Best Ways to Earn on Your Crypto (Staking) (2026)
Last updated June 14, 2026.
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Coinbase Staking
Best for Beginners★★★★4.2The simplest way for beginners to earn staking rewards via a major exchange.
- Type
- Exchange staking
- Assets
- ETH, SOL, and more
- Lock-up
- Varies by asset
- Custody
- Custodial
Pros
- ✓Very easy to set up
- ✓Wide range of stakeable assets
- ✓Backed by a major regulated exchange
Cons
- ✕Exchange takes a cut of rewards
- ✕Custodial — not your keys
- ✕Rewards and lock-ups vary
Kraken Staking
Best for Flexible terms★★★★4.1Flexible staking options on a security-focused exchange.
- Type
- Exchange staking
- Assets
- Multiple
- Lock-up
- Flexible/bonded options
- Custody
- Custodial
Pros
- ✓Strong security reputation
- ✓Flexible and bonded options
- ✓Transparent rates
Cons
- ✕Custodial
- ✕Availability varies by region
- ✕Rewards vary
Lido
Best for Liquid ETH staking★★★★4.0Leading liquid staking for Ethereum — stake ETH and receive stETH you can use elsewhere.
- Type
- Liquid staking (DeFi)
- Asset
- ETH (→ stETH)
- Custody
- Self-custody
- Lock-up
- Liquid (tradeable token)
Pros
- ✓Stay liquid while staking
- ✓No minimum 32 ETH needed
- ✓Non-custodial
Cons
- ✕Smart-contract risk
- ✕stETH price can deviate from ETH
- ✕Centralization concerns debated
Rocket Pool
Best for Decentralization-minded stakers★★★★3.9A more decentralized liquid-staking protocol for Ethereum (rETH).
- Type
- Liquid staking (DeFi)
- Asset
- ETH (→ rETH)
- Custody
- Self-custody
- Lock-up
- Liquid (tradeable token)
Pros
- ✓More decentralized node operator set
- ✓Non-custodial
- ✓Stay liquid via rETH
Cons
- ✕Smart-contract risk
- ✕Smaller than the largest providers
- ✕Rewards vary
How we rate
Our scores and rankings are our editorial opinion, not objective fact. We weigh the things that matter most to everyday users:
- Fees & costs — published trading, spread, and withdrawal costs.
- Security & track record — custody model, history, and regulatory standing.
- Ease of use — how approachable it is for a first-timer.
- Features & coverage — supported assets, tools, and availability.
- Support & transparency — how easily you can get help and answers.
Reasonable people can disagree, and the “best” choice depends on your situation. Affiliate partnerships never change a score or a ranking — see our affiliate disclosure. Specs change often, so always confirm the current details on each provider's official site before signing up.