Cryptocurrency for beginners: A quick guide to purchasing crypto for the first time

Crypto for Beginners

Ready to finally enter the exciting world of crypto? 2025 is a perfect time to explore digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Litecoin, among many other potentially game-changing assets. However, let's be real, navigating the world of buying cryptocurrency (as a beginner) can feel like navigating a complex maze packed with jargon and potential pitfalls.

This is particularly accurate if you're in Canada and looking for a straightforward way to buy crypto. The process is daunting for most, if not all, beginners. However, fear not! This blog is your friendly guide, meant to simplify everything. Below, we'll spotlight the best way to get into crypto as a beginner via trusted platforms in Canada that have both online and physical presence, offering a familiar and secure buying experience (much like a regular shopping trip). Let's simplify your crypto journey together!

Benefits of Cryptocurrency

There are many reasons to get into crypto now. The most notable include:

  1. Diversified portfolio: Unlike traditional investments like stocks and bonds, virtual currencies are a non-correlated asset class, which means they can reduce overall risk. In simple terms, a decline in traditional asset classes doesn't automatically equate to a decline in crypto assets. What's more, some major cryptocurrencies with a finite supply are protected from inflation.
  2. Higher potential returns: While cryptos are volatile assets with potential risks, they have historically offered a higher potential for significant returns. Many major digital assets like BTC have enjoyed a tenfold increase over the past five years. If there is demand for a specific crypto, the potential return tends to be higher than that of traditional assets like real estate.
  3. Decentralization benefits: Cryptocurrencies aren’t under central authorities like central banks that exert direct control over the supply. The technology behind cryptocurrencies (blockchain technology, which is simply a public ledger) eliminates banks (intermediaries) responsible for high transaction fees and irregularities in money supply.
  4. Accessibility: Cryptocurrencies also transcend limitations of traditional finance by offering wider access to financial services globally. With the majority of the world still unbanked, crypto investments offer immense potential.
  5. Increased adoption: Cryptocurrencies have enjoyed widespread adoption. Many financial institutions, like banks, hedge funds, and even governments, have adopted digital currencies and underlying technology. Cryptocurrencies are considered legitimate assets today by many, signaling growing acceptance.
  6. Real-world use cases: Speculation aside, digital assets have real-world applications in many areas, from cross-border payments to decentralized finance and more, contributing to long-term value/utility.

Where and How to Buy Cryptocurrency as a Beginner in Canada

If you are interested in purchasing crypto but don't know where to begin, we've got you covered! As a beginner, we suggest you focus on buying cryptocurrency from physical locations such as Bitcoin ATMs and/or Bitcoin counters of reputable Canadian exchanges/platforms. In this regard, you have two main options, namely:

1. Buying Cryptocurrency from Bitcoin Counters

If you’re just getting started in your crypto journey, buying crypto from physical Bitcoin counters is by far the best/safest way.

First and foremost, it’s a familiar buying experience. You can just walk into a physical store and get served by an actual person who will take your cash and send you the cryptocurrency you want. If you don’t have a cryptocurrency wallet (a place to digitally store your crypto when you buy it), you can get assistance on setting up one and storing your crypto securely.

It doesn’t get easier than this when you want a familiar crypto buying process that is safe and easy. Most importantly, you can sell cryptocurrency the same way. What’s more, you’ll be dealing with a company that is physically registered in Canada and subject to Canadian laws in case of any eventualities. The same can’t be said about international crypto exchanges that are purely online.

In case you are wondering where to find Bitcoin counters in Canada, bitMachina is a reputable cryptocurrency exchange or trading platform with actual counters in numerous locations.

You can find a Bitcoin counter in Ontario here and the Québec locations here. Simply walk into any bitMachina Bitcoin counter, speak to a friendly cashier, specify the amount you want to buy/receive, and get help buying crypto majors like Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, and Ethereum.

Buy up to $4,995 daily in crypto at our counters, where ID verification isn't needed. For higher transaction limits, consider getting verified and using the bitMachina VIP service that allows purchases up to $90,000 daily using cash.

2. Buying Cryptocurrency from Bitcoin ATMs

If you are looking for another beginner-friendly way to buy cryptocurrency in Canada, you should consider Bitcoin ATMs. This method of buying cryptocurrency is perfect for beginners, since purchases are made from physical locations. As mentioned, crypto platforms with a physical presence in Canada are safer because they are subject to Canadian regulations, making them less risky when compared to online-only platforms.

It's also easy to purchase cryptocurrency via Bitcoin ATMs. Purchasing is as simple as finding a Bitcoin ATM in Canada. bitMachina has conveniently located Bitcoin ATMs in Ontario.

To purchase, follow these simple steps:

  1. Select the "buy crypto" option on the ATM screen
  2. Establishing the preferred crypto coin
  3. Scan your bitcoin wallet or manually enter it
  4. Select the transaction amount/units of cryptocurrency
  5. Insert cash
  6. And lastly, just confirming the transaction

After confirming, you should receive the Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency selected in your crypto wallet instantly. Like regular ATMs, you’ll get a receipt confirming your transaction.

Final Thoughts

According to CoinMarketCap, the crypto market is a $3 trillion market as of May 2025 (with majors accounting for over 70% of it). However, buying crypto conventionally can be risky and complicated. Luckily, there are beginner-friendly ways to buy digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, among other majors.

Beginners with a low risk tolerance (those who aren’t comfortable buying crypto from online-only international companies) can opt for Bitcoin counters and Bitcoin ATMs from reputable crypto companies in Canada, like bitMachina. Buying crypto is as simple as locating a Bitcoin counter or ATM near you!

Bitcoin counters are the most beginner-friendly since you’ll get assistance from a cashier. Bitcoin ATMs are also easy to use, provided you follow the instructions to the letter. Once you understand basic and difficult concepts of crypto trading and become an experienced trader, you can consider other crypto purchase methods.

Do you need any more info about beginner-friendly ways of buying cryptocurrency in Canada? Call 343-308-6313 or email: info@bitmachina.ca.