What it is
Kraken is one of the oldest crypto exchanges, offering spot trading, a low-fee Pro interface, staking and margin in some regions, with a strong reputation for security.
Who it suits
Investors who want a long-established exchange with low trading fees.
How it charges
Instant buy carries a spread and fee; Kraken Pro uses a maker-taker schedule that drops with 30-day volume. Deposits by bank transfer are usually free; withdrawals carry a network fee.
Getting started
Register, verify identity to the level you need for fiat deposits, and fund the account. Pro is a mode switch, not a separate account.
At a glance
- Trading fees
- Low on Pro
- Staking
- Yes
- Custody
- Exchange
- Listed company
- No
- Headquarters
- San Francisco
- Founded
- 2011
Strengths
- Low Pro fees
- Long security record
- Good fiat funding options
Watch for
- Instant-buy fees are higher
- Some products unavailable by region
Readers ask2 questions answered
Is Kraken good for beginners?
The main app is straightforward; the Pro interface is where fees fall. Both sit on the same account.
Does Kraken offer staking?
Yes in supported regions; availability varies by regulator.
Run the numbers before you sign up
How it comparesIts standing in 1 comparison
Best low-fee trading
- Trading fees
- Low on Pro 1 provider in this comparison
- Staking
- Yes 3 of them share this
- Custody
- Exchange 1 provider in this comparison
- Listed company
- No 4 of them share this
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