8 Best Bitcoin ETFs to Buy Right Now

Bitcoin ETFs provide an easy way to gain exposure to Bitcoin’s market movements without the complexity of owning cryptocurrency directly. In this guide, you’ll discover the best Bitcoin ETFs to buy, the factors to consider when choosing one, and how to effectively invest through a brokerage platform.

What Is a Spot Bitcoin ETF?

A Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) allows you to invest in Bitcoin without directly owning the cryptocurrency. So, instead of buying Bitcoin yourself, you purchase shares in a fund that holds the actual Bitcoin. If you want to buy BTC, check out our list of top Bitcoin exchanges.

A Spot Bitcoin ETF, in particular, is an investment fund that holds actual Bitcoin rather than Bitcoin futures or other derivatives. This means the price of a Spot Bitcoin ETF closely tracks Bitcoin’s market value. Also, one of the main advantages of these ETFs is their ease of access. You can buy shares through a regular brokerage account, without the need to set up complex cryptocurrency wallets or private keys.

Top Spot Bitcoin ETFs

This table provides a snapshot of some of the top Spot Bitcoin ETFs available in the market. The listed ETFs are actively managed with a range of assets under management and varying expense ratios (Data Source: Coinglass).

IBIT – iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (BlackRock)

IBIT is the largest and most influential spot Bitcoin ETF on the market, with over $57 billion in assets under management as of July 2025. Launched by BlackRock, the world’s biggest asset manager, IBIT benefits from massive institutional trust and trading liquidity. It uses Coinbase Prime as its custodian and has an expense ratio of 0.25%. Despite its size, the fund is known for tight bid-ask spreads and high volume, making it ideal for both institutional allocators and active traders. Its strong performance, with a 1-year return of 5.26%, further positions it as the flagship product for regulated Bitcoin exposure.

FBTC – Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund

Fidelity’s FBTC is a top-tier spot Bitcoin ETF that combines institutional credibility with investor-friendly infrastructure. With over $21.9 billion in AUM, it leverages Fidelity’s internal custody system, Fidelity Digital Assets, to maintain a high standard of security and compliance. Its expense ratio matches that of IBIT at 0.25%, and its 1-year return currently stands at 2.07%. FBTC is especially popular with financial advisors, 401(k) providers, and long-term investors, who value its seamless integration into traditional investment platforms. Fidelity’s deep history in asset management adds another layer of trust for allocators seeking regulated crypto exposure.

GBTC – Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF

GBTC remains one of the most recognized Bitcoin investment vehicles, having transitioned from a closed-end trust to a spot ETF. It holds around $22.4 billion in AUM, although its once-dominant position has weakened. The fund carries a much higher fee than its competitors—1.5%—which has resulted in reduced attractiveness for cost-conscious investors. Custodied by Coinbase, GBTC still delivers Bitcoin exposure but underperforms on both efficiency and tracking accuracy. Its return over the past year is 1.70%. As new ETFs with lower fees and better structure gain traction, GBTC is slowly losing relevance, though it remains a core holding in many legacy portfolios.

For more: The Impact of Bitcoin ETFs on BTC Price – Real Data Analysis

ARKB – ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF

ARKB is a product of the collaboration between ARK Invest, led by Cathie Wood, and 21Shares. The ETF has grown to $5.25 billion in AUM and offers a competitive fee of 0.21%. Its 1-year return of 3.32% places it above many peers, reflecting both solid Bitcoin exposure and efficient management. ARKB uses Coinbase Custody and is popular among younger, tech-forward investors and thematic portfolio managers who align with ARK’s innovation-centric investment philosophy. While it doesn’t yet match IBIT or FBTC in scale, its performance and branding have helped it maintain strong momentum in 2025.

BITB – Bitwise Bitcoin ETF

Bitwise’s BITB has become a standout product due to its transparency and crypto-native alignment. With $4.45 billion in AUM and a low expense ratio of 0.20%, BITB sets itself apart by publicly disclosing its Bitcoin wallet addresses and publishing real-time proof-of-reserves. This level of transparency has earned it respect within the blockchain community and attracted investors focused on decentralization and auditability. BITB’s 1-year return sits at 2.64%, reflecting efficient fee structures and consistent tracking. Custodied by Coinbase, it offers a secure and compliant structure, making it a compelling option for both retail and institutional buyers.

BTC – Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF

BTC, also known as the Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF, is a newer entrant focused on cost-sensitive investors. It offers a reduced fee of just 0.15%, making it one of the most affordable Bitcoin ETFs on the market. Despite being a relatively new product, it has already gathered over $4.29 billion in AUM. With a solid 1-year return of 3.25%, BTC appeals to investors seeking lean, efficient Bitcoin exposure without sacrificing regulatory safeguards. It is custodied by Coinbase and offers a simplified structure compared to GBTC, appealing particularly to smaller investors and model portfolios.

HODL – VanEck Bitcoin ETF

VanEck’s HODL ETF is unique among Bitcoin funds for its alignment with long-term, ideologically driven investors. With roughly $1.2–1.5 billion in AUM and a 0.20% expense ratio (currently waived under $2.5 billion AUM), HODL offers competitive access to Bitcoin while also supporting ecosystem development. It donates 5% of its profits to Bitcoin Core development—an initiative praised within the open-source community. Custodied by Gemini, HODL stands out as a values-first product tailored to the most committed believers in Bitcoin’s decentralization ethos. Though smaller in size, its mission-driven design resonates strongly with principled investors.

For more: Analyzing the Boom of Crypto ETFs in 2025

How to Choose the Best Spot Bitcoin ETF

When choosing the best Spot Bitcoin ETF, there are a few key criteria to keep in mind. Here’s a breakdown of what you should look at:

• Expense Ratio: A lower expense ratio means you’re paying less in Bitcoin ETF fees, which leaves more of your money working for you. Over time, small differences in fees can really add up, so it’s worth considering when selecting an ETF.
• Assets Under Management (AUM): A higher AUM usually means the ETF is well-established and popular among investors. It also makes the ETF more liquid, meaning it’s easier to buy and sell shares without affecting the price. Moreover, a larger AUM suggests the fund has the backing and confidence of many investors, which can give you peace of mind.
• Tracking Error: Tracking error measures how closely the ETF’s performance matches Bitcoin’s actual price movements. The smaller the tracking error, the better, because you want your investment to reflect Bitcoin’s true market value. A significant tracking error could mean you’re not getting the full benefit of Bitcoin’s price swings.
• Liquidity: Liquidity is all about how easily you can buy or sell shares of the Bitcoin ETF stock without affecting its price too much. The more liquid an ETF is, the less likely you’ll face delays or price slippage when entering or exiting your position.
• Reputation and Trustworthiness of the Fund Manager: The reputation of the fund manager is crucial because you want to know your investment is in good hands. Well-known and trustworthy fund managers follow strict regulatory guidelines and have a track record of handling funds responsibly. 
• Dividend Yield: While Bitcoin itself doesn’t generate dividends, some ETFs might earn income by lending or staking Bitcoin. If an ETF offers a yield, it can be a nice added benefit. Just be sure to check if the dividend yield is sustainable and aligns with your investment goals, as it’s not always guaranteed.

For more: Comparative Performance of Top Bitcoin Spot ETFs in 2025

How to Buy Spot Bitcoin ETFs?

Step 1. Choose a Reliable Brokerage Platform

To invest in a Spot Bitcoin ETF, you’ll need access to a brokerage account that supports ETFs. Established platforms like Fidelity, Schwab, or other major brokers often list ETFs, including Spot Bitcoin ETFs, once they become available in your region.

Step 2. Open and Fund Your Brokerage Account

If you don’t already have a brokerage account, create one by completing the necessary registration steps. This involves providing personal information, verifying your identity, and linking your bank account. Deposit funds into your account to have the capital ready for your investment.

Step 3. Research Available Spot Bitcoin ETFs

Spot Bitcoin ETFs may vary by provider, fees, and market performance. Therefore, review the ETF’s prospectus to understand its structure, underlying Bitcoin holdings, and associated costs. Leading providers often offer transparent insights into their operations and custody solutions.

Step 4. Place Your Order

Once you’ve decided on an ETF, search for its ticker symbol in your brokerage platform. Enter the number of shares you want to buy and review the order details, such as price and fees. Confirm your purchase to complete the transaction.

Step 5. Monitor Your Investment

After purchasing, track your ETF’s performance through your brokerage platform. Understand market trends and the price of Bitcoin, as it directly impacts the ETF’s value. Also, adjust your investment strategy as needed.

What are Bitcoin Strategy ETFs?

A Bitcoin Strategy ETF is a type of fund designed to offer exposure to Bitcoin without directly holding the cryptocurrency. These ETFs aim to mirror Bitcoin’s price movement indirectly and have been available even before spot Bitcoin ETFs were approved.

Most Bitcoin Strategy ETFs focus on investing in Bitcoin futures contracts, while some allocate assets to stocks of companies involved in Bitcoin mining. However, because these investments don’t involve holding actual Bitcoin, the performance of these funds can often differ significantly from Bitcoin’s market returns.

Top Bitcoin Strategy ETFs by Fee

Is Bitcoin ETF Worth Investing? 

Yes, Bitcoin ETF is worth investing in, but it depends on your goals. If you’re curious about Bitcoin but don’t want the hassle of managing wallets or securing crypto, ETFs make it easier. They let you invest through traditional brokerage accounts and are regulated, offering some peace of mind. 

However, keep in mind that Bitcoin ETFs often invest in futures or related assets, so their performance may not exactly match Bitcoin’s price. If you believe in Bitcoin’s long-term potential and prefer simplicity over direct ownership, a Bitcoin Spot ETF can be a convenient option to explore.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best Bitcoin ETF for your portfolio depends on factors like fees, liquidity, and AUM. iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) are strong contenders, but it’s essential to evaluate your investment goals before making a decision. 

The best BTC ETF can simplify your exposure to Bitcoin without dealing with direct ownership and security risks. Therefore, consider your priorities carefully and select the one that aligns with your strategy for long-term success.

FAQs

Are Spot Bitcoin ETFs better than futures Bitcoin ETFs?

Spot Bitcoin ETFs hold actual Bitcoin, so they track its price more accurately, which is great if you’re investing for the long haul. On the other hand, futures Bitcoin ETFs use contracts tied to Bitcoin’s price, which can lead to mismatches, especially over time. They’re better suited for active traders or short-term strategies. 

Spot ETFs also avoid the extra costs of “rolling” futures contracts, which can eat into profits. So, if you want simplicity and price accuracy, spot ETFs are the way to go. For quick trades? Futures ETFs might work better.

What is the best ETF to buy for Bitcoin?

The best ETFs for Bitcoin investment are:

• IBIT – iShares Bitcoin Trust: With an impressive 5.26% market share, assets totaling $57.69 billion, and a low fee of 0.25%.
• FBTC – Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund: Managing 2.07% of the market, $21.99 billion in assets, and the same affordable 0.25% fee.

Which Bitcoin ETF has the lowest fees?

Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF stands out with its incredibly low fee of just 0.15%, making it one of the most cost-effective options for Bitcoin exposure.

Do spot Bitcoin ETFs have custodianship risk?

Yes, they have custodianship risk. Spot Bitcoin ETFs store real Bitcoin, which means they rely on custodians to keep it safe. If the custodian isn’t secure, there’s a risk of hacking, theft, or even operational mistakes. 

However, most ETFs work with reputable custodians who use advanced security measures like cold storage and insurance. It’s worth checking who the custodian is when picking an ETF. Today most digital currency ETFs are approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission. While no system is perfect, regulatory oversight and top-tier security practices help reduce the risks.