Bull Bitcoin vs River

Updated: October 2025

Quick take

Bull Bitcoin supports non‑custodial buying sent directly to your wallet via bank transfers. River is a custodial mobile app with recurring orders and Lightning support. Compare custody, KYC posture, recurring features, network support, and whether direct delivery or an integrated app experience suits you.

Bull Bitcoin vs River — full comparison (Buy Bitcoin)
Platform	Non-custodial Exchange
Features	Live on Bitcoin standard Non-custodial Mobile app in beta Not a direct payment service Free recurring orders Earn interest on cash US only Incentivizes custodial saving KYC required
Fees Processing fees	Based on monthly trading volume up to $100,000: around 2% $100,000 and up: discount Based on monthly trading volume up to $1,000,000: 1% $1,000,000 - $5,000,000: 0.70% $5,000,000 - $15,000,000: 0.40% $15,000,000 and up: 0.25%
DCA (Dollar Cost Averaging)	Yes Yes: Recurring orders are free
Payment Methods	Interac e-Transfer, Wire Transfer, Bill Payment, SEPA bank transfer Bank Transfer, Wire Transfer
Custody & Control	Non-custodial Custodial
KYC Required	No Yes
Open Source	Yes No
User Experience	0.0 out of 5 rate (0) 0.0 out of 5 rate (0)
Interface	Mobile & Desktop Mobile only
App Ratings	iOS: No app available Android: In beta iOS: 4.9 Android: 4.8
Profile Founder(s)	Francis Pouliot Alex Leishman
Company description	Bull Bitcoin is a Canadian Bitcoin exchange that stands out by being entirely non-custodial, meaning users must provide their own wallet and take full ownership of their Bitcoin. It allows users to bu... Bull Bitcoin is a Canadian Bitcoin exchange that stands out by being entirely non-custodial, meaning users must provide their own wallet and take full ownership of their Bitcoin. It allows users to buy Bitcoin directly to their own wallets, sell Bitcoin instantly without waiting for confirmations, and even pay bills, rent, and credit cards in Canada by converting Bitcoin to fiat without relying on traditional banks. This approach positions Bitcoin as a tool for everyday exchange, not just long-term saving. Bull Bitcoin is a Canadian Bitcoin exchange that stands out by being entirely non-custodial, meaning users must provide their own wallet and take full ownership of their Bitcoin. It allows users to buy Bitcoin directly to their own wallets, sell Bitcoin instantly without waiting for confirmations, and even pay bills, rent, and credit cards in Canada by converting Bitcoin to fiat without relying on traditional banks. This approach positions Bitcoin as a tool for everyday exchange, not just long-term saving. The platform (the mobile app is in beta) is self-funded, Bitcoin-only, and deeply ideological, rejecting external investors. Its team identifies as cypherpunks, building open-source tools and promoting financial sovereignty. Bull Bitcoin's mission is to create sovereign individuals through uncompromising adherence to Bitcoin principles, making it attractive to users who want to align their actions with their values. Beginners find the platform easy to use, with a clean interface and responsive support, while advanced users appreciate its strong privacy stance and no-compromise philosophy. It's ideal for Canadians and expanding internationally for those who want full control over their Bitcoin without depending on custodians or legacy finance systems. River helps U.S. based customers invest in Bitcoin simply and securely with a focus on long-term saving. Unlike many platforms, River holds all Bitcoin in full-reserve cold storage with multi-signatur... River helps U.S. based customers invest in Bitcoin simply and securely with a focus on long-term saving. Unlike many platforms, River holds all Bitcoin in full-reserve cold storage with multi-signature security and gives users transparency through real-time proof of reserves. This might sound inviting to people who don't want to hold Bitcoin in self-custody but it also means more centralization within Bitcoin. River helps U.S. based customers invest in Bitcoin simply and securely with a focus on long-term saving. Unlike many platforms, River holds all Bitcoin in full-reserve cold storage with multi-signature security and gives users transparency through real-time proof of reserves. This might sound inviting to people who don't want to hold Bitcoin in self-custody but it also means more centralization within Bitcoin. It supports things like inheritance planning, business accounts, and joint accounts, making it attractive for people who want to treat Bitcoin like serious money. Users can buy Bitcoin instantly, set up automated savings, and send Bitcoin via on-chain or Lightning payments. On top of that, you can earn 3.8% Bitcoin interest on your cash. The app has a clean interface and is designed to be easy to use, earning high ratings on both iOS and Android. River's mission is to provide a trusted, high-quality experience for people who want to build wealth in Bitcoin without distractions. It aims to give users full control and transparency. While some users note strict ID verification and limited availability outside the U.S., River is praised for its reliability, personal customer service, and focus on security.
Founded in	2013 2019
Website	bullbitcoin.com river.com
Availability	Available in Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, Europe Available in United States

FAQs

Does River require KYC?

Yes. River is custodial with KYC meaning you need to provide your personal information to buy Bitcoin.

Does Bull Bitcoin have Lightning withdrawals?

No. Bull Bitcoin does not support Lightning withdrawals. Withdrawals are only available on the Bitcoin blockchain.

Which offers recurring buys?

Both. Bull Bitcoin and River support recurring DCA.