How to Pay With Cryptocurrency: A Beginner's Guide

Cryptocurrency has become an increasingly popular form of payment in recent years. This guide will walk you through the basics of how to pay with crypto, its advantages and disadvantages, and which companies are currently accepting it as a form of payment.

How Does Paying With Cryptocurrency Work?

Cryptocurrency payments utilize blockchain technology, a decentralized peer-to-peer network that records and verifies transactions. Each cryptocurrency operates on its own blockchain, using consensus mechanisms to enforce rules without third-party intervention. Transactions are verified by computers (nodes) on the network and recorded on a virtual ledger.

To make a payment, users need a cryptocurrency wallet, which contains a public key (like an address) and a private key (like a password). When paying, the sender uses the recipient's public key, while the private key remains secure and inaccessible.

How to Pay With Cryptocurrency

There are several methods to pay with cryptocurrency:

1. Direct wallet-to-wallet payments: Users can scan a QR code or enter the recipient's public key to send crypto directly.

2. Fintech app solutions: Some apps now offer crypto payment options, often converting crypto to fiat for the merchant.

3. Crypto debit cards: Issued by various platforms, these cards allow users to spend their crypto like traditional debit cards.

Pros and Cons of Crypto Payments

Pros:

• Censorship-resistant
• Low transfer fees
• Fast settlements
• Appealing to younger demographics

Cons:

• Price volatility
• Steep learning curve
• Lack of customer support
• Potential security risks

What are a Few Companies That Accept Cryptocurrency?

As of 2025, several major companies accept cryptocurrency payments, including:

• AMC Theatres
• Overstock.com
• Starbucks (for gift cards)
• Microsoft
• Chipotle
• McDonald's
• AT&T
• Whole Foods
• Burger King
• GameStop
• Shopify

Conclusion

Paying with cryptocurrency has become increasingly accessible and accepted by major retailers. While it offers benefits like low fees and fast transactions, it also comes with challenges such as volatility and a learning curve. As more companies adopt crypto payments and technology continues to improve, we can expect this payment method to become even more mainstream in the future.

FAQ

What is pay crypto?

Pay crypto is a digital payment system that allows users to make transactions using cryptocurrencies. It enables fast, secure, and borderless payments for goods and services in the Web3 ecosystem.

How much is $100 worth in crypto?

The value of $100 in crypto varies based on market conditions. As of 2025, it could be worth around 0.002 BTC or 0.05 ETH, assuming continued growth in major cryptocurrencies.

Did someone really pay 10,000 Bitcoin for pizza?

Yes, in 2010, Laszlo Hanyecz famously paid 10,000 BTC for two pizzas, worth about $41 at the time. This transaction is now celebrated as 'Bitcoin Pizza Day' on May 22nd.