KuCoin vs HTX – which to choose in 2026
TL;DR
Our rating gives KuCoin (8.5/10) a slight edge over HTX (7.8/10). HTX still has real advantages – covered below.
Detailed comparison
| KuCoin | Metric | HTX |
|---|---|---|
| 8.5 ✓ | Rating | 7.8 |
| 0.1% ✓ | Spot maker | 0.2% |
| 0.1% ✓ | Spot taker | 0.2% |
| 0.02% | Futures maker | 0.02% |
| 0.06% | Futures taker | 0.05% ✓ |
| 900+ ✓ | Coins | 700+ |
| 2017 | Founded | 2013 ✓ |
| KCS | Token | HT |
| Seychelles | Country | Seychelles |
What sets them apart
KuCoinAltcoin hunterLots of rare altcoins, convenient P2P exchange. 20% discount with KCS token
HTXMarket veteranFormerly Huobi, operating since 2013. Popular in Asia, offers staking and crypto lending
Restricted in some regionsKuCoin or HTX – one of the most common questions beginner traders ask. The answer depends on what you need: altcoin hunter or market veteran? 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
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.
HTXHTX has been operating since 2013, registered in Seychelles. The platform lists 700+ cryptocurrencies. HTX is a centralized crypto exchange formerly known as Huobi. Founded in 2013 in China, it is now registered in the Seychelles. In 2023 the exchange rebranded and changed its name to HTX. Our rating – 7.8/10.
KuCoin vs HTX 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, KuCoin charges 0.1%/0.1% (maker/taker), while HTX charges 0.2%/0.2%. In terms of spot fees, KuCoin is the better deal. On futures the picture is different. KuCoin charges 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. HTX – 0.02% maker / 0.05% taker. For those trading with leverage, HTX will cost less. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: KuCoin charges 0.0005 BTC (~$35), HTX – 0.0005 BTC (~$35). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): KuCoin – 1 USDT (TRC-20), HTX – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. KuCoin offers a discount when paying fees with its KCS token. HTX – with its HT 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. HTX offers 700+. 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. 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. HTX: P2P exchange supports multiple local currencies and payment methods. Liquidity is moderate. Some exchange services may have regional restrictions – check availability on the website. Important: HTX 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. 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. HTX: HTX uses cold storage, multi-signature, 2FA, and anti-phishing codes. The exchange publishes Proof of Reserves reports. In 2023, there was an incident involving an $8M hot wallet leak, which was fully compensated. Security measures were strengthened after the management change. In terms of market tenure, HTX leads – it has been operating since 2013. The longer an exchange runs without major incidents, the greater the trust. 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. Verification (KYC) on HTX: KYC verification is mandatory. A passport or ID plus a selfie is required. Users in certain regions may face additional restrictions. Processing usually 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
KuCoinKuCoin 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 KuCoinHTXHTX suits traders who value liquidity in the Asian market. Staking and crypto lending are convenient tools for passive income. Some features may be restricted in certain regions – check availability before signing up. Note: access is restricted in some regions – check availability before signing up.
Open HTXPros and cons
KuCoin
HTXOur Verdict
In our assessment, KuCoin (8.5/10) comes out ahead of HTX (7.8/10). KuCoin is an exchange where you can find altcoins that are unavailable anywhere else. 900+ coins, convenient P2P, a native KCS token with a 20% discount. But HTX should not be written off. HTX suits traders who value liquidity in the Asian market. For those tasks, HTX may be the better fit. Many traders keep accounts on both exchanges – for different purposes. Try both – registration is free.
FAQ
Which is better – KuCoin or HTX?
KuCoin received a rating of 8.5/10, HTX – 7.8/10. KuCoin lots of rare altcoins, convenient p2p exchange. 20% discount with kcs token. But HTX is also a solid choice: it formerly huobi, operating since 2013. popular in asia, offers staking and crypto lending. Different tasks call for different exchanges.
Where are fees lower – KuCoin or HTX?
On spot fees, KuCoin is cheaper: 0.1%/0.1% maker/taker. On futures, HTX also leads. But fees are not the only expense. Factor in spread, withdrawal fees, and token discounts.
Which has more coins – KuCoin or HTX?
KuCoin offers 900+ cryptocurrencies – more than 700+ on HTX. If you are looking for a specific rare token, check the exchange catalog before signing up.
Are KuCoin and HTX available worldwide?
HTX has restricted access in some regions. KuCoin operates in most jurisdictions.
Can you trade futures on KuCoin and HTX?
Yes, both exchanges support futures trading. KuCoin: maker 0.02%, taker 0.06%. HTX: maker 0.02%, taker 0.05%. Maximum leverage on major pairs – up to 100x–125x.
Which exchange is safer – KuCoin or HTX?
HTX has been around longer (since 2013) – a longer track record. Both platforms use cold storage and 2FA. Regardless of your choice, we recommend not keeping large amounts on any exchange – use a hardware wallet instead.
Is KYC verification required on KuCoin and HTX?
KuCoin: KYC verification is mandatory for all users. HTX: KYC verification is mandatory. 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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