The 5 easiest cryptocurrencies for beginners and how to buy them

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Getting started with cryptocurrency can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners navigating a sea of complex jargon and thousands of tokens. But it doesn’t have to be. This guide highlights five beginner-friendly cryptocurrencies that combine accessibility, growth potential, and straightforward purchase options. Each token is explained in detail, along with simple steps for buying them, making it easier to take the first steps into the digital economy.

Bitcoin (BTC)

Launched in 2009 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin is the first decentralized cryptocurrency, operating on a peer-to-peer network without a central authority. It utilizes a Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, where miners solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and secure the network. 

As the most popular cryptocurrency, Bitcoin is widely accepted and supported by nearly all major exchanges and wallets. Bitcoin adoption has expanded globally, with businesses, institutions, and even governments embracing it for payments, investments, and economic initiatives. Companies like PayPal and Microsoft accept BTC for transactions, while El Salvador has integrated it into its financial systems as legal tender.

Bitcoin is the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, serving as both a store of value and a medium of exchange. Its reputation as the “gold standard” of crypto makes it a natural starting point for beginners. 

How to buy Bitcoin (BTC)? 

1. Choose a Reliable Exchange: For a fast and straightforward process, platforms like ChangeNOW are a great option.
2. Select Bitcoin: Go to the “Buy/Sell Crypto” section and choose BTC.
3. Enter Payment Details: Specify the fiat currency (USD, EUR, etc.) and the amount you wish to spend.
4. Provide Your BTC Wallet Address: Input your Bitcoin wallet address where the BTC will be delivered. Unless you already have a wallet, you can get it here. 
5. Confirm and Pay: Double-check the details, confirm the transaction, and complete the payment.

Once the transaction is processed, the BTC will be sent directly to your wallet.

Ethereum (ETH)

Proposed in 2013 by Vitalik Buterin and launched in 2015, Ethereum is a decentralized platform that enables developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). With its transition from PoW to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) under Ethereum 2.0, the network has enhanced scalability and reduced energy consumption. Ethereum serves as the backbone for many DeFi projects and NFTs, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of blockchain innovation.  

Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap and powers a wide range of decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts. Ethereum widespread adoption spans multiple industries, as it serves the foundation for DeFi protocols, NFT marketplaces, and enterprise blockchain solutions. Platforms like Uniswap, OpenSea, and Aave showcase Ethereum’s transformative impact on finance, art, and technology, while major corporations and institutions integrate Ethereum for supply chain management, tokenization, and other use cases. Its vast utility and strong ecosystem make it a logical choice for newcomers. 

How to buy Ethereum (ETH)? 

1. Select a Platform: Platforms like ChangeNOW allow seamless Ethereum purchases with no registration required.
2. Choose Ethereum (ETH): Navigate to the buying section and select Ethereum.
3. Enter Payment Information: Input the fiat currency and the amount you’d like to spend.
4. Provide Your ETH Wallet Address: Enter your Ethereum wallet address (ensure compatibility with Ethereum). You can get a wallet here if you don’t already have one.
5. Confirm and Complete: Review the transaction details and complete the payment.

The ETH will arrive in your wallet shortly after the transaction is processed.

Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency designed to facilitate faster transaction confirmations and lower fees compared to Bitcoin. It employs a PoW consensus mechanism with a different hashing algorithm (Scrypt), allowing for quicker block generation. Litecoin is favored for convenient payments and everyday use, cementing its position as one of the most practical and widely used cryptocurrencies.

Often referred to as the “silver to Bitcoin’s gold,” Litecoin offers faster transaction speeds and lower fees, making it ideal for smaller transactions and first-time users. Its adoption has grown steadily, with Litecoin being widely accepted by merchants, online retailers, and payment processors. Specifically, Litecoin is compatible with major platforms like PayPal and integrated into payment solutions such as BitPay which highlights its practical use in commerce.

How to buy LTC? 

1. Choose a Platform: For a quick and efficient experience, ChangeNOW supports Litecoin purchases without the need for creating an account.
2. Select Litecoin (LTC): Go to the platform’s “Buy Crypto” section and choose Litecoin.
3. Enter Payment Amount: Specify the amount in fiat currency you want to spend.
4. Provide Your LTC Wallet Address: Input the wallet address where you’d like to receive the Litecoin. If you do not have a wallet yet, you can get one right here.
5. Confirm and Pay: Verify the details and complete the payment.

The LTC will be sent to your wallet after the payment is processed.

Cardano (ADA)

Known for its emphasis on security and sustainability, Cardano offers a research-driven approach to blockchain technology, appealing to those who value long-term innovation. Its adoption continues to grow globally, with partnerships spanning industries such as education, healthcare, and supply chain. Cardano’s blockchain is particularly popular in developing regions, where initiatives like digital identity projects in Africa highlight its potential for real-world impact. The platform is also gaining traction in DeFi and NFT ecosystems, offering a secure and efficient environment for developers and users alike.

Cardano is a third-generation blockchain platform focusing on sustainability, scalability, and interoperability. It utilizes a unique PoS consensus mechanism called Ouroboros, which is peer-reviewed and designed for energy efficiency. Known for its methodical development approach, Cardano aims to provide a secure and scalable platform for dApps and smart contracts, reinforcing its position as a leading blockchain for innovative solutions.  

How to buy ADA? 

1. Pick a Platform: ChangeNOW is an excellent choice for buying Cardano quickly and securely.
2. Select Cardano (ADA): Navigate to the purchase section and choose Cardano.
3. Enter Purchase Details: Specify your fiat currency and the amount you wish to spend.
4. Provide Your ADA Wallet Address: Enter the address for your Cardano wallet. If you have no wallet yet, you can get one right here. 
5. Confirm and Pay: Review the details, confirm the transaction, and make the payment.

Once the transaction is complete, the ADA will be delivered to your wallet.

Solana (SOL)

Solana is known for its lightning-fast transaction speeds and low fees, making it ideal for those looking for efficiency in the crypto space. Its growing ecosystem of decentralized apps and NFTs makes it an appealing option for new users.  

Solana is a high-performance blockchain supporting builders worldwide in creating crypto apps that scale efficiently. It combines PoS with a unique Proof-of-History (PoH) mechanism, enabling high throughput and low latency. Recognized for its speed and low transaction costs, Solana is gaining traction in DeFi and NFT spaces.

How to buy SOL? 

1. Select a Platform: Platforms like ChangeNOW make buying Solana easy with no limits or registration.
2. Choose Solana (SOL): Find Solana in the “Buy Crypto” section of the platform.
3. Enter Payment Details: Input the fiat currency and the amount you want to spend.
4. Provide Your SOL Wallet Address: Enter your Solana wallet address to receive the tokens.
5. Confirm and Pay: Check the transaction details, confirm, and complete the payment.

Once the transaction is processed, the SOL will arrive in your wallet.

The reviewed cryptocurrencies — Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Litecoin (LTC), and Cardano (ADA) — offer diverse functionalities and are well-established options for newcomers to the crypto space.

Important note: Always conduct thorough research and evaluate your investment goals and risk tolerance before diving into cryptocurrency investments.

To ensure a smooth start to your crypto journey, it’s crucial to choose a reliable and trusted exchange with a user-friendly interface and hassle-free transaction handling. One such platform is ChangeNOW, offering a seamless experience for beginners.

ChangeNOW: a Go-to Platform to Start Exploring the Crypto Market

ChangeNOW is a versatile platform offering a seamless, secure, and hassle-free experience for buying, selling, and exchanging cryptocurrencies. It is non-custodial meaning that your funds always remain under your control, providing a level of security that is crucial for privacy-conscious users. The platform is straightforward and does not require registration, allowing for quick and private transactions.  

Buying crypto on ChangeNOW is simple. The platform supports over 60 fiat currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP. Thanks to partnerships with trusted providers Simplex and Transak, users can make purchases using a variety of payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.  

What sets ChangeNOW apart is its limitless transaction feature. You can exchange as little as $2 or as much as you want. The platform is transparent, showing upfront pricing with no hidden fees, ensuring you get competitive rates every time.  

ChangeNOW also offers a lineup of crypto products tailored for those eager to swap and exchange with ease.  

NOW Wallet  

Convenience and security take center stage with NOW Wallet, a non-custodial wallet supporting 40+ coins and numerous tokens across 7 networks. This versatile wallet allows users to buy, sell, exchange, and stake crypto while maintaining full control of their funds. With support for over 50 fiat currencies via Visa and MasterCard, NOW Wallet is available on both mobile and desktop platforms, offering a streamlined solution for managing crypto assets.  

ChangeNOW Pro 

Signing up for ChangeNOW Pro unlocks a range of exclusive features that make managing crypto more rewarding. Users benefit from cashback on every transaction, turning exchanges into opportunities for extra rewards. Auto-staking enables your funds to generate passive income effortlessly, while the balance storage feature allows you to store crypto within the platform for easy top-ups or withdrawals when rates are favorable.  

ChangeNOW Pro also supports off-chain swaps, which save users on fees during conversions or withdrawals. Additionally, the integrated crypto loans feature provides users with a new way to leverage their assets for financial flexibility.  

Mobile Exchange

For crypto enthusiasts on the go, ChangeNOW offers an app free of accounts, limits, and custody concerns. It allows users to access over 1,000 cryptocurrencies anytime, anywhere. Available on Google Play and the App Store, the mobile platform provides a secure and user-friendly way to trade crypto. Registered users can also take advantage of staking features to maximize their assets.  

In addition, ChangeNOW’s reputation for excellent customer support, with a 99% resolution rate, ensures that users receive prompt assistance for any issues, making the platform a reliable choice for all crypto needs.  

With its combination of simplicity, security, and a wide range of features, ChangeNOW is the ideal choice for anyone looking to start their crypto journey or manage their portfolio effortlessly. Whether you’re using the main platform, Pro services, mobile exchange, or NOW Wallet, ChangeNOW provides the tools and flexibility to succeed in the crypto world.  

Start Your Crypto Journey with Confidence

Diving into the world of cryptocurrency can seem daunting at first, but choosing the right platform makes all the difference. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Cardano, and Solana are beginner-friendly options, offering robust networks, widespread adoption, and promising growth potential. Each of these cryptocurrencies is easy to purchase, and platforms like ChangeNOW simplify the process even further, providing a user-friendly, secure, and flexible way to get started.

Remember, cryptocurrency investments carry risks, so always do thorough research and consider your financial goals. With the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the exciting opportunities in the digital economy.

*This article was paid for. Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.