1. How do you buy Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is the most well-known and at the same time the most traded cryptocurrency worldwide. More and more people are interested in buying Bitcoin, whether as a long-term investment, to diversify their portfolio, or simply to learn about the opportunities offered by digital currencies. Getting started can seem overwhelming at first, as there are numerous ways to buy Bitcoin, different platforms and different security concepts. However, the process is comparatively easy if you know the basic steps.
1.1 Selecting the platform
Buying Bitcoin usually starts with choosing a suitable platform. This is where crypto exchanges, brokers or special apps come into question. Well-known providers include Bitpanda, Coinbase and 21bitcoin, which are interesting for both beginners and experienced users. It is important not only to focus on pure purchase options, but also to pay attention to the platforms' security measures. The issue of regulation also plays an important role: From 2026, trustworthy providers have been regulated by the MiCAR (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation). Anyone who buys Bitcoin should also decide how they want to store their coins. Digital wallets, which are either managed online or stored offline as so-called cold wallets, are suitable for this purpose. An offline solution is recommended, especially for larger amounts, as it protects the coins from possible hacker attacks.
Once you have decided on a platform, the next step is registration. This requires information such as name, address and email, and in most cases, a bank account must also be provided. In Germany and Austria, funds are usually transferred via SEPA transfer, sometimes also by credit card or other means of payment. The desired amount of Bitcoin can then be purchased. It is interesting to know that you don't have to buy an entire Bitcoin unit. Even small amounts, around 50 or 100 euros, can be invested sensibly, as Bitcoin can be bought in fractions.
You should also consider the following points:
- Custody (third-party or personal custody)
- Fees when buying and transferring Bitcoin
- taxes
1.2 How do you buy Bitcoin in Germany?
Bitcoin is becoming increasingly important in Germany, both as an asset class and as a means of payment. Anyone who wants to buy Bitcoin in Germany is faced with a well-regulated but sometimes complex landscape of crypto exchanges, apps and banks. In particular, security, fees and BaFin's legal requirements play an important role.
Getting started with buying Bitcoin starts with choosing the platform. Platforms such as Bitpanda, Coinbase and 21bitcoin are particularly popular in Germany. A key advantage of these providers is regulation, which ensures that platforms comply with certain security and transparency standards. If you want to be on the safe side, you should therefore only use providers who have a MICAR license or corresponding European approvals.
After choosing the platform, registration follows:
- Save personal data
- Go through an identity check (e.g. upload of an identity document or video identification process)
- Payment from your own bank account (some providers also accept credit cards)
If you have credit on the platform, you can buy the desired amount of Bitcoin. Even small amounts are possible, so that, for example, 50 or 100 euros are enough to take the first steps. Many beginners ask themselves: “How much Bitcoin do I get for 100 euros? “Basically, this depends on the current Bitcoin price, as the value fluctuates strongly. However, platforms always display the exact amount of Bitcoin that you get for a specific amount.
After the purchase, there is the question of safekeeping. Users can either leave their Bitcoin on the platform or transfer it to a private wallet. The latter significantly increases control and safety. In addition, buyers should pay attention to the fee structure, as this may vary depending on the payment method and platform. Finally, tax aspects must not be neglected: Profits from trading with Bitcoin may be taxable in Germany, especially in the case of short-term sales within one year.
Overall, Germany provides a solid basis for buying Bitcoin securely. With the right platform, secure payment methods, and a clear strategy for custody and fees, beginners can easily buy their first Bitcoin. In the next section, we look at the situation in Austria and show which differences and special features need to be considered there.
1.3 How do you buy Bitcoin in Austria?
Interest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is also growing steadily in Austria. Anyone who wants to buy Bitcoin in Austria will find a relatively well-regulated environment in which both crypto exchanges and specialized apps are available for beginners and advanced users. Similar to Germany, security, fees and the correct storage of coins play a central role.
Choosing the platform is the first and most important step. Austrian providers such as Bitpanda or 21bitcoin are particularly popular in Austria. These platforms are characterized by user-friendly interfaces.
Tax treatment of Bitcoin in Austria
- Profits from Bitcoin sales are generally subject to income tax, regardless of the holding period.
- No more one-year exemption — long-term sales are also subject to tax.
- 21bitcoin makes tax returns easier, as all purchases, sales and fees are clearly documented and provided as tax reports.
- Automated reports can be imported directly into common tax tools, making tax processing significantly easier.
Overall, Austria offers a user-friendly and secure environment for buying Bitcoin. With a suitable platform, a clear strategy for fees and custody, and a look at the current Bitcoin price, beginners in Austria can easily take their first steps in the crypto market. In the next chapter, we look at where you can buy Bitcoin in general, regardless of the country, and which options are particularly recommended for beginners and advanced users.
2. Where can you buy Bitcoin?
Bitcoin can be purchased through various channels, including crypto exchanges, brokers and apps, banks, and peer-to-peer platforms. Each option is different in terms of fees, usability, security, and control over your own coins.
Crypto exchanges such as Bitpanda, Coinbase, Kraken or 21bitcoin offer a wide selection and flexible trading options, but usually require more technical understanding and can incur higher fees depending on the payment method. Brokers and apps are particularly easy to get started and are well suited for beginners, as buying is possible without complex order functions and even small amounts can be invested.
Some banks now also allow the purchase of Bitcoin via the existing bank account, but the fees here are often higher and the selection is limited. Peer-to-peer platforms offer more flexibility but pose an increased security risk.
Regardless of the provider, Bitcoin can be bought in fractions, so that smaller investments are also possible. Which purchase option is best depends ultimately on personal priorities such as simplicity, fees, security, and safekeeping.
3. What do I have to consider when buying Bitcoin?
Buying Bitcoin is easier than ever today, but there are a few important aspects that you should consider in order to minimize risks and make the investment worthwhile. In addition to choosing the right platform, fees, taxes, security and regulation, custody and the type of asset play a particular role. In this chapter, we go through all relevant points step by step so that beginners and advanced users are well informed.
3.1 Direct comparison of providers for buying Bitcoin
3.2 Fees when buying Bitcoin
Anyone buying Bitcoin should definitely keep an eye on the fee structure of the chosen platform, as it has a direct influence on the return. The costs usually consist of trading fees, deposit fees and sometimes additional costs such as spreads. Depending on the platform and payment method, fees can vary significantly.
Classic crypto exchanges such as Bitpanda or Coinbase usually charge a trading fee of between 0.1% and 2%. This is calculated either directly when buying or selling Bitcoin. In addition, there can be a spread between the buy and sell price, which effectively increases costs. Especially with small purchase amounts, investors should carefully check how the fees affect their investment, as a high spread or high basic fees can make getting started significantly more expensive.
Another important aspect is deposit fees. While SEPA transfers in Germany and Austria are often free or very cheap, credit card payments or services such as PayPal can incur additional costs. A comparison is also worthwhile here, especially if smaller amounts are to be invested regularly.
Apps like 21bitcoin rely on transparent fee models and allow you to buy even small amounts with manageable costs. This makes them particularly attractive for beginners who want to approach themselves carefully first.
If you carefully review the fees, you can not only save costs, but also better plan your long-term investment strategy. The following applies: Transparency, comparison and knowledge of the spread are decisive for making Bitcoin purchases efficient and cost-effective.
3.3 Taxes when buying Bitcoin
Anyone buying Bitcoin should keep an eye on the tax aspects, as these are crucial for both beginners and experienced investors. Germany and Austria have different regulations concerning the sale and profits from cryptocurrencies. That is precisely why it is helpful to use a provider that offers clear and tax-verifiable documentation — as is the case with 21bitcoin.
In Germany, profits from the sale of Bitcoin are taxable if the coins are sold within one year of the purchase. If you hold Bitcoin for more than a year, the profits are usually tax-free. This regulation makes the long-term purchase of Bitcoin particularly attractive for investors who rely on Hodl strategies. Short-term speculation, on the other hand, is subject to income tax, and it is advisable to document profits precisely. Here, users of 21bitcoin benefit from clear transaction overviews and reports, which enable an exact allocation of purchase date, quantity and fees.
In Austria, the situation is similar, but with one important difference: Here, profits from the sale of Bitcoin are tax-free after more than a year, while short-term sales are subject to income tax. Tax treatment may also change if Bitcoin is traded via ETPs or derivatives, as these are considered financial products and can be immediately subject to tax. 21bitcoin is deliberately positioning itself here as a tax-simple provider, in particular for Austrian users, as relevant data is prepared in a structured manner and is easy to use for tax purposes.
In addition to the holding period, buyers should also keep an eye on documentation and evidence. Many platforms provide annual summaries that list purchases, sales, and fees. These documents are particularly important in order to be able to correctly prove all information in the event of a tax audit.
In summary, anyone who finds out about the tax rules in Germany or Austria in advance can avoid unpleasant surprises. A clear strategy for holding period, documentation and purchase volume helps to purchase Bitcoin efficiently and legally securely — supported by a provider such as 21bitcoin, which actively considers tax transparency.
3.4 Custody when buying Bitcoin
After buying Bitcoin, custody is a decisive factor for the security of your own coins. There are basically two options: storage directly on the platform on which you bought the Bitcoin, or in a private wallet that the user controls himself.
Platforms often offer so-called hot wallets, which are managed online and provide easy access to Bitcoin. They are particularly suitable for users who regularly carry out transactions or want to hold smaller amounts. However, hot wallets pose a certain risk as they can be vulnerable to hacking attacks.
For long-term investments or larger sums of money, it is recommended to use cold wallets. These are stored offline, for example on hardware wallets, and are therefore significantly more secure against attacks from the Internet. Users retain full control of their coins, but must take responsibility for backup and security themselves.
For beginners, a combination of both approaches is often useful: smaller amounts on the platform for quick access and larger amounts in a cold wallet for maximum security. Anyone who deals with the custody of Bitcoin at an early stage protects their investment and minimizes the risk of losses due to hacker attacks or technical errors.
3.5 Real Bitcoin vs. Bitcoin Derivatives
When buying Bitcoin, it is crucial to understand the difference between real Bitcoin and Bitcoin derivatives. Real bitcoins are digital coins that the buyer actually owns, can store in a private wallet and can send or receive at any time. They offer full control over the investment and enable long-term strategies, such as the HODL principle.
Bitcoin derivatives, such as CFDs (Contracts for Difference) or ETPs (Exchange Traded Products), only reflect the price of Bitcoin without the buyer physically owning the coins. They are often used for short-term speculation or leverage transactions. Although trading in derivatives offers flexibility and the option to bet on rising or falling prices, it involves higher risks. In addition, tax treatment can be more complex, as gains from derivatives often become immediately taxable.
For investors who want to invest in Bitcoin in the long term, real coins are therefore the more sensible choice. They not only offer the opportunity to store the coins securely in cold wallets, but also the opportunity to benefit from future developments in the Lightning Network. Derivatives, on the other hand, are more suitable for traders who are looking for short-term profits and are willing to take on higher risks.
Anyone who decides to buy should therefore check carefully whether they want to purchase physical Bitcoin or just a derivative contract. This decision not only influences the security strategy, but also tax aspects and the long-term use of cryptocurrency. With 21bitcoin, buyers only get real Bitcoin — no derivatives, no ETPs, no compromises. The coins can be transferred to your own wallet at any time and completely stored by yourself.
3.6 Bank account when buying Bitcoin
In most cases, a bank account is a prerequisite for buying Bitcoin securely and easily. Users can use the account to deposit money to the chosen platform and then purchase Bitcoin. In Germany and Austria in particular, the connection to a regular bank account plays a central role, as many platforms only accept transfers via SEPA. This method is secure, cost-effective, and enables quick transactions.
However, many brokers and crypto platforms have foreign accounts, for example in Luxembourg, Ireland or the USA. This means that deposits and payments are not covered by German or Austrian deposit insurance and legal protection may be limited in the event of a dispute or problems. Buyers should therefore check carefully where the platform keeps their accounts and what legal framework applies.
A big advantage of 21bitcoin is that the company has an account with Volksbank Raiffeisenbank Bayern Mitte. This enables payments via SEPA within Germany and Austria with full transparency, familiar security standards and direct deposit insurance. Users therefore have full control and do not have to worry about foreign banking risks.
In addition, some platforms also offer alternative payment methods such as credit card or PayPal, which are faster but often more expensive. Anyone who regularly buys Bitcoin should also pay attention to security measures, such as two-factor authentication or app-based approvals. The combination of a trustworthy bank account, secure platform and clear strategy for deposits ensures that the Bitcoin purchase is efficient, secure and transparent.
4. Bitcoin purchase provider
4.1 Buy Bitcoin at 21bitcoin
21bitcoin is Europe's premium platform for buying, selling and storing Bitcoin. The company is operated by FIOR Digital GmbH based in Salzburg, Austria and deliberately focuses exclusively on Bitcoin — no altcoins, no tokens, no derivatives. This clear focus makes the platform clear, secure and consistently focused on long-term wealth creation with Bitcoin.
Getting started with 21bitcoin is easy. After registration, there is a quick verification, which is usually completed within a few minutes. Money can then be deposited via SEPA transfer or instant transfer. The platform is available both as an app (iOS and Android) and as a web version and offers an intuitive, minimalistic user interface that is aimed at both beginners and experienced investors.
In addition to the classic instant purchase, 21bitcoin offers a number of features that stand out in the Bitcoin-only segment: Limit orders make it possible to set a desired price and buy automatically as soon as it is reached. Savings plans allow automatic weekly or monthly purchases based on the cost-average principle — ideal for long-term wealth accumulation. For investors with larger volumes (from 100,000€), there is 21private, a personal service with individual support and reduced conditions.
A particular advantage of 21bitcoin is the flexible custody approach. Users can either have their Bitcoin stored on the platform (custodial) or transfer them to their own wallet at any time (non-custodial). In addition, 21bitcoin offers the option of setting up automatic wallet transfers: Bitcoin is moved from the platform to your own wallet based on rules, so that larger holdings do not have to remain permanently on the platform. This combination of convenience and personal responsibility is unique among Bitcoin-only providers and is particularly suitable for users who want to gradually grow into self-custody. Fiat funds and Bitcoin assets are kept strictly separate, with Bitcoin kept in cold storage. All accounts can be secured with two-factor authentication (2FA).
In terms of regulation and security, 21bitcoin is setting standards in the European Bitcoin market. The company is licensed throughout Europe as a crypto asset service provider (CASP) under the MICAR license and is subject to supervision by the Austrian Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FMA). Customer deposits are processed via an account with VR Bank Bayern Mitte — meaning that funds remain in the European banking system with full deposit insurance, instead of being transferred to foreign accounts as is the case with many international providers. For customers in Germany and Austria, this means: familiar banking infrastructure, fast SEPA payments and a clear legal framework.
The fees range between 0.79% and 1.49% and are displayed transparently with no hidden spreads. SEPA deposits are free of charge, and withdrawals to your own wallet are made at standard market network fees. Compared to providers such as Relai (2.5%) or Coinbase (up to 1.5% + surcharges), 21bitcoin thus offers a fair and comprehensible pricing model. Tax-relevant transactions are clearly documented and provided as reports that can be imported directly into common tax tools.
In addition, 21bitcoin sees itself as an educational platform: The blog, social media channels and the podcast “21minutes” regularly publish content about Bitcoin, monetary history and self-custody. Users can earn Bitcoin through a referral program, and for consultants, influencers and companies, there is a partner program with exclusive conditions.
Overall, 21bitcoin is the first choice for anyone who wants to buy real Bitcoin in Germany or Austria — with full regulation, European banking connections, flexible custody and a platform that consistently focuses on quality over quantity.
4.2 Buy Bitcoin with Bitpanda
Bitpanda is one of the most well-known European providers for buying and selling Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. The company was founded in Vienna in 2014 and has since developed into one of the largest platforms in German-speaking countries. Bitpanda is particularly impressive due to its ease of use, the variety of available assets and the close connection to European regulatory authorities.
After a short registration and verification via an identity document, users can deposit money directly — either via SEPA transfer, credit card, instant transfer or PayPal. Bitcoin can then be bought with just a few clicks and the coins are immediately credited to the personal Bitpanda account.
A big advantage of Bitpanda is regulation and security. The company is licensed by the Austrian Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FMA) and meets BaFin requirements for the German market. As a result, Bitpanda offers a high level of transparency and protection — a clear advantage compared to unregulated or non-European providers. Bitpanda also stores the majority of customer funds in cold wallets, which are kept offline to prevent hacker attacks.
When it comes to fees, Bitpanda does rather poorly. The costs are high and above those of professional trading platforms such as Kraken. In return, Bitpanda scores points with a clear pricing model: The displayed price already includes fees, so users do not have to worry about any hidden costs. For regular investors, the platform offers the Bitpanda Savings Plan, which can be used to automatically carry out weekly or monthly purchases — ideal for long-term wealth creation.
Another unique selling point is the wide range of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. In addition to Bitcoin, users can buy over 200 other coins, including Ethereum, Cardano or Solana. Bitpanda also offers trading in precious metals such as gold and silver as well as with equity ETPs. The company is thus positioning itself as a comprehensive investment platform, not just as a crypto exchange.
One possible disadvantage is that Bitcoin is actually stored on the platform, unless you manually transfer it to an external wallet. Although this is convenient, if you want maximum control, you should transfer your coins to your own wallet.
In summary, Bitpanda is a reputable and regulated platform for anyone who wants to buy Bitcoin easily and securely — especially in German-speaking countries. The combination of ease of use, European regulation and transparent fees makes Bitpanda a popular choice for beginners and investors who are taking their first steps with cryptocurrencies.
4.3 Buy Bitcoin with Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the largest and most well-known crypto platforms worldwide and is one of the first points of contact for anyone who wants to buy Bitcoin. The company was founded in 2012 in the USA and is now listed on the NASDAQ — a strong signal of transparency and seriousness. Coinbase has also established itself as a popular option in Europe, particularly in Germany and Austria, to purchase cryptocurrencies securely and easily.
Getting started with Coinbase is easy. After registration, an identity check (KYC) is carried out, which is completed with an ID or passport. Users can then deposit money into their account — usually via SEPA transfer or credit card. The purchase process itself is particularly simple: You select Bitcoin, enter the desired amount and confirm the transaction. Within a few seconds, the coins are credited to the personal Coinbase account.
A big advantage of Coinbase is its ease of use. The platform is designed in such a way that even beginners can quickly find their way around. At the same time, Coinbase offers an extended interface with the “Advanced Trade” function for experienced traders who want to actively monitor the market and place limited orders. This is how the platform appeals to beginners as well as professionals.
Coinbase also has an excellent reputation when it comes to security. The provider keeps the majority of customer money in cold storage — i.e. offline, separated from the Internet — and is subject to strict US security standards. In addition, users can protect their account with two-factor authentication (2FA). For customer funds in euros, European deposit insurance also applies via Coinbase's partner banking network.
When it comes to fees, Coinbase is in the middle. Purchases via credit card or PayPal incur comparatively high costs, while SEPA transfers are significantly cheaper. On the advanced trade platform, trading fees are staggered and start at just 0.4% per transaction. Anyone who regularly invests smaller amounts can also set up a savings plan with Coinbase — a popular feature for long-term investors.
However, a point of criticism from many users is that Coinbase is a US company and therefore operates outside direct European regulation by BaFin or FMA. Customer deposits are also often in foreign bank accounts, which can be a factor of uncertainty for some investors. Nevertheless, Coinbase is subject to strict international money laundering prevention regulations and is considered one of the safest providers in the world.
Another advantage is the Coinbase Wallet, a separate app that allows users to store their Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies themselves. This allows the platform to be used both as a classic broker and as an independent wallet solution.
Overall, Coinbase is an established, secure and user-friendly platform that is particularly suitable for beginners who value ease of use, high liquidity and international reputation. Anyone who is willing to accept slightly higher fees will receive the highest level of convenience and security when buying Bitcoin.
4.4 Buy Bitcoin with Coinfinity
Coinfinity is an Austrian provider based in Graz, which has been making it possible to buy Bitcoin since 2014. The company focuses exclusively on Bitcoin and does not offer any other cryptocurrencies.
The buying process is kept simple. After registration, users can purchase Bitcoin via SEPA transfer, credit card or via the Bitcoin receipt, which is available at selected sales outlets in Austria. After payment is received, the corresponding Bitcoin amount is sent to the customer's specified wallet address.
A key feature of Coinfinity is that the provider does not take custody of the coins. The bitcoins are transferred directly to the user's wallet. This means full personal responsibility — anyone who loses their seed phrase no longer has access to the coins. For experienced users who want to control their Bitcoin themselves, this can be an advantage. However, beginners should be aware that there is no safety net through the platform.
In terms of regulation, Coinfinity is registered with the Austrian Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FMA) and complies with European money laundering prevention (AML) regulations.
When it comes to fees, Coinfinity is in the middle of the pack. The costs are clearly structured and without hidden spreads — the final price is shown during the purchase process. However, the fees are higher than on larger international exchanges such as Kraken.
In summary, Coinfinity is aimed at users who want to buy real Bitcoin and store it exclusively themselves. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a combination of self-custody and optional platform custody, you should also look at other providers.
4.5 Buy Bitcoin with Kraken
Kraken is one of the oldest crypto exchanges in the world, founded in 2011 in San Francisco. The platform offers trading with Bitcoin and numerous other cryptocurrencies and, with its professional trading environment, is aimed primarily at active traders.
The purchase process takes place via registration with identity verification (KYC). Funds can be deposited via SEPA transfer. Bitcoin can then be bought either via the simple “Buy Crypto” view or via the extended trading interface with limit and market orders.
Kraken offers high liquidity, which makes the platform particularly interesting for frequent trades. The fee structure is competitive: Maker fees start at 0.16% and Taker fees at 0.26% — making Kraken cheaper than many other providers, particularly for larger volumes.
In terms of security, Kraken claims to store over 95% of customer funds in cold wallets. The platform also offers two-factor authentication, API key restrictions, and email encryption.
When it comes to regulation, Kraken operates for the European market through a subsidiary regulated in Ireland. Customer funds are therefore in a foreign account — not with a German or Austrian bank. For investors for whom local banking connections and EU deposit insurance are important, this can be a relevant disadvantage.
The user interface is available in two variants: a standard version for beginners and Kraken Pro for experienced traders with charts, order types and analysis tools. Both are also available as a mobile app.
Another point: Deposits and withdrawals can sometimes take longer with Kraken than with purely European providers such as Bitpanda or 21bitcoin.
In summary, Kraken is an established platform with low fees and a wide range of functions — but with the typical restrictions of a US provider when it comes to bank integration and deposit insurance in Europe.
4.6 Buy Bitcoin with Relai
Relai is a Swiss provider founded in Zurich in 2020. The company focuses on buying Bitcoin via a mobile app and is aimed primarily at beginners who want to invest smaller amounts on a regular basis.
One feature of Relai is that users do not need a classic account. The Relai app (iOS and Android) automatically creates a Bitcoin wallet that is controlled by the user himself. The purchased bitcoins are sent directly to this wallet — Relai has no access to the private keys.
The purchase process consists of selecting an amount and paying by SEPA transfer or credit card. Relai also offers savings plans that can automatically be used to invest weekly or monthly.
With a standard fee of 2.5%, Relai is significantly above traditional exchanges such as Kraken or providers such as 21bitcoin. The fee can be reduced with referral codes or higher volumes. According to the provider, there are no hidden spreads.
Since Relai does not store customer funds, there is no risk of a platform hack. At the same time, full responsibility lies with the user: Anyone who loses their wallet backup words no longer has access to the coins — and no support that can undo it. For beginners, this can be a significant hurdle.
In summary, Relai is an uncomplicated app for buying Bitcoin with personal custody. However, the relatively high fees should be included in the decision.
4.7 Buy Bitcoin with Strike
Strike is an innovative provider from the USA that has revolutionized the way of buying and sending Bitcoin via the Lightning Network. Founded by Jack Mallers in 2020, Strike's mission is to make handling Bitcoin as easy and cost-effective as possible. In contrast to classic crypto exchanges, Strike uses a payment service-like model in which Bitcoin transactions are lightning fast and almost free of charge.
In Europe, particularly in Germany and Austria, Strike has become increasingly popular in recent years. Users particularly appreciate the ease of use and the integration of the Lightning Network, which not only allows Bitcoin to be bought, but also sent directly or used for payments. This makes Strike significantly different from traditional brokers or exchanges: Here, Bitcoin is at the center of attention as a means of payment, not just as an investment.
Getting started with Strike is easy. After downloading the app, there is a short registration with identity verification. You can then top up funds via SEPA transfer or credit card and buy Bitcoin immediately. The speed is particularly noteworthy: purchases are processed in real time, and Bitcoin can be sent directly to your own Lightning wallet or an on-chain address.
As far as the fee structure is concerned, Strike is extremely competitive. In many cases, transactions are even free of charge or involve minimal fees, as Strike tries to cover the costs via internal exchange mechanisms. This makes the platform particularly attractive for users who often send or receive smaller amounts of money — for example as part of peer-to-peer payments or micro-investments.
Another advantage of Strike is the focus on Bitcoin-only. While many other providers offer dozens or hundreds of cryptocurrencies, Strike stays true to its line and focuses exclusively on Bitcoin. This not only provides a clearer user interface, but also reduces risks from volatile altcoins or speculative derivatives.
One point to keep in mind: Strike is a US company, and customer deposits are processed through foreign bank accounts. This means that no German or Austrian deposit insurance applies. Users should be aware of this fact, especially when larger amounts are processed via the platform. In comparison, around 21bitcoin with an account with Volksbank Raiffeisenbank Bayern Mitte offers a completely European solution with direct bank integration and deposit protection.
Strike is still convincing when it comes to security. The app uses cutting-edge encryption, two-factor authentication and multi-signature technologies for wallets. Since Strike is strongly connected to the Lightning Network, transactions are not only fast, but also privacy-friendly — personal information is processed as minimally as possible.
Overall, Strike is an exciting option for anyone who wants to actively use Bitcoin and not just hold it as a long-term investment. With its simple operation, extremely low fees and the integration of the Lightning Network, Strike positions itself as a modern alternative to traditional exchanges — particularly for users who want to experience the practical use of Bitcoin in everyday life.
5. Alternative to Coinfinity, Relai and Strike
Anyone who deals more intensively with buying Bitcoin will sooner or later come across providers such as Coinfinity, Relai or Strike. All three have established themselves as solid options when it comes to straightforward Bitcoin purchases — with a focus on ease of use, self-custody, and a clear Bitcoin-only approach. But a closer look reveals relevant differences, particularly in the areas of regulation, banking infrastructure, custody and fees.
Coinfinity is an Austrian provider with FMA registration, but only offers non-custodial purchases — the Bitcoin is sent directly to your own wallet, storage on the platform is not possible. This requires that users already have wallet experience and can store their seed phrase securely. For beginners, this can be a hurdle.
Relai is based in Switzerland and is subject to FINMA — but not to EU regulations. Deposits are made to a foreign account without EU deposit insurance. At 2.5%, the standard fees are significantly above the market average. At Relai, too, custody is exclusively non-custodial.
Strike is a US company that works via the Lightning Network and offers extremely low fees. However, customer deposits are outside the European legal framework and custody is custodial — i.e. the user hands over control of the private keys to Strike.
All three providers therefore lack at least one of the following points: EU regulation, European bank connection with deposit insurance, or a flexible custody model that suits both beginners and experienced users.
This is where 21bitcoin comes in. The Austrian platform combines the advantages of these providers — simplicity, security, focus on Bitcoin — and supplements them with a fully regulated, European setup. 21bitcoin is approved as a crypto asset service provider (CASP) in 30 EEA countries under the MICAR license, processes customer deposits via an account with VR Bank Bayern Mitte and offers a hybrid custody model: Users can conveniently hold their Bitcoin on the platform or transfer them to their own wallet at any time — including automatic wallet transfers. At 0.79% to 1.49%, the fees are significantly lower than those of Relai and are completely transparent, without hidden spreads.
For investors in Germany and Austria who want to buy real Bitcoin and do not want to forego European regulation, deposit insurance and a flexible custody concept, 21bitcoin is therefore the most obvious choice.
Note: Past price developments are no indicator of future developments. Marketing message, FIOR Digital GmbH
