MEXC vs KuCoin – which to choose in 2026

MEXC

8.8

since 2018

VS

KuCoin

8.5

since 2017

Detailed comparison

What sets them apart

MEXCLowest fees

Zero maker fees. Huge selection of coins – 2,500+

KuCoinAltcoin hunter

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

MEXC or KuCoin – one of the most common questions beginner traders ask. The answer depends on what you need: lowest fees 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

MEXC

MEXC has been operating since 2018, registered in Seychelles. The platform lists 2500+ cryptocurrencies. MEXC is a centralized crypto exchange founded in 2018 and registered in the Seychelles. The platform's main advantage is a zero maker fee on both spot and futures. It lists over 2,500 cryptocurrencies, making it one of the leaders by token count. Our rating – 8.8/10.

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.

MEXC 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, MEXC charges 0%/0.05% (maker/taker), while KuCoin charges 0.1%/0.1%. In terms of spot fees, MEXC is the better deal. On futures the picture is different. MEXC charges 0% maker / 0.02% taker. KuCoin – 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. For those trading with leverage, MEXC will cost less. Withdrawal fees are a separate expense. For BTC: MEXC charges 0.0005 BTC (~$35), KuCoin – 0.0005 BTC (~$35). For USDT on the TRC-20 network (the cheapest option): MEXC – 1 USDT (TRC-20), KuCoin – 1 USDT (TRC-20). Both platforms incentivize using their native tokens. MEXC offers a discount when paying fees with its MX 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. MEXC advertises zero maker fees – and it is true. However, zero fees are partly offset by wider spreads on less liquid pairs. On BTC/USDT and ETH/USDT this is barely noticeable, but on rare tokens the spread can be 2–3 times wider than on KuCoin. If you trade major coins, MEXC is genuinely cheaper. If you hunt altcoins, calculate the total cost. 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, MEXC leads with 2500+ cryptocurrencies. KuCoin offers 900+. 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. MEXC: P2P exchange supports multiple local currencies and payment methods. P2P liquidity is moderate – sufficient for buying USDT, but large amounts are best split across several trades. 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. MEXC: MEXC applies standard security measures: cold storage for the majority of funds, two-factor authentication, anti-phishing codes, and withdrawal address whitelisting. The exchange does not publish regular Proof of Reserves reports, which reduces transparency compared to market leaders. 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 MEXC: Basic trading is available without verification, with withdrawal limits. For full access, a passport plus selfie is required. Processing usually takes 15–60 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

MEXC

MEXC is ideal for those hunting for new tokens at an early stage who want to pay minimal fees. The zero maker rate attracts active traders placing limit orders. It also suits altcoin hunters – the 2,500+ coin catalog covers virtually everything.

Open MEXC

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

MEXC

+Zero maker fee – 0% on spot and futures

+Over 3,000 cryptocurrencies – one of the largest selections on the market

+New tokens appear earlier than on other exchanges

+Low futures taker fee – just 0.02%

–Zero fees are offset by wider spreads on rare pairs

–Liquidity on obscure coins is notably lower than on Binance

–Cluttered interface – many sections, easy to get lost

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.