Methodology
How we rate crypto providers — transparent, traceable and with a focus on Austria.
Every provider on this site is classified using the same criteria. The overall score (0–10) is a weighted blend of four areas. The assessment is based on an editorial classification and may include subjective weightings.
Our four rating criteria
We assess every provider in four categories. The weighting is tailored to Austrian end users — taxes and regulation are weighted more heavily within the assessment than in purely international comparisons.
Fees
We compare maker/taker fees, spreads, deposit and withdrawal fees. Hidden costs (e.g. unfavourable exchange rates) are factored in. More affordable providers are taken into account within the assessment.
Security
We check regulatory status (FMA, MiCA, BaFin), 2FA options, share of cold storage, insurance and hack history. Providers with clear EU regulation and a clean security record are taken into account within the assessment.
Taxes (Austria)
Does the provider withhold KESt automatically? Is there a tax report for FinanzOnline? Are staking rewards reported cleanly? Providers offering tax evaluations for Austria are taken into account accordingly in this category.
Usability
How easy is signup, the first purchase, the withdrawal? Is there German-speaking support? How good are app and web? Classified from the perspective of an Austrian beginner.
How the overall score is calculated
We award 0–10 points per category. The overall score is a weighted average — security and taxes carry the most weight for Austrian users, usability slightly less. The overall score is intended for orientation and does not constitute a recommendation. Differences may be more or less relevant depending on the individual usage profile. The overall score is not a ranking in the sense of a recommendation, but a simplified summary of several criteria.
How often we update
We review ratings at least once per quarter. For major changes (new licence, hack, fee change) we update promptly. The update date is shown at the top of every page.
Feedback?
Do you think a provider was classified too harshly or too generously within our methodology, or should a specific point be reviewed individually in more detail? Let us know: kontakt@krypto-leitfaden.at
The assessment does not constitute a recommendation or invitation to use any provider.