The abundance of cryptocurrency trading platforms makes it challenging for crypto enthusiasts to make informed decisions. The OKX vs Kucoin debate exemplifies this dilemma.
To simplify the decision-making process, we present a detailed comparison of these two leading platforms—covering account registration, KYC requirements, trading fees, security, and more—to help traders choose the best fit for their needs.
OKX vs Kucoin: Overview
OKX
- Founded: 2017 by John Chen
- Users: 16+ million across 180 countries (excludes U.S., U.K., and Canada due to regulatory restrictions)
- Daily Trading Volume: $8+ billion
- Key Features: Spot, margin, futures, options, perpetual swaps, DeFi, lending, and mining services
- Mobile App Rating: 4.8/5
👉 Explore OKX’s Trading Platform
Kucoin
- Founded: 2017 by Johnny Lyu
- Users: 18+ million in 200 countries
- Daily Trading Volume: $1.5+ billion
- Key Features: 700+ altcoins, futures, leveraged tokens, trading bots, staking, and NFT marketplace
- Mobile App Rating: 4.4/5
Key Difference: OKX excels in liquidity and derivatives, while Kucoin offers broader altcoin support.
Account Registration & KYC
| Feature | OKX | Kucoin |
|------------------|-----------------------------|-----------------------------|
| KYC Required | Optional (limits apply) | Mandatory for higher tiers |
| Verification | ID + selfie | Tiered (1–3) with increasing limits |
| Withdrawal Limits | $10,000/day (verified) | $499–$999,999/day (by tier) |
Winner: OKX allows limited trading without KYC, appealing to privacy-focused users.
Trading Features & Fees
Spot Trading
- OKX: 0.08% maker / 0.10% taker
- Kucoin: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
Futures Trading
- OKX: 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker
- Kucoin: 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker
Lower Fees: OKX edges out Kucoin marginally.
Unique Offerings
- OKX: Copy trading, options, and DeFi integrations
- Kucoin: Bot trading, staking, and NFT Windvane
Deposits & Withdrawals
| Feature | OKX | Kucoin |
|---------------|--------------------------|--------------------------|
| Fiat Support | None | 20+ currencies (EUR, USD, etc.) |
| Crypto Deposits | Free | Free |
| Withdrawals | Crypto-only | Fiat + crypto |
Winner: Kucoin for fiat flexibility.
Security
| Platform | Incidents | Measures | Proof of Reserves |
|----------|----------|----------|------------------|
| OKX | None | Cold wallets, 2FA, encryption | Yes |
| Kucoin | 2020 hack ($150M loss) | MFA, micro-withdrawals, Merkle Tree audits | Yes |
Winner: OKX for a cleaner security record.
Final Verdict
Choose Kucoin if you:
- Trade altcoins frequently
- Need fiat on/off ramps
- Prefer staking/bot trading
Choose OKX if you:
- Prioritize low fees and high liquidity
- Trade derivatives or copy strategies
- Value a robust security history
FAQ
1. Which platform has lower fees?
OKX offers slightly lower fees for spot and futures trading.
2. Can I trade without KYC?
Yes, on OKX (with limits). Kucoin requires KYC for full features.
3. Does Kucoin support U.S. traders?
No—both platforms restrict U.S. users.
4. Which is better for beginners?
Kucoin’s intuitive interface and staking options are beginner-friendly.
5. How do they compare in security?
OKX has no major breaches; Kucoin improved post-2020 hack.
6. Which offers more coins?
Kucoin lists 700+ vs OKX’s 320+.
Bottom Line: OKX wins overall for low fees and security, but Kucoin excels in altcoin diversity and passive income options.