Is Coinbase and bitcoin the same?
The easiest way to buy bitcoin is to purchase it through an online exchange like Coinbase. Coinbase makes it easy to buy, sell, send, receive, and store bitcoin without needing to hold it yourself using something called public and private keys.
Do you actually own Bitcoin on Coinbase?
Coinbase.com stores your crypto for you after you buy it. You do not need a Coinbase.com account to use Coinbase Wallet. Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody wallet. The private keys (that represent ownership of the crypto) are stored directly on your device and not within a centralized exchange like Coinbase.com.
Should I keep Bitcoin wallet or Coinbase?
As mentioned previously, it is not wise to keep large amounts of cryptocurrency in any hot wallet, especially an exchange account. Instead, it is suggested that you withdraw the majority of funds to your own personal "cold" wallet (explained below). Exchange accounts include Coinbase, Gemini, Binance, and many others.