How to Use Coinbase Advanced: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Editorial Team
Updated February 2026
12 min read

This complete tutorial walks you through using Coinbase Advanced from account setup to placing your first trade. By the end, you'll understand the interface, order types, and how to trade like a pro.

Step 1: Access Coinbase Advanced

  1. 1

    Log into your Coinbase account at coinbase.com

  2. 2

    Look for "Trade" or "Advanced" in the top navigation menu

  3. 3

    Click it to switch to the Advanced Trade interface

Understanding the Interface

The Coinbase Advanced interface has four main sections:

📊 Chart (Center)

TradingView chart with price history, indicators, and drawing tools

📖 Order Book (Right)

Real-time buy/sell orders showing market depth

🎯 Order Panel (Bottom Right)

Where you place buy/sell orders

💼 Portfolio (Left/Bottom)

Your holdings, balances, and open orders

Ready to Put This Into Practice?

Follow along with your own Coinbase Advanced account. Open a free account now and practice with the live interface as you learn.

Open Free Account

No deposit required to explore the interface

How to Place a Trade

Market Order (Buy/Sell Immediately)

  1. 1. Select the trading pair (e.g., BTC-USD)
  2. 2. Click "Market" order type
  3. 3. Choose Buy or Sell
  4. 4. Enter amount in USD or crypto
  5. 5. Review fee and total cost
  6. 6. Click "Place Order"

Market orders execute instantly at current price but have higher fees (taker fee)

Limit Order (Set Your Price)

  1. 1. Select trading pair
  2. 2. Click "Limit" order type
  3. 3. Choose Buy or Sell
  4. 4. Enter your desired price
  5. 5. Enter amount
  6. 6. Click "Place Order"

Limit orders wait for your price but save on fees (maker fee). Recommended for most trades.

Pro Tips for New Users

  • Start small: Make your first trade $50-100 to learn the interface
  • Use limit orders: Save on fees and control your price
  • Check the order book: See if there's enough liquidity at your price
  • Double-check amounts: Verify everything before clicking "Place Order"
Start Trading on Coinbase Advanced