Confused between Alto Crypto IRA and iTrustCapital? This 2025 comparison explains fees, features, pros, cons, and which platform is best for your crypto retirement account.
Introduction: Investing in Crypto Through an IRA
Cryptocurrency investing has gone from niche to mainstream — and now, many investors are looking for tax-advantaged ways to grow their crypto wealth.
That’s where Crypto IRAs come in.
A Crypto IRA (or self-directed IRA) lets you invest in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies within a retirement account, so your profits can grow tax-deferred or tax-free, depending on the IRA type.
Among the top players in the crypto IRA space are Alto Crypto IRA and iTrustCapital — both offering reliable, regulated ways to hold crypto within your retirement portfolio.
Let’s compare them side-by-side and see which one is the better option for you in 2025.
Overview: Alto Crypto IRA vs iTrustCapital
| Feature | Alto Crypto IRA | iTrustCapital |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2018 | 2018 |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 | $1,000 |
| Supported Cryptos | 200+ | 75+ |
| Transaction Fees | 1% flat | 1% flat |
| IRA Types | Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE | Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE, Rollover |
| Custodian | Coinbase Custody | Coinbase Custody & Fireblocks |
| Precious Metals | ❌ Not Supported | ✅ Gold & Silver |
| Mobile App | Available (low ratings) | Web + Responsive dashboard |
| Best For | Beginners & small investors | Long-term investors & precious-metal holders |
About iTrustCapital
iTrustCapital is one of the most established names in the crypto IRA industry.
It allows users to buy and sell over 75 cryptocurrencies, plus physical gold and silver, all within a tax-advantaged IRA account.
With a flat 1% transaction fee and no monthly maintenance charges, it’s built for investors who value simplicity, security, and low costs.
Key Highlights:
- 💰 Minimum Investment: $1,000
- 💎 Assets Supported: 75+ cryptos, gold, and silver
- 🔐 Custody Partner: Coinbase Custody & Fireblocks
- 🧾 IRA Options: Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE, and Rollovers
- ☎️ Customer Support: U.S.-based live agents, no bots
Why Choose iTrustCapital?
- Offers crypto + precious metals in one account
- High security with cold storage and insurance
- Transparent, flat 1% transaction fee
- Ability to roll over existing retirement accounts
- Excellent reputation with 9,000+ 5-star reviews on Trustpilot
About Alto Crypto IRA
Alto Crypto IRA is a modern, beginner-friendly platform that lets you invest in over 200 cryptocurrencies with as little as $10.
It’s built in partnership with Coinbase, which provides secure custody and real-time trading access.
Unlike iTrustCapital, Alto doesn’t offer gold or silver — it’s purely focused on crypto investing.
Key Highlights:
- 💰 Minimum Investment: Only $10
- 💎 Assets Supported: 200+ cryptocurrencies
- 🔐 Custody Partner: Coinbase
- 🧾 IRA Options: Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE
- 📱 Mobile App: Yes (but average ratings)
Why Choose Alto Crypto IRA?
- Lowest minimum deposit ($10)
- Access to the largest crypto selection among all crypto IRA providers
- Simple 1% transaction fee
- Perfect for new investors or small portfolios
Fees Comparison: Alto vs iTrustCapital
Both platforms offer flat, easy-to-understand fees, which makes them attractive to crypto investors.
However, there are some differences worth noting.
| Fee Type | Alto Crypto IRA | iTrustCapital |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Fee | None | None |
| Maintenance Fee | None | None |
| Trading Fee (Crypto) | 1% per transaction | 1% per transaction |
| Precious Metals Fee | N/A | $125/oz (gold), $3.95/oz (silver) |
| Minimum Investment | $10 | $1,000 |
Verdict:
Alto is cheaper to start with, but iTrustCapital offers more variety and better diversification (crypto + gold/silver).
Security and Storage
Security is crucial when investing in crypto — especially through a retirement account.
iTrustCapital Security:
- Uses Coinbase Custody + Fireblocks, both industry leaders
- Assets are stored in cold storage with multi-signature protection
- $320 million insurance coverage for digital assets
Alto Crypto IRA Security:
- Uses Coinbase Custody for safekeeping
- Industry-standard cold-storage security
- No reported hacks or breaches
Both platforms use institutional-grade encryption and two-factor authentication, keeping investor funds highly secure.
Ease of Use and Account Setup
Setting up a crypto IRA can sound complex, but both Alto and iTrustCapital simplify it for everyday investors.
Alto Crypto IRA Setup:
- Visit the official Alto IRA website.
- Choose your IRA type (Roth, Traditional, SEP, etc.).
- Link your Coinbase account or create a new one.
- Fund with at least $10.
- Start buying crypto instantly.
Setup time: Less than 10 minutes.
iTrustCapital Setup:
- Visit iTrustCapital’s website.
- Complete the online form for your IRA type.
- Fund your account via transfer, rollover, or new deposit.
- Start trading crypto, gold, or silver immediately.
Setup time: About 15–20 minutes.
Verdict:
Both are beginner-friendly, but Alto wins for speed and simplicity, while iTrustCapital offers more customization and rollover options.
Key Differences Between Alto and iTrustCapital
| Feature | Alto Crypto IRA | iTrustCapital |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto Variety | 200+ | 75+ |
| Precious Metals | ❌ | ✅ Gold & Silver |
| Minimum Deposit | $10 | $1,000 |
| Best For | New investors | Serious investors |
| Security Level | High | Very High |
| Customer Support | Online & email | U.S.-based live phone support |
| Staking Options | ❌ | ✅ (SOL, ADA, etc.) |
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Alto Crypto IRA If You:
- Are new to crypto investing
- Want to start with a small amount
- Prefer a wide range of crypto choices
- Don’t need exposure to gold or silver
- Want a simple, low-cost entry into crypto IRAs
Choose iTrustCapital If You:
- Are a long-term investor
- Want to hold both crypto and precious metals
- Prefer strong U.S.-based support
- Need staking and rollover options
- Value security and brand reputation
Pros and Cons of Each Platform
✅ Alto Crypto IRA Pros
- Only $10 minimum deposit
- 200+ crypto choices
- Flat 1% trading fee
- No setup or maintenance charges
- Easy integration with Coinbase
⚠️ Alto Crypto IRA Cons
- No gold or silver investing
- Customer support mostly email-based
- Mobile app needs improvement
✅ iTrustCapital Pros
- Invest in both crypto and metals
- Flat 1% trading fee
- No setup or monthly fees
- Supports Traditional, Roth, and rollover IRAs
- Excellent live customer support
⚠️ iTrustCapital Cons
- $1,000 minimum deposit
- Smaller crypto selection (75+)
- No mobile app yet
Which Is Better Overall?
If you’re a beginner or small investor, Alto Crypto IRA is your best choice — low entry cost, simple setup, and access to 200+ cryptos make it beginner-friendly.
If you’re a serious investor planning for retirement, iTrustCapital is the better pick — more IRA options, stronger customer support, and the ability to diversify into gold and silver make it more complete.
List – 6 Key Factors to Compare Before Choosing
- Fees and Trading Costs – Low fixed fees mean more profits long term.
- Minimum Deposit – Alto is better for small investors.
- Crypto Selection – Alto wins here with 200+ tokens.
- Additional Assets – iTrustCapital allows metals too.
- Security – Both are highly secure, with institutional storage.
- Customer Support – iTrustCapital offers faster, human support.
FAQs About Alto vs iTrustCapital
Q1. Which has lower fees?
Both charge a 1% trading fee, but Alto’s $10 minimum makes it easier to start small.
Q2. Can I roll over my 401(k) to these platforms?
Yes, iTrustCapital supports rollovers from 401(k) and IRA accounts. Alto supports IRAs but not all 401(k) plans.
Q3. Is Alto Crypto IRA safe?
Yes, Alto uses Coinbase Custody, one of the safest custodians in the crypto industry.
Q4. Does iTrustCapital allow staking?
Yes, you can stake select coins like SOL and ADA for rewards.
Q5. Which platform is best for diversification?
iTrustCapital, since it offers both crypto and precious metals.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
Both Alto Crypto IRA and iTrustCapital are trusted, secure platforms for crypto-based retirement investing.
Your choice depends on your budget and investment goals:
- 💡 Choose Alto Crypto IRA if you’re just starting out with crypto investing and want low minimums.
- 💰 Choose iTrustCapital if you want a complete retirement solution with crypto, gold, and silver options.
Whichever you choose, both platforms let you grow your crypto wealth tax-advantaged — a smart move for the future.
