Review

Coinbase vs Bitcoin.com Wallet: Best Crypto Wallet for iOS

Coinbase vs Bitcoin.com

The best crypto wallets for iOS users include Coinbase Wallet and Bitcoin.com Wallet at the top of available options. Coinbase Wallet supports a wide range of assets, dApps, and NFTs, which makes it versatile for crypto enthusiasts at any level. Users have rated it highly with 4.7/5 on the Apple Store and 4.6/5 on Google Play, showing Coinbase’s success in delivering an easy-to-use platform with robust features.

Coinbase stands as the largest U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange and helps beginners through its Coinbase Earn program that lets users earn free cryptocurrencies by learning. The platform’s maker fees range from 0.00% to 0.40% and taker fees from 0.05% to 0.60%. Bitcoin.com Wallet emerges as a strong alternative with its own set of unique features.

This piece compares these two popular crypto wallet apps for iPhone users by looking at security features, interface design, supported assets and fee structures. You’ll discover which wallet serves as the best crypto app for beginners or experienced traders in 2025.

Wallet Overview: Coinbase vs Bitcoin.com Wallet

List of popular custodial wallets including Binance and Coinbase, and non-custodial wallets like MetaMask and Ledger.

Image Source: PixelPlex

Let’s get into the main differences between Coinbase and Bitcoin.com wallets to help you choose the right one for your crypto needs. Here’s everything in their features, capabilities, and who they’re made for.

Wallet Type: Custodial vs Non-Custodial

The biggest difference between these wallets comes down to who holds your private keys. Coinbase gives you two choices:

  • Coinbase Exchange Wallet: A custodial wallet where Coinbase keeps your private keys, just like how banks handle your money. You can recover your account through Coinbase if you forget your password.
  • Coinbase Wallet: A self-custody (non-custodial) wallet that lets you control your private keys. You’re responsible for your recovery phrase—lose it and your crypto might be gone forever.

Bitcoin.com Wallet works mainly as a non-custodial wallet, which puts you in charge of your private keys and assets.

Why this matters: Custodial wallets mean trusting someone else with your assets. Non-custodial wallets give you complete ownership but need more responsibility.

Hot Wallet vs Cold Wallet Capabilities

Coinbase and Bitcoin.com focus on hot wallet features:

  • Hot wallets run on software and stay connected to the internet, which makes them great for regular transactions. Both wallets on iOS work this way.
  • Cold wallets are physical devices that stay offline and offer better security for long-term storage. Coinbase provides custodial cold storage for users who want professional key management. Neither wallet app includes true cold storage features.

Many users take a mixed approach—they use hot wallets for small amounts and daily trades while keeping bigger investments in cold storage.

Target Users: Beginners vs Experienced Traders

These wallets serve different types of users:

  • Coinbase Exchange Wallet works best for newcomers who want an easy way to buy crypto and secure storage.
  • Coinbase Wallet attracts users who want to control their keys and use Web3 apps. It works with over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and connects to DeFi applications.
  • Bitcoin.com Wallet serves users who want a simple way to use Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash. Its user-friendly design makes crypto easier for beginners.
FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Wallet TypeBoth custodial and non-custodial optionsNon-custodial
Key ControlUser controlled (non-custodial version)User controlled
Supported Assets5,500+ cryptocurrencies<citation index=”3″ link=”https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto-wallet-comparison/coinbase-vs-bitcoincom” similar_text=”The main disadvantages of a certain cryptocurrency wallet.
DeFi AccessYes, extensiveLimited
Recovery OptionsNone for lost seed phrases (non-custodial)None for lost recovery phrases

Coinbase Wallet Pros:

  • Handles thousands of digital assets
  • Connects to DeFi protocols and NFT marketplaces
  • Works for both beginners and advanced users
  • Strong security track record

Coinbase Wallet Cons:

  • Software isn’t fully open-source
  • You must keep your seed phrase safe
  • Limited live customer support

Bitcoin.com Wallet Pros:

  • Simple to use interface
  • Works on many platforms
  • Trusted wallet provider

Bitcoin.com Wallet Cons:

  • Supports fewer cryptocurrencies
  • Higher fees than others
  • Past controversy
  • Basic security features compared to others

Your choice between these crypto wallets depends on what you need most—whether that’s simplicity, variety of assets, or control over your private keys.

iOS App Experience and Interface

Comparison of Coinbase and Coinbase Wallet apps showing portfolio balance and cryptocurrency details on mobile screens.

Image Source: ZenLedger

A crypto wallet’s mobile experience can make or break its usability. iOS users who invest on the go will see clear differences between Coinbase and Bitcoin.com Wallet’s approach to user experience and functionality.

App Store Ratings and Reviews

These wallets have earned impressive ratings in the App Store, showing how much iOS users like them:

  • Coinbase Wallet has earned a remarkable 4.6/5 rating from almost 160,000 reviews, which shows users really like it despite some criticism.
  • Coinbase Exchange app (separate from the wallet) has done even better with a 4.7/5 rating from 1.8 million ratings. This makes it one of the best-rated financial apps.

All the same, a deeper look at the reviews shows mixed feelings. Many Coinbase users love the easy-to-use interface but point out occasional glitches and basic charting features. Some users also feel frustrated about withdrawal problems and slow customer support responses.

User Interface: Simplicity vs Customization

These wallets take very different approaches to their interface design:

Coinbase Wallet:

  • Has a clean, easy-to-use interface that works great on Apple devices
  • Lets iOS users switch between dark and light modes
  • Supports biometric authentication with Face ID/Touch ID
  • Uses simple navigation that matches its website

Users often say Coinbase’s mobile app “maintains the platform’s reputation for simplicity and ease of use”. The simple interface helps users make quick transactions and check their portfolio, though it lacks some advanced features.

Bitcoin.com Wallet: Bitcoin.com Wallet takes a simpler approach that focuses on Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash transactions.

FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Interface StyleClean, modernStraightforward
Biometric SupportFace ID/Touch IDLimited information
Dark/Light ModeBoth supportedLimited information
NavigationEasy-to-use with Web3 integrationBitcoin-focused simplicity
Updates FrequencyRegularLimited information

Mobile-First Features for iPhone Users

Each wallet comes with iOS-specific features that improve the mobile experience:

Coinbase Wallet:

  • Stores encrypted private keys safely on your device using AES encryption
  • Locks transactions with Face ID/Touch ID
  • Syncs smoothly between devices
  • Works great with iOS 16+ on latest iPhones

Pros of Coinbase Wallet on iOS:

  • High App Store rating from many users
  • Clean, easy-to-use interface with biometric security
  • Device-level encryption protects private keys
  • Built-in Web3 dApp browser

Cons of Coinbase Wallet on iOS:

  • Users sometimes report performance issues
  • Basic features and charting tools
  • Some users have trouble with withdrawals
  • Customer support could be faster

New crypto investors who want something user-friendly will find Coinbase Wallet strikes a good balance between security and ease of use. It ranks among the best crypto wallets for iPhone users. Advanced traders might find the simple interface too basic for their needs.

The sort of thing I love about testing both wallets on iOS is seeing how the mobile experience shapes user confidence in managing digital assets. This matters even more for crypto newcomers.

Security and Privacy Features

Security is the life-blood of any cryptocurrency wallet because your private keys control your digital assets. Let’s get into how Coinbase and Bitcoin.com Wallet protect your crypto investments through their security and privacy features.

Private Key Management: Who Holds the Keys?

The biggest question for any crypto wallet revolves around who controls your private keys. This difference affects both security and responsibility:

Coinbase Exchange vs Coinbase Wallet:

  • Coinbase Exchange works as a custodial service where Coinbase controls your private keys
  • Coinbase Wallet serves as a self-custody solution where you control your private keys through a 12-word recovery phrase

You have complete responsibility for your recovery phrase with Coinbase’s self-custody wallet. Coinbase will never know or access this phrase, so they can’t help if you lose it. Many crypto enthusiasts put it simply: “not your keys, not your coins.”

Bitcoin.com Wallet:

  • Works as a fully non-custodial wallet where you control your private keys
  • Gives you a 12-word recovery phrase with extra backup options including cloud or QR code
FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Key ControlUser-controlled (non-custodial)User-controlled (non-custodial)
Recovery Options12-word seed phrase only12-word seed phrase, cloud, or QR code
Backup AccessNo company assistance if lostNo company assistance if lost
Full Wallet ControlYesYes

Authentication Methods: 2FA, Biometrics, PIN

Both wallets protect your funds through multiple security layers:

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Two-factor authentication needs two separate forms of identification—usually something you know (password) plus something you have (mobile device). This reduces unauthorized access risk by a lot.

Biometric Security:

  • Coinbase Wallet lets you use biometric authentication through fingerprint or facial recognition
  • Your device stores biometric data locally instead of online, which makes it more secure

PIN Protection: Both wallets add PIN code protection as an extra security layer for transactions.

Authenticator apps create time-based one-time passwords that change regularly, making them nowhere near as vulnerable as SMS-based 2FA (which can fall prey to SIM swapping). Hardware security keys like YubiKey give you the best protection against phishing attacks.

Open Source Code and Audit Transparency

Security researchers can check a wallet’s underlying technology for vulnerabilities through open-source code:

  • Coinbase Wallet has about 90% open-source and non-custodial code
  • Bitcoin.com Wallet runs on fully open-source and non-custodial code

Coinbase has made their Multi-Party Computation (MPC) cryptography library open-source. This helps security researchers and developers utilize their cryptographic expertise while improving security standards across the industry.

Open-source wallets build trust through community code review and professional audits. These reviews keep security features transparent and verifiable. Coinbase also rewards security researchers who report vulnerabilities through their bug bounty program—offering up to $1 million for critical bug discoveries.

Pros and Cons Summary:

Coinbase Wallet Security Pros:

  • Robust biometric authentication options
  • Transaction PIN protection
  • Large bug bounty program
  • Most code is open-source
  • Biometric data stays on your device

Coinbase Wallet Security Cons:

  • Lost seed phrases can’t be recovered
  • Some code remains closed-source
  • No help available for self-custody wallet issues

Bitcoin.com Wallet Security Pros:

  • Complete open-source code
  • Several backup choices (seed phrase, cloud, QR)
  • You get full control with non-custodial approach

Bitcoin.com Wallet Security Cons:

  • Limited details about biometric security
  • Fewer security audit records
  • Cloud backup might create security gaps

Users who want maximum security from the best crypto wallets should think over pairing either wallet with a hardware security device to store large amounts.

Supported Assets and Blockchain Compatibility

Asset support plays a key role in picking the best crypto wallets for daily transactions. Coinbase and Bitcoin.com wallets each bring their own strengths to the table, with big differences in what they can store.

Number of Supported Coins and Tokens

These wallets show a clear difference in their asset support:

Coinbase Wallet:

  • Holds over 5,500+ cryptocurrencies
  • Works with major blockchains like Ethereum, Bitcoin, Solana, Dogecoin, Litecoin, and Avalanche
  • Manages thousands of ERC-20 tokens naturally

Bitcoin.com Wallet:

  • We focused on Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash
  • Handles about 3+ cryptocurrencies and 10+ tokens
  • Has fewer altcoin features than other wallets

The difference in supported assets becomes clearer when we look at blockchain compatibility. Coinbase Wallet connects with networks like Ethereum, Solana, Polygon, BNB Chain, Optimism, and Avalanche C-Chain. It also lets users move assets between different blockchains.

NFT and Web3 Support

For people collecting digital assets and using Web3:

Coinbase Wallet:

  • Works as a complete NFT wallet with its own gallery
  • Sends and receives Ethereum and Polygon NFTs
  • Opens doors to the growing NFT marketplace

Bitcoin.com Wallet:

  • Supports NFTs on Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon networks
  • Lets you manage various NFT standards

DeFi and dApp Integration

The ability to work with decentralized apps shows the biggest difference between these wallets:

Coinbase Wallet:

  • Links to thousands of dApps across multiple blockchains
  • Lets you stake, lend, and borrow in DeFi
  • Trades directly on decentralized exchanges from the wallet
  • Participates in liquidity pools with trading pairs like AVAX/USDC

Bitcoin.com Wallet:

  • Has basic dApp integration features
  • Doesn’t match Coinbase’s DeFi capabilities
FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Supported Cryptocurrencies5,500+<citation index=”3″ link=”https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto-wallet-comparison/coinbase-vs-bitcoincom” similar_text=”Number of Supported Coins __ The number of coins the crypto wallet supports. Coins are assets that have their own chain.
Blockchain NetworksEthereum, Solana, Bitcoin, Polygon, Avalanche, and moreMainly Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash with some NFT support
NFT CapabilitiesSend/receive Ethereum and Polygon NFTsMulti-chain NFT support
DeFi AccessFull: staking, lending, DEX tradingLimited

Pros and Cons: Asset Support

Coinbase Wallet Pros:

  • Works with multiple chains
  • Strong NFT and Web3 support
  • Complete DeFi integration
  • Large token selection

Coinbase Wallet Cons:

  • Only sends/receives ETH and Polygon NFTs despite showing more
  • New users might find too many options

Bitcoin.com Wallet Pros:

  • Strong Bitcoin ecosystem support
  • NFTs work across multiple chains
  • Simple approach for Bitcoin users

Bitcoin.com Wallet Cons:

  • Few cryptocurrency options
  • Basic DeFi features
  • Limited Web3 capabilities

Fees, Costs, and In-App Transactions

Your choice of best crypto wallets depends largely on their fees. iOS users need to understand how Coinbase and Bitcoin.com Wallet structure their costs to match their trading style.

Transaction Fees: Coinbase vs Bitcoin.com Wallet

Coinbase uses a tiered maker-taker fee system that changes with trading volume:

  • Coinbase maker fees range from 0.00% to 0.40%
  • Coinbase taker fees range from 0.05% to 0.60%

Most traders fall into Coinbase’s higher fee brackets, which makes daily trading costly. A trader buying $100 worth of Bitcoin through ACH transfer pays maker-taker fees of 0.40% and 0.60% respectively.

Bitcoin.com Wallet charges roughly 2% per transaction, making it costlier than Coinbase for most trades.

In-App Swaps and Exchange Rates

Cost differences become apparent with in-app conversions:

  • Coinbase Wallet users pay up to 1% on swaps, plus potential DEX aggregator fees
  • Bitcoin.com Wallet connects to decentralized exchanges, usually offering lower fees

Both wallets route token swaps through decentralized exchange protocols. Market volatility and price slippage can substantially change the final value received. Coinbase Wallet optimizes each transaction before submission but cannot guarantee success due to market conditions.

Hidden Costs and Network Fees

Several less obvious costs exist beyond standard transaction fees:

  • Network fees vary with blockchain congestion on both platforms
  • Coinbase takes $25 for USD withdrawals and applies dynamic crypto withdrawal fees
  • Bitcoin.com Wallet lets users adjust network fees, reducing costs during non-urgent transfers
Fee TypeCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Transaction Fee0.00%-0.40% (maker), 0.05%-0.60% (taker)<citation index=”3″ link=”https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto-wallet-comparison/coinbase-vs-bitcoincom” similar_text=”### Security Security Level __ Overall level of security & safety of your assets offered by a certain crypto wallet.
Swap FeeUp to 1%Varies by DEX used
USD Withdrawal$25N/A
Network Fee ControlLimitedUser-customizable

Pros and Cons: Fee Structures

Coinbase Wallet Pros:

  • Lower fees benefit high-volume traders
  • Transparent fee structure across transactions
  • Some swaps have zero network fees

Coinbase Wallet Cons:

  • Beginners and low-volume traders pay more
  • USD withdrawals cost $25
  • Network fee adjustments are restricted

Bitcoin.com Wallet Pros:

  • Users control network fees
  • DEX interactions cost less
  • Combined withdrawals reduce expenses

Bitcoin.com Wallet Cons:

  • Standard 2% transaction fee runs high
  • Fee structure lacks transparency
  • Recovery costs 5%

These fee factors shape your portfolio’s growth potential when selecting the best crypto apps for beginners.

Comparison Table and Pros & Cons Summary

A detailed analysis of both wallets reveals their key features side-by-side to help you choose the best crypto wallet for your iOS device in 2025.

Side-by-Side Feature Comparison Table

FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Overall Score8.46.8
Wallet TypeSoftware (custodial & non-custodial options)<citation index=”3″ link=”https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto-wallet-comparison/coinbase-vs-bitcoincom” similar_text=”
Security Features<citation index=”23″ link=”https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/coinbase-wallet-review” similar_text=”SecurityCoinbase Wallet does not use two-factor authentication or multisignature support. The software is not fully open source.”>Biometric, PIN, partial open-source
Supported Assets<citation index=”14″ link=”https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-wallet” similar_text=”WalletBest For
Transaction Fees0.00%-0.40% maker, 0.05%-0.60% takerApproximately 2% per transaction
Target UsersBeginners to advanced tradersBitcoin-focused users
App Store Rating<citation index=”14″ link=”https://coinledger.io/tools/best-crypto-wallet” similar_text=”WalletBest For

Coinbase Wallet: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use interface perfect for cryptocurrency newcomers
  • Free registration and crypto storage
  • Support for thousands of digital assets and tokens
  • Resilient infrastructure for a software wallet
  • Uninterrupted integration with DeFi protocols and NFT marketplaces

Cons:

  • Hardware wallets offer better security for large holdings
  • Partially open-source software raises trust concerns
  • High fees affect beginners and low-volume traders
  • Customer support takes time to respond
  • Lost seed phrases have no recovery options

Bitcoin.com Wallet: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Compatible with major platforms
  • 10-year old reputation in the Bitcoin community
  • Complete open-source code
  • User-adjustable network fees

Cons:

  • Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash support only
  • High transaction fees at 2%
  • Missing advanced security features common in other wallets
  • Limited DeFi and dApp integration options
  • Platform’s controversial history

Your choice between these best crypto wallets for iPhone depends on your priorities – Coinbase offers asset variety and integration while Bitcoin.com focuses on Bitcoin-specific simplicity.

Comparison Table

Detailed Comparison: Coinbase Wallet vs Bitcoin.com Wallet

FeatureCoinbase WalletBitcoin.com Wallet
Wallet TypeBoth custodial and non-custodial optionsNon-custodial only
Supported Assets5,500+ cryptocurrenciesBitcoin and Bitcoin Cash
Security FeaturesBiometric auth, PIN protection, 2FASimple security, open-source code
Private Key ControlUser controlled (non-custodial version)User controlled
Transaction FeesMaker: 0.00-0.40%, Taker: 0.05-0.60%~2% per transaction
App Store Rating4.7/5Not specified
DeFi AccessExtensive supportLimited
NFT SupportYes (Ethereum & Polygon)Multi-chain support
Recovery Options12-word seed phrase onlySeed phrase, cloud, or QR code

Coinbase Wallet Pros:

  • Support for thousands of digital assets
  • Rich DeFi and NFT integration
  • Robust security with biometric authentication
  • Suitable for both beginners and advanced users
  • 5-year-old security reputation

Coinbase Wallet Cons:

  • Software code remains private
  • Beginners pay higher fees
  • Support team has limited availability
  • Seed phrase loss means no recovery options
  • Hardware wallets offer better security

Bitcoin.com Wallet Pros:

  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Platform compatibility
  • Open-source code access
  • Network fees you can customize
  • Trusted wallet provider

Bitcoin.com Wallet Cons:

  • Support for few cryptocurrencies
  • Transaction fees run high (~2%)
  • Security features need improvement
  • DeFi features are limited
  • Platform has faced controversy

Conclusion

A closer look at Coinbase Wallet and Bitcoin.com Wallet reveals distinct advantages that appeal to different crypto enthusiasts. Without doubt, Coinbase Wallet stands out as the more versatile option. It supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and comes with extensive DeFi integration and resilient security features. On top of that, it has a user-friendly interface that appeals to newcomers while offering advanced features for experienced traders.

In spite of that, Bitcoin.com Wallet serves as a solid alternative for users who focus on Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash transactions. The wallet might have limited cryptocurrency support, but it offers straightforward functionality. Its fully open-source code and customizable network fees might appeal to Bitcoin maximalists.

Security stands as the cornerstone of any crypto wallet. So, both wallets give you non-custodial options where you control your private keys, though Coinbase offers custodial solutions too. But neither wallet matches hardware wallets’ security for storing large amounts of cryptocurrency. Whatever wallet you pick, pair it with a cold storage solution for substantial holdings.

Coinbase offers better rates for high-volume traders. Bitcoin.com Wallet’s 2% transaction fee can get pricey over time. Coinbase’s extensive integration with NFT marketplaces and DeFi protocols gives you significant advantages to explore the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Your choice ended up depending on your specific needs. If you value versatility, asset diversity, and ecosystem integration, Coinbase Wallet makes the best choice. If you mainly deal with Bitcoin and prefer simplicity with open-source transparency, Bitcoin.com Wallet might suit you better.

Note that proper security practices matter most with any wallet you choose. Store your recovery phrase in a safe place, enable all available security features, and never share your private keys. The best crypto wallet for iOS in 2025 balances your security, convenience, and functionality needs while supporting your crypto experience.

Key Takeaways

Choosing between Coinbase Wallet and Bitcoin.com Wallet depends on your crypto needs, asset diversity preferences, and security priorities.

• Coinbase Wallet dominates in versatility – supports 5,500+ cryptocurrencies, extensive DeFi integration, and NFT capabilities, making it ideal for diverse crypto portfolios.

• Bitcoin.com Wallet excels in Bitcoin-focused simplicity – offers straightforward interface with full open-source transparency, perfect for Bitcoin maximalists seeking basic functionality.

• Security approaches differ significantly – Coinbase provides both custodial and non-custodial options with biometric authentication, while Bitcoin.com offers only non-custodial with multiple backup methods.

• Fee structures favor different user types – Coinbase charges 0.00-0.60% for high-volume traders but Bitcoin.com’s 2% transaction fee can be costly for frequent users.

• Neither replaces hardware wallets for large holdings – both are hot wallets best suited for daily transactions, requiring cold storage solutions for significant cryptocurrency amounts.

For maximum security and functionality, consider pairing either wallet with proper backup practices and hardware storage for substantial holdings. Your choice should align with whether you prioritize ecosystem diversity (Coinbase) or Bitcoin-specific transparency (Bitcoin.com).

FAQs

Q1. What are the key differences between Coinbase Wallet and Bitcoin.com Wallet? Coinbase Wallet supports over 5,500 cryptocurrencies and offers extensive DeFi integration, while Bitcoin.com Wallet primarily focuses on Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash with limited altcoin support. Coinbase provides both custodial and non-custodial options, whereas Bitcoin.com is solely non-custodial.

Q2. Which wallet has better security features? Coinbase Wallet offers stronger security features including biometric authentication, PIN protection, and partial open-source code. Bitcoin.com Wallet provides basic security measures and is fully open-source, but lacks some of the advanced security options found in Coinbase.

Q3. How do the fee structures compare between the two wallets? Coinbase uses a tiered maker-taker fee structure ranging from 0.00% to 0.60%, which can be advantageous for high-volume traders. Bitcoin.com Wallet charges a flat fee of approximately 2% per transaction, which may be costlier for frequent users.

Q4. Which wallet is better suited for beginners? Coinbase Wallet is generally considered more user-friendly for beginners due to its intuitive interface and extensive educational resources. However, Bitcoin.com Wallet’s simpler focus on Bitcoin may appeal to those specifically interested in that cryptocurrency.

Q5. Can these wallets replace hardware wallets for storing large amounts of cryptocurrency? No, neither Coinbase Wallet nor Bitcoin.com Wallet is recommended as a replacement for hardware wallets when storing large amounts of cryptocurrency. Both are primarily hot wallets, best suited for daily transactions, while cold storage solutions like hardware wallets offer superior security for significant holdings.