Bitcoin Cash (BCH) is a cryptocurrency created in 2017 as a scalable alternative to Bitcoin. While both share similarities, BCH operates on a separate blockchain with faster transactions and lower fees. This guide covers everything you need to know about buying, storing, and investing in Bitcoin Cash.
What Is Bitcoin Cash?
Bitcoin Cash emerged from a hard fork of the Bitcoin blockchain in 2017. Developers sought to address scalability issues, resulting in a new cryptocurrency optimized for:
- Low fees (typically <$0.01 per transaction)
- Fast processing (transactions complete in seconds)
- Security (proof-of-work blockchain)
- Fixed supply (capped at 21 million BCH)
- Privacy (anonymous peer-to-peer transfers)
👉 Discover the best crypto exchanges for Bitcoin Cash
How To Buy Bitcoin Cash
1. Cryptocurrency Exchanges
Reputable platforms like Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken allow you to:
- Create an account
- Verify your identity
- Deposit funds (USD, EUR, etc.)
- Purchase BCH via market or limit orders
Pros: High liquidity, security, user-friendly interfaces.
Cons: Trading fees (~0.1–1.5%).
2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Networks
Platforms like LocalBitcoins enable direct trades with sellers.
- Pros: Flexible payment methods (cash, PayPal, etc.).
- Cons: Higher fraud risk; lower liquidity.
3. Crypto ATMs
- Pros: Instant purchases with cash/debit cards.
- Cons: High fees (~5–15%); limited availability.
Is Bitcoin Cash Safe To Buy?
BCH carries volatility risk (price fluctuations) and security risks (hacking, scams). Mitigate risks by:
- Using regulated exchanges (e.g., Coinbase).
- Storing BCH in hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger) or custodial wallets.
- Avoiding unverified P2P sellers.
👉 Secure your Bitcoin Cash investments today
Bitcoin vs. Bitcoin Cash: Key Differences
| Feature | Bitcoin (BTC) | Bitcoin Cash (BCH) |
|------------------|--------------|---------------------|
| Transaction Speed | ~10 mins | Seconds |
| Fees | Higher | Ultra-low (<$0.01) |
| Market Cap | $400B+ | $4B+ |
| Use Case | Store of value | Digital cash |
FAQs
1. Can I buy fractional Bitcoin Cash?
Yes! Exchanges allow purchases as small as $1 worth of BCH.
2. How do I store Bitcoin Cash safely?
Use cold wallets (e.g., Trezor) for long-term holdings or exchange wallets for active trading.
3. Is Bitcoin Cash a good investment?
It depends on your goals. BCH suits low-cost transactions, while BTC is preferred for long-term value storage.
4. What’s the cheapest way to buy BCH?
Exchanges like Kraken offer low fees (~0.16%); avoid ATMs with high markup.
Key Takeaways
- Bitcoin Cash offers fast, cheap transactions ideal for payments.
- Buy via exchanges, P2P, or ATMs—prioritize security.
- Compare BTC vs. BCH based on your needs (investment vs. utility).
Always research market trends and secure your assets before investing.