Focused on real-world and blockchain connections, Chainlink is a popular decentralized project. But how does the ecosystem work, and is it worth buying the native token, LINK? Here’s everything you need to know, including where and how to buy Chainlink.
Do you want to buy LINK? Use and test these exchanges
Best for beginners and advanced crypto traders
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Methodology
For buying, trading, and holding LINK tokens, there is a need for exchanges and wallets. This guide discusses a few after testing them for six to nine months. Here are the tested traits that make sense:
Uniswap for buying LINK
Uniswap is a DEX that doesn’t require KYC. Here are some additional traits that make it fit for LINK:
• Not prone to CEX hacks
• Uniswap v3 and v2 offer excellent liquidity on LINK pairs
• Top LINK pairs include LINK/WETH and LINK/USDC, with liquidity scores of 644 and 402, per CoinMarketCap data
• Decentralized with users being in control of private keys
• Quick cross-chain crypto conversions
YouHodler for holding LINK
On YouHodler, there is a lot that can be done with the LINK tokens.
Key features
• Supports LINK savings account with APRs up to 6.2%
• Supports direct LINK purchases via cards, PayPal, and other strategies
• Advanced security, including 2FA
• MultiHODL feature for compounding LINK gains
Buying LINK on Kraken
Security-focused Kraken has a lot to offer when it comes to LINK-specific traits. These include:
• Offers two high liquid pairs, in LINK/USD and LINK/EUR
• The highest liquidity, per CoinMarketCap data, for any LINK pair on Kraken is 659
• LINK/USDT and LINK/XBT pairs are also supported with high liquidity scores
• Supports LINK staking with APYs going as high as 26%
• Maker-Taker fee structure that ranges between 0.02% and 0.05%
Trading LINK on OKX
The LINK/USDT pair on OKX makes up 2.56% of the total volume. Other traits include:
• A high liquidity score of 619 for the USDT pair
• Other OKX pairs like LINK/BTC exist
• Supports direct LINK purchases via cards and e-wallets
• A competitive fee structure that goes as low as 0.02%
• Supports LINK staking
Binance for buying LINK
Here are the LINK-specific features offered by this leading exchange:
• LINK/USDT pair with a high liquidity score of 781
• Other LINK pairs like LINK/BTC, LINK/EUR, and LINK/TRY exist, all with high liquidity scores
• Supports fixed and flexible earn plans on LINK, starting at 0.2%
• Supports futures trading and Options trading for LINK
Buying and trading LINK on Coinbase
Coinbase offers a conducive environment for trading and holding LINK tokens. The key features include:
• A high liquidity score of 655 for the LINK/USD pair
• Other pairs like LINK/EUR and LINK/USDT also exist
• LINK tokens are compatible with the Coinbase wallet
• Detailed Chainlink price feed
• Supports LINK staking outside the U.S.
Buying LINK from Moonpay
Purchasing LINK from Moonpay comes with a host of perks. These include:
• Supports direct LINK purchases via cards
• Supports direct credit to wallets
• Supports LINK-to-Crypto swaps
• Multi-wallet compatibility
• A low purchase threshold of $30
Each platform listed above has been tested for security, LINK trading flexibility, and other parameters. Check out BeInCrypto’s methodology verification , here.
- Where to buy LINK
- 1. Uniswap
- 2. Coinbase
- 3. Kraken
- 4. OKX
- 5. Binance
- 6. MoonPay
- What is Chainlink?
- How does Chainlink work?
- Why is Chainlink popular?
- Chainlink vs. other cryptocurrencies
- Chainlink ecosystem
- Chainlink wallets
- Chainlink staking
- How to buy Chainlink
- How to buy Chainlink with a credit card
- Chainlink: Should you buy into the hype?
- Is there a future for Chainlink?
- Frequently asked questions
Where to buy LINK
Chainlink is a very popular protocol, and many exchanges list the native token LINK. Here are some good options:
1. Uniswap
uniswap.org" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://uniswap.org/">uniswap.org" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Uniswap.png">Uniswap’s liquidity pools for LINK allowed us to perform direct token swaps efficiently, an aspect we found particularly appealing for its straightforwardness. Although Uniswap’s interface is initially more complex than traditional exchanges, it offers a unique and flexible trading experience once you get the hang of it. It is a good alternative for buying LINK if you prefer using DEXs. However, remember that trading fees can sometimes be comparatively higher for small orders.
2. Coinbase
coinbase.com</a>" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://beincrypto.com/u0ae_PRF_ENG_LEARN_coinbase_mainpromo"> coinbase.com</a>" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/coinbase-logo.png">Coinbase provided a streamlined and secure experience for our Chainlink transactions. Its user-friendly interface makes buying and selling LINK accessible, especially for those newer to crypto trading. We were impressed with Coinbase’s liquidity in LINK, which meant quick and reliable trade executions. If you are new to crypto or trading, the educational content on the platform can be really helpful.
3. Kraken
kraken.com</a>" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://beincrypto.com/hgup_AFF_ENG_LEARN_kraken_signup"> kraken.com</a>" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Kraken-Logo-1.png">Buying LINK on Kraken was a secure and comprehensive experience. We leveraged the platform’s advanced trading tools and diverse order types to optimize our LINK strategies. Kraken’s strong emphasis on security and regulatory compliance gave us confidence in the safety of our transactions. The platform’s detailed analytics tools were also crucial in informing our trading decisions.
4. OKX
okx.com</a>" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://beincrypto.com/lsc4_AFF_ENG_LEARN_okx_signup"> okx.com</a>" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/OKX-logo.png">In our experience, OKX stands out for its extensive range of trading options for Chainlink. The platform’s deep liquidity pools were key in facilitating efficient LINK trades. We found OKX’s interface a good mix of advanced functionality and user-friendliness, suitable for experienced traders and newcomers.
5. Binance
binance.com</a>" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://beincrypto.com/tlly_AFF_ENG_LEARN_binance_signup"> binance.com</a>" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Binance-logo.jpeg.optimal.jpeg">Our experience trading Chainlink on Binance was marked by high liquidity and a vast array of trading tools. We particularly liked the range of options available for LINK, from spot trading to futures and options. Binance’s user-friendly interface and advanced charting tools gave us the necessary resources to execute informed trading strategies. Additionally, the Binance mobile app was an essential tool for monitoring our trades and responding to market changes promptly.
6. MoonPay
moonpay.io</a>" alt="<a href=https://beincrypto.com/learn/buy-chainlink/"https://beincrypto.com/617p_AFF_ENG_LEARN_moonpay_signup"> moonpay.io</a>" loading="lazy" data-src="https://beincrypto.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/moonpay-logo.png">Using MoonPay for Chainlink transactions stood out for its simplicity and speed. The platform’s straightforward process for buying LINK was ideal for quick and hassle-free transactions. MoonPay’s focus on ease of use made it an excellent choice for direct purchases of Chainlink, especially for those prioritizing efficiency and convenience in their crypto dealings.
Thanks to their solid industry standing, all the above-mentioned exchanges are recommended. All are good options for purchasing LINK securely. If you’re a beginner, choosing one of the centralized exchanges makes sense, as they are slightly more intuitive than their DEX counterparts. However, to buy LINK anonymously, choose Uniswap.
What is Chainlink?
What is Chainlink? The decentralized Oracle protocol differs from standard web3 projects. An oracle serves as a trusted source to bring real-world information, data, or validation into the digital world (e.g., applications or smart contracts).
In other words, Chainlink brings real-world data on-chain. Steve Ellis and Sergey Nazarov created Chainlink, the latter of which is the CEO of Chainlink Labs. Chainlink’s development began in 2014 but wasn’t launched until 2017.
How does Chainlink work?
Chainlink is based on decentralized oracle networks (DON). Basically, developers can plug into the Chainlink network and request Oracle services.
Multiple nodes respond to the requests, retrieve the requested information for smart contracts, and receive LINK in return, which is Chainlink’s native coin. Chainlink uses multiple node operators to retrieve and verify the data to ensure accuracy.
The network uses a consensus mechanism to verify the accuracy of the data provided by the node operators. Nodes collectively validate the data, and the majority consensus determines the final result.
Why is Chainlink popular?
Chainlink gained significant attention and adoption due to its specific focus on providing a secure and flexible decentralized Oracle solution.
Chainlink’s approach, which involves a decentralized network of node operators and multiple levels of data verification, helped address some of the challenges associated with Oracle’s reliability and security.
Chainlink vs. other cryptocurrencies
Regarding the top cryptocurrencies by market cap, Chainlink ranks pretty high at 14 as of June 21, 2024, with a market cap of $8,336,229,693 and a circulating supply of 587,099,970 LINK.
Chainlink vs. Polkadot
Chainlink and Polkadot differ in several ways. While Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network, Polkadot is a “layer-0” protocol. In other words, Polkadot can facilitate interoperability between blockchains using the Substrate framework, while Chainlink can facilitate communication between APIs, data sources, and smart contracts.
Chainlink ecosystem
Unlike a blockchain, Chainlink’s ecosytem is based on the applications that have integrated the Chainlnik decentralized oracle network. Here is a list of a few applications:
- SWIFT
- AWS
- T-Mobile
- The Graph
- Quicknode
- Infura
Chainlink wallets
Because Chainlink’s LINK token is created using the ERC-20 standard, many crypto wallets will accommodate LINK. Five of the leading choices include:
“The tried-and-true methods are to use a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor for long-term holding and set up two-factor authentication on all accounts for added security. Don’t keep large holdings on exchanges long-term. I actually keep most of my Chainlink in a hardware wallet, transferring smaller amounts as needed to my exchange wallet to convert to fiat or trade if desired. Proper security practices can help reduce stress!”
Steven Kibbel, Financial Advisor at Prop Firm App: BeInCrypto Interview
- MetaMask: A gateway to web3 and the entire Ethereum-based DApp ecosystem.
- Ledger: A leading hardware wallet manufacturer, all Ledger models support LINK.
- Trezor: Another strong hardware wallet contender and a Ledger alternative for those less impressed with the company following a tumultuous 2023.
- Trust Wallet: The official wallet of the Binance exchange, Trust Wallet is great for beginners and more experienced traders alike.
- SafePal: Another safe place to store your LINK, SafePal’s wallet includes solid hardware options and the X1, a new Bluetooth-supported open-source wallet.
Chainlink staking
By participating in LINK crypto staking, users can earn rewards for helping to secure the network and maintain its integrity. The network utilizes competitive crowdsourced audits to ensure the codebase’s security. Additionally, Chainlink staking incorporates a GSO and oversight mechanism, allowing users to make decisions about upgrades, parameter changes, and other aspects of the network.
How to buy Chainlink
Here is a quick guide covering buying and selling Chainlink using Coinbase.
How to buy Chainlink
1. Firstly, open the Coinbase app and select trade. Look for LINK in the search box.
2. Secondly, select the “Buy” button and choose the amount you would like to purchase.
3. Lastly, press “Place Order” to complete your transaction.
How to buy Chainlink with a credit card
To buy Chainlink with a credit card, you can follow these general steps:
- Choose a crypto exchange: Select an exchange that supports Chainlink (LINK) and accepts credit card payments. Popular exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken often have this option.
- Create an account: Sign up for an account on the chosen exchange. This process usually requires providing some personal information and email verification.
- Verify your identity: Most exchanges require identity verification to comply with financial regulations. This process may involve submitting documents like a government-issued ID, passport, or driver’s license.
- Add your credit card: Link your credit card to your exchange account. This typically involves entering your card details and possibly verifying a small transaction.
- Deposit funds: You can deposit funds into your exchange account using your credit card. Be aware of any fees that the exchange may charge for credit card use.
- Buy LINK: Once your account is funded, navigate to the trading section of the exchange. Select chainlink (LINK) as the crypto you want to buy, input the amount you wish to purchase, and execute the transaction.
- Transfer to a secure wallet (optional): For added security, consider transferring your chainlink tokens to a private wallet you control, especially if you’re planning to hold them for a long time.
Investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky, so it’s important to do your own research (DYOR) and consider your investment goals and risk tolerance. Additionally, buying cryptocurrencies with a credit card might incur additional fees and interest charges, so it’s wise to check these details with both your credit card provider and the crypto exchange.
How to sell chainlink
1. Firstly, open the Coinbase app and press the trade button. Using the search box, find Chainlink.
2. Secondly, under chainlink, press “Sell,” then choose the amount you want to sell.
3. Lastly, press “Place Order” to complete your purchase.
Chainlink: Should you buy into the hype?
So, is Chainlink’s native crypto worth an investment? Here are some things to consider before you decide whether to buy LINK.
Pros
- Wide adoption from multiple from TradFi to DeFi
- A diverse network of node operators to ensure data reliability
- Multiple other flagship services, such as Chainlink VRF and CCIP
- Diverse data sources
- Has a large market dominance in the oracle space
Cons
- Lack of crypto-economic punishment for malicious oracles
- Possibility of collusion amongst nodes
Is LINK a good investment for you?
If you are a venture capitalist or investor, then LINK might BE a good addition to your portfolio. The project has a clear use case and has secured significant adoption, both in web3 and traditional institutions. Furthermore, Chainlink has secured a large share of the Oracle market, which is another good sign.
Lastly, the team behind Chainlink hasn’t stopped at simple price oracles. Instead, they have created other important services, such as verifiable random functions and cross-chain communication protocols. Holistically, the project looks solid, with good fundamentals in place. However, just because a project looks good on the surface does not necessarily mean it will make you money.
Only buy into projects you believe in, and be sure to determine your risk appetite and plan accordingly. As always, never invest more than you can afford to lose.
LINK price prediction 2025/2030
If you are interested in investing in LINK, you might also want to check out our LINK price prediction. Our senior experts predict that the price of LINK $20.82 in 2025, and $217.07 in 2030. Note that these prices reflect possibilities as opposed to certainties. For LINK to reach these prices, adoption should continue, and the broader market must recover.
Is there a future for Chainlink?
Chainlink is a powerful protocol that many web3 applications rely on. The decentralized oracle network is the go-to blockchain-specific solution for connecting digital ecosystems with real-world information. As Chainlink expands, with more projects being built across blockchains, it looks key to supplying data to web3 ecosystems in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Chainlink so valuable?
Where can I buy Chainlink crypto?
Is LINK a suitable investment?
Is Chainlink on OKX?
Is Chainlink on Binance?
How can I buy Chainlink in the U.S.?
Why not buy Chainlink?
Is Chainlink better than Ethereum?
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