Bybit vs Gate.io – which to choose in 2026

Bybit

9.3

since 2018

VS

Gate.io

8.3

since 2013

Detailed comparison

What sets them apart

BybitBest for trading

Best for futures trading. Copy trading available – replicate trades of experienced traders

Gate.ioMost coins

Huge coin selection – 3,800+. Find even the rarest tokens

Bybit or Gate.io – one of the most common questions beginner traders ask. The answer depends on what you need: best for trading or most coins? 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

Bybit

Bybit has been operating since 2018, registered in UAE (Dubai). The platform lists 660+ cryptocurrencies. Bybit is a centralized crypto exchange founded in 2018 in Singapore (now registered in the UAE, Dubai). Originally built for derivatives, it gradually added spot trading, P2P, staking, and other products. It lists over 660 cryptocurrencies. Our rating – 9.3/10.

Gate.io

Gate.io has been operating since 2013, registered in Cayman Islands. The platform lists 3800+ cryptocurrencies. Gate.io is one of the oldest crypto exchanges, founded in 2013 and registered in the Cayman Islands. The platform holds a leading position by number of available cryptocurrencies – over 3,800 coins. Our rating – 8.3/10.

Bybit vs Gate.io 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, Bybit charges 0.1%/0.1% (maker/taker), while Gate.io 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. Bybit charges 0.02% maker / 0.055% taker. Gate.io – 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. For those trading with leverage, Gate.io will cost less. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: Bybit charges 0.0005 BTC (~$35), Gate.io – 0.0004 BTC (~$28). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): Bybit – 1 USDT (TRC-20), Gate.io – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. Gate.io – with its GT 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, Gate.io leads with 3800+ cryptocurrencies. Bybit offers 660+. 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. Bybit stands out with its copy trading feature – you can automatically mirror trades from other traders. Pick from a leaderboard, set your amount, and trading runs in the background. Great for those who are not ready to trade on their own. 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. Bybit: Bybit has one of the most active P2P platforms among major exchanges. It supports multiple local currencies and payment methods. P2P fees are 0%. Gate.io: P2P exchange is available but less developed than Bybit. The selection of listings is limited, liquidity is moderate. Works for small amounts; for large purchases, consider Bybit or Bitget. 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. Bybit: Bybit stores the majority of user funds in cold wallets. It uses two-factor authentication, an anti-phishing code, and withdrawal address whitelisting. The exchange has never been hacked. It undergoes regular security audits and has an insurance system. Gate.io: Gate.io uses cold storage with multi-signature, 2FA, anti-phishing codes, and address whitelisting. The exchange regularly publishes Proof of Reserves reports where every user can verify their funds are backed. In over 10 years of operation, the platform has not suffered any major hacks. In terms of market tenure, Gate.io leads – it has been operating since 2013. The longer an exchange runs without major incidents, the greater the trust. Verification (KYC) on Bybit: KYC is mandatory. For basic verification, a passport plus selfie is enough. Extended verification grants higher withdrawal limits. The process usually takes 15–30 minutes. Verification (KYC) on Gate.io: KYC verification is mandatory for trading and withdrawals. Basic level: passport plus selfie. Processing takes from 10 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

Bybit

Bybit is the best choice for traders who trade futures with leverage. It also works well for beginners who want to try copy trading – copying experienced traders' trades and learning from their strategies.

Open Bybit

Gate.io

Gate.io is the choice for those who need the widest possible cryptocurrency catalog. If the token you need is not trading on other exchanges – check Gate. The Startup launchpad lets you participate in new project launches at an early stage, which can yield high returns.

Open Gate.io

Pros and cons

Bybit

+One of the best engines for futures trading – minimal latency

+Copy trading – replicate top traders' trades in one click

+User-friendly interface with multi-language support

+Regular trading tournaments and bonuses for new users

–Futures taker 0.055% – higher than Binance (0.05%)

–Fewer trading products than Binance (no options, modest Launchpad)

–KYC verification is mandatory

Gate.io

+Over 3,800 cryptocurrencies – the absolute leader by coin count

+Operating since 2013 – one of the market veterans

+Startup launchpad for early participation in new projects

+Competitive futures fees (0.02% maker)

–Standard spot fees – 0.1% without discounts

–Liquidity on rare pairs is often low

–Interface overloaded with features – hard to navigate

Our Verdict

Updated: April 2026

This article contains affiliate links. Not financial advice.