Netcoins vs Newton: Canadian Crypto Exchange Comparison (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 Newton are two of Canada's most comparable crypto exchanges. Both are FINTRAC-registered, support a similar range of cryptocurrencies (60-70+), offer staking, and serve Canadian investors through Interac e-Transfer deposits. The key differences come down to nuance: Netcoins offers a transparent flat fee structure, SOC 2 Type 2 certification, and the added accountability of a publicly traded parent company, while Newton uses a spread-based "no-fee" model and offers a slightly larger coin selection. For most Canadian investors, these platforms are closely matched, and the right choice depends on whether you prioritize fee transparency and institutional-grade security audits (Netcoins) or a spread-based pricing model with a broader altcoin selection (Newton).

Quick Comparison Summary

Netcoins at a Glance

1. Founded: 2014, Vancouver, BC [Source]
2. Parent company: BIGG Digital Assets (TSXV: BIGG), publicly traded [Source]
3. Supported cryptocurrencies: 60+ [Source]
4. Fee model: Transparent flat fee structure (approximately 0.5% per trade) [Source]
5. Regulation: FINTRAC registered, CIRO regulated [Source]
6. Security: SOC 2 Type 2 certified, Fireblocks + BitGo custody [Source]
7. Staking: Yes, up to 15% APR on select assets [Source]
8. Users: 250,000+ with $3.5B+ lifetime trading volume
9. Trustpilot: 4.0 stars / 535+ reviews [Source]
10. iOS App Store: 4.8 stars / 116 reviews

Newton at a Glance

• Founded: 2018, Toronto, ON [Source]
• Funding: $34.8M raised, including a US$20M Series B at ~US$200M valuation [Source]
• Supported cryptocurrencies: 70+ [Source]
• Fee model: Spread-based pricing (no visible trading commission, spread typically 0.5-2%) [Source]
• Regulation: FINTRAC registered as MSB, CSA restricted dealer [Source]
• Security: Coinbase Custody and Balance, 80% cold storage, insurance on custodied assets [Source]
• Staking: Yes, available for ETH, SOL, DOT, ATOM, ADA, and others [Source]
• Trustpilot: 4.1-4.2 stars / 1,000+ reviews [Source]

Fees and Pricing Compared

Fee structure is one of the most important factors when choosing a crypto exchange. Netcoins and Newton take different approaches, and understanding each model is important for calculating your true trading costs.

How Netcoins Charges

Netcoins uses a transparent flat fee model. The standard trading fee is approximately 0.5% per trade, and the platform may also incorporate a spread that varies depending on market conditions and the specific asset [Source]. All-in trading costs typically range between 0.50% and 1.50% depending on the cryptocurrency and market liquidity. Netcoins charges zero fees for CAD deposits via Interac e-Transfer, and fiat withdrawals are also free [Source]. This model makes it straightforward to estimate your actual cost per trade before placing an order.

How Newton Charges

Newton markets itself as a "no-fee" exchange. The platform does not charge an explicit trading commission. Instead, Newton generates revenue through the spread between buy and sell prices [Source]. This spread typically ranges from 0.5% to 0.7% for major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, though it can widen to 1.0-1.6% or more for less liquid altcoins [Source]. Newton also covers the first $5 in network fees for every crypto withdrawal, which is a genuine cost savings for users who frequently move assets off-platform [Source]. Interac e-Transfer deposits and fiat withdrawals are free.

The Bottom Line on Fees

These two platforms are closer in actual trading cost than their marketing might suggest. Netcoins is upfront about its fee, while Newton bundles the cost into the spread. For major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, Newton's tight spreads may result in slightly lower all-in costs. For smaller altcoins, Newton's spreads can widen significantly, potentially making Netcoins more predictable. Newton's $5 network fee coverage is a meaningful perk for users who regularly withdraw crypto to external wallets. The "best" fee structure depends on what you trade and how often you withdraw.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Both platforms offer a broad selection of digital assets, though Newton holds a slight edge in the total number of supported coins.

Netcoins: 60+ Cryptocurrencies

Netcoins supports over 60 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), Cosmos (ATOM), Cardano (ADA), Dogecoin (DOGE), Shiba Inu (SHIB), and many others [Source]. The platform continues to add new assets over time and covers the large majority of top-30 cryptocurrencies by market cap.

Newton: 70+ Cryptocurrencies

Newton supports over 70 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, Cardano, Dogecoin, and a wide range of altcoins and DeFi tokens [Source]. Newton has been consistently expanding its coin offerings since launch and regularly introduces new assets.

Why This Matters

In practice, the difference between 60+ and 70+ coins is relatively small for most investors. Both platforms cover all of the most popular cryptocurrencies. If there is a specific niche altcoin you want, check each platform's current coin list before signing up. Newton's slightly larger selection may matter if you are looking for more obscure tokens, but for the typical Canadian investor building a diversified portfolio, both platforms provide ample variety.

Funding Methods

Both platforms offer the funding methods that Canadian investors expect, with a few differences in the details.

Netcoins Funding Options

• Interac e-Transfer (instant, free) [Source]
• Wire transfer
• Bank draft
• Credit card
• EFT (Electronic Fund Transfer)

Newton Funding Options

• Interac e-Transfer (free) [Source]
• Wire transfer
• Pre-authorized debit (PAD) for recurring purchases [Source]

Both platforms offer free Interac e-Transfer deposits, which is the most popular funding method for Canadian crypto buyers. Netcoins offers credit card funding, which Newton does not, though credit card purchases typically carry higher fees. Newton's pre-authorized debit feature is a notable differentiator: it allows users to set up automated recurring crypto purchases, which is a convenient option for dollar-cost averaging strategies. Netcoins offers bank draft as a funding option, which can be useful for larger deposits.

Security and Insurance

Security is arguably the most important factor when choosing a crypto exchange, since you are trusting the platform with your money. Both Netcoins and Newton take security seriously, though they take different approaches.

Netcoins Security

Netcoins achieved SOC 2 Type 2 compliance on August 1, 2025, and subsequently launched a public Trust Center that provides transparent access to its security, compliance, and privacy documentation [Source]. SOC 2 Type 2 is one of the highest standards of information security recognized globally. It requires an extended audit period examining the actual effectiveness of security controls over time, not just their design. For custody, Netcoins uses Fireblocks and BitGo, two of the most established institutional-grade custody providers in the industry [Source]. As a subsidiary of publicly traded BIGG Digital Assets, Netcoins is also subject to public financial reporting requirements, which adds an additional layer of transparency and accountability.

Newton Security

Newton stores approximately 80% of customer assets in cold storage through Coinbase Custody and Balance [Source]. The platform maintains insurance coverage on custodied assets against hacks and theft, conducts regular penetration testing, and enforces mandatory internal security protocols including 2FA and daily off-site backups [Source]. Newton has not experienced a security breach since launching in 2018. Some third-party reviews reference Newton holding SOC 2 Type II certification [Source], though Newton's own security page does not prominently feature this claim [CITATION NEEDED: Newton official confirmation of SOC 2 status].

The Bottom Line on Security

Both platforms employ institutional-grade custody solutions and maintain strong security records. Netcoins' publicly documented SOC 2 Type 2 certification and its Trust Center provide verifiable proof of its security posture. Newton's combination of Coinbase Custody, insurance coverage, and a clean security track record also inspires confidence. Neither platform has experienced a major security breach, which is the most important data point of all.

Regulation and Compliance

Both Netcoins and Newton operate within Canada's regulatory framework for crypto exchanges, though their regulatory profiles differ slightly.

Netcoins Regulation

• Registered with FINTRAC as a Money Services Business (MSB) [Source]
• Regulated by CIRO (Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization) [Source]
• Operating under exemptive relief from Canadian securities regulators, with a two-year extension granted in September 2025 [Source]
• Required to submit a complete CIRO membership application by June 1, 2026 [Source]
• Parent company BIGG Digital Assets is publicly traded on TSX Venture Exchange (BIGG) and OTCQB (BBKCF), subject to public financial disclosure requirements [Source]

Newton Regulation

• Registered with FINTRAC as a Money Services Business (MSB) [Source]
• Granted restricted dealer status by the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) in August 2022 [Source]
• Available in all Canadian provinces and territories
• Privately held, backed by investors including DV Chain, CI Financial, Tiny Capital, and Snowdevil Capital (founded by Shopify co-founder Tobias Lutke) [Source]

The Bottom Line on Regulation

Both platforms are fully compliant with Canadian regulations and are registered with FINTRAC. The key difference is transparency: as a subsidiary of a publicly traded company, Netcoins' financials are disclosed in public filings. Newton is privately held, which means its financial health is not publicly visible. This does not make Newton less safe, but it does mean investors have less independent data to verify the platform's financial stability. Both platforms are actively working toward full CIRO membership, reflecting their commitment to Canada's evolving regulatory landscape for crypto.

User Experience and Mobile App

Both platforms target everyday Canadian investors and prioritize a clean, accessible user interface over advanced trading features.

Netcoins User Experience

Netcoins offers a web-based trading platform along with a mobile app for iOS and Android. The interface is designed for simplicity, with straightforward buy/sell functionality that suits beginner and intermediate investors [Source]. Netcoins also provides limit orders for users who want more control over their entry prices. The iOS app holds a 4.8-star rating from 116 reviews [CITATION NEEDED: Apple App Store listing for Netcoins], and Netcoins' newer rewards program, Netcoins Pay, is a prepaid Mastercard offering 3% Bitcoin cashback in the first 90 days and 1% thereafter [Source].

Newton User Experience

Newton also offers both web and mobile platforms, with apps for iOS and Android. The platform features basic and advanced trading interfaces, accommodating beginners with simple buy/sell functions while providing experienced traders with professional charting tools and limit orders [Source]. Newton's design is clean and modern, and the platform is widely praised for being intuitive and easy to navigate. The Google Play app holds solid ratings, and Newton maintains an active development cycle with regular feature updates [Source].

The Bottom Line on UX

Both platforms offer polished, beginner-friendly experiences. Newton's dual basic/advanced interface gives it a slight edge for users who may eventually want more sophisticated charting tools. Netcoins' Netcoins Pay card adds a unique feature that extends the platform's utility beyond just trading. In practice, both are well-designed and easy to use.

Customer Support

The quality and accessibility of customer support can make a significant difference, especially when dealing with financial accounts.

Netcoins Support

• Phone support: +1 (844) 515-2646, available 7 days a week [Source]
• Live chat: Available Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM PST, and weekends 9 AM to 5 PM PST [Source]
• Email: support@netcoins.com, with support hours Monday through Friday 6 AM to 8 PM PT, and weekends 9 AM to 8 PM PT [Source]
• Trustpilot: 4.0 stars from 535+ reviews, with strong marks for customer service responsiveness [Source]

Newton Support

• Email: support@newton.co [Source]
• Help center with knowledge base articles [Source]
• In-app support and ticket submission [Source]
• Trustpilot: 4.1-4.2 stars from 1,000+ reviews [Source]

The Bottom Line on Support

Netcoins offers phone support, which is still relatively rare among Canadian crypto exchanges and can be valuable when you need to resolve an issue quickly. Newton's higher volume of Trustpilot reviews and solid rating suggest a generally positive support experience, though some users on Reddit and review sites have reported delays with withdrawals and account verification during peak periods [CITATION NEEDED: specific Reddit thread or review source for Newton withdrawal delays]. Netcoins' combination of phone, live chat, and email gives it more support channels overall. Both platforms maintain professional help centers with educational content.

Staking and Earning Features

Staking allows you to earn passive rewards on certain cryptocurrencies by participating in network validation. Both platforms offer staking, though the details vary.

Netcoins Staking

Netcoins offers staking with estimated rewards of up to 15% APR on select assets. Current staking options include [Source]:

• ETH: approximately 3.0-4.5% APR
• SOL: approximately 5.0-6.0% APY
• ATOM: approximately 11.0-15.0% APY
• Additional assets including DOT and others

Each asset has different bonding and unbonding periods. For example, ATOM has instant bonding but a 21-day unbonding period, while SOL epochs are approximately 2-3 days for both bonding and unbonding [Source].

Newton Staking

Newton offers staking through its "Newton Earn" feature, with estimated rewards on select assets [Source]:

• ETH: up to approximately 1.7% APY
• SOL: up to approximately 5.3% APY
• DOT: up to approximately 12.1% APY
• ATOM: up to approximately 10.3% APY
• NEAR: up to approximately 9.0% APY
• ADA: up to approximately 2.2% APY
• SUI: up to approximately 1.7% APY

Newton charges a service fee on staking rewards, typically ranging from 5% to 15% of earned rewards [Source]. The minimum stake is $10 CAD equivalent for all supported assets, and rewards are distributed weekly [Source].

The Bottom Line on Staking

Both platforms offer staking on a similar set of proof-of-stake assets. Netcoins advertises higher APR figures on some assets (particularly ATOM and ETH), while Newton supports a wider range of stakeable assets (including NEAR, SUI, and ADA). The actual returns you receive will depend on network conditions, validator performance, and each platform's fee structure. If staking is a priority, compare the specific APR/APY for the coins you plan to stake on each platform, and factor in Newton's service fee deduction. Keep in mind that staking rewards are estimates and not guaranteed by either platform.

Unique Features

Beyond the standard buy/sell/stake functionality, each platform offers distinctive features that may influence your decision.

What Makes Netcoins Unique

• OTC Desk: Netcoins operates a dedicated over-the-counter trading desk for large-volume transactions, typically starting at $25,000 CAD or more. This includes direct access to an account management team and competitive pricing for institutional-scale trades [Source].
• Private Wealth Services: Tailored services for high-net-worth individuals, including USD liquidity, custom custody solutions through BitGo and Fireblocks, and dedicated support [Source].
• Crypto API Trading: A full trading API that allows developers and algorithmic traders to build automated strategies for CAD-to-crypto and USD-to-crypto pairs [Source].
• Netcoins Pay: A prepaid Mastercard offering 3% Bitcoin cashback in the first 90 days and 1% ongoing, with no credit check required [Source].
• Bitcoin ATM Network: Netcoins works with ATM operators through its OTC team, extending crypto access beyond the digital platform [Source].
• Trust Center: A public portal providing transparent access to security certifications, compliance documentation, and privacy practices [Source].

What Makes Newton Unique

• Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD): Newton supports recurring automated purchases via pre-authorized debit, making it easy to implement dollar-cost averaging strategies without manual intervention [Source].
• $5 Network Fee Coverage: Newton covers the first $5 in blockchain network fees on every crypto withdrawal, a genuine cost saver for users who frequently move assets to external wallets [Source].
• Newton Learn: A built-in educational content hub with blog articles, guides, and explainers designed to help new investors understand crypto concepts [Source].
• Advanced Trading Interface: Beyond its basic buy/sell screen, Newton offers an advanced view with professional charting tools and technical analysis features [Source].
• Broad Staking Selection: Newton supports staking on more assets than many Canadian competitors, including newer tokens like SUI and NEAR [Source].

Who Should Choose Netcoins?

Netcoins is likely the better fit if you:

• Value fee transparency. You prefer knowing exactly what you are paying per trade rather than estimating costs embedded in a spread.
• Prioritize audited security. Netcoins' SOC 2 Type 2 certification and public Trust Center provide verifiable, third-party-validated proof of its security posture.
• Want institutional services. The OTC desk, Private Wealth program, and API trading make Netcoins a stronger platform for high-volume traders, businesses, and institutional clients.
• Appreciate public company accountability. BIGG Digital Assets' public filings provide an extra layer of financial transparency that privately held companies do not offer.
• Want direct customer support. Phone support and live chat, available seven days a week, provide more accessible help than email-only channels.
• Are interested in the Netcoins Pay card. Earning Bitcoin cashback on everyday spending through the prepaid Mastercard is a unique perk.

Who Should Choose Newton?

Newton is likely the better fit if you:

• Prefer "no-fee" simplicity. If you dislike seeing explicit trading fees and prefer a spread-based model where costs are less visible, Newton's approach may feel more intuitive.
• Want the widest coin selection. Newton's 70+ coins edges out Netcoins' 60+, which matters if you want access to more niche altcoins.
• Use dollar-cost averaging. Newton's pre-authorized debit feature lets you automate recurring crypto purchases, a convenient option that Netcoins does not currently offer in the same way.
• Frequently withdraw crypto. Newton's $5 network fee coverage per withdrawal is a real savings if you regularly move assets to self-custody or external wallets.
• Want advanced charting. Newton's advanced trading interface with professional charting tools is well-suited for users who value technical analysis.
• Are a newer investor looking for education. Newton Learn provides structured educational content that can help you build your crypto knowledge alongside your portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Netcoins or Newton cheaper for buying Bitcoin?

For Bitcoin specifically, the costs are very similar. Netcoins charges approximately 0.5% as a flat fee, while Newton's spread on Bitcoin is typically 0.5-0.7% [Source]. The difference on a $1,000 Bitcoin purchase would be a few dollars at most. Newton's $5 network fee coverage may save you money if you immediately withdraw your Bitcoin to a personal wallet. For most users, the fee difference on major assets like BTC and ETH is negligible.

Are both Netcoins and Newton safe and regulated?

Yes. Both platforms are registered with FINTRAC as Money Services Businesses and operate under the oversight of Canadian securities regulators [Source] [Source]. Neither platform has experienced a major security breach. Netcoins holds SOC 2 Type 2 certification and uses Fireblocks and BitGo custody [Source]. Newton uses Coinbase Custody with 80% of assets in cold storage and insurance coverage [Source].

Can I stake crypto on both platforms?

Yes. Both Netcoins and Newton offer staking on popular proof-of-stake assets including ETH, SOL, ATOM, and DOT. Netcoins advertises higher APR figures on some assets (up to 15% on ATOM) [Source], while Newton supports a slightly wider range of stakeable assets [Source]. Newton charges a 5-15% service fee on staking rewards [Source]. Actual returns vary based on network conditions and are not guaranteed by either platform.

Does Netcoins or Newton have better customer support?

Netcoins offers phone support, live chat, and email support seven days a week [Source], which gives it more accessible support channels. Newton offers email-based support and an in-app help system [Source]. Both platforms maintain comprehensive help centers. On Trustpilot, Newton has a higher volume of reviews (1,000+) with a slightly higher average rating (4.1-4.2 stars), while Netcoins has 535+ reviews at 4.0 stars [Source] [Source].

Which platform is better for beginners?

Both are well-suited for beginners. Newton's spread-based "no-fee" model and educational Newton Learn section may feel more approachable for first-time buyers [Source]. Netcoins' straightforward interface and availability of phone support can be reassuring for new investors who want the option to talk to a real person if something goes wrong [Source]. Either platform will serve a beginner well.

Can I use both platforms at the same time?

Absolutely. Many experienced Canadian crypto investors maintain accounts on multiple exchanges to take advantage of different features, wider coin access, and backup withdrawal options. There is no exclusivity requirement on either platform.

Which platform has been around longer?

Netcoins was founded in 2014 in Vancouver, giving it a 12-year track record in the Canadian crypto space [Source]. Newton was founded in 2018 in Toronto [Source]. Both have operated without major security incidents throughout their histories.

Key Takeaways

• Very similar platforms. Netcoins and Newton are two of the most closely matched crypto exchanges in Canada. Both are regulated, offer 60-70+ coins, support staking, and provide Interac e-Transfer deposits.
• Fee models differ in presentation, not necessarily in cost. Netcoins charges a transparent flat fee (~0.5%), while Newton embeds its costs in the spread (0.5-2% depending on the asset). For major cryptocurrencies, the all-in cost is comparable.
• Netcoins leads on verified security credentials. SOC 2 Type 2 certification, a public Trust Center, and the transparency of a publicly traded parent company give Netcoins a documented edge in security accountability.
• Newton leads on coin selection and automated features. With 70+ coins, pre-authorized debit for recurring purchases, and $5 network fee coverage on withdrawals, Newton offers some practical conveniences.
• Netcoins offers more for advanced and institutional users. OTC trading, Private Wealth services, API access, and the Netcoins Pay card extend the platform's utility well beyond basic retail trading.
• Both have strong regulatory standing. FINTRAC-registered and operating under Canadian securities oversight, both platforms are committed to compliance. Netcoins' public company structure offers additional financial transparency.
• Your choice depends on your priorities. If fee transparency, audited security, and institutional services matter most, Netcoins has the edge. If you prefer a spread-based model, a broader altcoin selection, and automated recurring purchases, Newton is an excellent choice.

Sources

• Netcoins Official Website: https://www.netcoins.com/
• Newton Official Website: https://www.newton.co/
• Netcoins SOC 2 Trust Center Announcement: GlobeNewsWire, August 2025
• BIGG Digital Assets Exemptive Relief Extension: GlobeNewsWire, September 2025
• BIGG Digital Assets Stock Overview: Stock Analysis
• Newton Series B Funding: BetaKit
• Netcoins Review (RankFi): RankFi Canada
• Newton Review (CryptoVantage): CryptoVantage
• Newton Review (Savvy New Canadians): Savvy New Canadians
• Newton Review (HedgeWithCrypto): HedgeWithCrypto
• Newton Security Page: Newton.co/security
• Newton Earn (Staking): Newton.co/earn
• Newton Staking Fees: Newton Help Center
• Netcoins Staking Bonding Periods: Netcoins Blog
• Netcoins Contact Page: Netcoins.com/contact-us
• Netcoins OTC Desk Guide: Netcoins Blog
• Netcoins API Trading: Netcoins.com/crypto-api-trading
• Netcoins Private Wealth: Netcoins.com/private-wealth
• Netcoins Trustpilot: Trustpilot
• Newton Trustpilot: Trustpilot
• Newton Google Play: Google Play Store

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