Comparison
Kraken vs Coinbase
A side-by-side comparison of Kraken and Coinbase across fees, security, derivatives, supported coins and regional availability. Across the factors we measure, Coinbase wins on more of them — but the right pick depends on how you trade.
| Factor | Kraken | Coinbase | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot taker fee | 0.400% | 0.600% | Kraken |
| Spot maker fee | 0.250% | 0.400% | Kraken |
| Futures taker fee | 0.050% | 0.050% | Tie |
| Supported coins | 240+ | 250+ | Coinbase |
| KYC | Required | Required | — |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | Wilmington, Delaware, USA | — |
| Founded | 2011 | 2012 | — |
| Liquidity rating | 4.3 | 4.4 | Coinbase |
| Security rating | 4.8 | 4.9 | Coinbase |
Fees: Kraken vs Coinbase
Kraken charges 0.400% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker, while Coinbase charges 0.600% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker. Kraken is the lower-cost venue overall.
Security & trust
Kraken scores 4.8/5 on security and is licensed under FinCEN MSB. Coinbase scores 4.9/5 and is licensed under NYDFS BitLicense. Coinbase has the stronger security profile.
Derivatives & futures
Kraken supports futures, margin; Coinbase supports futures. Perpetual taker fees run 0.050% on Kraken vs 0.050% on Coinbase. 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 Coinbase rates 4.7/5. Coinbase is the friendlier choice for beginners.
Regional availability
Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Coinbase is available across GLOBAL, US, EU and restricts none. Always confirm access from your country before signing up.
Verdict
Coinbase edges out Kraken on 3 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 Coinbase?
Coinbase 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 Coinbase?
Kraken is cheaper on spot taker fees (0.400% vs 0.600%).
Is Kraken safer than Coinbase?
Coinbase scores higher on our security rating (4.9/5 vs 4.8/5).
Which is better for beginners, Kraken or Coinbase?
Coinbase rates higher for ease of use (4.7/5 vs 4.2/5).
Which supports more coins, Kraken or Coinbase?
Coinbase lists more coins (250+ vs 240+).
Can I use Kraken and Coinbase in my country?
Availability varies. Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none; Coinbase is available across GLOBAL, US, EU and restricts none. Check your local regulations before registering.