Pocket vs River

Updated: October 2025

Quick take

Pocket suits non‑custodial recurring bank transfers sent to your wallet with minimal setup. River fits a custodial mobile app with recurring orders and Lightning support. Compare custody, KYC posture, recurring workflows, and whether scheduled transfers or integrated app buys match your needs.

Pocket vs River — full comparison (Buy Bitcoin)
Platform	P2P Exchange
Features	Non-custodial Bitcoin will automatically be sent to your wallet KYC-light EU only Bitcoin is purchased through Kraken Free recurring orders Earn interest on cash US only Incentivizes custodial saving KYC required
Fees Processing fees	1.5% 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	SEPA, Bank Transfer Bank Transfer, Wire Transfer
Custody & Control	Non-custodial Custodial
KYC Required	Yes, but only for purchases over €1.000 Yes
Open Source	No No
User Experience	0.0 out of 5 rate (0) 0.0 out of 5 rate (0)
Interface	Mobile only Mobile only
App Ratings	iOS: 4.2 Android: ? iOS: 4.9 Android: 4.8
Profile Founder(s)	David Knezic Alex Leishman
Company description	Pocket Bitcoin stands out with its non-custodial model, sending Bitcoin directly to your wallet without holding funds, and a no-account, KYC-light approach for daily buys up to €1,000 \| 0.01 BTC \| 0.0... Pocket Bitcoin stands out with its non-custodial model, sending Bitcoin directly to your wallet without holding funds, and a no-account, KYC-light approach for daily buys up to €1,000 \| 0.01 BTC \| 0.01 BTC, prioritizing privacy. It offers one-off or recurring buys via bank transfer, with a 1.5% fee and no withdrawal fees, supporting select hardware wallets like Trezor and Ledger with message signing. Pocket Bitcoin stands out with its non-custodial model, sending Bitcoin directly to your wallet without holding funds, and a no-account, KYC-light approach for daily buys up to €1,000 \| 0.01 BTC \| 0.01 BTC, prioritizing privacy. It offers one-off or recurring buys via bank transfer, with a 1.5% fee and no withdrawal fees, supporting select hardware wallets like Trezor and Ledger with message signing. Pocket's mission is to make Bitcoin ownership frictionless and private, promoting self-custody without complexity and with a vision to expand to a dozen more European countries and enhance wallet integrations. The mobile app, and the web portal for managing orders and wallet settings, are praised for their simple interface and fast transactions, but some find the fees slightly high. 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	2020 2019
Website	pocketbitcoin.com river.com
Availability	Available in Europe Available in United States

FAQs

Does River require KYC?

Yes. River is a custodial platform and requires KYC before you can buy Bitcoin.

Can Pocket auto-DCA?

Yes. Pocket supports recurring bank-transfer buys that auto-deliver straight to your own wallet.

Which supports selling back to bank?

Both can. Pocket lets you sell back to your bank account in supported regions, and River supports selling back to your bank as a standard exchange feature.