What is a market order vs a limit order on Kraken?

Market orders on Kraken execute instantly at the current price, while limit orders let you set a specific price, offering control but not guaranteed execution.

Jul 18, 2025 at 05:21 pm

Understanding Market Orders on Kraken

A market order on Kraken is a type of trade instruction that allows users to buy or sell a cryptocurrency at the current market price. This means that the order will be executed immediately at the best available price in the market. Market orders are typically used when speed of execution is more important than the exact price at which the trade is executed.

For example, if you want to buy 1 Bitcoin (BTC) and the current market price shows a bid of $30,000, your order will be filled at that price or slightly higher depending on the liquidity available. The green highlighted key point here is that market orders guarantee execution but not the exact price.

One of the main advantages of using a market order is its simplicity and immediacy. Traders who are confident in the current market conditions or who want to enter or exit a position quickly without delay often choose this option.

Exploring Limit Orders on Kraken

A limit order gives traders more control over the price at which they are willing to buy or sell an asset. On Kraken, a limit order allows you to set a specific price or better at which you'd like your trade to be executed. Unlike market orders, limit orders are not guaranteed to be filled unless the market reaches the specified price.

For instance, if you want to buy Ethereum (ETH) but only at a price of $2,000 or lower, you can place a limit buy order at that level. Your trade will only execute if the market price drops to $2,000 or below. Similarly, if you're selling and want to ensure you get at least $2,100 for your ETH, you would place a limit sell order at that price.

The green highlighted key point here is that limit orders provide price control but may not be filled if the market doesn't reach the specified level. This makes them ideal for traders who are patient and have a specific entry or exit point in mind.

Key Differences Between Market and Limit Orders

One of the most important distinctions between a market order vs a limit order on Kraken is the execution certainty versus price certainty. A market order guarantees that your trade will be executed, but you may end up paying a slightly different price than expected, especially in fast-moving markets. On the other hand, a limit order ensures that you don’t pay more (or receive less) than your set price, but it may not execute at all.

Another key factor is liquidity. Market orders usually require sufficient liquidity to be filled quickly, while limit orders can sit in the order book until matched. Additionally, Kraken displays real-time order books where you can see pending limit orders, which can help in making more informed trading decisions.

The green highlighted key point is that choosing between a market and a limit order depends on your trading strategy, urgency, and how much control you want over the execution price.

When to Use Market Orders on Kraken

Market orders are best suited for situations where immediate execution is necessary. For example, during high volatility or when you want to quickly enter or exit a trade without waiting for a specific price level. Traders who are less concerned about slippage or small price differences may prefer market orders.

If you're entering a trade in a highly liquid market, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, market orders are generally safe because the slippage will be minimal. However, in less liquid markets, the price you see and the price you get can differ significantly, which is a risk to consider.

The green highlighted key point is that market orders are ideal when speed is crucial, and you're comfortable with slight variations in the execution price.

When to Use Limit Orders on Kraken

Limit orders are particularly useful when you have a specific target price in mind and are willing to wait for the market to reach it. They are commonly used for setting entry points in anticipation of price movements or placing take-profit and stop-loss levels.

For example, if you believe that a cryptocurrency will rise once it breaks above a certain resistance level, you might place a limit buy order just above that level. Similarly, if you want to sell your holdings once the price reaches a certain target, a limit order can help automate that process.

The green highlighted key point is that limit orders are excellent for disciplined trading strategies where price precision is more important than immediate execution.

How to Place Market and Limit Orders on Kraken

To place either a market order or a limit order on Kraken, follow these steps:

• Log in to your Kraken account and navigate to the Trading View or the specific cryptocurrency trading pair you're interested in.
• Select the "Buy" or "Sell" tab depending on your intended action.
• Choose the order type: Market Order or Limit Order from the dropdown menu.
• If placing a limit order, input your desired price and amount.
• If placing a market order, simply input the amount you want to trade.
• Review the order details, including fees and total cost.
• Click "Buy [crypto]" or "Sell [crypto]" to execute the order.

Kraken also provides a live order book and charting tools to help you make more informed decisions when placing either type of order.

The green highlighted key point is that understanding the interface and order types on Kraken is essential for efficient trading.

FAQs

What happens if my limit order isn't filled on Kraken?

If your limit order isn't filled, it remains in the order book until the market reaches your specified price. You can cancel the order manually or adjust the price if needed.

Can I place a stop-limit order on Kraken?

Yes, Kraken supports stop-limit orders, which allow you to set a stop price that triggers a limit order once reached. This provides more control over entry and exit points.

Do market orders on Kraken incur higher fees than limit orders?

Kraken charges taker fees for market orders because they remove liquidity from the market. Limit orders may qualify for maker fees, which are generally lower if they add liquidity.

Is it possible to modify a market order after it’s been placed?

No, market orders cannot be modified or canceled once executed. They are filled instantly, so any changes must be made before placing the order.