How to Buy Bitcoin: A Beginner’s Guide for 2025
Wondering how to buy Bitcoin as a first-time investor? Our beginner’s guide explains the step-by-step process, including the top Bitcoin wallets, exchanges, and safety best practices. Bitcoin (BTC) is the oldest and still the most popular cryptocurrency, accounting for well over 50% of the total crypto market cap. This guide will teach you how to buy Bitcoin in 2025, so you can join the millions who already own this hugely popular digital asset.
We’ll show you the easiest and safest way to buy Bitcoin, explore alternative purchase options, and teach you how to store your assets safely. We’ll also dive into some basics of Bitcoin to discover why it remains the go-to choice for most crypto investors.
How to Buy Bitcoin in 5 Easy Steps
Here is a simplified walkthrough of how to buy Bitcoin in five simple steps:
- Download a Non-Custodial Wallet: Choose a wallet like Best Wallet, which supports instant payment methods.
- Set Up Your Security: Create a PIN, write down your seed phrase, and activate two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometrics.
- Decide on Your Investment: Determine how much Bitcoin to buy based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Make the Purchase: Select "Buy" and Bitcoin, choose the payment method and amount, and complete the purchase.
- Store Your Bitcoin Safely: If you’re using a custodial wallet, consider transferring your assets to a non-custodial wallet for enhanced security.
How to Buy Bitcoin: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Create a Non-Custodial Bitcoin Wallet
The first step is to download a Bitcoin wallet that provides non-custodial storage. Wallets allow investors to send, receive, and store Bitcoin without relying on centralized entities. The best crypto wallets also connect with fiat gateways, so users can buy Bitcoin with traditional money.
After researching over 25 wallet providers, we’ve found that Best Wallet is an excellent choice for beginners. This free mobile app for iOS and Android supports various local currencies and payment methods, enabling users to buy and store Bitcoin all in one safe place.
Once you download the app, input and verify your email address, and choose a security PIN. Store your seed phrase safely as it helps recover access if you lose your smartphone or forget the login credentials. For maximum security, we recommend enabling two-factor authentication and biometrics.
Step 2: Select a Payment Method
In the Best Wallet app, tap “Bitcoin” and then “Buy”, choosing your preferred fiat currency. The app supports various currencies, including USD, AUD, EUR, GBP, and NZD.
You’ll see available payment methods for your selected currency. Many users buy Bitcoin with a debit or credit card, while popular e-wallets like PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay are also options. Bank transfers are generally the cheapest deposit method, although they may take longer to process.
Step 3: Decide How Much to Invest
Minimum investment amounts vary by the fiat gateway. Some providers allow you to buy Bitcoin for as little as $10. The amount you choose should align with your risk appetite and financial goals, especially given Bitcoin’s notorious volatility.
One strategy to consider is dollar-cost averaging, where you invest a consistent amount at regular intervals, helping to mitigate the impact of short-term price fluctuations.
Step 4: Complete the Payment to Buy Bitcoin
The app will redirect you to the fiat gateway’s website, where you’ll need to input basic personal information and payment details. Once your payment is confirmed, the gateway processes the transaction. Most methods are almost instant, except for bank transfers, which could take up to five business days.
Step 5: Store Your Bitcoin Safely
Buying with Best Wallet means your Bitcoin is stored securely within the app, eliminating the need to transfer coins from a third-party exchange. After purchasing, return to the main menu in the Best Wallet app to view your balance.
Even with Best Wallet’s built-in security measures, it’s wise to follow best practices for keeping your investment secure. Treat your seed phrase like a password — never share it and store it safely offline.
What Is Bitcoin & How Does It Work?
Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency and a decentralized network for financial transactions, launched in 2008 by an unknown creator known only as Satoshi Nakamoto. Unlike traditional currencies, no single entity controls Bitcoin, allowing users to conduct transactions across borders freely.
Transactions typically take about 10 minutes, with fees remaining relatively low. Bitcoin’s underlying technology, blockchain, records transactions via a public ledger, ensuring transparency while maintaining the pseudonymity of users engaged in transfers.
Bitcoin utilizes a proof-of-work consensus mechanism for security and decentralization, with miners verifying blocks of transactions. The Bitcoin supply is capped at 21 million coins, making it a finite resource, much like gold.
Why Do People Buy Bitcoin?
Financial Gains
Many people invest in Bitcoin for the potential of significant financial appreciation. Since its inception, Bitcoin has shown unprecedented price gains. For instance, the price soared from under $1,000 to nearly $20,000 in 2017. Comparatively, as of 2025, Bitcoin’s price has made people incredibly wealthy, with all-time highs exceeding $126,000.
Cross-Border Payments
While Bitcoin is often seen as a speculative investment, it was initially created as a medium of exchange. People use Bitcoin for quick, borderless transactions because it can often be faster and cheaper than traditional international bank transfers.
Non-Custodial Ownership
Many investors appreciate non-custodial wallets. These wallets generate encrypted private keys, giving the owner complete control. This setup eliminates reliance on third parties, a significant selling point for those wary of potential breaches or regulatory issues.
Hedge Against Inflation
In countries suffering from high inflation, like Turkey, many residents have turned to Bitcoin as a stable alternative to their local currencies. This practice showcases Bitcoin’s appeal as a safeguard against economic instability.
Different Ways to Buy Bitcoin
Crypto Wallets
Crypto wallets are one of the most accessible methods for purchasing Bitcoin. Wallets work with fiat gateways to facilitate seamless transactions. Best Wallet is a user-friendly option that supports numerous payment methods.
Centralized Exchanges
Centralized exchanges (CEXs) serve as most people’s go-to for trading Bitcoin. They operate similarly to traditional financial platforms, allowing users to deposit fiat money and trade for Bitcoin. Popular exchanges include MEXC and Binance, known for their diverse offerings and low fees.
Decentralized Exchanges
Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) provide a non-custodial approach to buying Bitcoin, though Bitcoin itself cannot directly operate on these platforms. However, wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) enables users to engage in exchanges on Ethereum-based DEXs.
Bitcoin Mining
While Bitcoin mining secures the network, it’s generally controlled by large enterprises, making it more challenging for individual miners. Cloud mining services offer individuals a way to participate, though risks, including scams, exist.
Other Methods
- Bitcoin ETFs: Various financial institutions offer ETFs that invest directly in Bitcoin, providing exposure without actual coin ownership.
- Bitcoin ATMs: Physical kiosks that allow users to buy Bitcoin with cash — though often expensive and requiring KYC verification.
- P2P Exchanges: Platforms that connect buyers and sellers directly, frequently helping local investors purchase Bitcoin with local currencies.
Key Considerations to Make Before Buying Bitcoin
- Choose Regulated Platforms: Opt for platforms that adhere to regulatory standards to mitigate risks.
- Set an Investment Budget: Invest only what you can afford to lose, given Bitcoin’s volatility.
- Understand Ownership: Buying Bitcoin means owning the asset outright, unlike derivatives.
- Secure Wallets: After purchasing, ensure your Bitcoin is held securely in a non-custodial wallet.
- Research Price Movements: Stay informed about Bitcoin’s price history to navigate volatile markets effectively.
- Be Aware of Fees: Costs associated with buying, selling, and storing Bitcoin can impact your overall returns.
- Beware of Scams: Cybersecurity threats are prevalent in the crypto space, so remain vigilant against potential risks.
Is Bitcoin Taxed?
Most countries treat Bitcoin gains like other tradable assets, imposing taxes on realized capital gains. For example, selling Bitcoin for profit can trigger tax liabilities based on the difference between the purchase and sale prices.
How to Sell Bitcoin
To sell Bitcoin for fiat, you’ll need an account on an exchange that allows withdrawals to bank accounts. If your BTC is stored in a non-custodial wallet, transfer it to the platform before placing a sell order. Your funds will then be ready to withdraw.
How to Buy Bitcoin: Why Best Wallet Is the Top Method
Best Wallet offers a comprehensive solution for buying Bitcoin in 2025 through secure fiat gateways. This non-custodial wallet ensures users retain exclusive access to their private keys for complete autonomy over their Bitcoin investments. The platform supports a vast array of cryptocurrencies, making it a versatile choice for any investor.
Visit Best Wallet to begin your Bitcoin journey today.
