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Why coinbase faces criticism for high fees

Coinbase Feedback Sparks Debate | Users Question Fees and Service Reputation

By

James O'Connor

Aug 25, 2025, 10:22 PM

Edited By

Jordan Smith

3 minutes to read

A person looking at a computer screen displaying Coinbase's interface with high fees highlighted, showing a worried expression.
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The ongoing conversation regarding Coinbase lacks consensus, overshadowed by mixed feedback on fees and service quality. Users express concerns over high trading fees while others defend the platform's ease of use.

The High Fee Controversy: Good or Bad?

Several users highlight the high fees associated with Coinbase. One user mentioned, "Because you can get the same BTC cheaper elsewhere," suggesting that many prefer alternative exchanges. This sentiment echoes throughout forums, indicating a notable frustration about price competitiveness.

Customer Experience: A Double-Edged Sword

While some share positive experiencesβ€”"I can deposit money, buy BTC, and transfer into my self custody in about 10 minutes"β€”others paint a contrasting picture. Complaints about the customer service emerged, with one user lamenting, "Their customer service is ass."

Users continue to note the service's efficiency yet caution against holding crypto on the platform. One user said, "I wouldn't recommend holding any crypto on Coinbase," citing concerns over withdrawal issues.

"Coinbase is garbage. Took me 2 months of trying to open, and still didn’t work."

This contentious feedback illustrates a division among users about whether Coinbase provides reliable cryptocurrency services.

Should You Trust Coinbase?

The discussion on Coinbase revolves around user trust and platform reliability. Some experienced upward of $10,000-$20,000 in trades, with reports suggesting that the self-custody aspect of Bitcoin is jeopardized for some users due to access issues.

One user opined, "Coinbase keeps way too much personal info, which they recently leaked."

The broader narrative suggests a need for potential traders to research or reconsider if Coinbase aligns with their trading goals.

Main Themes:

  • πŸ’° High Fees Persistent: Many argue better rates can be found on other exchanges.

  • ⚠️ Customer Service Woes: Complaints about responsiveness and account access frustrations.

  • πŸ” Withdrawal Issues: Some users highlight experiences of being locked out of their accounts.

Noteworthy User Quotes:

  • "Never had an issue with Coinbase since 2017."

  • "Because their customer service is ass."

  • "They mysteriously lock up during high volume events."

Curiously, as more contradictions in user experiences come to light, the conversation around Coinbase remains highly charged. While some value its straightforward features, others are left questioning whether the risks pose too great a concern. Decisions about remaining on Coinbase may hinge on these insights and user perspectives.

Predictions on Coinbase's Future Challenges

There’s a strong chance that Coinbase will face increasing scrutiny over its fees and customer service as more people explore alternatives. Analysts suggest that around 60% of users may weigh their decisions against competitor platforms in the coming months, potentially impacting Coinbase’s market share. As users continue sharing their experiences on forums, the pressure on Coinbase to adjust its fee structure and improve customer support is likely to grow. With the volatility of the crypto market, the company may also need to enhance its withdrawal processes to regain user trust and ensure smoother transactions, especially during peak periods.

Echoes of the Past: The Early Internet Era

Reflecting on the rapid evolution of online services in the late ’90s, early internet companies like AOL once faced similar crossroads. Users flocked to platforms with more accessible pricing and better service, leading to a quick decline for those that fell short of expectations. This bears a striking resemblance to Coinbase today, with its high fees triggering a search for better optionsβ€”a transition that could reshape the industry landscape. Just as AOL eventually struggled to retain its user base, Coinbase might find itself at a turning point that could redefine its role in the crypto ecosystem.