When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange, traders often find themselves comparing top platforms like KuCoin and MEXC. Both offer unique advantages, catering to different types of users from beginners to advanced traders. This detailed comparison will help you understand their key differences in features, fees, security, and overall usability.
Overview of KuCoin and MEXC
KuCoin, established in 2017, is a globally recognized exchange known for its extensive range of over 700 cryptocurrencies. It offers spot trading, futures trading, margin trading, and additional features like an NFT marketplace and P2P trading. KuCoin is particularly praised for its low trading fees, robust security measures, and efficient trade execution.
MEXC, launched in 2018, provides an even larger selection of digital assets, with support for over 2,960 coins. It stands out for its zero maker fees on spot and futures trading, along with features like copy trading, demo accounts, and high leverage options of up to 200x. MEXC also emphasizes user-friendly design and security.
Fee Structures: KuCoin vs MEXC
Deposit and Purchase Fees
Neither KuCoin nor MEXC supports direct fiat currency deposits. However, both allow users to deposit cryptocurrencies without any fees or purchase crypto using integrated third-party payment providers.
KuCoin supports a wider range of payment methods, including Visa/Mastercard, Apple Pay, bank transfers, Skrill, and PayPal. MEXC supports Visa/Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and bank transfers. When buying crypto through these providers, users should expect processing fees ranging from 3% to 5%, depending on the method.
Trading Fees
KuCoin charges a 0.1% fee for spot trading. Futures trading fees are 0.02% for makers and 0.06% for takers. Users can receive a 20% discount on fees by paying with KuCoin Shares (KCS), the platform's native token. Higher-volume traders may also qualify for reduced fees.
MEXC offers a more competitive fee structure: zero fees for makers in both spot and futures markets. Takers pay 0.05% for spot trades and 0.02% for futures. These are among the lowest fees available on any major exchange. Users can also receive a permanent 10% discount on fees by signing up through certain promotional links.
👉 Compare real-time trading fees
Exchange Features and Offerings
Trading Markets and Instruments
KuCoin provides a diverse set of markets, including spot, margin, and futures trading. It offers cross-margin and isolated margin trading with leverage up to 10x. The futures platform includes over 240 contracts with leverage up to 20x, available in both classic and lite interfaces for varying experience levels.
MEXC supports an even broader range of markets, with over 2,110 trading pairs. It offers margin trading with up to 10x leverage and futures trading with leverage as high as 200x. The platform also includes unique offerings like leveraged ETFs and index ETFs.
Advanced Tools and Automation
KuCoin offers a suite of advanced trading tools, including:
- Comprehensive order books and multiple order types
- Technical analysis indicators and TradingView-powered charts
- Free trading bots for automated strategy execution
MEXC provides similar advanced tools, plus:
- Quantitative trading automation for hands-free trading
- Copy trading functionality to mimic successful traders
- Demo accounts for risk-free practice
Additional Services
KuCoin offers a P2P marketplace supporting five major cryptocurrencies and an NFT marketplace with fractional NFT trading and gaming integrations. The KuCoin Earn program allows users to stake assets or participate in flexible savings products. The platform also features a self-custody wallet with strong security measures.
MEXC provides ETF trading, staking products with both locked and flexible terms, and a native MX token that offers fee discounts and access to exclusive events. The platform is particularly noted for its beginner-friendly interface and educational resources.
Security Comparison
Security is paramount when choosing a cryptocurrency exchange. Both platforms implement strong security measures, but their track records differ.
KuCoin experienced a significant security breach in 2020, resulting in the loss of over $150 million in assets. However, the exchange has since strengthened its security protocols, implementing:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
- IP restriction for login attempts
- Anti-phishing measures
- An internal risk control department
- An insurance fund to cover potential losses
MEXC maintains a clean security record with no major breaches to date. Its security measures include:
- Mandatory 2FA (unlike KuCoin's optional 2FA)
- Withdrawal address whitelisting
- Mandatory KYC verification for all users
- Military-grade encryption and cold storage for funds
- Regular anti-phishing reminders
While both exchanges take security seriously, MEXC's unblemished track record and mandatory security measures give it a slight edge.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
The number of supported cryptocurrencies is a significant differentiator between these exchanges.
KuCoin offers an impressive selection of over 700 cryptocurrencies, covering all major assets and many smaller altcoins.
MEXC provides one of the largest selections in the industry, with over 2,960 supported coins and more than 2,110 trading pairs. This extensive selection makes MEXC particularly attractive for traders interested in emerging tokens and diverse portfolio options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exchange has lower fees?
MEXC generally offers lower fees, particularly for market makers who pay zero fees on both spot and futures trading. Taker fees are also lower on MEXC compared to KuCoin.
Which platform is better for beginners?
MEXC is generally more beginner-friendly thanks to its intuitive interface, demo accounts, copy trading features, and extensive educational resources. KuCoin offers a lite interface for futures trading but is generally geared toward more experienced traders.
Can I use both exchanges in the United States?
While both exchanges are accessible globally, users should check their local regulations. Some features may be restricted in certain jurisdictions, including parts of the United States.
Which exchange has better security?
Both exchanges implement strong security measures, but MEXC has a cleaner security track record with no major breaches. KuCoin has strengthened its security since its 2020 incident and offers an insurance fund.
Does either exchange offer staking?
Yes, both exchanges offer staking options. KuCoin Earn provides various staking and savings products, while MEXC offers both locked and flexible staking with competitive APY rates.
Which platform is better for advanced traders?
Both platforms cater to advanced traders with margin trading, futures, and advanced charting tools. KuCoin offers more margin trading pairs, while MEXC provides higher leverage options and more sophisticated automated trading tools.
Final Verdict
Both KuCoin and MEXC are reputable cryptocurrency exchanges with distinct strengths. KuCoin excels with its established reputation, diverse feature set including NFT and P2P markets, and strong security measures despite past incidents.
MEXC stands out for its enormous selection of cryptocurrencies, lower fees, innovative features like copy trading and ETFs, and impeccable security record. Its user-friendly approach makes it suitable for traders of all experience levels.
👉 Explore advanced trading strategies
For most traders, MEXC offers the better overall package with its combination of extensive coin selection, competitive fees, and robust feature set. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific trading needs, experience level, and preference for particular features or assets.