![Bitcoin (1280x854).jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmcHWRXAghx13xMdkYnZWiNDwRXDMEbqduj9sQbCp1r49c/Bitcoin%20(1280x854).jpg)

Coinbase.com is immensely popular.

It is one the biggest cryptocurrency exchanges at the moment with a huge number of users and looking to grow larger. Most of those familiar with cryptocurrency will at least have heard of it and for many it is the entry point into this technology. 

But what has made it so successful? Let's take a look. 

**Fiat gateway**

Coinbase accepts fiat deposits, including credit card. This is very important because it allows people who don't own any cryptocurrency to start buying. Even if a new user wants to buy alt coins on other exchanges, they will need to purchase with fiat first and then transfer. 

**User Friendly**

Firstly and perhaps most importantly, it is incredibly user friendly. Everything about Coinbase appears to be geared towards people who are new to cryptoccurency, making the entire process as easy as possible.

The sign up process is very simple, allowing you to create an account in no time. Even their verification system is easy to use.

Once you have an account, it's made very clear how to buy cryptocurrency, with the buy button clearly displayed. The user interface is probably one of the very best things about Coinbase - it's clear that it was designed to be as easy as possible to use. 

Once a crytocurrency has been selected, it's simple to specify how much you want to buy and the website clearly tells you the costs are including fees. 

The wallet interface has also been designed well. It's easy to deposit or withdraw and the system makes this process as smooth as possible. 

**Cryptocurrencies**

Coinbase only has a few cryptocurrencies listed at the moment, however they are all very important ones. For a beginner, these coins would probably be sufficient.

Bitcoin and Ethereum in particular are the two key cryptos that many would be looking to buy for the first time, especially given that they are the most common trading pair for alt coins. 

**The future**

Coinbase seems to be doing very well and are expanding quickly. New features are being added and probably more cryptocurrencies will be too. Like any exchange, it is imperfect in some respects but it feels very efficient overall and a great place for beginners to start.