How to Send Bitcoin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaways

• A Bitcoin address acts as a digital identifier for sending BTC.
• Users can send Bitcoin via wallet apps by pasting the recipient's address or scanning a QR code.
• Transaction fees vary based on network conditions and speed preferences.
• Platform-specific transfers (e.g., between Crypto.com users) often incur minimal or zero fees.

Introduction

Sending Bitcoin is as straightforward as digital payments like Venmo or PayPal. This guide covers methods using wallet apps, with examples from Crypto.com's ecosystem—though the principles apply universally.

Understanding Bitcoin Addresses

A Bitcoin wallet generates:

• A public key (your wallet address, e.g., 5M12w5XaTP37KMnZspyhrynaWpyiAeMALb)
• A private key (kept secure for transactions)

👉 Learn more about wallet security

Wallet Types

1. Custodial Wallets (e.g., Crypto.com App):

   • Beginner-friendly
   • Some transactions occur off-chain, reducing fees

2. Non-Custodial Wallets (e.g., Crypto.com DeFi Wallet):

   • User-controlled funds
   • All transactions on-chain (higher fees, more privacy)

How to Send Bitcoin

From Custodial Wallets (Crypto.com App)

1. Navigate to Crypto Wallet > Withdraw > External Wallet.
2. Whitelist the recipient's address (security step).
3. Select BTC and enter the amount.
4. Confirm details and fees, then execute.

Note: Fees are waived for transfers between Crypto.com accounts.

From Non-Custodial Wallets (DeFi Wallet)

1. Open the app and select Send Payment.
2. Choose BTC and input the amount.
3. Paste the recipient’s address or scan their QR code.
4. Select transaction speed (fees adjust accordingly).
5. Confirm and send.

Sending to Friends & Family

If both parties use Crypto.com:

1. Select Send > Friends & Family.
2. Choose a contact and select BTC.
3. Review and confirm—no fees apply.

For non-wallet recipients:

• Recommend they download a wallet app.
• Consider crypto gift cards (e.g., Crypto.com Gift Cards).
• Gift a pre-funded hardware wallet (reset seed phrase after).

Bitcoin Transaction Fees

Fees depend on:

• Transaction size (data volume)
• Network demand (higher fees = faster processing)

Fees are calculated in satoshis per byte (1 satoshi = 0.00000001 BTC).

👉 Compare current Bitcoin fees

FAQ

Q: How long do Bitcoin transfers take?

A: Typically 10–60 minutes, depending on network congestion and paid fees.

Q: Can I cancel a Bitcoin transaction?

A: Only if unconfirmed. Use Replace-by-Fee (RBF) if supported by your wallet.

Q: What’s the minimum amount I can send?

A: No minimum, but fees may make small transfers impractical.

Conclusion

Sending Bitcoin involves:

1. Getting a wallet.
2. Entering the recipient’s address.
3. Confirming amount and fees.
4. Executing the transfer.

Always verify fees and addresses before sending. For deeper learning, explore Bitcoin's fundamentals or wallet-specific tutorials.