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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

Kraken vs Plus500 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In this comparison of Kraken and Plus500, we explore two distinct trading platforms catering to different investor needs. Kraken, with its strong regulatory compliance and focus on cryptocurrency markets, appeals primarily to experienced crypto traders seeking a secure, reliable exchange with the added benefit of staking. Conversely, Plus500 offers a beginner-friendly environment with a broad range of CFDs, including forex and commodities, making it an attractive option for traders interested in diverse market exposure without the complexities of asset ownership. The key difference lies in their offerings, with Kraken specialising in cryptocurrency trading and Plus500 providing a wide array of CFDs across various asset classes.

Kraken

Plus500

Higher ratedKraken logo

Kraken

4.4/ 5
Visit Kraken →Full review
Plus500 logo

Plus500

4.0/ 5
Visit Plus500 →

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Full review
VS

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Plus500 offers CFDs only — CFDs on forex, indices, stocks, commodities & crypto. You trade on price movements and do not own the underlying assets. Maximum leverage up to 1:30 for retail clients; additional fees may apply.

KrakenPlus500
BrokerRank Score4.4/5 ✓4.0/5
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$100
Spread from0.2 pips ✓0.6 pips
Max Leverage1:51:30 ✓
RegulationFCA, CFTCFCA, CySEC, ASIC ✓
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
KrakenPlus500
Best for Low Fees
KrakenPlus500
Best for Regulation
Plus500Kraken
Best Overall
KrakenPlus500
Quick Answer

Kraken is the better choice overall, scoring 4.4/5 vs 4.0/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, Kraken offers lower spreads (0.2 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

Kraken vs Plus500: Key Differences

Feature

Kraken

Winner

Plus500

Our Rating
4.4 / 5
4.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.2 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
$0.16/lot
None
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Crypto
CFDs on forex, indices, stocks, commodities & crypto
Founded
2011
2008
Headquarters
San Francisco, USA
Haifa, Israel
Score
3 / 5
2 / 5

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Fees Comparison

Fee

Kraken

Plus500

Lower fees
Spread From
0.2 pips
0.6 pips
Commission
$0.16/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
$1.5
None

BrokerRank Verdict

For beginners, Plus500 emerges as the better choice due to its simple, beginner-friendly platform and commission-free trading. Professional traders might prefer Kraken for its strong regulatory compliance and trusted reputation, especially in the cryptocurrency market. In terms of fees, Plus500 takes the lead with its zero-commission structure and competitive spreads, whereas Kraken's higher fees and limited leverage may not appeal to cost-conscious traders.

Who Should Choose Which?

Kraken

Kraken

4.4/5

Top pick

Choose Kraken if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.4/5)
  • Tighter spreads (from 0.2 pips)
  • No minimum deposit
Plus500

Plus500

4.0/5

Choose Plus500 if you want…

  • No per-trade commission
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:30)
  • More regulatory licences (4)
  • More market types (6)
Visit Plus500 →

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Also consider

View all rankings

We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.

Both Kraken & Plus500 are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is Kraken better than Plus500?

Kraken scores higher overall on our independent rating system. Kraken holds a 4.4/5 rating vs Plus500's 4.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, Kraken or Plus500?

Kraken offers spreads from 0.2 pips, while Plus500 starts at 0.6 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for Kraken vs Plus500?

Kraken requires a minimum deposit of $0. Plus500 requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, Kraken or Plus500?

Kraken is regulated by FCA, CFTC, while Plus500 holds licences from FCA, CySEC, ASIC, MAS.

5

What trading platforms do Kraken and Plus500 support?

Kraken supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. Plus500 supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both Kraken and Plus500?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

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