Key takeaways
- PayPal offers an easy, beginner-friendly way to buy Ethereum directly in the app, with no complex procedures involved.
- While PayPal simplifies buying ETH, exploring alternative platforms such as crypto exchanges and third-party websites may offer better long-term value.
- Be aware of fees when using PayPal to buy Ethereum, including a 1% fee for transferring to external wallets and a conversion spread on exchange rates.
- Buying Ethereum with PayPal remains legal in many countries; however, it’s essential to consider each country’s specific regulations,
Have you ever thought about using Ethereum for everyday purchases? Whether you’re curious about crypto or just looking for a simple way to buy Ether (ETH), PayPal might be a convenient option.
If you’re already set up with PayPal for online shopping, sending funds or subscription payments, you’ll be pleased to know you can buy ETH using it as well. The process is straightforward and does not require extensive technical knowledge.
Is it the most effective method to buy Ethereum? While PayPal makes it easy to buy ETH, there are other points to consider, like fees, caps and whether you can exchange your crypto easily.
So, how can you buy Ethereum with PayPal?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from step-by-step instructions to key pros and cons of buying ETH so that you can find the best solution for your needs.
How to buy Ethereum directly in PayPal app
PayPal allows users to purchase ETH for as little as $1, making it an ideal option for beginners focusing on gaining experience in crypto. The process of buying Ethereum directly in PayPal is simple, beginner-friendly and takes just a few taps. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Find the crypto section
Log in to your PayPal, tap “Account,” and navigate to the “Crypto” tab.
Step 2: Choose Ethereum and set the amount
Select “Buy” and pick Ethereum from the list of available cryptocurrencies. Decide how much you want to purchase. PayPal provides preset amounts like $20 or $50, but you can manually enter a different amount as well. It’s also possible to set a daily, weekly, biweekly or monthly frequency.
Step 3: Select a payment method
PayPal supports multiple payment options, including:
- PayPal balance
- Linked debit/credit cards
- Bank transfers
Before completing your order, PayPal will show you a summary of your transaction. You’ll see how much Ethereum you’re getting, the current exchange rate and the total cost, including any applicable fees.
Since exchange rates fluctuate, it’s always good to double-check before confirming. Also, keep in mind that transactions are irreversible. Once everything looks correct, tap “Authorize,” and just like that, you now own Ethereum.
Did you know? There are transaction limits when buying Ethereum with PayPal. US customers have a weekly cap of $100,000 on cryptocurrency buying and a $25,000 weekly transfer cap. These may impact how much Ethereum you can buy or transfer in a given time frame.
Buying ETH via PayPal on MetaMask
Additionally, US users can integrate PayPal with MetaMask to buy ETH:
- Open MetaMask: Log into the MetaMask extension or mobile app.
- Initiate purchase: Click “Buy” and select “PayPal” as the payment method.
- Specify amount: Enter the desired ETH amount.
- Log into PayPal: Authenticate your PayPal account.
- Select payment source: Choose your funding source within PayPal.
- Confirm transaction: Review and confirm the purchase.
However, please note that PayPal’s cryptocurrency services, including buying ETH, are not available to users in Hawaii due to state regulations. Residents cannot purchase, sell or hold crypto via PayPal.
How to purchase Ethereum using PayPal on a cryptocurrency exchange
Purchasing Ethereum with PayPal is easier than you’d think, especially when transacting through big crypto exchanges like Coinbase, Bybit, Crypto.com or Binance. If you’re new to the crypto market, PayPal offers a welcoming platform without complex trading methods.
Below is the step-by-step guide on how to buy ETH using PayPal on a crypto exchange:
Step 1: Set up an account
First, choose a cryptocurrency exchange that supports PayPal payments and sign up. Most platforms require identity verification, such as Know Your Customer (KYC), so be ready to submit an ID and complete a quick verification process. Once approved, you’re set to buy ETH.
Step 2: Link PayPal to your exchange account
Select PayPal in the exchange payment or deposit area as your method.
Log into your PayPal account when prompted, then authenticate the association. Upon joining, PayPal should appear in a list of accepted means to make payments when you buy crypto.
Step 3: Purchase Ethereum
Now, navigate to the Ethereum section of the exchange. Most platforms offer two ways to buy:
- Market buy: Instantly purchase ETH at its current market price.
- Limit order: Set a target price, and the exchange will automatically execute your order when ETH reaches that price.
After selecting how much Ethereum you want to buy, choose PayPal as your payment method, confirm the details and finalize the transaction.
PayPal makes buying Ethereum accessible, especially for beginners, since you don’t need a large upfront investment. However, keep in mind that exchanges often have a minimum purchase requirement. So, you may need to meet their minimum threshold before completing your first ETH buy.
Other ways to buy Ethereum with PayPal
One of the options to buy Ethereum is to use a peer-to-peer (P2P) platform, where users can find individual sellers who accept PayPal payments. After your payment is confirmed, the Ethereum is deposited into your wallet. While this option provides flexibility, it’s vital to be careful of scammers, and PayPal chargebacks are also traps to watch out for.
Another way to get involved in Ethereum trading with PayPal is using third-party products and services such as MoonPay and MetaMask. These services allow you to buy ETH with PayPal via a wallet transfer, bank transfer or debit card by acting as brokers and charging a fee for their services.
If neither of the options described above seems convenient, you can also look into crypto-friendly gift cards. Some companies enable opportunities to buy gift cards with PayPal and trade them for Ethereum on supported sites. It’s not direct, but it is a handy workaround for those who don’t wish to link their PayPal account directly.
Whatever method you choose, comparing fees, security options and seller ratings is advisable to avoid scams and surprises.
Did you know? PayPal’s crypto service is integrated with the Venmo app, allowing US users to buy, hold and sell Ethereum in Venmo as well. You can easily track your crypto portfolio across both apps without the need to switch platforms. However, it’s advisable to have a Venmo app installed as well.
Are there any fees for buying Ethereum with PayPal?
Buying Ethereum with PayPal is fast and convenient, but it comes at a cost. PayPal charges a transaction fee based on the total crypto purchase amount, plus an extra 1% fee if you transfer ETH to an external wallet.
On top of that, its exchange rates include a conversion spread, which can add up over time. While PayPal makes crypto accessible, its fees can eat into your investment.
If you’re serious about Ethereum, you might want to explore alternatives with lower fees and full control over your assets. After all, crypto is about financial freedom, not just convenience.
Is it legal to buy Ethereum with PayPal?
Around the world, governments are tightening rules to protect consumers, prevent money laundering and bring crypto closer to traditional finance. While this may add some extra steps, it also helps make buying ETH a more secure and mainstream experience.
United Kingdom
The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) requires crypto businesses to register and follow Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. In addition, strict advertising rules mean crypto services must provide clear risk warnings to consumers. These changes directly impacted PayPal, which paused crypto purchases for UK customers in August 2023 to ensure compliance.
As of March 2025, PayPal’s cryptocurrency services remain unavailable to UK users. If you’re in the UK and looking to buy ETH, opt for other buying options, such as FCA-registered platforms. These platforms typically require additional identity verification steps, but rest assured that these measures are designed to protect you.
United States
In the US, buying Ethereum is subject to shifting regulations governed by the SEC and CFTC. While no federal laws specifically regulate Ethereum purchases, buyers must comply with AML and KYC requirements, and exchanges must register with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to operate legally.
Canada
Canada also requires crypto exchanges to register with regulatory authorities. In some provinces, investors face limits on how much crypto they can purchase within a specific timeframe. These restrictions aim to prevent financial losses, especially for retail investors who may not be fully aware of the risks.
European Union
In December 2024, the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation came into full force, setting a standardized framework for crypto businesses across EU member states. MiCA focuses on consumer protection, market integrity and risk management, ensuring crypto platforms operate under clear rules.
The global trend toward regulation
As of March 2025, buying Ethereum with PayPal is legal in many countries. Still, it’s important to be informed about local regulations and taxation requirements.
This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.