1. Research the Exchange: Read reviews of the exchange, check ratings and compare with other exchanges. Make sure that the exchange is regulated and licensed, and that it is secure with a good track record of customer satisfaction.
2. Consider Fees: Different exchanges have different fees depending on what you want to trade, your frequency and the amount of money. Consider these fees before making a final decision.
3. Understand Payment Options: Different exchanges offer different payment options, like bank transfers, credit cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency.
4. Check for Coinbase Alternatives: Coinbase is one of the most widely used crypto exchanges because of its user-friendly platform and wide selection of coins. However, you can look into other exchanges as well, such as Binance, Huobi, Kraken, or Bittrex for better features, fees, and customer service.
5. Consider a Decentralized Exchange: A decentralized exchange is a peer-to-peer platform where users can buy and sell cryptocurrencies without a central authority. This means that fees are much lower and security is generally higher than with centralized exchanges. There are several decentralized exchanges, such as ShapeShift and Waves.
6. Look Into Geographic Restrictions: Some platforms may not be available in certain countries, so make sure to do your research and find out which exchanges are available in your country.