Comparison
Kraken vs Binance
A side-by-side comparison of Kraken and Binance 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 | Kraken | Binance | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot taker fee | 0.400% | 0.100% | Binance |
| Spot maker fee | 0.250% | 0.100% | Binance |
| Futures taker fee | 0.050% | 0.050% | Tie |
| Supported coins | 240+ | 380+ | Binance |
| KYC | Required | Required | — |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | Cayman Islands | — |
| Founded | 2011 | 2017 | — |
| Liquidity rating | 4.3 | 4.9 | Binance |
| Security rating | 4.8 | 4.2 | Kraken |
Fees: Kraken vs Binance
Kraken charges 0.400% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker, while Binance charges 0.100% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker. Binance is the lower-cost venue overall.
Security & trust
Kraken scores 4.8/5 on security and is licensed under FinCEN MSB. Binance scores 4.2/5 and is licensed under MiCA EU. Kraken has the stronger security profile.
Derivatives & futures
Kraken supports futures, margin; Binance supports futures, options, margin. Perpetual taker fees run 0.050% on Kraken vs 0.050% on Binance. The two are evenly matched here.
Which is better for beginners
Ease of use matters as much as cost for newcomers. Kraken rates 4.2/5 for user experience and Binance rates 4.3/5. Binance is the friendlier choice for beginners.
Regional availability
Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Binance is available across GLOBAL, EU, HK and restricts US. 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 Kraken better than Binance?
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, Kraken or Binance?
Binance is cheaper on spot taker fees (0.100% vs 0.400%).
Is Kraken safer than Binance?
Kraken scores higher on our security rating (4.8/5 vs 4.2/5).
Which is better for beginners, Kraken or Binance?
Binance rates higher for ease of use (4.3/5 vs 4.2/5).
Which supports more coins, Kraken or Binance?
Binance lists more coins (380+ vs 240+).
Can I use Kraken and Binance in my country?
Availability varies. Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none; Binance is available across GLOBAL, EU, HK and restricts US. Check your local regulations before registering.