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Crypto.com vs Gemini is a critical comparison for crypto traders in 2026. Crypto.com is the better overall choice for most users — it charges lower trading fees (maker from 0.25%), lists 350+ cryptocurrencies, and delivers a comprehensive ecosystem with a Visa debit card, staking on 25+ assets, DeFi wallet, and NFT marketplace. Gemini is the better pick for regulation-focused U.S. investors — it operates as a New York trust company, is available in all 50 states including New York, went public on Nasdaq (ticker: GEMI) in September 2025, and offers SOC 1/2 Type 2 audited custody.
This guide compares every dimension that matters — fees, supported coins, security, staking, cards, mobile apps, and regulatory status — all with verified 2026 data so you can make the right choice.
| Feature | Crypto.com | Gemini | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2016 (Singapore) | 2015 (New York) | — |
| Users | 100M+ | 13M+ | Crypto.com |
| Supported Coins | 350+ | 80+ | Crypto.com |
| Maker / Taker Fee | 0.25% / 0.50% | 0.20% / 0.40% | Gemini (ActiveTrader) |
| Simple Buy Fee | ~2.99% (card) | 1.49% + 1.00% convenience | Crypto.com |
| Fiat Currencies | 20+ | 5 (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, SGD) | Crypto.com |
| Countries | 100+ | 60+ | Crypto.com |
| U.S. Availability | 49 states (not NY) | All 50 states | Gemini |
| Debit/Credit Card | Visa (up to 5% cashback) | Credit card (crypto rewards) | Crypto.com |
| Staking | 25+ coins | Limited (ETH, SOL, others) | Crypto.com |
| Derivatives | Yes (select regions) | Yes (EU/EEA perpetuals) | Tie |
| Publicly Traded | No | Yes (GEMI on Nasdaq) | Gemini |
Trading Fees Compared
Trading fees are the single biggest cost for active crypto traders. Crypto.com and Gemini use different fee models, and which is cheaper depends entirely on how you trade.
Crypto.com charges maker fees starting at 0.25% and taker fees starting at 0.50% for traders with under $10,000 in 30-day volume. Fees decrease with volume — at $10,000–$50,000, taker drops to 0.40%. At $10M+, both maker and taker reach 0%. Staking CRO tokens further reduces fees. The Crypto.com App (simple buy) applies a spread of roughly 0.5%–1.5% depending on liquidity, plus payment method fees (2.99% for cards, free for bank transfers).
Gemini has two distinct fee tiers. The simple buy interface charges a 1.49% transaction fee plus a 1.00% convenience fee baked into the quoted price — making casual purchases expensive. However, Gemini's ActiveTrader platform is competitive: maker fees start at 0.20% and taker fees at 0.40%, with volume discounts down to 0.00% maker / 0.03% taker at the highest tiers. ACH deposits and withdrawals are free.
| Fee Type | Crypto.com | Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Maker Fee (Base) | 0.25% | 0.20% |
| Taker Fee (Base) | 0.50% | 0.40% |
| Maker Fee (High Volume) | 0.00% ($10M+) | 0.00% ($10M+) |
| Simple Buy Cost | ~0.5–1.5% spread | ~2.49% all-in |
| Card Purchase Fee | 2.99% | 3.49% |
| Bank Deposit (ACH/SEPA) | Free | Free |
| Wire Deposit | Free | Free |
| Crypto Withdrawal | Network fee | 10 free/month, then network fee |
Verdict on fees: Gemini ActiveTrader has slightly lower base maker/taker fees (0.20%/0.40% vs 0.25%/0.50%). But Crypto.com wins for casual users who buy through the app, where the spread is lower than Gemini's 2.49% simple buy cost. Gemini also stands out with 10 free crypto withdrawals per month — a genuine money-saver for DeFi users who move assets frequently.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Crypto.com supports over 350 cryptocurrencies across its exchange and app, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), Polkadot (DOT), Avalanche (AVAX), Chainlink (LINK), and hundreds of smaller altcoins and meme tokens. New listings appear regularly, making it one of the most comprehensive exchanges for altcoin traders.
Gemini lists approximately 80+ cryptocurrencies and over 100 trading pairs. Its selection is deliberately curated — every asset goes through a rigorous review process before listing. You'll find all the majors (BTC, ETH, SOL, DOGE, XRP) but fewer micro-cap altcoins. Gemini also offers tokenized stocks (like AAPL, TSLA) in supported regions, a unique addition.
Verdict: Crypto.com wins decisively on asset variety with 4x more coins. Gemini's curation means higher average quality per listing but limits discovery opportunities for altcoin hunters.
Security and Regulation
Security is where Gemini genuinely excels and where many traders choose it over larger competitors.
Gemini is a New York State-chartered trust company regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). It was the first crypto exchange to achieve both SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications. In September 2025, Gemini's parent company went public on Nasdaq (ticker: GEMI), adding public-company disclosure and audit requirements. Gemini uses hardware security keys, mandatory 2FA, address allowlisting, and institutional-grade cold storage. It has never been hacked. During the Genesis/Earn lending issue, affected users eventually recovered their funds.
Crypto.com holds an extensive list of security certifications: ISO 22301, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 27701, PCI DSS v4.0, and SOC 2 Type II. It publishes 1:1 Proof of Reserves verified by third-party auditors. In January 2022, Crypto.com experienced a security breach where approximately $30 million was stolen — but all affected users were fully reimbursed within days. The platform also runs a bug bounty program via HackerOne.
| Security Feature | Crypto.com | Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Status | Licensed in multiple jurisdictions | NY trust company (NYDFS) |
| Publicly Traded | No | Yes (Nasdaq: GEMI) |
| SOC Certifications | SOC 2 Type II | SOC 1 + SOC 2 Type 2 |
| Proof of Reserves | Yes (third-party verified) | Yes (full-reserve trust) |
| ISO Certifications | ISO 22301, 27001, 27701 | No |
| Past Breaches | $30M hack (2022, users reimbursed) | None |
| 2FA | Yes | Yes (hardware key support) |
| Insurance | Yes (hot wallet) | Yes (FDIC on USD, crypto insurance) |
Verdict: Gemini wins on security and regulation. Its trust company structure, NYDFS oversight, zero breach history, and Nasdaq listing provide the highest level of institutional trust available among crypto exchanges.
Staking and Earning
Crypto.com offers staking on 25+ proof-of-stake coins including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), Cosmos (ATOM), Cardano (ADA), and Cronos (CRO). Rewards vary by asset and lock-up period — flexible, 1-month, and 3-month terms are available. Staking CRO also unlocks higher card cashback tiers and reduced trading fees, creating a self-reinforcing ecosystem. The Crypto.com DeFi Wallet provides additional on-chain staking options.
Gemini offers staking with no minimum requirements. Supported assets include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and selected other proof-of-stake tokens. Gemini deducts a service fee from staking rewards automatically. The staking offering is straightforward but limited compared to Crypto.com's breadth. Gemini previously operated an Earn lending program through Genesis, which was paused; affected users have since been made whole.
Verdict: Crypto.com wins on staking with more supported assets, flexible lock-up options, and the CRO staking ecosystem that multiplies benefits across the platform.
Crypto Cards
Both platforms offer branded cards, but the approaches differ significantly.
The Crypto.com Visa Card is a prepaid debit card with tiered cashback rewards from 1% to 5%, depending on how much CRO you stake. Higher tiers ($4,000+ CRO stake) unlock perks like free Spotify, Netflix, and Amazon Prime rebates, plus airport lounge access. Card spending is funded by topping up from your crypto wallet. It's available in the US, EU, UK, Singapore, and many other regions.
The Gemini Credit Card offers up to 4% back in crypto rewards (2% on dining, 1% on other purchases at base tier) with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. Rewards are paid instantly in your choice of 80+ cryptocurrencies. As a credit card (not prepaid), it reports to credit bureaus and can help build credit — a meaningful advantage for U.S. users.
Verdict: Crypto.com's card offers higher maximum cashback (5%) and lifestyle perks, but requires significant CRO staking. Gemini's credit card is simpler, requires no staking, and builds credit. For most U.S. users, Gemini's card is more practical; for crypto-native power users, Crypto.com's card delivers more value.
Mobile App and User Experience
Crypto.com has one of the highest-rated crypto apps (4.7 stars on iOS, 4.5 on Google Play). The app serves as the primary gateway to all services — trading, card management, staking, DeFi wallet, NFTs, and pay. The interface is clean but feature-dense. New users may find the number of options overwhelming at first, though the onboarding flow guides you through essentials.
Gemini offers a polished mobile app with a simpler, more focused design. The default mode provides a streamlined buy/sell experience, while Advanced Trading mode adds order books, charts, and limit orders directly in the app. Gemini's app is excellent for beginners who want to start with simple buys and graduate to ActiveTrader without switching platforms.
Verdict: Tie. Crypto.com's app does more; Gemini's app does less but does it more cleanly. Your preference depends on whether you value feature completeness or simplicity.
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Both exchanges support major deposit methods, but Crypto.com offers broader payment flexibility globally.
Crypto.com accepts bank transfers (ACH, SEPA, Faster Payments), wire transfers, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Bank deposits are free. Card purchases carry a 2.99% fee. Crypto withdrawals incur standard network fees.
Gemini supports ACH, bank wire, debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. ACH deposits and withdrawals are free. Wire deposits are free; wire withdrawals cost $25. A standout perk: Gemini offers 10 free crypto withdrawals per month — after that, standard network fees apply.
Verdict: Gemini edges ahead for U.S. users thanks to 10 free crypto withdrawals. Crypto.com wins globally with 20+ fiat currencies and more payment method options.
Who Should Choose Crypto.com?
Crypto.com is the better choice if you:
- Want maximum coin selection — 350+ cryptocurrencies vs Gemini's ~80
- Live outside the U.S. — available in 100+ countries with 20+ fiat currencies
- Want an all-in-one ecosystem — card, staking, DeFi wallet, NFTs, pay, and exchange in one app
- Are an active staker — 25+ stakeable assets with flexible and fixed terms
- Want a high-reward debit card — up to 5% cashback plus streaming and lifestyle perks
Who Should Choose Gemini?
Gemini is the better choice if you:
- Live in New York — Gemini is one of few major exchanges available in NY
- Prioritize regulation and security — NYDFS-regulated trust company, Nasdaq-listed, zero breach history
- Are a high-volume trader — ActiveTrader fees (0.20%/0.40%) beat Crypto.com's base rates
- Move crypto to DeFi frequently — 10 free withdrawals per month saves significant fees
- Want a no-hassle credit card — crypto rewards, no staking required, builds credit
- Want access to tokenized stocks — trade Apple, Tesla shares alongside crypto
Crypto.com vs Gemini: Final Verdict
Crypto.com wins for most traders — it offers lower simple-buy costs, vastly more cryptocurrencies (350+ vs 80+), a richer feature ecosystem, and broader global availability. It's the better all-around exchange for anyone outside New York who wants maximum flexibility.
Gemini wins for security-conscious U.S. investors — especially New Yorkers, institutional users, and anyone who values a publicly traded, NYDFS-regulated exchange with zero hack history. ActiveTrader's fees are competitive, and the free withdrawal perk is genuinely valuable.
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Fees | Gemini (ActiveTrader) | 0.20%/0.40% vs 0.25%/0.50% |
| Simple Buy Costs | Crypto.com | Lower spread than Gemini's 2.49% |
| Coin Selection | Crypto.com | 350+ vs 80+ cryptocurrencies |
| Security | Gemini | NYDFS trust, Nasdaq-listed, zero breaches |
| Staking | Crypto.com | 25+ assets, flexible terms, CRO benefits |
| Crypto Card | Crypto.com | Up to 5% cashback + lifestyle perks |
| U.S. Availability | Gemini | All 50 states including New York |
| Global Availability | Crypto.com | 100+ countries, 20+ fiat currencies |
| Withdrawals | Gemini | 10 free crypto withdrawals per month |
| Overall | Crypto.com | More features, more coins, broader access |
For a deeper look at how each platform compares to other exchanges, see our Crypto.com review, Gemini review, or compare alternatives like Coinbase vs Gemini and Crypto.com vs Coinbase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crypto.com or Gemini cheaper for trading?
Gemini ActiveTrader is cheaper for limit orders with a 0.20% maker fee vs Crypto.com's 0.25%. However, for casual purchases through the app, Crypto.com's spread (~0.5–1.5%) is significantly lower than Gemini's simple buy cost (~2.49%). Active traders should use ActiveTrader on Gemini; casual buyers save more on Crypto.com.
Is Gemini safer than Crypto.com?
Gemini is generally considered safer due to its NYDFS trust company status, SOC 1/2 Type 2 audits, zero breach history, and Nasdaq listing (GEMI) as of 2025. Crypto.com holds extensive certifications (ISO 27001, SOC 2, PCI DSS v4.0) and publishes Proof of Reserves, but it experienced a $30M hack in 2022 (all users were reimbursed). Both are reputable, but Gemini has the edge on regulatory trust.
Can I use Crypto.com in New York?
No. Crypto.com is not available in New York State. If you live in New York, Gemini is one of the best alternatives — it's headquartered in New York and fully licensed by NYDFS. Other NY-available options include Coinbase and Kraken.
Which exchange has more cryptocurrencies?
Crypto.com supports over 350 cryptocurrencies, approximately 4x more than Gemini's 80+ listings. Crypto.com is better for altcoin traders who want access to smaller-cap tokens. Gemini curates its listings more carefully, focusing on established, liquid assets.
Does Gemini or Crypto.com have a better crypto card?
It depends on your priorities. Crypto.com's Visa debit card offers up to 5% cashback plus Spotify, Netflix, and lounge access perks — but requires staking $4,000+ in CRO. Gemini's credit card gives up to 4% crypto rewards with no staking requirement, no annual fee, and builds your credit score. For simplicity, Gemini wins; for maximum rewards, Crypto.com wins.
Can I stake crypto on both Crypto.com and Gemini?
Yes. Crypto.com supports staking on 25+ proof-of-stake coins (ETH, SOL, DOT, ADA, ATOM, CRO, and more) with flexible and fixed lock-up terms. Gemini offers staking with no minimums on ETH, SOL, and select other assets, but its selection is more limited. Crypto.com is the better choice for dedicated stakers.
Is Gemini publicly traded?
Yes. Gemini's parent company, Gemini Space Station, Inc., completed an IPO on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol GEMI in September 2025. This makes Gemini one of the few major crypto exchanges subject to public-company financial reporting and audit requirements, adding an extra layer of transparency.
Which exchange is better for beginners?
Gemini is slightly better for beginners thanks to its simpler interface, strong regulatory reputation, and easy progression from simple buys to ActiveTrader. Crypto.com's app has more features, which can be overwhelming at first, but its onboarding is solid. Both exchanges are beginner-friendly; Gemini just has a gentler learning curve.
