Bybit vs KuCoin – which to choose in 2026

Bybit

9.3

since 2018

VS

KuCoin

8.5

since 2017

Detailed comparison

What sets them apart

BybitBest for trading

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

KuCoinAltcoin hunter

Lots of rare altcoins, convenient P2P exchange. 20% discount with KCS token

Bybit (rated 9.3/10) versus KuCoin (8.5/10) – who wins in 2026? Both exchanges are actively competing for users: updating interfaces, cutting fees, adding new coins. But they suit different traders. We broke down both platforms in detail: spot and futures fees, security, fiat support, trading tools, pros and cons. All based on hands-on experience.

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.

KuCoin

KuCoin 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.

Bybit 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, Bybit 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. Bybit charges 0.02% maker / 0.055% taker. KuCoin – 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. For those trading with leverage, Bybit will cost less. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: Bybit charges 0.0005 BTC (~$35), KuCoin – 0.0005 BTC (~$35). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): Bybit – 1 USDT (TRC-20), KuCoin – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. 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. 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%. 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. 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. 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. In terms of market tenure, KuCoin leads – it has been operating since 2017. 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 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

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

KuCoin

KuCoin 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 KuCoin

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

KuCoin

+Over 900 cryptocurrencies – many rare altcoins

+KCS token gives a 20% discount and daily dividends

+Convenient P2P exchange with local currency support

+Operating since 2017 – a time-tested platform

–Lower liquidity than Binance and Bybit

–In 2023, the exchange faced legal issues in the US

–Standard spot fees – 0.1% without discount

Our Verdict

Updated: April 2026

This article contains affiliate links. Not financial advice.