OKX vs KuCoin which has lower fees?

OKX and KuCoin offer competitive trading fees, with discounts based on volume and native token holdings, but differ in how they incentivize fee reductions.

Jul 09, 2025 at 04:07 pm

Overview of OKX and KuCoin Fee Structures

When comparing OKX and KuCoin, one of the most critical aspects users consider is the fee structure. Both platforms offer competitive trading fees, but understanding their models can help traders make informed decisions. OKX uses a maker-taker fee schedule that starts at 0.1% for takers and offers discounts based on trading volume or OKB holdings. KuCoin, on the other hand, also employs a maker-taker model starting at 0.1% for takers, with reductions tied to KCS ownership and trading activity.

It’s important to note that both exchanges have different fee tiers and structures depending on whether you're trading spot, futures, or using advanced order types. For example, OKX offers reduced fees for high-volume traders and provides fee discounts through its native token, OKB. Similarly, KuCoin allows users to reduce fees by holding KCS, its platform token.

Spot Trading Fees Comparison

In terms of spot trading fees, both exchanges are quite similar in their base rates but differ in how users can qualify for lower fees. On OKX, the standard rate is 0.1% for takers and 0.08% for makers. However, if you hold OKB or generate high trading volume, these fees can be significantly reduced — potentially down to 0.02% for makers and 0.05% for takers.

On KuCoin, the default fee is also 0.1% for takers and 0.09% for makers. The exchange gives users the option to pay fees with KCS, which results in a 20% discount. Additionally, KuCoin has a tiered system where higher trading volumes lead to lower fees, making it appealing for frequent traders.

The main difference lies in how each platform incentivizes users to reduce fees. OKX tends to favor volume-based reductions more than token-based ones, while KuCoin emphasizes the benefits of holding its native token.

Futures Trading Fees Breakdown

For futures trading, the fee structures become more nuanced due to funding rates, position fees, and leverage considerations. OKX charges a taker fee of 0.02% and a maker fee of -0.005% (meaning makers receive rebates). This negative maker fee is particularly attractive for liquidity providers.

KuCoin sets its futures fees slightly differently. Taker fees start at 0.02%, and maker fees are at 0.00% as of recent updates. While this may seem less generous than OKX, KuCoin allows traders to use KCS to reduce fees further, offering up to a 20% discount.

Another key factor in futures trading is funding rates, which vary between the two exchanges and depend on market conditions. Traders should monitor these rates closely, as they can significantly impact long-term trading costs.

Withdrawal and Deposit Fees

Beyond trading fees, users must also consider deposit and withdrawal costs, which can add up depending on usage frequency. OKX generally supports free deposits for most cryptocurrencies, though fiat deposits may incur bank or processing fees. Withdrawal fees vary by blockchain and are updated regularly based on network congestion.

Similarly, KuCoin offers free crypto deposits but charges variable withdrawal fees depending on the asset. Users should check the current withdrawal fees before initiating any transactions, as these can fluctuate based on network traffic and blockchain confirmation times.

One notable feature of OKX is its occasional fee-free promotions for certain coins, especially during periods of low network congestion. KuCoin also runs such campaigns, though they tend to be less frequent and more targeted toward specific user segments.

Fee Discounts Through Native Tokens

Both exchanges encourage users to hold their native tokens to benefit from fee discounts. Holding OKB on OKX allows users to unlock significant savings across all trading pairs. The discount percentage increases with the amount of OKB held and the duration of ownership.

At KuCoin, holding KCS enables users to enjoy a 20% discount on trading fees when used to pay them. Furthermore, KuCoin offers daily KCS rewards, giving users additional incentives to retain their tokens rather than trade them away.

While both systems provide tangible benefits, OKX's approach appears more flexible, allowing fee reductions even without actively using the token for payments. Conversely, KuCoin requires users to opt-in to pay fees with KCS to access the full discount.

User Experience and Interface Impact on Fees

Although not directly related to numerical fees, the user interface and overall experience can influence how effectively users manage their trading costs. OKX offers a highly customizable trading interface with advanced tools like grid trading bots, which can optimize trading strategies and indirectly reduce effective fees.

KuCoin provides a clean and intuitive interface that appeals to beginners and intermediate traders. Its mobile app includes features like fee tracking dashboards, helping users stay aware of their total costs over time.

Understanding how to navigate these platforms efficiently can help traders avoid unnecessary expenses such as slippage, failed transactions, and incorrect gas fees.

FAQs

Q: Can I change my fee tier on OKX or KuCoin manually?

A: Neither exchange allows manual fee tier selection. Instead, your tier is determined automatically based on your trading volume and token holdings over a rolling 30-day period.

Q: Do OKX and KuCoin charge fees for referral programs?

A: Both platforms offer referral programs where users earn a percentage of their referrals’ trading fees. These earnings are credited without additional fees being charged to the referrer or referee.

Q: Are there any hidden fees on OKX or KuCoin?

A: Both exchanges are transparent about their fee schedules. However, users should be cautious of network fees for withdrawals and gas fees for certain blockchain interactions, which are separate from trading fees.

Q: How often do OKX and KuCoin update their fee structures?

A: Fee schedules are typically reviewed and updated quarterly or annually, though major changes are rare unless prompted by regulatory or market shifts. Users should check the official fee pages periodically for updates.