Coinbase
Kraken
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Coinbase
Capital at risk · T&Cs apply
In the realm of cryptocurrency trading, Coinbase and Kraken stand out as two prominent exchanges, each catering to different types of traders. Coinbase, with a rating of 3.36/5, is ideal for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and robust regulatory compliance, offering a straightforward experience for those newly venturing into crypto markets. On the other hand, Kraken, rated slightly higher at 3.37/5, appeals to more experienced traders with its lower spreads starting from 0.2 pips and the availability of advanced features such as staking and fiat on/off ramps. While both are headquartered in San Francisco and regulated by the FCA, Kraken provides higher leverage options up to 1:5, making it more suitable for traders seeking more complex trading strategies.
Coinbase
Kraken
| Coinbase | Kraken | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 3.4/5 | 3.4/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $0 | $0 |
| Spread from | 0.5 pips | 0.2 pips ✓ |
| Max Leverage | 1:1 | 1:5 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA, SEC | FCA, CFTC |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile |
Coinbase (3.4/5) and Kraken (3.4/5) are closely matched. Kraken has lower spreads; the better pick depends on your priorities.
See full side-by-side comparison belowCoinbase
Kraken
WinnerCoinbase
Kraken
Lower fees
Coinbase
3.4/5
Choose Coinbase if you want…
Kraken
3.4/5
Choose Kraken if you want…
Coinbase (3.4/5) and Kraken (3.4/5) are closely matched on our independent rating scale. The better choice depends on your priorities — fees, regulation, platforms, or available markets. See the full comparison above.
Coinbase offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while Kraken starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
Coinbase requires a minimum deposit of $0. Kraken requires $0.
Coinbase is regulated by FCA, SEC, while Kraken holds licences from FCA, CFTC.
Coinbase supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Kraken supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
Only 26% of Brokers Are Truly Fee-Free
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58% of Brokers Hold a Single Licence
BrokerRank Research — Regulation quality analysis
71% of Retail Traders Lose Money
BrokerRank Research — Loss rates across 50 EU brokers
76% of Brokers Use Proprietary Platforms
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Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.