Top 10 Coinbase competitors: Best exchange alternatives in 2025

Founded in 2012, Coinbase is a recognizable name in the crypto industry.
The platform often attracts new investors due to its beginner-friendly app
and straightforward onboarding.

Still, it’s valuable to look beyond a single exchange for alternatives that
could offer lower fees, broader asset selections or expanded regional
availability.

This guide compares Coinbase competitors across security, pricing,
trading features and accessibility to help traders find the right crypto for their needs.

• Known for: Institutional-grade security and reliability
• Security history: Kraken-managed custodial wallets have never been breached
• Kraken spot trading fee summary: Flat 1% fee + spread fee; No trading fees for Kraken+ up to $20,000
• Kraken Pro spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.25% and taker fees start at 0.40%
• Asset selection: 500+ cryptocurrencies, 11,000+ U.S. stocks and ETFs, tokenized securities (xStocks)
• Key features: Kraken Pro, Kraken+, Kraken Wallet, Kraken Desktop, Kraken Prime, Krak App

Kraken is among the longest-running crypto exchanges in the world. From mobile apps to advanced trading platforms, each product is reinforced by industry-leading security and responsive support.

Kraken has built a reputation as one of the industry’s most secure exchanges, since Kraken-managed custodial wallets have never been breached. Practices like proof-of-reserves audits, offline cold storage and granular account protections back this security-first mindset. 

Our platform is fully licensed in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia and several other regions, giving investors confidence that it meets rigorous regulatory standards worldwide.

Beyond security, Kraken gives clients the ability to stake cryptocurrencies, earning rewards on assets they already hold while contributing to the stability of blockchain networks. 

Traders can access 500+ cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) and XRP. As a result, Kraken enables the creation of a diversified portfolio on a single platform.

• Known for: Largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume
• Security history: Breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.10% and taker fees start at 0.10%
• Asset selection: 350+ cryptocurrencies
• Key features: Binance, Binance.US, Binance Earn, Binance Pay, NFT Marketplace 

Binance has grown into the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. 

Operating in over 175 countries, the platform offers various products, including margin and derivatives, spot trading, staking and an NFT marketplace. Binance also supports over 500 cryptocurrencies and hundreds of trading pairs.

To protect its users, Binance uses multiple security measures such as 2FA, real-time monitoring and cold storage for most assets. It also provides Binance Academy, an educational hub designed to help beginners learn the basics of crypto. 

U.S. users are directed to Binance.US, a separate platform with fewer supported coins and features that’s not available in every state.

Many traders choose Kraken over Binance because they value trust and transparency as much as trading costs. Kraken-managed custodial wallets have never been breached, and the exchange operates under strict licensing in major regions worldwide.

Kraken’s clear and predictable pricing model and 24/7 multilingual support make it a platform designed for long-term stability and compliance rather than sheer scale. 

• Known for: Simplified interface for beginners
• Security history: Breaches reported 
• Spot trading fee summary: 1.49% transaction fee 1.49% and up to 1% convenience fee
• Asset selection: 70+ cryptocurrencies 
• Key features: Gemini, Gemini ActiveTrader, Gemini Credit Card 

Gemini is a US-based exchange founded by the Winklevoss twins in 2014 and is regulated as a trust company under New York banking law. With a conservative approach to crypto listings, Gemini is recognized for prioritizing compliance in its operations.

Users can choose between Gemini’s standard app, built for quick and easy trades, or ActiveTrader™, which provides advanced features for experienced investors.

However, the platform’s fee structure is higher than that of many competitors, with basic buy and sell orders carrying a 1.49% transaction fee. Plus, there’s a convenience fee of up to 1% depending on payment method.

Investors often choose Kraken over Gemini for broader market access and more competitive pricing. Kraken’s transparent, volume-based fee model also starts lower than Gemini’s standard rates.

While Gemini supports about 70 cryptocurrencies in over 60 countries, Kraken offers more than 500 assets across 190+ countries. This wider selection supports traders looking for both choice and long-term growth.

• Known for: Mobile-first trading
• Security history: Breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.25 % and taker fees start at 0.50%
• Asset selection: 400+ cryptocurrencies
• Key features: Crypto.com, Crypto.com Mobile, Crypto.com Onchain

Crypto.com is a mobile-first exchange with over 150 million users in 90+ countries. The platform supports more than 400 cryptocurrencies and 20+ fiat currencies, with trading pairs that include assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum and NFTs. 

Outside its core offerings, Crypto.com has invested heavily in marketing, securing naming rights to Crypto.com Arena and sponsoring major sports teams and events. These campaigns, combined with a broad feature set, have helped make the brand highly visible and accessible to everyday users

Beyond trading, the platform provides options for users to earn yield on holdings through Crypto Earn and to spend digital assets via the Crypto.com Visa Card. 

Users tend to turn to Kraken when they want more than a mobile-first, rewards-driven experience. Kraken emphasizes advanced trading tools, strong execution and a security-first culture, appealing to investors who prioritize reliability over branding campaigns.

While Crypto.com’s features largely cater to retail customers through perks and branded rewards, Kraken delivers professional-grade functionality and regulatory trust.

• Known for: Advanced and experienced traders
• Security history: Breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.140% and taker fees start at 0.230%
• Asset selection: ~297 cryptocurrencies
• Key features: OKX Crypto Exchange, Spot Trading, Derivatives Trading, OKX Earn and OKX Web3 Wallet

OKX is a global crypto exchange known for fast execution speeds and advanced trading tools. The platform lists more than 350 digital assets across spot and derivatives markets, with support for margin and futures trading. It also includes a Web3 wallet, giving users a self-custody option alongside standard exchange services.

Fees follow a tiered model, with further discounts available to high-volume traders. Combined with advanced charting, multiple order types and deep liquidity, OKX has become a popular choice for active traders.

Alongside its exchange services, OKX offers Web3 tools that connect users to decentralized finance, positioning the platform as both a professional trading hub and an entry point into DeFi.

Kraken’s longer track record and broader market access appeal to those seeking stability and choice. Operating since 2011, Kraken is one of the longest-running exchanges in the industry, with a focus on security and compliance.

The platform lists more than 500 digital assets — nearly double OKX’s offering — giving clients more opportunities to diversify and build resilient portfolios.

• Known for: Global digital asset services
• Security history: Breaches discovered 
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.10% and taker fees start at 0.10%
• Asset selection: 750+ cryptocurrencies  
• Key features: Kucoin Range Bound, Kucoin Twin Win, Kucoin Dual Investment, Kucoin Futures Plus

KuCoin has built its reputation on offering one of the widest selections of digital assets, supporting more than 750 cryptocurrencies. 

Much of its appeal comes from the exchange’s willingness to list smaller-cap tokens and emerging projects that may not be available on larger, more conservative platforms. Beyond spot trading, KuCoin also features futures, margin trading and staking, giving users a broad mix of tools to trade and earn.

The platform keeps fees low compared to many competitors. KuCoin has also prioritized security through its Security Center, although the exchange faced a major incident in 2020 when hackers stole over $275 million in assets — one of the largest breaches in the industry at the time.

Users may choose Kraken over KuCoin primarily for its strong security and regulatory compliance. KuCoin also has restrictions in certain regions, including the United States, while Kraken is licensed and operates in major markets worldwide.

This makes Kraken a more accessible and trusted option for users who want consistent access and institutional-grade security features.  

• Known for: Copy trading capabilities
• Security history: No breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.10% and aker fees start at 0.10%
• Asset selection: ~681 cryptocurrencies
• Key features: Bitget Copy Trading, Bitget Earn, Bitget Wallet

Bitget has grown quickly with its focus on derivatives and copy trading, allowing users to mirror the strategies of experienced investors. The exchange is available in more than 150 countries and offers products for both novice and professional traders.

To protect users, the exchange publishes proof-of-reserves data, stores most funds in cold wallets and uses measures like two-factor authentication and an insurance fund for added coverage. They also provide educational resources through Bitget Academy and multi-channel customer support, though service levels can vary by region.

Traders often turn to Kraken when they want a regulated, security-focused platform with a proven track record. Kraken’s licensing across major regions and its long-standing reputation for safety give it an edge.

Kraken also appeals to investors seeking more than derivatives or copy trading. Its wide asset selection, advanced tools and access to commission-free U.S. stocks and ETFs provide a stable foundation for long-term strategies.

• Known for: Derivatives trading
• Security history: Breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.10% and taker fees start at 0.10%
• Asset selection: ~2,121 cryptocurrencies 
• Key features: Bybit Derivatives Trading, Bybit Exchange, Spot Trading, Copy Trading, Bybit Earn, Bybit Smart Leverage

Bybit, launched in 2018 as a derivatives-first exchange, has grown into one of the largest trading platforms by volume, ranking just behind Binance. It operates in about 160 countries but is restricted in key markets such as the United States, Canada, France and the United Kingdom.  

Best known for perpetual contracts on assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana, Bybit built its reputation in derivatives before expanding into spot markets. Today, it supports more than 100 cryptocurrencies and offers features like copy trading and passive yield products.

Combined with strong liquidity, a user-friendly interface and advanced trading tools, Bybit appeals to high-frequency and leverage traders.

Bybit is popular for derivatives trading, but its limited availability makes it less accessible for many investors. The platform restricts users in major markets like the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, Kraken operates in more than 190 countries and is fully licensed in key regions, offering broader access for both retail and professional traders. For users who want a global platform with consistent availability, Kraken provides an advantage.


• Known for: International digital asset trading
• Security history: No breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Maker fees start at 0.00% and taker fees start at 0.05% 
• Asset selection: 3,000+ cryptocurrencies 
• Key features: Spot trading, futures trading, staking, MEXC Launchpad

MEXC is a global crypto exchange best known for its large selection of altcoins, often listing new or emerging tokens earlier than many competitors. This makes it popular among traders who want access to smaller-cap assets not typically available on larger exchanges.

In addition to spot and futures markets, MEXC provides features like staking and a Launchpad for token sales. Its highly competitive fee structure offers 0% maker fees and low taker fees, which appeals to high-frequency and cost-conscious traders.

Many traders prefer Kraken over MEXC because of its clear regulatory framework and established global presence. Kraken is licensed in major markets and emphasizes compliance, giving users confidence that their trading activity meets high standards.

MEXC focuses on listing a large number of assets, including niche and emerging tokens, but does so with less regulatory clarity. For traders who prioritize stability, transparency and consistent oversight, Kraken offers a more dependable foundation.

• Known for: Commission-free investing
• Security history: Breaches reported
• Spot trading fee summary: Free market maker fees and 0.87% smart exchange fees
• Asset selection: 30+ cryptocurrencies
• Key features: Robinhood Crypto, Robinhood Wallet

Robinhood is a U.S.-based financial services company best known for commission-free ETF and stock trading. Its crypto platform is narrower in scope, supporting just over 30 cryptocurrencies. The focus is on simplicity and ease of use, with a mobile-first design aimed at retail investors.

While Robinhood advertises commission-free trading, crypto orders routed through its Smart Exchange carry fees between 0.10% and 0.85%, decreasing for higher-volume traders. 

Combined with its straightforward app experience, Robinhood appeals most to beginners who want casual exposure to crypto alongside traditional investments.

Many traders prefer Kraken over Robinhood for its broader asset access and professional-grade functionality. Kraken supports more than 500 cryptocurrencies compared to Robinhood’s 30+, along with advanced tools like margin, futures and customizable order types that appeal to active traders.

Kraken also integrates traditional and digital markets in one platform, offering eligible clients access to U.S. stocks, ETFs and tokenized securities (xStocks) alongside crypto. This combination gives users a unified experience that goes beyond Robinhood’s beginner-focused app.

Kraken delivers the depth, security and transparency that investors need to trade with confidence. With more than 500 tokens listed, plus commission-free access to 11,000 U.S. stocks and ETFs, Kraken makes it possible to trade in one place.

Open an account and start trading with Kraken today.