Onramp vs Relai

Onramp (dedicated custody) and Relai (exchange and brokerage) serve different corners of the Bitcoin ecosystem, but the question that matters most is the same: who controls the keys? Onramp scores 90/100 (A) versus 78/100 (B+) for Relai. The 12-point spread is meaningful — it usually comes down to custody architecture and fee structure.

Where Each Platform Wins

Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 12 points toward Onramp (94 vs. 82). On fees, Onramp wins by 12 points. Onramp charges $250/mo compared to 1% - 1.5% at Relai. Over a multi-year holding period, fee differences compound — a point worth considering for long-term accumulators. Onramp's strongest advantage is in transparency (90 vs. 65), where Onramp's approach to proof-of-reserves and public documentation makes a measurable difference.

The Custody Question

Both Onramp and Relai have addressed the single-point-of-failure problem — neither relies on a single custodian or a single set of keys. That puts both platforms ahead of the majority of the industry. The difference comes down to implementation: Onramp uses Multi-Institution Custody, while Relai uses Non-Custodial.

Bottom Line

Onramp edges out Relai by 12 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 only platform distributing keys across multiple regulated custodians and jurisdictions. inheritance, dynasty trusts, insurance on segregated incidents. over bitcoin-only. european. auto-dca directly to your own wallet.. Keep in mind these platforms target different audiences — Onramp is built for institutions & hnw, while Relai serves europe. One thing to watch with Relai: limited to european users. fewer financial services than us alternatives..