Hodlhodl vs River

Hodl Hodl is a peer-to-peer (p2p) Bitcoin trading and lending platform based in London that stands out by being fully non-custodial and privacy-focused. Instead of holding funds, it uses multisig escrow contracts, so users retain control of their Bitcoin until both parties agree to release it, shifting trust from the exchange to individual traders, as trades happen directly between user's Bitcoin wallets rather than a centralized entity.

What separates Hodl Hodl from custodial platforms is its ability to let people trade without KYC (Know Your Customer) or central control, supporting over 100 currencies and various payment methods including cash, bank transfers, even PayPal. You do pay a higher premium on Bitcoin set by the seller, especially when you're a beginner and have to build a reputation on the platform.

The web-based interface is beginner-friendly, praised by users for easy signup without mandatory ID checks, though users note clunky navigation and scam risks from unresponsive traders. To unlock significant transaction amounts, users must build trust through reviews and completed trades, as higher limits depend on a strong reputation score.

Hodl Hodl's vision is to foster a decentralized Bitcoin economy, ideal for beginners who want self-custody and anonymity, but users should be careful, stay informed, and follow best practices during trades.

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.