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