Binance vs KuCoin – which to choose in 2026
TL;DR
Our rating gives Binance (9.5/10) a slight edge over KuCoin (8.5/10). KuCoin still has real advantages – covered below.
Detailed comparison
| Binance | Metric | KuCoin |
|---|---|---|
| 9.5 ✓ | Rating | 8.5 |
| 0.1% | Spot maker | 0.1% |
| 0.1% | Spot taker | 0.1% |
| 0.02% | Futures maker | 0.02% |
| 0.05% ✓ | Futures taker | 0.06% |
| 450+ | Coins | 900+ ✓ |
| 2017 | Founded | 2017 |
| BNB | Token | KCS |
| Abu Dhabi (UAE) | Country | Seychelles |
What sets them apart
BinanceBest liquidityThe world's largest exchange. 25% fee discount when paying with BNB
Restricted in some regions
KuCoinAltcoin hunterLots of rare altcoins, convenient P2P exchange. 20% discount with KCS token
Binance or KuCoin – one of the most common questions beginner traders ask. The answer depends on what you need: best liquidity or altcoin hunter? We tested both platforms with our own money – completed KYC, bought crypto, traded futures, and withdrew to a wallet. Below is an honest comparison across every criterion that actually matters for trading.
A Quick Look at Each Exchange
BinanceBinance has been operating since 2017, registered in Abu Dhabi (UAE). The platform lists 450+ cryptocurrencies. Binance is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2017 by Changpeng Zhao (CZ). The largest in the world by daily trading volume, headquartered in Abu Dhabi. On Binance you can trade spot, futures, and options, use staking, lending, and the Launchpad platform. Our rating – 9.5/10.
KuCoinKuCoin has been operating since 2017, registered in Seychelles. The platform lists 900+ cryptocurrencies. KuCoin is a centralized crypto exchange founded in 2017 and registered in the Seychelles. The platform is known for its wide altcoin selection – over 900 cryptocurrencies, including many tokens not found on major exchanges. It offers spot and futures trading, margin lending, staking, P2P exchange, and a launchpad for new projects (Spotlight). Our rating – 8.5/10.
Binance vs KuCoin Fees – Who Is Cheaper
Fees are the first thing traders look at when choosing an exchange. A 0.05% difference may seem trivial, but on $10,000 in monthly volume that is already $5. And if you trade actively, it adds up fast. On spot, Binance charges 0.1%/0.1% (maker/taker), while KuCoin charges 0.1%/0.1%. In terms of spot fees, both exchanges are on the same level – no difference. On futures the picture is different. Binance charges 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. KuCoin – 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. For those trading with leverage, Binance will cost less. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: Binance charges 0.0005 BTC (~$35), KuCoin – 0.0005 BTC (~$35). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): Binance – 1 USDT (TRC-20), KuCoin – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. Binance offers a discount when paying fees with its BNB token. KuCoin – with its KCS token. If you trade a lot, the discount is significant.
The trading fee is only part of the expense. The real cost of a trade is made up of five elements: spread (the difference between buy and sell price), trading fee, withdrawal fee, currency conversion, and slippage on order execution. On both exchanges, spreads depend on the liquidity of each pair. On major coins (BTC, ETH) spreads are minimal. On rare altcoins the gap between buy and sell price can be significant. Before buying an obscure token, check the order book – it will show the real cost of the trade. Our tip: for small transfers, use the TRC-20 network (USDT) – the fee is minimal. For larger amounts, compare withdrawal costs across different networks directly in the exchange interface.
Trading Tools and Features
Beyond fees, it is important to understand what you can actually do on each exchange. Spot trading is available on both platforms. In terms of coin count, KuCoin leads with 900+ cryptocurrencies. Binance offers 450+. If you are looking for a specific altcoin, check the listing catalog beforehand. Futures are available on both exchanges. These are leveraged contracts – you can earn (and lose) multiples of what you would in spot trading. Maximum leverage on major pairs: up to 100x–125x. We recommend starting at 2x–5x, especially if you are new to it. Staking is available on both platforms. You can earn passive income on crypto held on the exchange. Rates depend on the coin and the lock-up period.
P2P and Fiat Trading
P2P is a popular way to buy crypto with local currency. You trade directly with another user: send fiat payment and receive crypto. No intermediaries – the exchange acts as an escrow to protect both sides. Binance: Binance exited several markets in 2023. P2P availability varies by region. Check the official site for your area before signing up. KuCoin: P2P exchange supports multiple local currencies and payment methods. KuCoin is actively developing its P2P section – the seller selection is growing. You can buy USDT, BTC, and ETH. Important: Binance has restricted access in certain regions. KuCoin operates in most jurisdictions. Tip: when buying large amounts on P2P, split the transaction into several parts – this reduces risk and keeps things smooth.
Security and KYC
Security is something you do not think about until you run into a problem. Exchange hacks, frozen accounts, phishing emails – in crypto these are real risks. Here is what both platforms offer. Binance: Binance uses two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for the majority of funds, the SAFU (Secure Asset Fund for Users) worth $1B for compensation in case of a hack, a suspicious transaction monitoring system, and withdrawal address whitelisting. In 2019 the exchange was hacked for $40M but fully compensated user losses from the SAFU fund. KuCoin: KuCoin stores the majority of funds in cold wallets with multi-signature protection. It uses 2FA, anti-phishing codes, a trading password, and address whitelisting. In 2020, the exchange suffered a $280M hack but recovered most of the funds and fully compensated user losses. Verification (KYC) on Binance: Verification is mandatory for all users. A passport or driver's license plus a selfie is required. The process takes from 10 minutes to a few hours. Without KYC, trading and withdrawals are not possible. Verification (KYC) on KuCoin: KYC verification is mandatory for all users. A passport or ID plus a selfie is required. Without verification, trading and withdrawals are unavailable. Processing takes from 15 minutes to a few hours. Our advice: enable two-factor authentication (2FA) right after signing up. Set up an anti-phishing code – it appears in every email from the exchange and helps you tell genuine notifications from scams. For storing large amounts, use a hardware wallet – only keep on the exchange what you are actively trading.
Who Should You Choose
BinanceBinance suits experienced traders who value liquidity and a wide range of tools. An excellent choice for futures trading and working with Launchpad. Keep in mind: the exchange exited certain markets in 2023. Note: access is restricted in some regions – check availability before signing up.
Open BinanceKuCoinKuCoin is the best choice for those hunting rare altcoins and wanting to invest in tokens at an early stage. Built-in trading bots help automate strategies. The KCS token with dividends is a nice bonus for active users.
Open KuCoinPros and cons
Binance
KuCoinOur Verdict
In our assessment, Binance (9.5/10) comes out ahead of KuCoin (8.5/10). Binance is the world's largest crypto exchange by trading volume. If you need maximum liquidity, low fees, and a huge coin selection – this is the first candidate for opening an account. But KuCoin should not be written off. KuCoin is the best choice for those hunting rare altcoins and wanting to invest in tokens at an early stage. For those tasks, KuCoin may be the better fit. Many traders keep accounts on both exchanges – for different purposes. Try both – registration is free.
FAQ
Which is better – Binance or KuCoin?
Binance received a rating of 9.5/10, KuCoin – 8.5/10. Binance the world's largest exchange. 25% fee discount when paying with bnb. But KuCoin is also a solid choice: it lots of rare altcoins, convenient p2p exchange. 20% discount with kcs token. Different tasks call for different exchanges.
Where are fees lower – Binance or KuCoin?
Spot fees are the same: 0.1%/0.1%. On futures, Binance is cheaper. The total cost of trading depends on spreads, volume, and whether you use token discounts.
Which has more coins – Binance or KuCoin?
KuCoin offers 900+ cryptocurrencies – more than 450+ on Binance. If you are looking for a specific rare token, check the exchange catalog before signing up.
Are Binance and KuCoin available worldwide?
Binance has restricted access in some regions. KuCoin operates in most jurisdictions.
Can you trade futures on Binance and KuCoin?
Yes, both exchanges support futures trading. Binance: maker 0.02%, taker 0.05%. KuCoin: maker 0.02%, taker 0.06%. Maximum leverage on major pairs – up to 100x–125x.
Which exchange is safer – Binance or KuCoin?
Both exchanges have been operating since 2017 and use standard security measures: cold storage, 2FA, anti-phishing codes. We recommend not storing large amounts on the exchange – withdraw to your personal wallet.
Is KYC verification required on Binance and KuCoin?
Binance: Verification is mandatory for all users. KuCoin: KYC verification is mandatory for all users. Without verification, trading and withdrawals on most exchanges are limited or unavailable.
Can you use both exchanges at the same time?
Yes, and many traders do exactly that. One exchange for main trading, the other for altcoins or futures. Registration on both is free.
Updated: April 2026
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