Comparison of Gemini vs Altcoin Trader [ 2025 ]

The crypto exchanges compared by their commissions, cryptos, security and much more. Here is the Gemini vs Altcoin Trader comparison!

Your expert: Alejandro Borja

Gemini

Investing risks losing your money

Your expert: Xavier Tarrasó

Altcoin Trader

Investing risks losing your money

Main points

Fees

0,20%/0,40%

Earns

Customer service

4/5

0,10%

Fees

Yes

Earns

4/5

Customer service

Recommended for

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Buy and hold

Yes

Beginners

Yes

Trading

Yes

Passive income

Yes

Buy and hold

Comparison of fees

Rating

3.5 – Higher fees but strong security and ease of use.

3.5 – Competitive fees within South Africa but higher for international transactions.

Level

0,20%/0,40%

0,10%

Brief explanation

Gemini’s commission structure is multifaceted, tailored to accommodate both high-volume traders and those just starting out. For smaller transactions, particularly those made via the mobile app or web interface, the fees can be relatively high, which might deter low-volume or novice traders. However, as trading volume increases, the fees become more competitive, aligning with industry standards to favor more active traders. The exchange employs a tiered fee schedule, which decreases per transaction fees for users who have a higher 30-day trading volume. This tiered system is designed to incentivize and reward frequent trading with lower transaction costs. Overall, while Gemini’s fees are competitive at higher volumes, they can be considered steep for users making smaller or infrequent trades.

AscendEX maintains a competitive and transparent fee structure, which is essential for both casual and serious traders. The platform typically charges a flat fee for both makers and takers, simplifying calculations for users. These fees are generally aligned with industry standards, ensuring that traders can engage in frequent trading activities without excessive costs. Additionally, AscendEX may offer tiered discounts based on the user’s monthly trading volume, which incentivizes higher trading activity with lower fees. For users looking to minimize costs while maximizing trading opportunities, AscendEX’s fee structure is designed to support a wide range of trading strategies and volumes, making it a compelling choice for those who value straightforward and equitable financial dealings in their trading platform.

Gemini

Security Methods: Gemini employs state-of-the-art security measures, including the use of cold storage for the majority of the assets, two-factor authentication, and strict operational protocols. This rigorous approach to security minimizes the risk of hacking and unauthorized access, ensuring the safety of user funds.
Possible Regulation: As a New York trust company, Gemini operates under the regulatory oversight of the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS). This compliance with one of the strictest regulatory frameworks in the cryptocurrency world underscores Gemini's commitment to legal and ethical operations.
Reputation and Reviews: Gemini has built a strong reputation within the cryptocurrency community for its transparency and reliability. User reviews often highlight the platform's user-friendly interface and the peace of mind that comes with trading on a regulated exchange.
Transparency: Gemini is known for its clear and straightforward communication regarding its operations, fees, and security measures. This level of transparency is critical in building trust with users and is indicative of the exchange's commitment to fair and open practices.
Withdrawal and Deposit Policies: Gemini offers structured and secure withdrawal and deposit policies, including FDIC insurance on USD deposits. These policies are clearly outlined, easy to understand, and designed to protect users' interests, making it easier for traders to manage their funds efficiently and with confidence.

Read Gemini review

Altcoin Trader

Security Methods: AscendEX employs a comprehensive array of security measures including SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, and cold storage of assets. These rigorous security protocols ensure that users’ data and funds are protected against unauthorized access and cyber threats, fostering a secure trading environment.
Reputation and Reviews: Since its inception in 2018, AscendEX has built a solid reputation within the cryptocurrency community. User reviews often highlight the platform's reliability, wide range of services, and user-friendly interface, underscoring its standing as a reputable exchange in the crypto market.
Trading Volume and Liquidity: AscendEX supports a high trading volume and liquidity, which is crucial for traders looking to execute large trades without significantly affecting the market price. This high liquidity not only facilitates better price discovery but also enables efficient entry and exit from positions.
Customer Service: AscendEX is known for its robust customer support, offering quick and helpful responses to user inquiries and issues. This commitment to excellent customer service enhances user experience and trust, particularly for new traders who may need assistance navigating the platform.
Withdrawal and Deposit Policies: The platform’s policies on withdrawals and deposits are clear, secure, and user-centric, ensuring a smooth process for moving funds into and out of the exchange. AscendEX’s efficient handling of these critical operations reinforces its reliability and the trust users place in it.

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Product selection

Native token

Earns

Yes

NFT marketplace

Cripto/debit card

Full name

Gemini Trust Company, LLC

Altcoin Trader (Pty) Ltd.

Regulation

Regulated in the EE. UU.

Not regulated

Year founded

2015

2014

Founder

Tyler y Cameron Winklevoss

Richard de Sousa

Payment methods

Transfers

Yes

Mastercard

Yes

Wire transfer

Yes

Card

Yes

Comparative table

Gemini	FEATURES	Altcoin Trader
Gemini allows for relatively low minimum trades, making it accessible for beginners but has a minimum threshold.	Minimum Trade	AscendEX allows small minimum trades, making it accessible for users with smaller capital.
Fees are competitive at higher trade volumes but can be relatively high for smaller transactions.	Trading and Transaction Fees	Competitive fees, especially favorable for high-volume traders with further discounts available.
Gemini offers a solid selection of major cryptocurrencies but lacks variety in lesser-known altcoins.	Number of Cryptocurrencies	Offers a broad range of over 100 cryptocurrencies, catering to diverse trader demands.
Offers a variety of crypto-to-crypto trading pairs, covering most popular combinations.	Crypto-to-Crypto Trading Pairs	Features an extensive array of trading pairs, facilitating varied and flexible trading strategies.
Gemini excels in providing clear and comprehensive details on its operations and policies.	Website Transparency	Generally transparent about fees and terms, though some details on security could be clearer.
This card provides up to 3% back in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies on dining purchases, 2% on groceries, and 1% on all other purchases, making it a valuable addition for users looking to integrate their crypto investments with everyday spending.	Credit/Debit Card	AscendEX lacks an exchange card feature, which could enhance the usability of cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions and offer additional benefits to its users.
Provides top-notch digital asset security with the majority of assets in cold storage.	Storage Offering	Provides secure storage options with cold storage and multi-factor authentication.
Gemini offers staking and rewards but with limited options compared to other exchanges.	Staking and Rewards	Offers competitive staking rewards and various incentives for participation in trading activities.
Both mobile and desktop platforms are highly intuitive, stable, and feature-rich.	Mobile App and Desktop	Both mobile and desktop platforms are well-designed, offering full functionality and ease of use.
Customer support is knowledgeable and responsive, though not available 24/7.	Customer Service	Robust customer support with responsive service via multiple channels.
Deposits and withdrawals are secure with clear policies, though some methods may have fees.	Deposit and Withdraw	Efficient deposit and withdrawal processes are in place, although adding more fiat options could improve accessibility and convenience.

Key features

Analysis tools

Basic charting tools

Mobile APP

Security

High 4,9/5

High 4,5/5

Additional features

Gemini Earn, staking, Gemini Pay, Gemini dollar (GUSD)

Instant EFT payments, savings wallets, recurring buy orders, OTC trading

Anonymity

Key points

Available cryptocurrencies

40+

20+

User-friendliness

Gemini is known for its highly user-friendly interface, making it one of the best choices for beginners. The platform is simple to navigate, and buying and selling cryptocurrencies is straightforward and hassle-free.

Altcoin Trader is known for its simple and user-friendly interface, which makes it accessible for new traders. The platform focuses on ease of use, ensuring that buying and selling cryptocurrencies is straightforward.

Value for money

Provides reasonable value for money with higher fees but strong security features and a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for beginners.

Delivers decent value for money, especially for South African users, with competitive fees and easy access to local banking options.

Countries of operation

United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia

South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho

Best for

Great for beginners and experienced traders who prioritize security and ease of use, despite higher fees.

Best for South African investors looking for easy access to local banking options and competitive fees, making it ideal for regional users.

Base currencies available

USD, BTC, ETH

ZAR, BTC

Account

Trading

Gemini is known for its high security and regulatory compliance. It offers a user-friendly platform and a good range of cryptocurrencies but has higher fees compared to some exchanges.

Altcoin Trader is ideal for users looking to trade a variety of altcoins. The platform is easy to navigate, but its fee structure is slightly higher than average. Additionally, the platform’s customer support could use improvement.

Deposit and withdrawal

Gemini offers secure deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are processed efficiently, usually within a day, with competitive fees .

Altcoin Trader provides bank transfer and cryptocurrency deposit options. Withdrawals are usually processed within 24 hours. Fees are relatively low, making it accessible for beginners.

Account opening process

Gemini provides a user-friendly and secure account opening process. Users need to submit personal information and verify their identity. The process is fully digital and usually completed within a day.

Altcoin Trader has a simple account registration process. It requires basic personal information, proof of identity, and address verification. The process is quick, usually taking less than a day, making it accessible for new users.

KYC required?

Yes

Customer Service

Gemini provides extensive customer support through email, live chat, and a help center. Support is available 24/7, and the response times are quick, making it reliable for users globally .

Altcoin Trader provides support through email and live chat. The support team is responsive and helpful, but the lack of 24/7 availability can be a downside for users needing immediate assistance.

Security

Gemini employs comprehensive security measures, including 2FA, encryption, and cold storage. It is regulated by multiple financial authorities, ensuring high security for investors.

Altcoin Trader employs standard security measures like 2FA and encryption. It lacks regulation from major financial bodies, which could be a concern for some investors regarding the safety of their funds.

Which of these exchanges is for you?

Alejandro Borja

In conclusion, Gemini stands out as a robust and reliable cryptocurrency exchange, making it a solid choice for users ranging from beginners to experienced traders. At Threenvest, we recognize Gemini’s commitment to security and regulatory compliance as one of its strongest selling points. This adherence not only ensures the safety of user assets through measures like cold storage and insured hot wallets but also instills confidence due to its regulatory status under the New York State Department of Financial Services. However, it’s important to note that while Gemini excels in security, its fee structure, particularly for low-volume traders, can be a deterrent compared to other platforms that offer lower fees for small transactions. Additionally, Gemini’s user interface, both on the web and mobile app, is designed with clarity and ease of use in mind, which is a significant advantage for those new to cryptocurrency trading. The exchange also provides a range of educational resources that enhance user understanding and engagement with the market. However, the limited selection of altcoins might pose a restriction for users looking to diversify into less mainstream cryptocurrencies. At Threenvest, while we appreciate the security and user-friendly aspects of Gemini, we also advise potential users to consider their trading volume and investment goals when choosing an exchange. Overall, Gemini is recommended for those who prioritize security and a regulated environment, but it may be less suited for those seeking lower fees or a wider range of cryptocurrencies.

Xavier Tarrasó

As an expert reviewer on our website, I highly recommend AscendEX for both new and experienced traders looking for a comprehensive crypto trading platform. Its robust security measures, extensive range of cryptocurrencies, and competitive trading fees make it a reliable choice. The platform’s user-friendly interface, coupled with excellent customer support, ensures a smooth trading experience, making it well-suited for anyone looking to delve into the crypto market.

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How do we review crypto exchanges?

At Threenvest, we conduct a thorough review process to evaluate and rank the world’s leading crypto exchanges. Our goal is to offer an unbiased assessment, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions on which ones best suit your needs. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of our editorial policy.

We collect data directly from exchanges through detailed questionnaires and conduct first-hand testing and observations during crypto exchange demonstrations. Questionnaire responses, combined with demonstrations and hands-on research from our experts, feed into our proprietary evaluation process that scores each provider’s performance on more than 15 factors. The end result produces star ratings ranging from poor (one star) to excellent (five stars).

For more details on the categories considered when rating brokers and our process, read our full methodology.

Risk Disclaimer

Investing in cryptocurrencies is very risky, you should only invest the money you are willing to lose. Also you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Neither Threenvest, nor the author, are recommending you to invest with this article.