Kraken vs Coinbase: How these crypto exchanges compare

For anyone stepping into the world of crypto or looking to switch platforms, choosing the right exchange can shape the entire experience. With dozens of options available, two names that often rise to the top are Kraken and Coinbase. Both are long-standing exchanges with millions of users and strong reputations in the crypto space, but their approaches and product offerings differ in meaningful ways.

The right choice also depends on your individual goals. Active traders may prioritize advanced tools and low fees, while others may value asset variety or specific security features to help keep their crypto safe. 

This Coinbase vs. Kraken comparison breaks down these key areas and the overall user experience to help you identify which platform best meets your needs.

Founded in 2011, Kraken is one of the longest-running crypto exchanges in the world, earning a reputation over the years as a secure, compliance-driven platform trusted by millions.^[1] Headquartered in Wyoming and available in over 190 countries, Kraken has built a global presence while maintaining strong regulatory standards.^[1] 

It offers products tailored to a range of users, from its intuitive core platform for retail investors to Kraken Pro for advanced traders and institutional solutions for those seeking deeper market access.

Coinbase was founded in 2012 and became a publicly traded company on Nasdaq in 2021 under the ticker COIN.^[3] Initially headquartered in the U.S., it now operates without a central physical office and is available to users in more than 100 countries.^[2][30]

As a public company, Coinbase operates under specific regulatory and reporting requirements that shape parts of its platform and business model.

The platform offers a range of tools for trading and managing crypto, including a standard app, Coinbase Advanced for more experienced users, staking options, educational content, and developer APIs.

As one of the oldest and longest lasting crypto exchanges in the world today, Kraken has endured several market cycles that have forced many of its peers to exit the market. Kraken clients value the fact that the exchange has stood the test of time and earned trust of its clients through its transparency.

In many respects, Kraken is a security company that operates a crypto exchange. Kraken’s absolute focus on security above everything has helped to keep clients’ funds safe and the platform secure despite being under constant attack.

As an exchange focused on advancing the global adoption of cryptocurrency, not just the latest craze or easiest short term revenue opportunity, Kraken has built a reputation for security, transparency and support that its clients around the world value.

Kraken and Coinbase both offer a wide range of tools for trading, staking and learning about crypto. The table below highlights how their core products and features compare.

Kraken’s product ecosystem is designed to support a wide range of trading styles and experience levels. Users can trade on the go with its streamlined mobile app or tap into more advanced tools through Kraken Pro, which offers detailed charting, custom order types and real-time market data. 

The platform supports spot trading for all users, with margin trading (up to 5x leverage) and futures contracts (up to 50x leverage) available in eligible regions.^[4][6] Institutional and high-net-worth clients can access additional services through Kraken’s OTC desk and Kraken Prime offering.

Beyond trading, Kraken provides crypto staking on over 21 assets, with rewards up to 17% APY depending on the coin and network conditions.^[8] Users can earn passively by staking assets like Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL) and Cardano (ADA) directly through the platform.

Kraken also supports global digital payments through Krak, a feature enabling users to send crypto or cash without transaction fees. 

In 2024, Kraken released its Ink Layer-2 network built on Optimism’s SuperChain, providing a seamless bridge between centralized exchanges and popular DeFi protocols.

For those seeking to deepen their financial knowledge, Kraken Learn offers educational resources covering everything from blockchain basics to advanced trading strategies.

Coinbase offers trading and account management tools for various user experience levels. Its main platform supports spot trading, and Coinbase Advanced includes features like charting tools, real-time order books and various order types.

While it discontinued margin trading in 2020,^[5] futures trading with up to  20x leverage on commodity futures and 5x leverage on crypto futures is available to eligible users in certain regions.^[7] It also offers API access for users who want to build tools or automate trading activity.

In addition to trading, Coinbase supports staking for at least 8 assets. The APY values for these assets vary depending on the asset and network conditions.^[9]

In 2023, the platform launched its Base chain—an Ethereum Layer-2 network touted as being a faster and more cost-efficient way to interact with the Ethereum ecosystem.

Whether a client is buying their first $10 worth of bitcoin or executing a sophisticated API trading strategy, Kraken has the products, services and features they need. From intuitive mobile apps to robust trading tools, Kraken allows crypto investors to access the tools they need to be successful at their stage of their crypto journey.

While crypto can be dynamic, innovative and at times daunting to effectively navigate, Kraken makes it easy and intuitive. For casual investors or seasoned professionals, Kraken has the unique tools they need to effectively execute the strategy that is right for them.

The variety of available cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies can make or break a platform for many users. Kraken and Coinbase support hundreds of assets — here’s how they stack up.

Kraken provides access to over 450 types of cryptocurrencies, spanning everything from leading assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and XRP (XRP) to a diverse range of altcoins tied to DeFi, gaming and blockchain infrastructure.^[10] 

The platform regularly expands its listings and maintains a public asset roadmap, giving users visibility into which tokens are under review or coming soon. This curated approach helps balance user demand with Kraken’s focus on transparency.

For fiat transactions, Kraken supports deposits and withdrawals in ten major currencies, making it easier for users around the world to fund their accounts without relying solely on crypto.^[11]

Supported fiat currencies include:

• USD (US Dollar)
• EUR (Euro)
• CAD (Canadian Dollar)
• AUD (Australian Dollar)
• GBP (Pound Sterling)
• CHF (Swiss Franc)
• JPY (Japanese Yen)
• BRL (Brazilian Real)
• ARS (Argentine Peso)
• MXN (Mexican Pesos)

The exchange also offers strong stablecoin support for 15 assets, including Tether (USDT), USDC and Dai (DAI).^[12]

Coinbase offers ~300 cryptocurrencies while also offering early access to emerging coins through its “experimental” label for newly added assets.^[13][31]  

Coinbase supports fiat deposits and withdrawals in select currencies like USD, EUR and GBP. These on- and off-ramps allow users in supported regions to move between crypto and cash.^[14] 

Stablecoins also play a role in the Coinbase ecosystem, particularly USDC, which Coinbase helped develop and continues to support throughout its platform.^[29]

Kraken clients value the ability to gain access not just to hundreds of the latest and most forward looking cryptocurrencies, they also value the ability to manage their entire financial portfolio from a single platform.

Whether you are looking to invest in the biggest stocks and the latest memecoins, or to send money around the world for free, Kraken supports the world’s largest and most important assets across both the traditional and decentralized financial markets.

Kraken and Coinbase use different fee structures, which can impact casual and high-frequency traders differently. The chart below breaks down Kraken vs. Coinbase fees.

Kraken uses a transparent, volume-based fee model that supports casual users and high-volume traders. On the main Kraken platform, maker fees start at 0.25% and taker fees at 0.40%.^[16]

For those using Kraken Pro, maker and taker fee rates are substantially reduced by trading volume, and a Kraken+ subscription for $4.99 can eliminate them entirely.^[16]

Most fiat and crypto deposits on Kraken are free, with a few exceptions depending on the payment method or asset.^[17] Withdrawal fees are fixed and clearly displayed before any transaction is completed, so users always know what to expect.^[16]

Kraken’s no hidden fees policy makes it easier for users to plan their trades with confidence, thanks to predictable and transparent pricing. 

Coinbase uses different fee structures depending on the product. On the standard platform, trades include a spread and a flat fee that vary based on transaction size, payment method, and region.^[20]

Coinbase Advanced follows a volume-based maker-taker model, with maker fees up to 0.40% and taker fees up to 0.60%, depending on the user’s 30-day trading volume.^[19]

Fiat deposit and withdrawal fees also vary by method. ACH transfers are generally free, while wire and card transactions may incur higher costs.^[18] Because of spread-based pricing and variable fees, some users may find it more difficult to estimate total transaction costs compared to platforms with fixed-fee models.

While Coinbase pricing may seem competitive at first glance, their variable spreads and inconsistent fee structures can make it harder to know what you're really paying. Kraken, on the other hand, uses a straightforward, volume-based model with clear rates and no hidden charges.

For example, using Kraken, most deposits are free while withdrawal fees are fixed and clearly shown upfront — unlike Coinbase, where fees can vary and catch users off guard.

Additionally, the fees Kraken brings in also go on to fund its award winning team of customer support agents, in-house team of seasoned security professionals as well as dedicated software engineers building and maintaining the products that connect you to the latest crypto opportunities.

Security is a top priority for any crypto exchange. Kraken and Coinbase both implement layered protections and undergo third-party audits, though their histories and practices differ in key areas. Here’s how their security frameworks compare.

Kraken is widely regarded for its commitment to security, with a track record of no breaches resulting in the loss of client funds since its founding.^[21] The platform uses a layered security model to safeguard user assets, which includes: 

• Two-factor authentication (2FA)
• PGP email encryption between Kraken and its users
• Withdrawal address whitelisting
• A master account key

All of these features, and more, provide an added layer of defense in the event of unauthorized access attempts.

Since its founding, Kraken has pioneered transparency by launching one of the first Proof of Reserves audits in 2014. This cryptographic method allows clients to independently verify that their funds are fully backed.

The exchange is ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified and has completed a SOC 2 Type 2 audit, both of which signal strong operational and data protection controls.^[21] Kraken also runs a public bug bounty program, inviting security researchers to identify vulnerabilities and contribute to platform resilience. 

These efforts reflect Kraken’s long-standing emphasis on trust, transparency and rigorous third-party validation.

Coinbase uses a multi-layered security framework that includes two-factor authentication, encrypted communications and cold storage for most customer assets. The company also offers tools like withdrawal whitelisting and biometric login for account protection.

It holds SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type II certifications for its custody services and maintains insurance coverage for certain types of platform security incidents.^[24] 

As a publicly traded company, Coinbase is subject to regulatory oversight and regular financial disclosures. The company operates under a range of licenses and compliance frameworks across multiple jurisdictions. 

At Kraken, “security above everything” isn’t just a marketing tag line, it’s a fundamental part of the company culture. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Kraken is a security company that built a cryptocurrency exchange. Security is embedded in every company decision, and protecting client funds and personal information is central to Kraken’s operations.

Kraken was founded in the years following the largest hack in crypto history, the infamous Mt. Gox breach in 2011. Kraken co-founder Jesse Powell flew to Japan to help the Mt. Gox team recover from the attack, an experience that shaped Kraken’s unwavering focus on security.

Reliable customer support can make a major difference for users, especially during high-stakes trades or account issues. Both Kraken and Coinbase offer 24/7 support, but their service channels and recognition in this area vary.

Kraken is known for its responsive and professional customer service, offering multiple support channels to meet different user needs. Clients can access 24/7 live chat with real human agents, submit requests via email, or (in select cases) speak directly with a support specialist by phone. 

Kraken’s multilingual support team can assist users in over a dozen languages.^[25] This helps the company service its global customer base more effectively.

The exchange has also earned high marks in customer satisfaction and was recognized as the Winner of Best Use of AI in CX (Europe) at the Customer Centricity World Series.^[26] Its focus on clarity, empathy, and speed in resolving issues continues to distinguish Kraken’s client experience in a competitive space.

Coinbase offers support options including 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support through toll-free numbers in the U.S., U.K., and other select regions.

Phone assistance is available in English, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese, with related 24/7 phone support in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the EU. 

Phone support availability for France, Germany, Spain and Brazil is limited to Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. local time.^[28]

While Coinbase has served as many peoples’ first introduction to the world of cryptocurrency and decentralized finance, their experience with the platform hasn’t always lived up to their expectations.

From long wait times to vague auto-generated messages, the support that many Coinbase clients receive when faced with a challenge has caused many to voice their frustrations online. With industries as dynamic and fast paced as crypto, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed when coming to terms with the endless terminology and differences compared between crypto and the traditional financial system.

Kraken clients value the ability to talk to a real person that is both deeply knowledgeable about the intricacies of crypto as well as empathetic to their unique needs. Whether clients simply need reassurance or require more technical assistance, Kraken support is available around the clock to answer questions, walk through processes and provide a human touch to the client experience.

Kraken support is consistently recognized across X, Reddit and beyond for their professional, prompt and efficient service. From the most basic getting started questions to the most technical account settings, Kraken support is always just a click away from being there to help.

Kraken and Coinbase both offer strong crypto platforms with solid global reach and years of industry experience. However, their core philosophies and user experiences differ, making the best choice highly dependent on your priorities. 

Some users may prefer low fees and broad asset access, while others may prioritize platform transparency, advanced trading tools or regulatory trust.

Kraken could appeal more to security-conscious individual users and institutions who value predictable, competitive fees with advanced features. Its strong security record, Proof of Reserves audits and professional-grade tools make it especially well-suited for those who want transparency and control.

Coinbase, in contrast, stands out as a user-friendly and accessible platform, particularly for those newer to crypto or seeking brand familiarity. Ultimately, both platforms serve millions of users for a reason. The right fit comes down to which exchange better aligns with your expectations for trading experience, security, budget and long-term goals.

1. Kraken website 
2. Coinbase about page 
3. Coinbase blog 
4. Kraken margin trading 
5. Coinbase margin trading FAQ 
6. Kraken margin trading support  
7. Coinbase blog futures 
8. Kraken staking 
9. Coinbase staking help 
10. Kraken crypto availability
11. Kraken cash deposit options 
12. Kraken supported stablecoins 
13. Coinbase crypto availability 
14. CoinGecko article  
15. Coinbase wallet support 
16. Kraken fee schedule 
17. BitDegree article 
18. Coinbase exchange fees 
19. Coinbase advanced trade 
20. Coinbase pricing and fees 
21. Kraken security  
22. Coinbase blog (data breach) 
23. Milberg article (Coinbase data breach coverage)  
24. Coinbase crypto custody 
25. Kraken support languages 
26. Kraken wins European Customer Centricity Awards 
27. Coinbase customer support 
28. Coinbase privacy and security 
29. Coinbase derivatives and nodal clear partner in USDC integration 
30. Coinbase headquarters 
31. Coinbase experimental 
32. Coinbase SEC filing