Comparison
KuCoin vs Kraken
A side-by-side comparison of KuCoin and Kraken across fees, security, derivatives, supported coins and regional availability. The two are closely matched on the factors we measure, so the right pick depends on how you trade.
| Factor | KuCoin | Kraken | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spot taker fee | 0.100% | 0.400% | KuCoin |
| Spot maker fee | 0.100% | 0.250% | KuCoin |
| Futures taker fee | 0.060% | 0.050% | Kraken |
| Supported coins | 800+ | 240+ | KuCoin |
| KYC | Tiered | Required | — |
| Headquarters | Seychelles | San Francisco, USA | — |
| Founded | 2017 | 2011 | — |
| Liquidity rating | 4.0 | 4.3 | Kraken |
| Security rating | 3.9 | 4.8 | Kraken |
Fees: KuCoin vs Kraken
KuCoin charges 0.100% spot taker and 0.060% perpetual taker, while Kraken charges 0.400% spot taker and 0.050% perpetual taker. KuCoin is the lower-cost venue overall.
Security & trust
KuCoin scores 3.9/5 on security and is licensed under FIU India (registered). Kraken scores 4.8/5 and is licensed under FinCEN MSB. Kraken has the stronger security profile.
Derivatives & futures
KuCoin supports futures, margin; Kraken supports futures, margin. Perpetual taker fees run 0.060% on KuCoin vs 0.050% on Kraken. Kraken is the lower-cost venue overall.
Which is better for beginners
Ease of use matters as much as cost for newcomers. KuCoin rates 4.1/5 for user experience and Kraken rates 4.2/5. Kraken is the friendlier choice for beginners.
Regional availability
KuCoin is available across GLOBAL, VN and restricts US. Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Always confirm access from your country before signing up.
Verdict
KuCoin and Kraken are closely matched on the factors we measure — choose based on regional availability and the products you trade most.
For active traders, fees compound fast: the gap on perpetual taker fees alone (0.060% vs 0.050%) can move thousands of dollars a year on a meaningful position.
Frequently asked questions
Is KuCoin better than Kraken?
KuCoin and Kraken are closely matched — the better choice depends on the products you trade and your region.
Which has lower fees, KuCoin or Kraken?
KuCoin is cheaper on spot taker fees (0.100% vs 0.400%).
Is KuCoin safer than Kraken?
Kraken scores higher on our security rating (4.8/5 vs 3.9/5).
Which is better for beginners, KuCoin or Kraken?
Kraken rates higher for ease of use (4.2/5 vs 4.1/5).
Which supports more coins, KuCoin or Kraken?
KuCoin lists more coins (800+ vs 240+).
Can I use KuCoin and Kraken in my country?
Availability varies. KuCoin is available across GLOBAL, VN and restricts US; Kraken is available across GLOBAL, US, EU, JP and restricts none. Check your local regulations before registering.