How to Buy Cardano (ADA) in 2025: A Complete Guide

Cardano (ADA) is one of the biggest cryptocurrencies, with a current market cap of over $37.8 billion. The platform is a cryptocurrency and blockchain network, similar to Ethereum, that facilitates decentralized transactions. Since its launch, many have anticipated that Cardano will grow to become one of the largest blockchain networks, making it an appealing investment opportunity.

However, cryptocurrency is still in its early stages, and there is still a lot of progress to be made, leaving many to believe that ADA is a long-term investment proposition.

This guide will focus on the best platforms to invest in Cardano, such as Coinbase, Binance, along with some easy step-by-step guides to help you begin investing.

How to Buy Cardano (ADA): Quick Guide

If you do not have time to read through our entire article, here is a quick guide on how to buy ADA from a centralized exchange.

1. Step 1: Sign up to a reputable cryptocurrency exchange that supports Cardano. Popular options include Binance, Coinbase and eToro.
2. Step 2: Fund your account. Connect a payment method to your account or deposit funds using a debit card or bank transfer. Make sure that you deposit enough funds to cover the costs of buying Cardano including network fees.
3. Step 3: Search for Cardano. Use the explore feature to search for ADA. You will then be able to view the price chart and relevant market information. It is a good idea to spend time conducting analysis before you make a purchase.
4. Step 4: Buy Cardano. Once you are certain that now is a good time to buy Cardano, fill out the order form and confirm the transaction.
5. Step 5: Move your ADA to a crypto wallet. For safekeeping, move your tokens to a decentralized cryptocurrency wallet. This will keep your investments away from third-party interference. For maximum safety, move your tokens to a cold wallet that is not connected to the internet, such as Ledger or Trezor.

What is Cardano (ADA)

Cardano is a blockchain project that combines the best features of Bitcoin and Ethereum while improving on their downsides. It works in two layers: the first for processing transactions securely (like Bitcoin) and the second for running smart contracts that power decentralized apps (like Ethereum).

The project has a native coin, ADA, used for payments and network operations. Cardano is unique because it focuses on making blockchains operate seamlessly together. It’s currently developing a system that could easily exchange assets between layer-one chains without needing an intermediary.

Regarding its consensus, Cardano is eco-friendly as it ditches the energy-intensive Proof of Work (PoW) and implements a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) mechanism. Here, users can stake their ADA tokens to help strengthen network security and earn rewards — a faster, cheaper, and more sustainable approach.
It’s no wonder that Cardano has been resilient across numerous bull/bear cycles and continues to deliver impressive gains to loyal investors and holders.

Why Invest in Cardano?

The reasons for buying ADA tokens often differ from investor to investor. Some may want to capitalize on its growth, while others seek passive income. Regardless, here are three top reasons why investing in Cardano may be a good choice:

Support its Vision

By investing in Cardano, you support a blockchain tailor-made for a more efficient and sustainable digital future. Plus, owning ADA earns you a voice in the Cardano network operations. 

Earn Passive Income

Thanks to Cardano’s use of a crypto staking system, you can lock your purchased ADA tokens to secure the network. In return, the project rewards you with more ADA tokens, which you can sell or lock again to increase your income.

Speculate on Long-term Growth

ADA has impressed the crypto market in the past. In the 2020 bull cycle, ADA surged over 30x within a year.

Although many cryptos are unpredictable in their price action, many investors eagerly bet on Cardano and are sure it could deliver more pumps in the coming years.

Before You Buy Cardano

Before you start the process of buying Cardano, there are a few things that you should consider.

Setting Up a Cryptocurrency Wallet

Since Cardano is a distinct blockchain network, you’ll need a crypto wallet that interacts with it. Interestingly, these wallets can easily connect to your browser so you can make transactions quicker and track your assets properly.

Some of the best browser wallets for Cardano include: 

• Nami Wallet
• Flint Wallet
• EternlWallet
• GeroWallet

Hardware wallets are recommended for those who want a secure way to store their cryptos. Ledger is the leading cold storage wallet and accepts tokens from multiple chains, including Cardano.

How to Choose the Right Crypto Exchange

According to Coinranking data, Cardano is traded on 70 exchanges. Knowing where to buy Cardano can be tricky, given the number of trading platforms. So, selecting one to buy ADA involves considering the exchange’s payment options, user experience, and security features.

It’s also crucial to know the exchange’s reputation and liquidity. These considerations can assist you in determining the best platform for you.

Best Crypto Exchanges to Buy ADA

How to Buy Cardano in 5 Steps

Once you have chosen and exchange and set up a crypto wallet, here is how to buy Cardano in 5 simple steps.

Step 1: Register on a Cryptocurrency Exchange

The first step here is to register an account of your preferred crypto exchange. If you’re unsure which to pick, Coinbase, Kraken, and Binance are our top picks. So, select any of them and start the signup process.

Step 2: Verify Your Account

As you finish your account creation process, you’ll need a valid ID to verify your profile. It could be your driver’s license, international passport, or proof of address. So, you should have any of the documents ready. Verification may take a few minutes or longer, depending on where you live.

Step 3: Deposit Funds

Next, you will be prompted to deposit funds (usually the minimum amount) to prove your account is active.

You can fund your account with credit card, debit card, bank transfer or crypto wallet. Choose an option that is the most accessible to you, taking fees into consideration.

Step 4: Buy Cardano (ADA)

Many centralized exchanges like Binance and Coinbase make buying Cardano a breeze. Just navigate to the “Buy Crypto” section(for Binance) or “Buy/Sell” section on Coinbase to make a purchase. You’ll find a list of assets these exchanges support.

So, type “Cardano” or “ADA” on the search bar and tap on the result [Cardano (ADA)] to open the purchase screen. You can also use your debit/credit card to buy ADA tokens. Input the amount you want to buy, input your bank details, and verify your transactions. Afterward, your ADA tokens will reflect in your account.

Step 5: Securely Store Your ADA

Once you receive the confirmation window, it’s time to store your ADA tokens securely. While your selected exchange has an in-built wallet to hold your cryptos, you may choose to leave it. Alternatively, you can download a Cardano-supported or hardware wallet to move your ADA tokens to them.

Once you’ve downloaded the wallet, register an account and note the seed phrases. Then, copy the wallet’s address.

Afterward, go to the “Withdraw” section of the crypto exchange, where you have your ADA tokens, paste the wallet address, and input the amount you want to send. Confirm the transaction, and you should have your ADA in your new wallet soon.

Tips for Investing in Cardano Safely

Like any cryptocurrency, investing in Cardano comes with risk. Luckily, there are several steps that you can take to minimize the risk that is involved.

Use a Reputable Exchange

Many top crypto exchanges trade Cardano. Yet, you must ensure that you use a reputable and security-conscious. In the previous section, we’ve highlighted three trading platforms where you can buy Cardano without any headache.

Always check that an exchange offers robust security as well as active customer support to assist you with any problems that you might run in to.

Move Your Coins to a Cold Wallet

We often advise against keeping your cryptos in an online account connected to an exchange. Assets held in such places are highly vulnerable to theft and hacks. Therefore, we recommend moving your ADA to a cold wallet.

Cold wallets, also known as hardware wallets, can store your cryptos and private keys away from the internet. Since they are not connected online, they are less risky and more secure than software or exchange wallets. A good cold wallet to consider is Ledger.

Use 2FA to Secure Your Account 

If you prefer to keep your ADA tokens on your online account connected to the exchange, you should take proactive measures by employing two-factor (2FA) authentication. This secures your account beyond inputting a username and password.

Many centralized exchanges employ this feature, and here’s how it works: The exchange sends different codes to your email address, phone number, or an authenticator app before you can log in. So, even if your password is compromised, the 2FA codes will still secure your accounts from prying eyes.

Final Thoughts 

This wraps up our discussion on how to buy Cardano! In this guide, we’ve shared insights into what Cardano is, why you should invest, and how to do so effectively.

After reading this guide, spend some time reviewing different exchanges to find a platform that suits your experience and goals. After this, I recommend starting with the minimum deposit so that you can familiarize yourself with the process of buying Cardano without putting too much money at risk.

FAQs

Find Out More About Smart Contract Tokens & Altcoin Guides