Cryptocurrency has become a popular way to send and receive money online. People use it for trading, investing, and even sending money to friends or family. But one of the biggest problems beginners face is high fees.
If you have ever tried to send Bitcoin or Ethereum, you may have noticed that the transaction fees can sometimes be very expensive. The good news is that there are ways to transfer crypto with low fees. This guide will explain everything in easy steps, so even someone new to crypto can understand.
What Are Crypto Transfer Fees?
Every time you send cryptocurrency, you pay a transaction fee. This fee is paid to the network (miners or validators) that processes your transaction.
- On Bitcoin, the fee goes to miners.
- On Ethereum, the fee is called “gas” and also goes to miners/validators.
These fees can change depending on how busy the network is. If a lot of people are sending crypto at the same time, fees go up.
Why Do Fees Matter for Beginners?
If you are a beginner, you may not want to spend a lot of money just on fees. Imagine sending $20 worth of crypto but paying $10 as a fee — that’s not smart. By learning how to choose the right coin, network, and method, you can save a lot of money.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Crypto with Low Fees
Step 1: Choose the Right Cryptocurrency
Not all cryptocurrencies have the same transfer fees. Some are expensive, while others are very cheap.
- High fees: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) during busy times
- Low fees: Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), Stellar (XLM), Dogecoin (DOGE), Tron (TRX), Polygon (MATIC)
For beginners, starting with coins that are known for low transaction costs is the easiest way to save money.
Step 2: Pick the Right Blockchain Network
Many cryptocurrencies can be sent using different networks. For example, USDT (Tether) can be sent on Ethereum (ERC-20), Tron (TRC-20), or Binance Smart Chain (BEP-20).
- Sending USDT on Ethereum (ERC-20) may cost $10 or more.
- Sending USDT on Tron (TRC-20) often costs less than $1.
So always check which network has the lowest fee before you confirm your transfer.
Step 3: Use the Right Exchange or Wallet
Different crypto exchanges and wallets charge different fees. Some charge extra for withdrawals, while others are cheaper.
- Binance is known for low fees, especially for TRC-20 and BEP-20 tokens.
- Crypto.com and KuCoin also offer lower transfer fees compared to many others.
Tip: Before sending crypto, compare fees on your exchange or wallet.
Step 4: Avoid Sending Small Amounts Repeatedly
One mistake beginners make is sending very small amounts many times. Since every transfer has a fee, this adds up quickly. Instead, combine small transfers into one larger transfer to pay less overall.
Example:
- Sending $5 five times might cost you $1 each time ($5 total fees).
- Sending $25 once may cost you $1 only.
Step 5: Send During Off-Peak Hours
Crypto networks are busier at certain times, especially when traders are active. During these times, fees go up.
- High fees: During U.S. daytime (when most traders are online).
- Lower fees: Late nights or weekends.
By waiting for off-peak hours, you can save money on fees.
Step 6: Use Layer 2 Solutions
Some coins have “Layer 2” solutions that reduce fees. For example:
- Lightning Network for Bitcoin makes transactions faster and cheaper.
- Polygon (MATIC) for Ethereum helps reduce gas fees.
If you are using Bitcoin or Ethereum, look for Layer 2 options to cut costs.
Step 7: Double-Check Before Sending
Beginners sometimes make mistakes when transferring crypto. If you send it to the wrong network, you may lose your funds. Always double-check:
- The wallet address
- The network you selected
- The transaction fee shown before you confirm
Spending an extra 30 seconds to check can save you money and stress.
Best Cryptocurrencies for Low-Fee Transfers in 2025
Here are some coins that are popular for low fees and beginner-friendly:
- Ripple (XRP): Very low fees and fast transactions.
- Stellar (XLM): Built for cheap cross-border transfers.
- Litecoin (LTC): Older coin, simple and low fees.
- Tron (TRX): Used for stablecoins like USDT with almost no fees.
- Polygon (MATIC): Great for cheap Ethereum-based transfers.
- Dogecoin (DOGE): Fun, popular, and affordable to send.
Extra Tips for Beginners
- Don’t rush. Always check the network and fees before sending.
- Start small. If it’s your first time, try sending a very small amount to test.
- Use trusted platforms. Stick with well-known exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or Kraken.
- Store safely. After transferring, keep your coins in a secure wallet.
Risks to Keep in Mind
While trying to save on fees, beginners should be aware of risks:
- Wrong network: Sending USDT from ERC-20 to TRC-20 will result in loss.
- Hidden fees: Some exchanges add extra withdrawal fees.
- Scams: Fake wallets may trick you with “zero fee” offers.
Always do your research and only use trusted platforms.
Conclusion
Transferring cryptocurrency doesn’t have to be expensive. By choosing the right coin, network, exchange, and timing, you can easily send crypto with very low fees.
To summarize:
- Choose low-fee coins like LTC, TRX, XLM, or XRP.
- Select cheaper networks (TRC-20 or BEP-20 instead of ERC-20).
- Avoid sending small amounts many times.
- Send during off-peak hours.
- Use Layer 2 solutions like Lightning Network or Polygon.
With these simple steps, beginners can save money and transfer crypto smoothly in 2025.
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest way to transfer crypto?
Using coins like Tron (TRX) or Stellar (XLM) is usually the cheapest way.
2. Which crypto has the lowest fees?
Stellar (XLM), Ripple (XRP), and Tron (TRX) often have very low transfer fees.
3. Can I send Bitcoin with low fees?
Yes, but it’s better to use the Bitcoin Lightning Network for cheaper transfers.
4. Are there zero-fee transfers?
Some platforms may offer zero-fee promotions, but usually, there is always a small fee.
5. Is Ethereum always expensive?
Not always. If you use Polygon (MATIC) or wait for off-peak hours, fees can be much lower.