Guide
Want to buy Bitcoin with cash but don’t know where to start? This simple step-by-step guide will show you how to set up a cryptocurrency wallet, find the nearest Bitcoin ATM, and safely complete the transaction.
Buying cryptocurrency at a Bitcoin ATM is a fast and convenient way to exchange cash for Bitcoin without having to use online exchanges. The entire process is intuitive, so even first-time buyers can complete the transaction with ease.
In this guide, we explain how a Bitcoin ATM works, what information you should have ready before your visit, and what to look out for when making a purchase. This will allow you to quickly and securely receive Bitcoin directly into your cryptocurrency wallet.
Get your crypto wallet ready
Before using a Bitcoin ATM, make sure you have a cryptocurrency wallet set up. Cryptocurrencies are stored on the blockchain, and a wallet allows you to manage your funds and access them using a private key. You can use a mobile, hardware, or paper wallet. Before visiting the ATM, also have the QR code for your wallet address ready.
Find the nearest Bitcoin ATM
Find the nearest Bitcoin ATM in Switzerland and check its availability. Using the ATM map, you can verify the location, hours of operation, current exchange rates, and applicable fees. It’s also a good idea to make sure the ATM you’ve chosen is ready to process transactions.
Enter your wallet address
Once the transaction begins, follow the instructions displayed on the ATM screen. You can enter your wallet address by scanning a QR code or typing in the string of characters manually. If you’re using the mobile app, simply display the QR code on your phone and scan it at the ATM.
Insert cash
Insert banknotes into the ATM. It will automatically convert the amount inserted into Bitcoin or another selected cryptocurrency at the current exchange rate. The calculation includes the operator’s fee and the blockchain network fee (miner fee), which is paid to the miners who process transactions. The fee depends on current network congestion.
Confirm purchase
Before finalizing the transaction, carefully review all the details, including the purchase amount, wallet address, and applicable fees. If all the information is correct, confirm the transaction on the ATM screen.
Wait for the transfer
Once the transaction is complete, the purchased Bitcoin will be sent to the specified wallet address. In most cases, the funds arrive within a few minutes, although processing may take longer depending on blockchain network congestion. If the transfer takes unusually long, contact the Bitcoin ATM operator via the official email address.
Bitcoin ATM components
After selling Bitcoin for cash, you will receive a printout with a barcode. Scan it here so the ATM can dispense your cash.
The ATM prints two codes: a QR code at the top and a barcode at the bottom. The lower barcode is used to collect cash. Scan it with the reader at the top of the ATM (1) to begin the cash withdrawal. The QR code at the top of the printout lets you send cryptocurrency to the operator’s address, enabling you to withdraw cash in local currency from a Bitcoin ATM. This QR code may also appear during an online sale or directly on the Bitcoin ATM screen. After scanning it and sending the funds, you will receive the barcode needed to collect your cash.
This is where you insert banknotes. Newer Bitcoin ATM models allow you to insert several banknotes at once.
The ATM prints two codes: a QR code at the top and a barcode at the bottom.
The lower barcode is used to collect cash. Scan it with the reader at the top of the ATM (1) to begin the cash withdrawal.
The QR code at the top of the printout lets you send cryptocurrency to the operator’s address, enabling you to withdraw cash in local currency from a Bitcoin ATM. This QR code may also appear during an online sale or directly on the Bitcoin ATM screen. After scanning it and sending the funds, you will receive the barcode needed to collect your cash.
Once you exceed the applicable transaction limit, you will need to scan an identity document. Information about the current limits is displayed next to the scanner on the Bitcoin ATM.
If you have any issues selling cryptocurrency for cash, please contact customer service. Support is available by phone, email, Telegram, and WhatsApp.
Bitcoin ATM screen
Select one of the available options: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), Litecoin (LTC), Tron (TRX), Binance Coin (BNB), Solana (SOL).
Supported networks include: TRC20, ERC20, Arbitrum, Optimism, and Polygon.
The displayed price is shown after the operator’s fee has been deducted. The fee varies and averages about 5% compared with exchange rates; during promotions, it may be 0%.
The displayed price does not include the network (miner) fee. For some cryptocurrencies and networks, this fee does not apply or is covered (Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon, Litecoin).
Below the buy rate, you will see the amounts in various fiat currencies that you can insert into the ATM.
Here you can check how much cash is currently available in the Bitcoin ATM and how much you can withdraw. You do not need to visit the ATM to check—this information is also available on the operator’s website.
The “Show QR Code” button generates a deposit address for the selected cryptocurrency, allowing you to withdraw cash later. The address will appear on the Bitcoin ATM screen and will also be printed.Before generating the code, make sure you have selected the correct cryptocurrency (1) and blockchain network—especially for USDT and USDC.
You can specify the exact amount in fiat currency for which you want to sell Bitcoin. The system will generate an address that, once scanned, will allow you to complete the transaction for exactly the amount you selected.
After selecting this option, enter the barcode number. If the transaction has already been confirmed on the blockchain, the Bitcoin ATM will dispense the cash.
After inserting banknotes into the Bitcoin ATM, a summary will show the amount inserted, the amount of cryptocurrency you will receive, and the network fee. You can then scan your wallet address or enter it manually.
Carefully check the selected cryptocurrency and blockchain network, especially for USDT and USDC. Sending funds over the wrong network may result in their loss.
Most users scan the address using a QR code, but you can also enter it manually using the keyboard.
The ATM offers multiple language options.
Some cryptocurrencies operate across different blockchain networks—select the appropriate network here. Choosing the wrong network can result in the loss of funds despite the available safeguards. Bitcoin operates only on its main network, so no network selection is required for BTC.
BTC: Mainnet
ETH: ETH, Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon
USDT: TRC20, ERC20, Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon
USDC: ERC20, Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon
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