Paying with Bitcoin in an online shop is as easy as using PayPal today and only differs technically from traditional banking. Here is a summary of the process and some examples:

1. Acquiring Bitcoin

To maintain privacy, Bitcoins can be obtained without identity verification (No-KYC) via decentralized or physical methods:

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Marketplaces

Buying directly from private individuals via an escrow platform:

  • Peach Bitcoin: A very beginner-friendly app; purchase via bank transfer or instant payment.

  • Bisq: Decentralized desktop software for maximum anonymity without registration.

  • RoboSats: Focus on privacy via the Lightning Network and Tor browser.

Physical Methods & Vouchers

  • Bitcoin ATMs (BTMs): Deposit cash, scan your wallet QR code, and receive Bitcoin (often possible without ID in Switzerland up to certain limits).

  • Azteco Vouchers: Purchase vouchers for cash at kiosks and redeem them later in your wallet.

2. Choosing a Wallet

The wallet is the tool used to access and manage your funds on the blockchain. You transfer the bitcoins you have purchased to your wallet so you can use them later for online purchases. Here are some examples depending on your needs:

Category Recommendation Key Feature
Beginner (Mobile) BlueWallet Open-source, very simple, supports Lightning.
  Exodus Excellent design, supports many different coins.
Privacy (PC) Sparrow Wallet Maximum control over every single coin (Coin Control).
  Wasabi Wallet Integrated mixing service (CoinJoin) for anonymity.
Security (Hardware) BitBox02 Swiss precision, extremely secure and easy to use.
  Trezor Safe 3 Fully open-source and time-tested.

3. The Payment Process in the Shop

  • Invoice Creation: The shop generates a unique receiving address (a string of characters) and a QR code.

  • Amount & Exchange Rate: The CHF price is converted into the current amount of Bitcoin. This rate is usually reserved for 20–30 minutes.

  • Sending the Transaction: You scan the QR code with your wallet app or copy the address and amount manually. By clicking "Send," the payment is digitally signed and sent to the network.

  • Confirmation: The Bitcoin network (miners/nodes) verifies the payment. Once it is recorded on the blockchain, the shop receives a confirmation and the purchase is complete. This usually takes a few minutes.