Bybit vs Kraken 2026
Bybit
8.5VS
Kraken
8.7WinnerRatings
Bybit
Kraken
Overall Rating
8.5/10
8.7/10
Fees Rating
9/10
6.5/10
Security Rating
8.3/10
9.8/10
User Experience
8.8/10
8.2/10
Customer Support
8.2/10
8.5/10
Fees
| Bybit | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| Maker Fee | 0.1% | 0.25% |
| Taker Fee | 0.1% | 0.4% |
Security & Trust
| Bybit | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| 2FA Authentication | ||
| Never Hacked | ||
| Insurance Fund | ||
| Cold Storage | 90% | 95% |
Features
| Bybit | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| Cryptocurrencies | 500+ | 200+ |
| Trading Pairs | 800+ | 600+ |
| Mobile App | 4.6/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Founded | 2018 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Dubai, UAE | San Francisco, USA |
Bybit
Pros
- #2 derivatives exchange globally with deep order book liquidity
- Low perpetual fees (0.02% maker / 0.055% taker) with VIP maker rebates
- Up to 200x leverage on BTC/ETH with tiered position sizing
- Best-in-class copy trading with full Master Trader transparency
Cons
- Completely unavailable to US, UK, and Canadian residents
- Regulatory standing is limited to Dubai VARA, no G7 regulator license
- Spot trading still feels secondary to derivatives in depth and features
Kraken
Pros
- 15 years without a single hack or loss of customer funds
- Proof of reserves audits every quarter since 2014, with individual Merkle tree verification
- First crypto company to hold a US bank charter (Wyoming SPDI)
- Lower fees than Coinbase and Gemini (0.16%/0.26% vs 0.40%/0.60%)
Cons
- Trading fees 60-160% higher than Binance and Bybit (0.16%/0.26% vs 0.10%)
- Simple buy/sell interface hides a 1.5% spread that catches new users off guard
- KYC verification takes 3-10 business days during busy markets
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bybit better than Kraken?
Based on our testing, Kraken edges ahead overall. Bybit scores 8.5/10 versus Kraken's 8.7/10. The gap comes down to fees, features, and ease of use - check the full comparison above for the details that matter most to you.
Which has lower fees, Bybit or Kraken?
Based on our testing, Bybit offers lower trading fees. Bybit charges 0.1%/0.1% maker/taker fees while Kraken charges 0.25%/0.4%. Bybit scores 9/10 in our fee analysis.
Is Bybit safer than Kraken?
Kraken has a stronger security track record based on our analysis. Bybit scores 8.3/10 for security versus Kraken's 9.8/10. Both exchanges use standard protections like 2FA, but review the security section above for the full breakdown.
Which exchange has more cryptocurrencies, Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit supports more cryptocurrencies. Bybit lists 500+ coins while Kraken offers 200+. If you're looking for a wide range of altcoins, Bybit has the edge here.
Should beginners choose Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit is the better pick for beginners based on user experience scores. Bybit scores 8.8/10 for UX versus Kraken's 8.2/10. A cleaner interface and simpler onboarding can make a real difference when you're just starting out.
Can I use both Bybit and Kraken in the US?
Bybit is headquartered in Dubai, UAE and US availability depends on state regulations. Kraken is headquartered in the US. US regulations vary by state, so always verify current availability in your state directly with the exchange before creating an account. Some exchanges restrict certain features for US customers even when accessible.
