Scores last updated
Fit follows the custody model, not the brand.
A regulated institution holds keys in segregated accounts under a legal framework built for it.
One company holds the keys; you hold a claim on the company.
Onramp Finance and River both operate in the exchange and brokerage space, but they take fundamentally different approaches to how your bitcoin is held. The scores are close — Onramp Finance at 89/100 (A) and River at 82/100 (A-). When the gap is this narrow, the details matter: custody model, single points of failure, and the fine print on fees.
Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 20 points toward Onramp Finance (95 vs. 75). Both platforms carry single-point-of-failure risk, but Onramp Finance mitigates it more effectively through its Qualified Custodian (BitGo) approach.
Neither Onramp Finance nor River has fully eliminated single-point-of-failure risk. Onramp Finance uses Qualified Custodian (BitGo) and River uses Single Custodian. Both models leave your bitcoin exposed to custodial concentration risk — if that one entity fails, your bitcoin could be locked, seized, or lost. For long-term holders, this is the most important factor to weigh.
Onramp Finance edges out River by 7 points. It's a close call, and the right choice depends on your specific situation — how much bitcoin you're holding, how often you need access, and whether you prioritize lowest cost one-time buys at 59bps. earn 3% on cash, 1.5% card rewards, lending available. over zero-fee recurring buys. lightning withdrawals. strong research content.. One thing to watch with River: single custodian holds all keys. withdrawal to self-custody recommended..
Based on our six-category scoring methodology, Onramp Finance scores higher at 89/100 compared to 82/100. The biggest differentiator is custody security, which accounts for 35% of the overall score. However, the right choice depends on your individual needs — review the category breakdown above.
Onramp Finance scored 95/100 on custody and security in our methodology. It does carry single-point-of-failure risk, meaning your bitcoin depends on one entity's security. Its custody model is classified as Qualified Custodian (BitGo). Always verify these details and do your own research.
Yes. River uses a Single Custodian model, which means a single compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. This is a structural concern for long-term holders.
Onramp Finance charges 0.59% one-time. River charges 0% recurring, 1.2% one-time. Onramp Finance scored 85/100 on fees versus 88/100 for River in our methodology.
Onramp Finance does not advertise a dedicated inheritance feature. River does not advertise a dedicated inheritance feature. Match the mechanism, whether beneficiary designation, trust titling, or key inheritance, to your estate plan.
Onramp Finance's custody insurance is not publicly disclosed. River's custody insurance is not publicly disclosed. Custody insurance covers specific named events up to shared limits, not price loss or every failure mode. Verify current terms before relying on coverage.
Onramp Finance manages keys for you; you hold none. River manages keys for you; you hold none. This is the core structural difference to weigh.