ByBit alternatives: Compare platforms similar to ByBit

By Kraken Learn team
3 ελάχιστο
3 Οκτ 2025
Key takeaways 🔑
  1. Bybit has positioned itself as a global crypto exchange with a focus on derivatives trading, automation tools, and copy trading features. It also offers a broad range of spot markets, staking, and Web3 access through its integrated platform.

  2. Why traders consider switching: Bybit is not available in every region and has experienced episodes of regulatory and security scrutiny. Traders often use multiple exchanges to access markets, features, and account availability.

  3. How Kraken compares: Kraken resonates with security-first traders who value transparent practices and regulatory clarity — priorities where some competitors have faced ongoing questions.

  4. Other alternatives: Other exchanges highlight their strengths in areas such as user-friendly design, token variety, social trading, or deep liquidity in niche markets, appealing to different trader needs.


Intro to ByBit alternatives 🔍

Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Dubai, Bybit has grown quickly as a crypto exchange recognized for its strong derivatives markets and advanced trading tools. Its platform supports spot and futures trading, staking, and social features such as copy trading.

Still, availability limitations and the complexity of certain services may lead traders to consider alternatives. Other platforms may provide broader market access, simplified pricing, or different features that better match individual goals.

1. Kraken

Founded in 2011, Kraken is one of the world’s largest and most trusted names in crypto. Headquartered in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kraken serves tens of millions of clients across more than 190 countries.

Kraken offers a complete platform for different crypto products and services. Whether you are looking to buy bitcoin, check Solana (SOL) price or convert USD to ETH, Kraken makes it easy to access hundreds of cryptocurrencies from its core Kraken app designed for everyday investors as well as  Kraken Pro for advanced traders.  Kraken Institutional also offers a full suite of crypto products for investors requiring premium services. 

 

Across features such as staking, margin, futures, and OTC trading, Kraken offers different ways to gain exposure to world’s largest crypto categories. Kraken also allows clients in certain regions to access up to 11,000 US listed stock and xStock, as well as the ability to send and earn on your portfolio using Krak.

All backed by its globally recognized security standards, Kraken was the first to pioneer Proof of Reserves and continues to uphold a new standard for transparency and accountability. Since launching more than 10 years ago, Kraken-managed custodial wallets have never been breached.

Kraken’s reviews show that it appeals to security-conscious investors and advanced traders who value regulatory compliance, accessible customer support and powerful security features backing their trading experience. As one of the oldest, most trusted and best crypto exchanges, Kraken has the tools and features you need to execute your crypto strategy on your own terms.

A bar chart showing the availability of cryptocurrency exchanges by country, with source and availability disclaimers.

2. Binance

Founded in 2017, Binance has become one of the largest global crypto exchanges by trading volume and user base. The platform offers a wide range of services, including spot, margin, and futures trading, staking, lending, and an NFT marketplace. It also operates its own blockchains — BNB Chain and Binance Smart Chain — which support decentralized applications and ecosystem growth. Its native BNB token is central to platform discounts and utilities.

Binance is known for its deep liquidity and broad asset coverage, making it a hub for active traders worldwide. However, the exchange has faced significant regulatory challenges in multiple jurisdictions, leading to changes in product availability and compliance efforts. While its scale and product breadth remain unmatched, Binance’s complexity and evolving regulatory standing can create uncertainty for users who prioritize stability and oversight.


Benefits:

  • Extensive range of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs.
  • Competitive fee structure with token-based incentives.
  • Advanced trading features including margin and derivatives.
  • Additional services such as staking, lending, and NFTs.
  • Proprietary blockchain ecosystem (BNB Chain).

Limitations:

  • Regulatory scrutiny and restrictions in several major markets.
  • Complex interface and wide toolset can challenge beginners.
  • Deposit and withdrawal options vary by jurisdiction.

3. OKX

OKX, founded in 2017 and originally branded as OKEx, has evolved into a global trading and Web3 services platform. The exchange offers spot, margin, and futures trading, along with staking, structured products, an NFT marketplace, and access to decentralized applications through its integrated wallet.

OKX has prioritized proof-of-reserves reporting to bolster transparency and has gained licenses in select jurisdictions, though it remains headquartered offshore. Its user base spans both professional traders seeking derivatives liquidity and individuals interested in Web3 tools such as DeFi participation. While the breadth of services is notable, regulatory clarity varies across markets, and some users find the platform complex compared to exchanges with a narrower focus.


Benefits:

  • Broad product coverage across trading, staking, and Web3 access
  • Integrated wallet connecting users to decentralized applications
  • Regular proof-of-reserves reporting for transparency
  • Expanding presence with regulatory recognition in select markets
  • Feature-rich platform for active traders seeking diverse tools

Limitations:

  • Not available in some major jurisdictions, limiting user access and global consistency.
  • Experienced a significant security breach in early 2025, impacting trust and operational reputation.
  • Product complexity and feature richness may present a steep learning curve for newcomers.

4. KuCoin

Founded in 2017, KuCoin has positioned itself as an exchange for altcoin enthusiasts, offering a large catalog of listed assets. Beyond spot markets, it provides margin and futures trading, staking, lending, and trading bots, attracting users who want exposure to emerging projects and automated strategies.

The platform’s broad asset coverage has made it a destination for speculative traders. However, KuCoin operates primarily offshore and has faced regulatory inquiries in multiple regions, creating uncertainty for some users. The exchange has also experienced security incidents, though it has continued to expand features and community-driven services. KuCoin remains widely used, particularly by traders seeking early access to tokens not found on larger, compliance-focused exchanges.


Benefits:

  • Wide range of altcoin listings and trading pairs
  • Margin, futures, staking, and lending in one platform
  • Trading bots and automation tools for active traders
  • Incentives through its native token and loyalty programs
  • Recognized globally with a broad user community

Limitations:

  • Not licensed in all major jurisdictions
  • Past security incidents have raised caution among some users
  • Complex interface and product suite may be less approachable for beginners

5. Bitget

Founded in 2018, Bitget has grown into a derivatives-focused exchange, particularly known for its futures markets and emphasis on copy trading. Its social trading tools allow users to mirror strategies from experienced traders, a feature that has fueled adoption among retail users. In addition to derivatives, it offers spot trading, staking, and launchpad participation.

Bitget has expanded internationally and has obtained regulatory registration in certain jurisdictions, but its operations are still largely offshore. While appealing to those interested in automated or community-driven trading, its focus on derivatives and promotional campaigns may not suit all users. For traders prioritizing established regulatory clarity or a broader institutional presence, Bitget may feel more niche compared to older, more established exchanges.


Benefits:

  • Strong derivatives and futures trading platform with low fees
  • Copy-trading tools that enable social engagement and automated trading strategies
  • Offers spot trading, staking, and launchpad products
  • Competitive fee structure designed for active traders
  • Expanding presence with sponsorships and brand visibility

Limitations:

  • Not available in all jurisdictions due to regulatory restrictions
  • Emphasis on derivatives may not match the needs of all traders
  • Educational and support resources less extensive than those of larger exchanges

6. MEXC

MEXC, founded in 2018, has positioned itself as an exchange with broad token listings and competitive trading fees. Its offerings include spot and futures markets, staking services, and frequent new listings, making it popular with traders seeking exposure to emerging projects.

The platform’s strength lies in accessibility and asset variety, which appeals to speculative users. However, MEXC operates offshore and has limited regulatory oversight, leading some investors to view it as higher risk than regulated platforms. While it provides breadth and fast-moving markets, users focused on stability and long-term compliance may find its model less aligned with their needs.


Benefits:

  • Wide range of token listings, including emerging projects
  • Spot, futures, and staking products on one platform
  • Competitive trading fees compared to some peers
  • Rapid listing of new assets for early-market access
  • Growing international presence with multi-language support

Limitations:

  • Not available in all regions due to regulatory restrictions
  • Focus on new token listings may feel higher-risk for some users
  • Educational and support resources less extensive than larger global exchanges

7. Gate

Gate.io, founded in 2013, has become known for its extensive altcoin listings, supporting thousands of tokens. Alongside spot and margin markets, it offers futures, staking, lending, and a launchpad for new projects. Its early listings often attract traders looking for exposure to smaller or emerging tokens.

The platform has worked to improve transparency with proof-of-reserves reporting and security upgrades. However, it remains headquartered offshore, and regulatory oversight differs by market. While Gate.io appeals to users seeking breadth of choice and early access, its scale and complexity can be overwhelming for beginners, and questions around compliance persist.


Benefits:

  • One of the broadest selections of tokens and trading pairs
  • Spot, margin, and futures trading supported in one platform
  • Staking, lending, and launchpad services for additional earning opportunities
  • Long-standing exchange with experience dating back to 2013
  • Appeals to users looking for exposure to emerging projects

Limitations:

  • Not available in all major jurisdictions
  • Breadth of tokens and tools may overwhelm beginners
  • Regulatory clarity less established than some larger global competitors

8. HTX

Founded in 2013 as Huobi, HTX is one of the older global exchanges, known for offering spot, margin, and derivatives trading alongside staking and lending services. The platform has maintained a strong presence in Asia and lists a wide selection of digital assets, appealing to users seeking liquidity and variety.

HTX has rebranded to refresh its identity, but its offshore regulatory profile and past questions about transparency have shaped perceptions among cautious traders. While it continues to attract a significant user base, especially in Asian markets, its long-term positioning is influenced by regulatory developments and user concerns over governance. HTX remains an important player in terms of market depth and token coverage, but some view it as carrying higher risk compared to exchanges with more established compliance frameworks.


Benefits:

  • Long-standing exchange established in 2013
  • Broad token coverage and wide choice of trading pairs
  • Spot, margin, and derivatives trading available in one place
  • Staking and lending products integrated into the platform
  • Global user base with multi-language and multi-currency support

Limitations:

  • Not accessible in all major jurisdictions
  • Regulatory challenges have created uncertainty in some markets
  • Complex interface and product breadth may be less suited to beginners

ByBit alternatives: What’s the bottom line? 🧩

Kraken stands out as one of the longest-operating and most secure platforms in crypto, trusted by tens of millions of clients worldwide. Known for its robust Proof of Reserves audits, regulatory compliance, and commitment to client protection, Kraken delivers everything from simple crypto trading to advanced derivatives, staking, margin, OTC, and tokenized equities. With the added advantage of zero trading fees via Kraken+ and a 24/7 support team available in 13+ languages, Kraken offers unmatched reliability and accessibility for both retail and institutional users.

Whether you want to buy Ethereum, convert BTC to USD, check Bitcoin live price, or explore advanced tools like trading API, you can sign up to Kraken and get started in minutes.

Bybit, in contrast, has grown popular among derivatives traders thanks to its deep liquidity and user-friendly platform. However, its offshore regulatory structure and focus on high-risk products often push traders to explore more secure, compliant, and transparent alternatives — making Kraken a preferred choice for those who want long-term trust and peace of mind.

For traders looking for their next exchange, Kraken may be the best alternative for those looking to switch from ByBit.

Choose the best place to buy crypto 🔐

If you're looking for a crypto exchange for every step of your crypto journey, Kraken's focus on security, transparency and customer support speaks volumes. 

Sign up today to access over hundreds digital assets and see why millions of users trust Kraken to keep their investments safe.