Shakepay vs Newton: Which Canadian Crypto App Should You Use?
A side-by-side comparison of Shakepay and Newton — two of the most popular Canadian-built cryptocurrency platforms — to help you decide which is right for you.
By ReferralBonus.ca
If you are a Canadian looking to buy Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies, two names come up again and again: Shakepay and Newton. Both are Canadian-built, FINTRAC-registered platforms that make it easy to buy and sell crypto using Interac e-Transfer. But they serve slightly different audiences and have different strengths.
Here is a detailed comparison to help you choose.
Overview
Shakepay launched in 2015 and is best known for its simple, mobile-first experience. It focuses on Bitcoin and Ethereum and is designed to be as accessible as possible for first-time buyers. Shakepay is also known for the ShakingSats feature — a daily "shake" that rewards users with small amounts of free Bitcoin.
Newton launched in 2018 and positions itself as a more full-featured trading platform. It supports a wider range of cryptocurrencies and has slightly more advanced tools for experienced traders, while still being beginner-friendly.
Referral Bonuses
Before diving into the comparison, here are the current sign-up bonuses for each platform:
- Shakepay — Get a $20 cash bonus when you buy $100 or more in crypto. Use referral code KRQ31DB — claim the Shakepay bonus
- Newton — Get a $25 bonus when you trade $100 or more. Use referral code EUSZ0G — claim the Newton bonus
Both bonuses can be claimed independently, so there is no reason not to sign up for both.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Shakepay keeps things simple with Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) only. Newton supports over 70 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Polkadot, and many others.
Winner: Newton, if you want altcoin exposure. Shakepay if you only want BTC and ETH.
Fees
Both platforms make money on the spread rather than charging explicit commissions. This means the buy and sell prices you see include the platform's margin built in.
Shakepay's spreads typically run around 1.5–2.5% depending on market conditions. Newton's spreads are generally similar, though Newton has reduced spreads for higher-volume traders.
Neither platform charges deposit or withdrawal fees for Interac e-Transfer.
Winner: Roughly even, with a slight edge to Newton for high-volume traders.
Unique Features
Shakepay ShakingSats: Every day, you can shake your phone (literally) to earn a small amount of free Bitcoin. The amount increases the more consecutive days you shake. Long-term users can earn a meaningful amount over time.
Newton Pro: Newton offers a more advanced trading interface for users who want limit orders, price charts, and a more traditional exchange experience.
Winner: Depends on what you want. ShakingSats is a fun way to stack small amounts of BTC. Newton Pro is better for active traders.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Shakepay if:
- You are brand new to crypto and want the simplest possible experience
- You only want Bitcoin and Ethereum
- You enjoy gamified features like ShakingSats
- You want to transact quickly with minimal friction
Choose Newton if:
- You want access to a wider range of cryptocurrencies
- You plan to trade more actively
- You want more advanced trading tools
- You want a platform you can grow into
Can You Use Both?
Absolutely. Many Canadian crypto users maintain accounts on both platforms — Shakepay for easy Bitcoin purchases and daily ShakingSats rewards, and Newton for access to altcoins and more advanced trading features. Both referral bonuses can be claimed independently.
🎁 Claim Your Bonuses
Shakepay — use code KRQ31DB to claim your Shakepay bonus.
Newton — use code EUSZ0G to claim your Newton bonus.