQ listing and global regulatory presence across dozens of countries. Canadian users can feel confident that both platforms operate within the legal framework, though Netcoins' longer Canadian regulatory history may provide additional comfort for users who prioritize domestic compliance.

User Experience and Mobile App

Netcoins App and Interface

Netcoins offers a clean, straightforward interface designed for simplicity. The platform is available via web and mobile app (iOS and Android). The iOS app holds a 4.8-star rating, though based on a smaller number of reviews (116 ratings) [Source]. The platform's design prioritizes ease of use, making it accessible for beginners while still providing the tools that more experienced traders need. Verification is fast, with the platform advertising industry-leading KYC processing times.

Coinbase App and Interface

Coinbase offers one of the most polished user interfaces in the crypto industry. The main Coinbase app is designed for casual users with a clean buy/sell experience, while Coinbase Advanced Trade (integrated into the same app) provides professional-grade charting, order types, and trading tools. Coinbase's mobile app has millions of downloads globally and consistently high app store ratings. The platform also offers Coinbase Wallet, a separate self-custody wallet application that allows users to store assets outside the exchange.

Key Difference

Coinbase's user interface has been refined through years of investment and billions of dollars in revenue. It is hard to argue against Coinbase's polish and feature depth. However, some Canadian users may find the Coinbase experience cluttered or overwhelming, particularly with multiple product tiers (Simple, Advanced, Wallet, Coinbase One). Netcoins' more focused approach means fewer decisions to make and a cleaner path from signup to first purchase.

Customer Support

This is one of the most significant differentiators between the two platforms for Canadian users.

Netcoins Support

Netcoins offers phone-based customer support with a Canadian-based team, in addition to email and chat support [Source]. For a crypto exchange, phone support is relatively uncommon and can make a meaningful difference when dealing with time-sensitive issues like stuck deposits, withdrawal problems, or account access concerns. The platform also offers dedicated account management for OTC and Private Wealth clients.

Coinbase Support

Coinbase's customer support has been a consistent point of criticism from users worldwide. Support is primarily delivered through an automated chatbot and email ticketing system. Phone callbacks are available for suspected account takeover situations but not for general inquiries [Source]. Coinbase One subscribers receive priority support as a perk of the $30/month membership. The Better Business Bureau page for Coinbase contains a high volume of complaints, many related to slow response times and difficulty reaching a human representative [Source].

Key Difference

If customer support matters to you, this is a clear area where Netcoins outperforms Coinbase for Canadian users. Having access to a phone-based, Canadian team that understands Canadian banking and regulatory nuances is a genuine advantage, particularly for new crypto investors who may need guidance or for high-value users managing significant portfolios.

Staking Rewards

Both platforms offer staking, allowing users to earn passive rewards on supported cryptocurrencies.

Netcoins Staking

Netcoins offers staking rewards on select assets with rates advertised up to 15% APR depending on the cryptocurrency [Source]. Supported staking assets include Ethereum (approximately 3.0-4.5% APR), Solana, Cosmos, and others. Staking is integrated directly into the platform with no minimum lock-up for many assets, though bonding and unbonding periods apply to certain assets (for example, approximately 3 days bonding and 11 days unbonding for ETH) [Source]. Rewards are distributed on a 24-hour cycle for most assets.

Coinbase Staking

Coinbase offers staking for Canadian users across several assets including Ethereum (approximately 2.15% APR), Solana, Cosmos, Polkadot, Cardano, and others [Source]. Coinbase One subscribers receive boosted staking rates as part of their membership. Coinbase also offers USDC rewards of approximately 3.50% for simply holding USDC on the platform [Source]. It is worth noting that Coinbase takes a commission on staking rewards (typically 25-35%), which is already factored into the displayed APR.

Key Difference

Netcoins generally advertises higher staking APR rates on comparable assets, which may reflect a smaller commission taken by the platform. However, Coinbase offers staking across a wider range of assets and provides the USDC reward program as an additional passive income option. For staking-focused investors, it is worth comparing the specific rates for the assets you plan to hold, as they fluctuate over time on both platforms.

Unique Features

Each platform offers distinctive features that the other does not.

Netcoins-Exclusive Features

• OTC Trading Desk: Designed for trades of $25,000 CAD or more, with competitive pricing, smart order routing, and same-day settlement. Available for both USD and CAD trading pairs across 40+ cryptocurrencies [Source].
• Private Wealth Services: Tailored account management for hedge funds, family offices, corporate treasuries, and high-net-worth individuals, with custom pricing and hands-on execution support [Source].
• Bitcoin ATM Operator Support: Netcoins provides liquidity, same-day settlement, and dedicated support for Bitcoin ATM operators across Canada [Source].
• API Access: For developers and businesses that need programmatic trading access [Source].
• Canadian-first design: Every feature, from funding to support to compliance, is built around Canadian banking and regulation.

Coinbase-Exclusive Features

• Coinbase Wallet: A separate self-custody wallet app that gives users full control of their private keys. Supports thousands of tokens across multiple blockchain networks [Source].
• Coinbase Card: A crypto-linked debit card offering approximately 0.5% back in crypto rewards on purchases [Source].
• Coinbase Earn/Quests: Interactive learning programs where users can earn small amounts of cryptocurrency by completing educational modules and quests [Source].
• Coinbase One: A $30/month subscription offering zero trading fees (spread still applies), boosted staking, and priority support [Source].
• USDC Rewards: Earn approximately 3.50% APR just by holding USDC on Coinbase [Source].
• Global ecosystem: Base blockchain (Layer 2), Coinbase Commerce for merchants, Coinbase Prime for institutions.

Who Should Choose Netcoins?

Netcoins is the better choice if you:

• Are a Canadian resident who wants a platform built specifically for the Canadian market
• Value seamless, free, instant Interac e-Transfer funding without friction
• Prefer phone-based customer support with a Canadian team
• Want straightforward, transparent pricing without navigating multiple fee tiers
• Are a high-net-worth investor or institution that needs OTC trading or Private Wealth services
• Prioritize a platform with deep Canadian regulatory roots (FINTRAC, securities-registered since founding)
• Are a Bitcoin ATM operator who needs a reliable Canadian liquidity partner
• Want staking rewards and find that Netcoins' rates are competitive for the assets you hold
• Prefer the accountability of a publicly traded Canadian parent company (BIGG Digital Assets)

Who Should Choose Coinbase?

Coinbase is the better choice if you:

• Want access to the widest possible selection of cryptocurrencies (200+)
• Value a self-custody wallet option (Coinbase Wallet) integrated with an exchange
• Are interested in the Coinbase Card for crypto-back rewards on spending
• Trade frequently enough to justify the Coinbase One subscription ($30/month for zero trading fees)
• Want exposure to Coinbase's broader ecosystem (Base L2, Coinbase Commerce, learning rewards)
• Are comfortable with primarily chatbot and email support
• Already use Coinbase in another country and want continuity
• Want to earn USDC rewards (3.50%) on stablecoin holdings
• Are an advanced trader who benefits from Coinbase Advanced's order book at high volume tiers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Coinbase legal in Canada?

Yes. Coinbase obtained registration as a Restricted Dealer in Canada through the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) in April 2024 [Source]. This means it is authorized to operate and serve Canadian customers under Canadian securities law.

Is Netcoins safer than Coinbase?

Both platforms maintain strong security practices and neither has suffered a major breach. Netcoins uses BitGo cold storage and Fireblocks hot wallet infrastructure with SOC 2 certification [Source]. Coinbase stores approximately 98% of customer funds in cold storage and is subject to NASDAQ listing audit requirements. Both approaches are credible. "Safer" is difficult to quantify, as each platform has different strengths in its security model.

Which has lower fees for Canadian users?

For most Canadian retail users, Netcoins is less expensive. Netcoins charges approximately 0.5% per trade with free Interac e-Transfer deposits and free fiat withdrawals [Source]. Coinbase's simple buy interface charges a spread plus service fees that can reach 1.49% or higher depending on payment method [Source]. However, frequent Coinbase traders using Advanced Trade at high volumes, or Coinbase One subscribers, can achieve competitive rates.

Can I use Interac e-Transfer on both platforms?

Yes, both Netcoins and Coinbase now support Interac e-Transfer for Canadian users. However, Netcoins' Interac integration is built into the core of the platform and is consistently reported as fast and reliable. Some Coinbase users have reported occasional friction with Interac deposits, including name-matching issues [Source].

Does Coinbase offer staking in Canada?

Yes. Coinbase offers staking for Canadian users on several assets including ETH (approximately 2.15%), SOL, ATOM, DOT, and ADA [Source]. Coinbase One members receive boosted staking rates. Netcoins also offers staking with rates advertised up to 15% APR on select assets [Source].

Which platform has better customer support?

Netcoins offers phone-based support with a Canadian team, which is uncommon in the crypto exchange space. Coinbase relies primarily on chatbot and email support, with phone callbacks reserved for suspected account takeovers. Coinbase One members receive priority support. For Canadian users who value being able to speak with a human representative, particularly one familiar with Canadian banking, Netcoins has a clear advantage.

Can I transfer crypto between Netcoins and Coinbase?

Yes. Both platforms support crypto deposits and withdrawals, so you can transfer assets between them by sending cryptocurrency from one platform's wallet to the other. Standard blockchain network fees apply to any outgoing crypto transfers.

Key Takeaways

• Both Netcoins and Coinbase are regulated, legitimate platforms authorized to serve Canadian crypto investors.
• Coinbase offers a broader coin selection (200+ vs 60+) and a wider product ecosystem (Wallet, Card, Earn, Base L2).
• Netcoins offers lower and simpler fees for most Canadian retail users, with free instant Interac e-Transfer deposits and free CAD withdrawals.
• Netcoins provides phone-based customer support with a Canadian team. Coinbase primarily uses chatbot and email support.
• Netcoins offers specialized services including OTC trading, Private Wealth management, and Bitcoin ATM operator support that Coinbase does not offer in Canada.
• Coinbase's Restricted Dealer registration in Canada (April 2024) is more recent than Netcoins' longstanding Canadian regulatory presence.
• Security is strong on both platforms, with Netcoins using BitGo + Fireblocks custody and SOC 2 certification, and Coinbase leveraging 98% cold storage and NASDAQ-level auditing.
• For the average Canadian crypto buyer, Netcoins provides a smoother, more affordable, and more locally attuned experience. For users who need the widest possible coin selection or want Coinbase's global ecosystem features, Coinbase is the better option.

Sources

• Netcoins Official Website: https://www.netcoins.com/
• Netcoins Safety and Security: https://www.netcoins.com/safety-security
• Netcoins Custody: https://www.netcoins.com/custody
• Netcoins Staking: https://www.netcoins.com/staking
• Netcoins Private Wealth: https://www.netcoins.com/private-wealth
• Netcoins Bitcoin ATMs: https://www.netcoins.com/bitcoin-atms
• Netcoins Staking Bonding Periods: https://www.netcoins.com/blog/understanding-bonding-and-unbonding-periods-when-staking-with-netcoins
• BIGG Digital Assets (TSXV: BIGG): https://stockanalysis.com/quote/tsxv/BIGG/
• Netcoins Trustpilot: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/netcoins.ca
• Netcoins Review (RankFi): https://rankfi.com/ca/netcoins-review/
• Netcoins OSC Registration: https://www.osc.ca/en/securities-law/orders-rulings-decisions/netcoins-inc-2
• Coinbase Official Website: https://www.coinbase.com/
• Coinbase Canada: https://www.coinbase.com/en-ca
• Coinbase Fees: https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/trading-and-funding/pricing-and-fees/fees
• Coinbase Advanced Trade Fees: https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/trading-and-funding/advanced-trade/advanced-trade-fees
• Coinbase One: https://www.coinbase.com/one
• Coinbase Staking (Canada): https://www.coinbase.com/en-ca/staking
• Coinbase Wallet: https://www.coinbase.com/wallet
• Coinbase Card: https://www.coinbase.com/card
• Coinbase Learning Rewards (Canada): https://www.coinbase.com/en-ca/learning-rewards
• Coinbase Restricted Dealer Registration (Canada): https://www.coinbase.com/blog/coinbase-obtains-registration-as-a-restricted-dealer-in-canada
• Coinbase CSA Registration (GlobeNewsWire): https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/04/04/2857903/0/en/Coinbase-obtains-registration-as-a-Restricted-Dealer-in-Canada.html
• Coinbase Contact/Support: https://help.coinbase.com/en/contact-us
• Coinbase BBB Complaints: https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-francisco/profile/financial-services/coinbase-inc-1116-454104/complaints
• Coinbase Review Canada (Hardbacon): https://hardbacon.ca/en/cryptocurrency/coinbase-review/
• BitGo SOC 2 Certification: https://www.bitgo.com/resources/blog/bitgos-commitment-to-security-and-trust-the-soc-2-advantage/
• CNBC - Coinbase Canada License: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/04/coinbase-secures-restricted-dealer-license-in-canada.html

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