Comparison
Kraken vs OKX
A side-by-side comparison of Kraken and OKX across fees, security, derivatives, supported coins and regional availability. Across the factors we measure, OKX wins on more of them — but the right pick depends on how you trade.
| Factor | Kraken | OKX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot taker fee | 0.400% | 0.100% | OKX |
| Spot maker fee | 0.250% | 0.080% | OKX |
| Futures taker fee | 0.050% | 0.050% | Tie |
| Supported coins | 240+ | 350+ | OKX |
| KYC | Required | Tiered | — |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | Seychelles | — |
| Founded | 2011 | 2017 | — |
| Liquidity rating | 4.3 | 4.7 | OKX |
| Security rating | 4.8 | 4.4 | Kraken |
Fees: Kraken vs OKX
Kraken charges 0.400% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker, while OKX charges 0.100% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker. OKX is the lower-cost venue overall.
Security & trust
Kraken scores 4.8/5 on security and is licensed under FinCEN MSB. OKX scores 4.4/5 and is licensed under VARA Dubai. Kraken has the stronger security profile.
Derivatives & futures
Kraken supports futures, margin; OKX supports futures, options, margin. Perpetual taker fees run 0.050% on Kraken vs 0.050% on OKX. 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 OKX rates 4.2/5. The two are evenly matched here.
Regional availability
Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. OKX is available across GLOBAL, HK, SG, EU and restricts US. Always confirm access from your country before signing up.
Verdict
OKX 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 OKX?
OKX 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 OKX?
OKX is cheaper on spot taker fees (0.100% vs 0.400%).
Is Kraken safer than OKX?
Kraken scores higher on our security rating (4.8/5 vs 4.4/5).
Which is better for beginners, Kraken or OKX?
Both rate similarly for ease of use.
Which supports more coins, Kraken or OKX?
OKX lists more coins (350+ vs 240+).
Can I use Kraken and OKX in my country?
Availability varies. Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none; OKX is available across GLOBAL, HK, SG, EU and restricts US. Check your local regulations before registering.