Zcash (ZEC) is more widely available than Monero — it remains listed on Coinbase, Kraken, and several other major exchanges in most jurisdictions. This is largely because Zcash's optional privacy model, where most transactions use transparent addresses identical in visibility to Bitcoin, makes it easier for regulated exchanges to maintain the chain analysis coverage their compliance requirements demand.
Here is how to acquire ZEC, and what is worth understanding about what you are actually buying.
Method 1: Centralised exchanges
Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, and Binance (in supported jurisdictions) all list Zcash. If you have an existing account on any of these platforms, acquiring ZEC is straightforward — the same process as buying any other listed asset. Identity verification is required on all of them. This is the fastest path if you already have an account and KYC is not a concern.
Method 2: Non-custodial instant swap
If you hold any other cryptocurrency and want ZEC without creating a new exchange account or submitting identity documents, a non-custodial swap service is the faster option. Send Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, or any of hundreds of other assets and receive Zcash directly to your wallet. No account. No identity verification. No record retained after settlement. Terce handles ZEC swaps in both directions — in and out.
Method 3: Decentralised exchanges
Zcash is an EVM-incompatible chain, which means it is not natively available on Uniswap, Curve, or other Ethereum-based DEXes. Non-custodial instant swaps are the practical equivalent for cross-chain Zcash acquisition without a centralised intermediary.
What to know about Zcash before buying
Zcash offers two address types: transparent (t-addresses, fully public like Bitcoin) and shielded (z-addresses, private using zk-SNARKs). For most of Zcash's history, the vast majority of transactions have used transparent addresses. If privacy is your primary reason for considering Zcash, you need to actively use shielded addresses — the privacy does not apply automatically. This is a meaningful operational requirement that most users do not follow through on.
If you want a privacy coin where the privacy applies to every transaction automatically and without any action on your part, Monero is the more reliable choice. Both are available on Terce.