Getting Started with Bitcoin
A step-by-step beginner guide to choosing a wallet, buying your first bitcoin, and keeping it safe. No technical background required.
What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is digital money that works without banks or governments. Created in 2009, it lets you send any amount to anyone in the world, at any time, with low fees and no middlemen.
You do not need to buy a whole bitcoin. One bitcoin is divisible into 100 million units called satoshis, so you can start with as little as a few dollars. Think of it like buying a fraction of a gold bar.
Bitcoin has been running without interruption since January 2009.
Fixed supply cap. No one can create more bitcoin, ever.
Each bitcoin splits into 100 million satoshis. Buy a fraction, not a whole coin.
Three Steps to Your First Bitcoin
Getting started is simpler than you think.
1. Choose a Wallet
A Bitcoin wallet is an app that lets you store, send, and receive bitcoin. Start with a mobile wallet for convenience, or a hardware wallet for maximum security.
2. Buy Bitcoin
Purchase bitcoin on a trusted exchange using a bank transfer, debit card, or credit card. You can also earn it or receive it as payment.
3. Secure Your Bitcoin
Transfer bitcoin to a wallet you control. Back up your recovery phrase and never share it. Your keys, your coins.
Choose a Wallet
A Bitcoin wallet is the app or device you use to store, send, and receive bitcoin. You do not need to understand the technology to use one; modern wallets are as simple as any banking app.
Mobile Wallets
Best for beginners and everyday use. Install on your phone, create a wallet, and you are ready to receive bitcoin in minutes.
Desktop Wallets
Run on your computer and offer more advanced features like coin control and hardware wallet integration. Sparrow is an excellent choice for users who want deeper control.
Hardware Wallets
Small physical devices that keep your private keys completely offline. Recommended for anyone holding significant amounts.
Coin Wallet
Coin Wallet is a non-custodial multicurrency wallet supporting Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and over 2,000 tokens. Available as a web wallet, mobile app (iOS and Android), and desktop app (Windows, Linux, macOS).
Edge Wallet
Edge (formerly Airbitz) is a non-custodial mobile wallet for iOS and Android supporting 130+ cryptocurrencies. It uses a username and password system for account creation, making it accessible for users unfamiliar with seed phrases, while still keeping private keys on-device. Edge includes built-in exchange, buy/sell features, and supports Ethereum tokens and DeFi integrations.
BlueWallet
BlueWallet is a popular open-source Bitcoin wallet for iOS and Android. It supports both on-chain Bitcoin and Lightning Network payments, making it a versatile option for everyday use. Features include multisig vaults, watch-only wallets, coin control, custom fees, and the ability to connect to your own Bitcoin and Lightning node. BlueWallet has a simple interface for beginners while offering advanced features for experienced users.
How to Buy Bitcoin
The most common way to get bitcoin is to buy it on a cryptocurrency exchange. Most exchanges accept bank transfers, debit cards, and credit cards. You will need to create an account and verify your identity.
You do not need to buy a whole bitcoin. Every exchange lets you purchase a fraction, so you can start with whatever amount you are comfortable with.
Coinbase
One of the world's largest and most trusted exchanges. Buy Bitcoin with bank transfers, credit cards, and debit cards. Available in the US, Canada, Europe, and Singapore.
Kraken
One of the longest-running and most respected exchanges. Buy Bitcoin via bank transfer, SEPA, and other methods. Available in the US, Canada, Europe, and Japan.
Binance
The world's largest exchange by trading volume. Buy Bitcoin with bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and peer-to-peer trading. Available in most countries outside the US (Binance.US serves American users).
Keeping Your Bitcoin Safe
Bitcoin puts you in control of your money. That means security is your responsibility.
Back Up Your Seed Phrase
When you create a wallet, you receive a 12- or 24-word recovery phrase. Write it down on paper and store it in a safe place. This phrase is the only way to recover your bitcoin if you lose your device.
Not Your Keys, Not Your Coins
If you leave bitcoin on an exchange, the exchange controls your funds. Transfer bitcoin to a wallet where you hold the private keys. Only then do you truly own it.
Watch Out for Scams
No legitimate service will ask for your seed phrase. Never share it with anyone. Be skeptical of guaranteed returns, giveaway scams, and unsolicited messages about investing.
Use Strong Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication on any exchange accounts. Use a hardware authenticator or authenticator app rather than SMS, which can be intercepted.
Start Small
Make your first purchase small. Practice sending and receiving bitcoin to build confidence before committing larger amounts. Mistakes with bitcoin are usually irreversible.
Consider Hardware Wallets
For significant holdings, move your bitcoin to a hardware wallet. These devices keep your private keys completely offline, safe from malware and hackers. Compare hardware wallets.
Other Ways to Get Bitcoin
Earn It
Accept bitcoin as payment for goods or services. Freelancers, online sellers, and brick-and-mortar businesses can all accept bitcoin using a payment processor or simply by sharing a wallet address.
Receive It
Anyone with your Bitcoin address can send you bitcoin. It works like sharing an email address: safe to give out, and only you can access what is sent to it.
Mine It
Bitcoin mining is the process of using specialized hardware to verify transactions and earn newly created bitcoin. It has become a highly competitive industry requiring significant investment in equipment and electricity. Learn more about mining.
Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs let you buy bitcoin with cash or debit cards. They are available in many cities worldwide, though fees are typically higher than online exchanges (often 5-10%).
Common Questions
Is Bitcoin safe for beginners?
Yes. The Bitcoin network itself has never been hacked in over 17 years of operation. The risks for beginners come from poor security practices: losing your seed phrase, falling for scams, or leaving funds on an exchange that gets breached. Follow the security basics above and start with a small amount while you learn.
How much money do I need to start?
You can start with as little as a few dollars. Bitcoin is divisible to eight decimal places, so you never need to buy a whole coin. Most exchanges have minimum purchases around $1-$10. Starting small is a good way to learn how wallets and transactions work before committing more.
What is a Bitcoin wallet?
A Bitcoin wallet is software (or a physical device) that stores your private keys and lets you send and receive bitcoin. It does not actually "hold" your bitcoin; the coins exist on the blockchain. The wallet holds the keys that prove ownership and let you spend them. Compare wallets
What is a seed phrase and why is it important?
A seed phrase (also called a recovery phrase) is a list of 12 or 24 words generated when you create a wallet. These words are the master backup of your wallet. If your phone breaks or your computer dies, you can restore your wallet and all your bitcoin using just these words. Write them down on paper, never store them digitally, and never share them with anyone.
Can I lose my bitcoin?
Your bitcoin cannot disappear from the network, but you can lose access to it. The most common ways people lose bitcoin are: losing their seed phrase, sending to the wrong address, or falling for a scam. As long as you have your seed phrase stored safely, you can always recover your bitcoin, even if your device is lost or damaged.
Is Bitcoin legal?
Bitcoin is legal to own and use in most countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia. Some countries have restrictions on cryptocurrency trading or mining. Spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in the US in 2024, further cementing its legal status. Check your local regulations if you are unsure about your jurisdiction.
Do I have to buy a whole bitcoin?
No. Bitcoin is divisible to eight decimal places. The smallest unit, 0.00000001 BTC, is called a satoshi. You can buy $5, $50, or $500 worth of bitcoin. Most people own a fraction of a bitcoin, not a whole one.
What is the difference between Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies?
Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency and remains the largest by market value. It has the longest track record, the most robust network security, and the widest adoption. Other cryptocurrencies (often called altcoins) were created after Bitcoin and may have different features or purposes, but none have matched Bitcoin's decentralization, security, or network effects. Learn more about Bitcoin
Ready to Buy Your First Bitcoin?
Compare exchanges to find the best way to buy in your country, or find a wallet to get set up.
The wallets and exchanges listed on this page are provided for informational purposes only and are not endorsements. Always do your own research.