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Paxful Review

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

James Headshot
Written by
Adam Headshot
Edited by
Paxful logo
3.90
Crypto Head Rating
Visit Paxful

The Bottom Line

Paxful embodies a peer-to-peer marketplace where simplicity and variety go hand in hand. From its impressive features, like the secure escrow service, to its commitment to security and user support, Paxful provides a noteworthy platform for anyone interested in engaging with Bitcoin and Ethereum transactions.

While assessing any financial product, including the offerings on Paxful, one should consider personal risk tolerance and objectives.

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This is not a validation of cryptocurrency or any particular provider, service, or product. It should not be taken as advice to engage in trading or use any services. Please check our terms and conditions.

Pros

  • Wide variety of payment methods
  • Escrow system for secure transactions
  • User-friendly interface
  • Peer-to-peer (P2P) focus promotes privacy
  • Allows trading in numerous countries worldwide

Cons

  • Higher fees compared to some other platforms
  • Limited range of cryptocurrencies
  • Risk of scams in P2P transactions
  • No official mobile app
  • Customer support can be slow to respond

Quick Summary

Headquarters Location International
Fiat Currencies Supported USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 130 others (some through third party apps)
Total Supported Cryptocurrencies 3+
Trading Fees 0% - 1%
Deposit Methods Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card, Cryptocurrency, Paypal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, AdvCash, Payeer, Payoneer, Skrill, Stripe, Revolut, OkPay
Support Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Live Chat, Help Center Articles, Support Ticket
Mobile App Yes - iOS, Android

Paxful presents itself as a peer-to-peer finance platform, offering users from around the globe an opportunity to buy and sell Bitcoin. As a marketplace designed to connect buyers and sellers directly, Paxful differs from traditional crypto exchanges by focusing on individual transactions and a vast array of payment options.

Paxful homepage

Paxful stands as a beacon of financial empowerment, offering an alternative avenue to conventional financial systems by leveraging the power of Bitcoin. As a platform rooted in the belief of financial inclusion, Paxful extends its services beyond mere cryptocurrency trading, embodying the potential for economic freedom and opportunity on a global stage.

Its peer-to-peer approach underlines a commitment to democratizing finance, bridging the gap between the unbanked and the dynamic world of digital currency. This exchange’s innovative vision is a testament to the evolving landscape of finance, where technology and human connection converge to redefine value exchange.

About Paxful

Rooted in the philosophy of making Bitcoin accessible to all, Paxful was co-founded by Ray Youssef and Artur Schaback in 2015. The mission was clear: to provide a simple, fair, and secure platform where people can trade Bitcoin.

With a user-centric approach, Paxful has cultivated a community where users can transact with confidence and convenience.

Paxful features

Since its inception, Paxful has been on a journey punctuated by significant milestones and shaped by the ever-changing tides of the cryptocurrency market. Its story is woven into the broader narrative of digital finance, reflecting resilience amidst regulatory shifts and market volatility.

The exchange has been a catalyst in popularizing Bitcoin in regions where access to traditional banking is limited, particularly in Africa. Paxful’s founders, Ray Youssef and Artur Schaback, have navigated this landscape by focusing on the core vision of inclusivity and simplicity, guiding the platform through a path of steady evolution, even as the crypto ecosystem itself matured and expanded.

The platform’s growth mirrors the increased adoption of digital currencies, adapting to meet the eclectic demands of a diverse user base spanning multiple continents.

Paxful has a number of active social profiles including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Discord, Reddit, TikTok and YouTube.

Paxful has a mobile app on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Paxful Supported Cryptocurrencies

Paxful supports trading on over 3 cryptocurrencies on their platform. This exchange currently supports 3 of the top 30 market cap cryptocurrencies.

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Tether USDt (USDT)
  • BNB (BNB)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • XRP (XRP)
  • USDC (USDC)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Avalanche (AVAX)
  • Shiba Inu (SHIB)
  • Toncoin (TON)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Chainlink (LINK)
  • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
  • TRON (TRX)
  • Polygon (MATIC)
  • Internet Computer (ICP)
  • NEAR Protocol (NEAR)
  • Uniswap (UNI)
  • Aptos (APT)
  • Litecoin (LTC)
  • UNUS SED LEO (LEO)
  • Dai (DAI)
  • Stacks (STX)
  • Cosmos (ATOM)
  • Filecoin (FIL)
  • Ethereum Classic (ETC)
  • Arbitrum (ARB)
  • Immutable (IMX)

View all cryptocurrencies Paxful supports

  • BTC
  • USDC
  • USDT

Trading Experience

The trading experience on Paxful is designed to be intuitive, catering to both seasoned traders and newcomers alike. The platform facilitates a straightforward purchase process, with a variety of payment methods enhancing the convenience for its users.

Trading limits and quick transaction capabilities contribute to its user-friendly reputation.

The trading experience on Paxful is a unique fusion of flexibility and accessibility, tailored to serve a gamut of trader proficiencies and preferences. The platform’s trading experience is crafted to cater to the needs of a diverse user base, from individuals making their first Bitcoin purchase to seasoned crypto traders seeking a suitable option for high-volume transactions.

Paxful’s commitment to offering a seamless trading journey is evident in the platform’s array of features, which are designed to make the trading process as intuitive and efficient as possible. The integration of a variety of payment options and swift transaction capabilities encapsulates the platform’s dedication to providing a superior trading experience.

Paxful exchange marketing

Paxful Fees

Paxful’s fee structure is crafted to be competitive and straightforward. Depending on the payment method, users can expect varying fee levels.

However, it’s key to appreciate that the platform strives to maintain a balance between affordability and providing quality service.

The fee structure of Paxful is an intricate system designed to align with the ethos of equitable financial transactions. The platform’s fees are tailored to accommodate an extensive variety of payment methods while ensuring the sustainability and integrity of the marketplace.

This balance is crucial in fostering a fair trading environment, where the cost of transactions does not overshadow the value they bring to users. As the platform continues to evolve, its fee policy remains a dynamic aspect, subject to the complexities of the market and user needs, reflecting Paxful’s responsive and user-focused ethos.

Type Fee
Deposit Fee (Bank Transfer) 0%
Deposit Fee (Credit/Debit Card) 0%
Trading Fee 0% - 1%
Withdrawal Fee (Bank Transfer) 1%

Paxful supports a range of different cryptocurrencies with varying withdrawal fees. When looking at Bitcoin, their withdrawal fee is 0.0004 BTC. The average across all other exchanges that we've reviewed is 0.000463 BTC. This means Paxful charges below the industry average by 13.62%.

Security - Is Paxful Safe?

Security is paramount at Paxful, and they adopt multiple measures to ensure users’ funds and data remain protected. The platform employs a secure escrow system alongside two-factor authentication, ensuring a robust security posture.

Adherence to anti-money laundering and KYC standards further reinforces their commitment to maintaining a secure trading environment.

Security on Paxful is a multilayered affair, encompassing not just the technological barriers against unauthorized access but also the procedural and educational aspects that safeguard the community. The platform’s security framework is designed to evolve, incorporating advancements in cybersecurity to thwart potential threats.

Beyond the secure escrow and two-factor authentication, the platform invests in continuous improvements to its security infrastructure, driven by an engineering team dedicated to keeping the users’ interests at the forefront. From implementing biometric verification to navigating the challenges posed by reversible payment methods, Paxful’s security strategy is comprehensive, prioritizing the protection of its users’ assets and personal information.

Paxful Customer Support

Paxful prides itself on its customer support, offering assistance through multiple channels. Users can reach out via email or the platform’s knowledge-based help center.

The support team is dedicated to providing timely and effective solutions to any issues that traders may encounter.

In keeping with its mission to foster a supportive trading environment, Paxful extends a comprehensive customer support system that underscores its commitment to user satisfaction. The support framework is designed to offer answers from people who understand the platform’s nuances and user concerns.

With a knowledge-based help centre that provides immediate guidance and a responsive email support channel, Paxful strives to maintain service excellence. The team’s dedication to resolving user issues is a critical aspect of the overall trading experience on the platform, reflecting the understanding that reliable support is essential in maintaining trust and confidence among its user community.

Paxful support

Paxful Support Channels

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Live Chat
  • Help Center Articles
  • Support Ticket

How to Sign Up on Paxful

  1. Create Account - Visit the Paxful website and fill out the create account form. You'll need to include a valid email, set your password and type in other details like your phone number and name.
  2. Verify Account - Confirm your email, you should get an email asking you to verify your account creation.
  3. Transferring Funds - Once your account has been verified, you can deposit using the deposit methods listed below, including some options through third party apps.
  4. Start Trading Crypto - That's it! You should now have everything in place to start trading.

Deposit Methods

  • Bank Transfer
  • Debit Card
  • Credit Card
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Paypal
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • AdvCash
  • Payeer
  • Payoneer
  • Skrill
  • Stripe
  • Revolut
  • OkPay

Paxful Alternatives

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Crypto Head Rating
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Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
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Trading Fees
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Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 75 others

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Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
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Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR + 1 other

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Crypto Head Rating
Our review is based on the spot trading platform. Please check our methodology on how we rate exchanges for further information.

Total Supported Cryptocurrencies
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Trading Fees
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Fiat Currencies Supported
USD, AUD, GBP, CAD, EUR, NZD + 85 others

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Final Thoughts

Reflecting on the diverse services offered by Paxful, it stands out as an adaptable user experience tailored to the needs of the average person looking to engage with Bitcoin. Its approach to peer-to-peer trading offers a personal touch not commonly found in the more centralized crypto exchanges.

The role of cryptocurrency exchanges is pivotal in the grand scheme of digital finance. These platforms are not just facilitators of cryptocurrency transactions but architects of the future financial landscape.

The industry’s trajectory suggests a continual shift towards more integrated and versatile services, and exchanges like Paxful play a crucial part in shaping this future. Their ability to connect personal finance with global markets is pivotal, and their focus on user empowerment through a wide array of service offerings aligns with the overarching trend of personalized financial solutions in an increasingly digital world.

Paxful FAQs

Paxful is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchange that operates a legitimate business. It allows users to buy and sell bitcoin through various payment methods.

Paxful implements security measures to protect transactions, including an escrow service and two-factor authentication. However, like any online marketplace, users should exercise caution and follow best practices to stay safe.

As of my last update, there has been no official announcement from Paxful stating that it is closing down. If there are rumors or news about Paxful shutting down, it is important to seek information directly from Paxful’s official channels for accurate details.

To spot a scammer on Paxful, look out for red flags such as users who refuse to follow Paxful’s trade guidelines, rush you to make payments, offer deals that seem too good to be true, or ask for off-platform communication. Always use Paxful’s escrow service and never share your personal details or send money outside the platform.

Paxful charges a fee for sending bitcoin from your Paxful wallet to an external wallet. The fees vary depending on the bitcoin network’s congestion at the time of transfer.

Receiving bitcoin into your Paxful wallet and buying bitcoin are usually free of charge, but selling bitcoin incurs a fee that also varies depending on the payment method used.

To stay safe on Paxful, always complete trades within the platform’s escrow system, use two-factor authentication, verify the identity of the person you’re trading with, check users’ feedback scores, never share personal information, and be wary of unsolicited messages or offers.

Yes, Paxful is a real company. It was founded in 2015 and has since grown to serve a global user base, providing a platform for peer-to-peer bitcoin exchange.

Transactions made on Paxful can be tracked to some extent, as bitcoin transactions are recorded on the blockchain, which is public. Paxful also implements KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) policies to comply with regulations, which involve identity verification and transaction monitoring.

Paxful does not have a set minimum investment as it is a peer-to-peer platform. The minimum amount of bitcoin you can buy depends on the individual sellers’ limits, which can be very low.

Always check the terms of the trade set by the seller to know the minimum amount you can purchase.

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Methodology

At Crypto Head we use a rigorous research and rating process to assess each platform. Our star rating system is out of 5 stars and is designed to condense a large amount of information into an easy-to-understand format. You can read our full methodology and rating system for more details.

About The Authors

James Headshot
Written by

Crypto Technical Writer

James Page, previously the lead writer at Crypto Head and a registered psychologist, brings a unique perspective to the world of blockchain and cryptocurrency.

His extensive experience in the industry and ability to present complex concepts in an understandable manner make his articles a valuable resource for readers seeking to navigate the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

Check James out on:
Adam Headshot
Edited by

Co-Founder / Managing Editor

Adam Morris, the co-founder of Crypto Head and a respected crypto expert, offers insightful commentary and analysis on cryptocurrency, NFTs, and the evolving digital landscape.

His extensive experience and features in top-tier publications like Forbes and CNN underscore his deep understanding of the crypto world and its future potential.

Check Adam out on: