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    What is Bitcoin ATM?

    Pathik Bhattacharya
    Pathik Bhattacharya

    Updated on February 21, 2023 06:57 AM

    Published on February 03, 2023 01:02 PM

    A Bitcoin ATM (Automated Teller Machine) or BTM is a popular way to acquire or cash out Bitcoin without going through the regular banking system (BTC).

    Bitcoin ATM
    Source: wikipedia

    Bitcoin ATM is similar to any ATM machine but in Bitcoin ATM you deposit Bitcoin or Fiat cash and can sell your Bitcoin for fiat exchange or get Bitcoin or Cryptocurrency of your own choice into your crypto wallet directly. 

    While the machines look like typical bank ATMs, they don't work the same way. A typical ATM will link to your bank account and authorize cash withdrawals from it. Many Bitcoin ATMs only accept cash deposits in order to purchase Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. Newer devices may be able to convert Bitcoin for fiat currency and cash. 

    While standard ATMs may process transactions in seconds, a Bitcoin ATM can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour to process a transaction.

    While the early Bitcoin ATMs (and the majority of those still in operation today) did not allow customers to sell Bitcoin, Coin Cloud ATMs allow users to buy Bitcoin with cash and sell Bitcoin for cash in a safe and secure manner.

    A Bitcoin ATM is made up of a monitor, a QR scanner, a bill acceptor, and a dispenser. These components are linked together on the backend by software to make buying and selling Bitcoin rapid, convenient, and secure.

    Bitcoin ATMs, on the other hand, vary from standard ATMs in that they are not linked to a bank account. Instead, they use the Internet to connect directly to a bitcoin exchange. These exchanges are what allow users to instantaneously purchase and trade Bitcoin.

    What is Bitcoin ATM: Explained

    A Bitcoin ATM is a type of kiosk that enables users to buy or sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies using cash or credit/debit cards. Bitcoin ATMs are often similar in appearance to traditional ATMs, with a screen and keypad for entering information and a slot for depositing cash or a card reader.

    When using a Bitcoin ATM, the user typically selects whether they want to buy or sell Bitcoin, enters the amount they wish to transact, and then scans a QR code from their digital wallet or enters a public address to receive the Bitcoin they are purchasing or selling. 

    The ATM then verifies the transaction and dispenses the appropriate amount of cash or Bitcoin.      

    Bitcoin ATMs are a popular way for people to buy and sell Bitcoin because they provide a convenient and accessible way to purchase or sell cryptocurrency without needing to use a centralized exchange or online service. 

    However, users should be aware that Bitcoin ATMs may charge higher fees than other methods of buying or selling Bitcoin.

    How to Use Bitcoin ATM?

    Using a Bitcoin ATM is very easy and interactive. One can think of an in-game coin purchase where you deposit a specific amount of fiat and get the in-game currency into your account. Bitcoin ATM works the same. 

    1. Verification

    When a user initially accesses a Bitcoin ATM, he or she must confirm their identification. Depending on the machine, this can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Users must submit their mobile phone numbers to Coin Cloud machines; they will then receive a verification code through text message to insert into the machine. Users can proceed with the transaction once it has been confirmed.

    2. Scan the QR Code on Your Wallet 

    If you're using a Bitcoin ATM, you almost certainly already have a Bitcoin address. The actual Bitcoin will be transferred here.

    You must have a Bitcoin address before you can use a Bitcoin ATM. This is the address to which the computer will transmit the actual BTC. There are two ways to obtain a Bitcoin public address if you don't already have one:

    • Using a paper wallet

    • via means of Application

    • Using a Crypto Exchange address

    Your QR code is crucial. This symbolizes your Bitcoin address, and you'll need to scan it to tell the Bitcoin ATM where to send your BTC.

    3. Add Your Fiat Money

    Now all you have to do is enter the amount of money you wish to trade for Bitcoin. You simply insert your money into the machine's specific receptacle, much like a traditional ATM that accepts cash deposits.

    The machine will then tell you how much it is worth in Bitcoin. For example, if you enter $400, you will see the following prompt: $400 USD equals 0.0095 BTC.

    4. Buy or Sell 

    After logging into the BTM, a user must determine whether or not to buy or sell Bitcoin. To acquire Bitcoin, a user inserts cash into the machine and then produces a QR code on their mobile device from their cryptocurrency wallet, which is scanned to receive their purchased Bitcoin.

    To sell Bitcoin, a user transmits Bitcoin from their digital wallet to the Bitcoin ATM's QR code. Depending on the machine, some Bitcoin ATMs will quickly distribute cash to the user, while others may take a few moments to conduct the transaction. Nonetheless, these verification periods are orders of magnitude faster than internet transactions.

    Bitcoin exchange process from Bitcoin ATM

    Bitcoin ATM Fees

    Customers must pay a service fee to use a bitcoin ATM. This fee is usually levied as a percentage of the transaction value rather than a fixed dollar amount. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has warned that fees for using Bitcoin ATMs can be very high and that the exchange rates offered may not be as competitive as those available elsewhere.

    CoinFlip, a Bitcoin ATM operator, claims that their average purchase cost is around 7% higher than the spot price for Bitcoin.

    Transaction Type

    Fee Range

    Buying Bitcoin

    5% - 10%

    Selling Bitcoin

    2% - 5%

     

    How Does Bitcoin ATM Work?

    Using a Bitcoin ATM works in a simple manner. To begin, a Bitcoin ATM will most likely ask for your phone number. That phone number is used to identify you and register your purchase. You will receive a verification number through text that you must enter in order to continue.

    The address of your blockchain wallet is to be entered next. The simplest method is to use a QR code, which most mobile wallets will produce for you. Use a wallet designed exclusively for the cryptocurrency you intend to purchase. After the trade, the Bitcoin ATM will deliver your cryptocurrency to this address.

    You can now insert your money into the machine. The machine will tell you how much you've deposited and how much it's worth in cryptocurrencies. If the rate is acceptable, you can proceed with the trade by pressing a button. It may print a receipt for the purchase, although it is not always finished. For Bitcoin, it takes six blockchain confirmations to authenticate a transaction, which might take up to an hour. When the transaction is complete, the bitcoin will be deposited in your wallet.

    Bitcoin ATM Location?

    There are around 39000 BTMs in the world, with the majority of them located in North America. The following map depicts the global distribution of Bitcoin ATMs:

    Bitcoin ATM Locations

    Source: Coinatmradar

    You can run a local search on Coin ATM Radar to identify the exact location of a Bitcoin Teller Machine near you. To locate the nearest BTM, simply enter your location or city.

    Here's how to use Coin ATM Radar to find a Bitcoin Teller Machine:

    • Go to the Coin ATM Radar page. A Bitcoin ATM map with locations all over the world may be seen here.

    • Enter your city or address in the upper left-hand corner of the map and press "enter."

    • To learn more about a Bitcoin Teller Machine near you, click on the location's name.

    • You can also click "View Details" or "Get Directions" to get the additional information and exact directions to the Bitcoin ATM from your location via Google maps.

    Why You Should Use Coin Cloud Bitcoin ATM?

    If you're interested in buying or selling Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, using a Bitcoin ATM like Coin Cloud can be a great option. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider using Coin Cloud Bitcoin ATM:

    Convenience

    One of the main benefits of using a Bitcoin ATM is convenience. Unlike traditional exchanges or brokers, Bitcoin ATMs are available 24/7 and require no registration or ID verification. You simply need to have cash on hand and a digital wallet to hold your cryptocurrency. This makes it a quick and easy option for those who want to buy or sell Bitcoin without going through a lengthy sign-up process.

    Security 

    Another benefit of using a Bitcoin ATM like Coin Cloud is the security it provides. By using cash instead of a credit card or bank transfer, you can keep your personal information and financial details private. Additionally, most Bitcoin ATMs have built-in security features like biometric authentication, which helps protect against fraud and theft.

    Speed

    With a Bitcoin ATM, you can buy or sell Bitcoin in just a few minutes. There's no need to wait for a transaction to clear or for your funds to be transferred to your digital wallet. This makes it a great option for those who want to make a quick purchase or sale.

    Variety

    Coin Cloud offers a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more. This means you can choose the cryptocurrency that best suits your needs and investment strategy. Additionally, Coin Cloud Bitcoin ATMs are located in over 1,000 locations across the US, making it easy to find a machine near you.

    Customer Support

    If you have any questions or issues with your transaction, Coin Cloud offers 24/7 customer support. You can reach out to their team via phone, email, or live chat for assistance.

    Bitcoin ATM Pros

    • It's a quick and easy way to buy and/or sell Bitcoin.

    • To transact, no actual cards or bank cards are required.

    • Some ATMs (in countries where KYC is not required) do not require identity verification, allowing you to remain anonymous.

    • Provides Bitcoin access to people who do not have or do want not to have bank accounts.

    • Makes Bitcoin available in locations where there are few options for purchasing cryptocurrencies.

    • It's a convenient way to transact Bitcoin because there are so many BTMs throughout the world.

    • Bitcoin ATMs can provide greater anonymity than a centralized exchange, which is required to do a full know-your-customer check on every account.

    Bitcoin ATM Cons

    • There are also some drawbacks to using Bitcoin Teller Machines. Among them are:

    • Transaction fees are extremely expensive. Bitcoin ATM costs for buying or selling Bitcoin typically vary from 7% to 12%.

    • Because most Bitcoin Teller Machines have withdrawal and deposit limits ranging from $1000 to $10,000, they may not be suited for large transactions.

    • Because most sites require identity verification, your transaction will not be entirely anonymous.

    • Bitcoin ATMs have transaction restrictions due to anti-money laundering regulations.

    What is Bitcoin?

    Bitcoin is digital money that runs independently of any central authority or government monitoring. It is instead based on peer-to-peer software and cryptography.

    All bitcoin transactions are recorded in a public ledger, and copies are kept on servers throughout the world. A node, or server, can be set up by anyone with a spare computer. Instead of relying on a central source of trust, like a bank, consensus on who owns which coins is achieved cryptographically among these nodes.

    Every transaction is broadcast to the network and distributed from node to node. Every ten minutes or so, miners gather these transactions into a group known as a block, which is then permanently added to the blockchain.

    Conclusion

    Bitcoin's value has risen steadily since its debut in 2013. One Bitcoin was valued at roughly $200 at the time. Despite price swings, its value has climbed to thousands of dollars over the years. Along with its tremendous rise in value, the number of Bitcoin ATMs has also skyrocketed. This demonstrates the continued popularity of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

    As the world continues to migrate to digital solutions in general, including financial transactions, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are projected to grow in popularity.

    Since Satoshi Nakamoto mined the first Bitcoin, it has remained an autonomous online currency unfettered by governmental agencies or huge financial organizations.

    Bitcoin ATM FAQs

    How does Bitcoin ATM work?

    Connecting a user's digital wallet (usually via a rapid response [QR] code), depositing cash, and transferring the purchased cryptocurrency directly to the digital wallet are the steps involved in using a crypto ATM.

    Is Bitcoin ATM available in India?

    There are two cryptocurrency ATMs in India, one at Workly Nehru Place in Delhi and the other at MyOffiz Co-Working Space in Gugugram. In terms of countries, the United States has the most crypto ATMs, accounting for approximately 87.9 per cent of the entire count, with nearly 38,300 machines.

    Do Bitcoin ATMs give cash?

    Bitcoin ATMs allow you to acquire quick cash using your bitcoins. Bitcoin ATMs are not like ordinary ATMs. The ATM provides a QR code to which you transmit your Bitcoin in order to make a cash withdrawal and sell your Bitcoin. You simply wait a few minutes before receiving your money.

    How much does Bitcoin ATM charge for $1,000

    The fees charged by a Bitcoin ATM can vary depending on several factors such as location, machine operator, and market conditions. Typically, Bitcoin ATMs charge a percentage-based fee for each transaction, ranging from 6% to 12% of the transaction amount.

    Therefore, if you were to withdraw or buy $1,000 worth of Bitcoin from an ATM with a 10% fee, you would be charged a fee of $100, making the total cost of the transaction $1,100.

    How much does bitcoin atm charge per $100?

    If you are curious about the fee charged for a Bitcoin transaction in a Bitcoin ATM, the average fee is around $8 to $20 for every $100 transaction. However, there are instances where you may find lower fees of around $4, but this is relatively uncommon.

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