What it does
Bisq provides peer-to-peer Bitcoin exchange against national currencies or other cryptocurrencies. You run its software and arrange payment with another trader, without registering with a central exchange. Bisq 1 uses Bitcoin deposits and trading fees; Bisq 2 offers the separate Bisq Easy protocol. Desktop downloads cover Windows, Mac and Linux.
Choose the client first
Bisq 1 is the original desktop exchange. Bisq 2 currently runs Bisq Easy, which has its own trade process. Their mobile options also differ: Bisq 1 has notification apps, while Bisq Easy Mobile runs directly on Android. Bisq Connect controls a Bisq 2 node from Android or iOS; the iOS version is distributed through TestFlight. A Connect user needs their own node or one run by someone they trust.
Setting up a Bisq 1 trade
First back up the wallet seed and Bisq data. Both sides need Bitcoin for the security deposit, as well as the applicable trading and mining fees. The deposit is tied up during the trade; it is separate from the purchase amount.
- In Account, choose Add new account and enter the details for your payment method. This is a payment profile in the software.
- Open Buy BTC to see offers compatible with that method. Take offer starts an existing offer; creating your own lets you choose payment terms and the deposit percentage.
- Fund the trade wallet with the amount Bisq displays, then review and confirm the offer.
- After the Bitcoin confirmation stage, pay the seller using the agreed external payment service. Select Payment started only after sending it.
- The seller confirms receipt, allowing the Bitcoin and deposit to be released. The completion screen offers transfer to the Bisq wallet or withdrawal.
Bisq handles the Bitcoin transaction, not your bank transfer. Payment methods have their own timing and account limits, and a posted offer is available only while its maker is online. Bitcoin prices can move during the process.
Strengths
- Offer makers can choose the payment method and deposit percentage
- Payment-method filtering helps identify offers you can actually settle
Watch out for
- Bisq 1 requires Bitcoin for a deposit before a fiat purchase can begin
- Bisq Connect depends on a backend node; Android Easy can lose connectivity when backgrounded
Best for
- People prepared to run Bitcoin trading software and manage local backups
- Traders arranging payment directly with a counterparty
Sources
- Bisq: decentralized Bitcoin exchange network (Oct 27, 2026)
- Getting started with Bisq (Oct 27, 2026)
- Bisq desktop: payment accounts and taking an offer (Oct 27, 2026)
- Bisq desktop and mobile downloads (Oct 27, 2026)
- Bisq Easy on Mobile (Oct 27, 2026)