bitcoin vs gold which is better?
Buying Crypto

Bitcoin vs Gold: Which Is Better?

When it comes to deciding where to invest your money, the bitcoin vs gold debate comes up again and again.

I am 27 years old and my parents are 69 years old. They are from the Baby Boomer generation and I am a Millennial. There is a MASSIVE generational gap between us in terms of technology. Frankly, it is hard for me to imagine showing up to work without access to a computer!

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Best Way to Buy Bitcoin in Canada
Buying Crypto, Education, Finance

What is the Best Way to Buy Bitcoin in Canada?

There are a lot of options when it comes to investing in cryptocurrency, but what is the best way to buy Bitcoin in Canada?

The good news is there are plenty of methods to choose from so there is something for everyone. Below we have outlined the pros and cons of 10 different ways to purchase crypto. We have also given each one a score out of five for the following categories: convenience, security, and value.

Read on to find out the best way to buy Bitcoin in Canada for you.

How can I buy Bitcoin in Canada?

The good thing about living in a relatively crypto-friendly country like Canada is there are lots of options to exchange fiat currency for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies like Litecoin and Ethereum.

The first decision you have to make is whether you want to trade online or in person at a physical location. That’s right, you can actually swap cold hard cash for cryptocurrency!

The next step is to choose a payment method. In a short space of time, trading platforms have expanded their ways to pay exponentially. While it may seem intimidating at first, don’t fear! We have compiled some of the most popular options out there to help you make up your mind.

Crypto gift cards

Crypto gift cards just like any gift card you might buy at a normal retail store. The main difference is you can’t buy goods and services with it. Instead, you can send someone a digital gift card with crypto assets from your own wallet or by buying a certain amount with fiat currency.

Pros:

  • Potential to increase in value: A crypto gift card is essentially a hot wallet, meaning it holds a certain amount of crypto on it. This means the value could increase if you hodl it.
  • Great gift idea: Whether you are looking for a present for a Bitcoin maximalist or someone who knows next to nothing about crypto, a gift card is a fun and easy gift idea. The recipient doesn’t even need a bank account. All they need is a crypto wallet.

Cons:

  • Lack of flexibility: Once you buy a gift card using fiat, you lock in your chosen coin. If the recipient is more into altcoins, for example, you’d probably be better off just sending them some cash.
  • Not secure: If a gift card gets lost in the mail, there’s not much you can do to retrieve your coins. Similarly, if it gets stolen, someone could easily extract the value for themselves. This is a lot riskier than simply sending it from your wallet.

Convenience: 3/5

Security: 1/5

Value: 3/5

Bitcoin ATM

Bitcoin ATMs, also known as Bitcoin kiosks or BTMs, enable you to exchange cash for BTC, Litecoin, Ethereum, or other cryptocurrencies in person. Although they are different from the machines you would find at a traditional bank, just like an ATM, you can deposit or withdraw cash. The main difference is you buy cryptocurrency when you deposit cash and you sell it when you make a withdrawal.

Bitcoin ATMs are a great option because they save a lot of the hassle of going through lengthy online sign up processes and they are one of the easiest methods to use.

Pros:

  • Simple to use: It doesn’t get much easier than inserting cash into a machine and instantly buying your cryptocurrency of choice. All you need is cash, a phone, and a digital wallet. This makes it a great way to explore the market without the hassle of creating an account with an online exchange.
  • Direct: There is no middleman at all if you buy from an ATM. It’s a direct transaction so there’s no waiting for funds to arrive from your bank or for an online exchange to approve your transaction.
  • Secure: Bitcoin ATM providers are regulated by FINTRAC. If you are unsure about whether the machine you are using is legit, you can search for the name of the company on FINTRAC’s registry for peace of mind your transaction will be secure.

Cons:

  • Must have cash: If you don’t happen to have cash on you, there are not a lot of options out there to buy at a machine. Fortunately, there are ways you can still transact without cash, such as via Interac® e-transfer.
  • Fees: one of the drawbacks of machines is that trading fees are usually higher than online exchanges. Of course this all depends on your personal preference and plenty of people prefer to use Bitcoin ATMs for the convenience and ease of use.

Convenience: 5/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 3/5

OTC Desk Locations

OTC, or over-the-counter, involves buying cryptocurrency via a broker, either in person or virtually. This option is ideal for investors looking for a personalized service.You speak directly to an account manager who provides advice and handles the trade for you.

The downside is you usually have to spend a certain amount to qualify, however, using private exchange services makes sense for large volume trades. 

Pros:

  • Personalized service: Having someone else place a trade on your behalf removes a lot of the stress involved in buying Bitcoin.
  • Expert advice: OTC brokers usually have experience when it comes to making trades. If you’re new to the world of cryptocurrency, expert advice can help maximize your investment.

Cons:

  • Fees: At the end of the day, you are paying for a service with OTC, and this is reflected in the slightly higher fees you pay.
  • Large volume: OTC is designed for people with large sums to invest in Bitcoin, meaning it is not suitable for the average customer.

Convenience: 5/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 3/5

Purchase Bitcoin direct from a seller

There are forums and posts on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Reddit, and Craigslist (That’s right! Remember Craigslist?) as well as niche sites where people will literally sell you Bitcoin. Of course, there are risks involved because you’re essentially buying from a stranger.

It is possible to find cheaper rates, but this method is more labour intensive than other alternatives. When you buy from a reputable company, you do not need to scour multiple websites for a cheaper deal, customers know exactly what to expect every time.

Pros:

  • Bargain deals: People who buy crypto this way are usually looking to squeeze every satoshi they can out of a deal. It is possible to find some great rates, especially if you find a motivated seller.

Cons:

  • Risky: Buyers take on a lot of risk when they buy directly from a seller online. Often there is no way of knowing if the seller will deliver what they promise.
  • Time consuming: Searching through page after page to find the best deal consumes a lot of time and effort.

Convenience: 1/5

Security: 1/5

Value: 3/5

INTERAC® e-Transfer

INTERAC® e-Transfer is arguably the best way to buy Bitcoin in Canada. It is as easy as sending money to a friend, it takes just a few minutes, and the fees are relatively low. Transactions are secure when you buy Bitcoin via e-Transfer from a reputable company and service is convenient and fast.

The sign up process is much shorter for e-transfer than it is for online crypto exchanges like Newton or Shakepay, which can take hours or even days to go through. Similarly, you don’t have to wait what seems like an age for a bank wire transfer to fund your account.

Pros:

  • Fast: Transactions are usually seamless and completed in a matter of minutes.
  • Secure: So long as you are buying from a trusted source, you can rely on the proven INTERAC® e-Transfer infrastructure, so you know your funds will be safe.
  • Simple: All you need to get started for transactions below $1,000 is a phone number and there are no extra hoops you have to jump through like there are for online exchanges.

Cons:

  • Limited transaction size: A downside to using e-Transfer is your bank will usually limit the amount you can send in one day. So long as you only plan to purchase Bitcoin below a few thousand Canadian dollars in value, however, this option is perfectly suitable.

Convenience: 5/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 3/5

Debit

Buying digital currencies with a debit card is a simple way to join the cryptocurrency world. It works just like making a standard purchase online. All you need to do is pick a trustworthy trading platform, sign up for an account and enter your card details.

The downside of debit transactions is that not all banks allow it and some operators will flag crypto purchases as fraudulent. This can lead to long, frustrating delays.

Pros:

  • Fast: Most exchanges can process transactions quickly.
  • Simple: The sign up process usually takes a few minutes, unlike online exchanges.

Cons:

  • Bank restrictions: Banks can sometimes get involved and prevent purchases from going through

Convenience: 3/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 3/5

Credit

You should tread carefully when buying crypto with a credit card. Customers should avoid making speculative purchases and only spend what they know they can pay back comfortably.

One of the key drawbacks of using a credit card is the fees. Banks usually charge more for purchases of cryptocurrency on credit because of the inherent risk the borrower might not be able to pay it back.

Having said that, if you’re responsible and know what you’re doing, buying Bitcoin with a credit card is as equally straightforward as using a debit card.

Pros:

  • Convenient: Just like debit transactions, the process is usually fast and simple.

Cons:

  • Fees: There are cheaper options out there that are just as fast and convenient.

Convenience: 3/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 1/5

Bank wire transfer

If the fees involved with using a credit card put you off and you have some time on your hands, bank wire transfers are a cheaper alternative. There are usually no bank fees involved in transferring money to fund your crypto account, however, whether you run into problems with your bank is another question.

Bank transfers can take days to go through, especially if you are a first time buyer. This can be annoying to say the least, especially if you miss out on an opportunity with a Bitcoin price fluctuation, for example.

Pros:

  • Free: Bank transfers to fund your account usually cost nothing.

Cons:

  • Time: Wires sometimes take a day or two to go through.

Convenience: 1/5

Security: 5/5

Value: 3/5

Apps

Some mobile apps, such as Wealth Simple, offer Bitcoin investment options. The apps are usually user-friendly and if you are familiar with how they work, funding your account is simple enough.

It is important to exercise caution when choosing which app to go with. Make sure the app allows you to send BTC to your crypto wallet. Some providers only allow you to keep funds in their custody wallet, meaning you do not have total control over your crypto asset.

Pros:

  • User-friendly: If you’re new to crypto, the apps will help to guide you through the whole process.

Cons:

  • Lack of control: Some apps only allow you to keep funds in their custody wallet.

Convenience: 2/5

Security: 3/5

Value: 3/5

Online exchanges

If you have looked into buying cryptocurrency at all you are bound to have come across online exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken. These trading platforms are usually good for beginners and offer a wide range of altcoins in addition to the more established cryptocurrencies.

While they are a lot of people’s first step into the crypto universe, many people soon start looking for alternatives. Users are put off by lengthy sign up processes, privacy concerns, and poor customer service.

Pros:

  • Guidance: Most sign-up processes, while lengthy, are well designed and walk the user through step-by-step.

Cons:

  • Slow: If you are using an exchange for the first time, it can take a long time to get your account approved and funded.
  • Invasive: Some online exchanges require you to surrender a lot of information before you can start trading.

Convenience: 3/5

Security: 3/5

Value: 3/5

Conclusion

There is no shortage of methods you can use to buy Bitcoin. INTERAC® e-Transfer is the best way to buy Bitcoin in Canada from an overall perspective. It scored highest in our ratings and is generally fast, secure, and good value.

The ultimate deciding factor in what defines “best”, however, is you. That is the great thing about cryptocurrency today: with more ways to buy than ever before there is bound to be an option that fits your needs and level of knowledge.

Click here to buy using INTERAC® e-Transfer

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Buying Crypto

Buy Bitcoin with Interac e-Transfer

Why Buy with Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay with HoneyBadger?

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Secure

HoneyBadger is a federally registered Money Services Business (MSB) in the country of Canada and complies with all FINTRAC regulations. Your funds are protected with us. 

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Convenient

Can’t make it to one of our ATMs? Use our online portal to complete transactions from anywhere using your phone or computer. 

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Customer Service

Our team is here to help you. If you have any questions, reach out to our amazing support crew

How to Buy

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Sign Up

Sign Up for HoneyBadger’s online portal using your email and password. You will receive a verification code to the phone number linked to your account.

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Buy Crypto

Once you’ve logged in, select “Buy Coins.” Then pick your desired coin and enter the amount. Your purchasing price will be locked in for the entirety of your transaction (Approx. 13mins).

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Frictionless Payment

After you’ve selected the amount of coins you’d like to buy, use your Visa, Mastercard or Google Pay to purchase your cryptocurrency.

What do I Need?

  • Your cell phone nearby for verification
  • Visa, Mastercard or Google Pay
  • Your cryptocurrency wallet address in copy and paste format

Powered by nuvei

nuvei provides a safe and secure payment gateway for online payments. They’re a verification service that ensures your Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay transaction is conducted as easily as sending money to a friend.

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Buy Bitcoin with Interac e-Transfer

The fastest and most secure way to buy Bitcoin with Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay

Looking for a seamless platform to purchase Bitcoin using your Canadian bank account? You’ve come to the right place. Our user-friendly exchange allows you to buy Bitcoin with Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay, making cryptocurrency transactions quick, easy, and hassle-free.🚀

Our platform is designed to meet the needs of both beginners and seasoned traders alike. With our highly competitive fees, real-time updates, and customer support at your fingertips, you can buy Bitcoin with Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay, effortlessly and securely.

Don’t miss out on the digital currency revolution! It’s time to join the thousands of Canadians who have chosen our platform for their Bitcoin purchases. Sign up today and take advantage of instant funding to your account, low fees, and top-notch security. 💳🔒

Discover the easiest way to buy Bitcoin with Visa, Mastercard and Google Pay, now! Register for a free account and start your journey into the world of cryptocurrency. 🌐📈

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Buying Crypto

ATM

Find a Bitcoin ATM Near Me

What to Bring to the ATM:

Phone
Cash
Crypto Wallet

*If you don’t have a crypto wallet, don’t worry. You can use our custody wallet until you get one.

For purchases $1,000 – $9,999 you will also need a Photo ID.

How to Use a HoneyBadger Bitcoin ATM

Touch the HoneyBadger ATM home screen, then select Buy Coins

Select the amount of cash you want to sell / withdraw

Enter your phone number

Input the SMS verification code sent to your phone

Insert cash into the machine and you’re done!

Buy Coins

If you have not received your coins within two hours, please call us at +1 (855) 499-1149 or contact customer service.

    1. Choose the cryptocurrency you wish to buy (Bitcoin, Ethereum or Litecoin).
    2. Open your cryptocurrency wallet. Select “Receive” followed by the cryptocurrency you want to buy.
      • If you don’t have a cryptocurrency wallet, you can use HoneyBadger’s Custody Wallet until you have your own. Just follow the link in the SMS with your HoneyBadger verification code or click here.
    1. A QR code will appear on your phone. Scan the QR code just above the keypad on the HoneyBadger ATM.
    1. Follow the link in the SMS sent to your phone, or click here.
    2. Fill out your name, email and phone number (this should be the same phone number used earlier).
    3. Either upload images of your passport or government-issued ID or take photos using your phone’s camera.
    4. Once you have submitted your details touch the HoneyBadger ATM screen again. If too much time has passed, you will have to start the process again. But don’t worry, you do not need to resubmit your details.
    5. Choose the cryptocurrency you wish to buy (Bitcoin, Ethereum or Litecoin).

    6. Open your cryptocurrency wallet. Select “Receive” followed by the cryptocurrency you want to buy.
        • If you don’t have a cryptocurrency wallet, you can use HoneyBadger’s Custody Wallet until you have your own. Just follow the link in the SMS with your HoneyBadger verification code or click here.

    7. A QR code will appear on your phone. Scan the QR code just above the keypad on the HoneyBadger ATM.

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    Buying Crypto, Selling Crypto

    OTC

    How OTC Works

    Experienced pros at your service

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    Purchase Inquiry

    Fill out contact form below

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    Consultation & Onboarding

    Initial discussion to better understand your trading needs

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    Payment Settlement

    All trades must be pre-paid through a wire transfer, money order, certified cheque, bank draft or e-transfer

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    Trade Finalized

    Both parties agree on pricing, we execute the trade and coins are sent to your desired address

    Why HoneyBadger?

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    Dedicated account manager

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    Quick onboarding

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    Flexible trading options

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    Institutional finance experience

    Get in Touch

    Minimum order: $10,000 CAD

    Your Info

    Private Bitcoin Service Consultation (approx. 15 mins)





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