Provider comparison
Coinbase vs Kraken: compare maker / taker fee, supported coins, fees, regulation, and custody in one head-to-head table.
Coinbase is a custodial exchange that is allowed in the US. It does not provide proof of reserves, so users m…
Kraken is a well-established crypto exchange known for its strong security and proof of reserves. It is avail…
Maker / taker fee
Coinbase
Kraken
Supported coins
Coinbase
Kraken
Fiat on-ramps
Coinbase
Kraken
KYC level
Coinbase
Kraken
US allowed
Coinbase
Kraken
Proof of Reserves
Coinbase
Kraken
Order-book depth
Coinbase
Kraken
Instruments
Coinbase
Kraken
| Feature | Coinbase | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Maker / taker fee | Advanced Trade taker ~0.6% to 0.05% by volume; simple-buy spreads higher | Pro maker 0.25% to 0.00%, taker 0.40% to 0.10% by volume |
| Supported coins | ~250+ | ~350+ |
| Fiat on-ramps | Bank/ACH, wire, debit card, PayPal, Apple/Google Pay | Bank transfer, wire, card, Apple/Google Pay |
| KYC level | required | required |
| US allowed | ||
| Proof of Reserves | n (public company, audited financials/SEC filings instead) | y - cryptographically user-verifiable, updated periodically (kraken.com/proof-of-reserves) |
| Order-book depth | Very high on majors | High on majors and many alts |
| Instruments | spot, staking, futures (Coinbase Derivatives), some margin (intl) | spot, futures, margin, staking, xStocks |
Coinbase
Coinbase is a custodial exchange that is allowed in the US. It does not provide proof of reserves, so users must rely on its reputation and regulatory compliance.
Kraken
Kraken is a well-established crypto exchange known for its strong security and proof of reserves. It is available in the US and offers a wide range of features for traders.
Risk warning: Cryptocurrency is a volatile, high-risk asset class. Prices can fall as well as rise, and you could lose some or all of the money you put in. Custodial providers carry counterparty risk; self-custody puts key security entirely on you. This page is general information, not financial advice.
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