Comparison
Binance vs Kraken
A side-by-side comparison of Binance and Kraken across fees, security, derivatives, supported coins and regional availability. Across the factors we measure, Binance wins on more of them — but the right pick depends on how you trade.
| Factor | Binance | Kraken | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot taker fee | 0.100% | 0.400% | Binance |
| Spot maker fee | 0.100% | 0.250% | Binance |
| Futures taker fee | 0.050% | 0.050% | Tie |
| Supported coins | 380+ | 240+ | Binance |
| KYC | Required | Required | — |
| Headquarters | Cayman Islands | San Francisco, USA | — |
| Founded | 2017 | 2011 | — |
| Liquidity rating | 4.9 | 4.3 | Binance |
| Security rating | 4.2 | 4.8 | Kraken |
Fees: Binance vs Kraken
Binance charges 0.100% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker, while Kraken charges 0.400% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker. Binance is the lower-cost venue overall.
Security & trust
Binance scores 4.2/5 on security and is licensed under MiCA EU. Kraken scores 4.8/5 and is licensed under FinCEN MSB. Kraken has the stronger security profile.
Derivatives & futures
Binance supports futures, options, margin; Kraken supports futures, margin. Perpetual taker fees run 0.050% on Binance vs 0.050% on Kraken. The two are evenly matched here.
Which is better for beginners
Ease of use matters as much as cost for newcomers. Binance rates 4.3/5 for user experience and Kraken rates 4.2/5. Binance is the friendlier choice for beginners.
Regional availability
Binance is available across GLOBAL, EU, HK and restricts US. Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Always confirm access from your country before signing up.
Verdict
Binance edges out Kraken on 4 of 6 comparable factors. Kraken remains a strong alternative if you value strong us regulatory standing.
For active traders, fees compound fast: the gap on perpetual taker fees alone (0.050% vs 0.050%) can move thousands of dollars a year on a meaningful position.
Frequently asked questions
Is Binance better than Kraken?
Binance wins on more of the factors we measure, but Kraken is the better pick if you prioritise strong us regulatory standing.
Which has lower fees, Binance or Kraken?
Binance is cheaper on spot taker fees (0.100% vs 0.400%).
Is Binance safer than Kraken?
Kraken scores higher on our security rating (4.8/5 vs 4.2/5).
Which is better for beginners, Binance or Kraken?
Binance rates higher for ease of use (4.3/5 vs 4.2/5).
Which supports more coins, Binance or Kraken?
Binance lists more coins (380+ vs 240+).
Can I use Binance and Kraken in my country?
Availability varies. Binance is available across GLOBAL, EU, HK and restricts US; Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Check your local regulations before registering.