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Bybit vs Kraken

Top Derivatives Exchange with Low Futures Fees and Copy TradingThe Regulated Veteran with Phone Support and Strong Security

Updated: May 2026

Kraken has been operating since 2011 and is one of the most established platforms in the industry. Bybit, founded in 2018, is 7 years younger and positions itself as "Top Derivatives Exchange with Low Futures Fees and Copy Trading". Both exchanges cater to active crypto traders — but the differences in fees, coin selection, and regulation are significant.

When it comes to fees, Bybit has the edge: 0.10% spot taker fee compared to 0.26% at Kraken. On a $10,000 trade, that's a saving of $16 per transaction. For futures trading, Kraken offers the better rates. Additional perk at Bybit: 20% discount when paying with BIT Token.

On the security front, Bybit offers Regulated in Dubai (VARA)/Kazakhstan with an insurance fund of $400M USD. Kraken provides Licensed USA/UK/EU and backs it with Separate fund. Both platforms feature industry-standard security measures including 2FA, cold storage, and regular audits.

Bybit stands out with Copy Trading, Launchpad, NFT Marketplace, while Kraken differentiates itself through Staking, Futures, Earn. In terms of coin selection, Bybit leads with 700+ trading pairs compared to Kraken's 250+.

Bybit
4.5
Kraken
4.3
⚡ Quick Verdict

Bybit wins the head-to-head comparison in 7 out of 11 categories (1x Kraken, 3x tie). Bybit offers lower fees.

Which Exchange Is Better for You?

🎓Beginners
🏆 Kraken

Kraken offers the easier onboarding experience, a polished mobile app and Phone/Email/Live Chat.

💰Lowest Fees
🏆 Bybit

Bybit charges 0.10% spot taker fee plus 20% discount when paying with BIT Token.

🔒Maximum Security
🏆 Kraken

Kraken with Licensed USA/UK/EU and Separate fund insurance fund.

🪙Altcoin Selection
🏆 Bybit

Bybit lists 700+ trading pairs — 450+ more than Kraken.

👥Copy Trading
🏆 Bybit

Only Bybit offers copy trading. Kraken does not have this feature.

Comparison Table

CriteriaBybitKraken🏆
Spot Maker Fee0.10%0.16%Bybit
Spot Taker Fee0.10%0.26%Bybit
Futures Maker Fee0.02%0.02%
Futures Taker Fee0.06%0.05%Kraken
Max Leverage100x50xBybit
Trading Pairs700+250+Bybit
Copy TradingYes (Score 8)NoBybit
Grid BotsNoNo
Insurance Fund$400M USDSeparate fundBybit
KYCYes (for fiat)Yes
Rating4.5/54.3/5Bybit

Bonus via CryptoExchangePicks

Bybit via CryptoExchangePicks

$30,000 Bonus

Up to $30,000 deposit bonus + 30% fee rebate

View details →

Kraken via CryptoExchangePicks

$30,000 Match

3% deposit match up to $30,000 + Spin to Win

View details →

Fees in Detail

Bybit

Spot Maker0.1% 🏆
Spot Taker0.1% 🏆
Futures Maker0.02%
Futures Taker0.055%
Discount20% discount when paying with BIT Token

Kraken

Spot Maker0.16%
Spot Taker0.26%
Futures Maker0.02%
Futures Taker0.05% 🏆
DiscountNone
Bybit or Kraken — which exchange is better?
Bybit wins the comparison in 7 out of 11 categories. Kraken takes 1 categories, with 3 ties. Bybit excels with very low futures maker fee (0.02%), while Kraken counters with on the market since 2011 — one of the oldest providers. The best choice depends on your individual priorities — both are reputable trading platforms.
How much can I save at Bybit compared to Kraken on fees?
Bybit charges 0.10% spot taker fee vs. Kraken's 0.26%. On a $10,000 trade, that's a saving of $16 per transaction. Through CryptoExchangePicks, Bybit also offers 20% discount when paying with BIT Token. Futures fees: Bybit 0.06% vs. Kraken 0.05%.
Which exchange is safer — Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit offers Regulated in Dubai (VARA)/Kazakhstan with an insurance fund of $400M USD. Kraken provides Licensed USA/UK/EU backed by Separate fund. Both feature 2FA, Anti-Phishing and cold storage for customer funds. Check our detailed exchange reviews for a full security breakdown.
Bybit or Kraken — which has more cryptocurrencies?
Bybit lists 700+ trading pairs, while Kraken offers 250+. If you want to trade a wide range of altcoins or get early access to new projects, Bybit is the better choice. Kraken focuses on a curated selection, which can be less overwhelming for beginners.
Can I use copy trading on Kraken like on Bybit?
No, Kraken does not currently offer copy trading. Bybit has a mature copy trading platform (score: 8/10) where you can automatically mirror successful traders. If copy trading matters to you, Bybit is the clear choice.
Which exchange is easier to use — Bybit or Kraken?
Kraken scores higher for beginners (7/10) thanks to an intuitive mobile app, easy deposit methods and Phone/Email/Live Chat. Bybit (score: 5/10) is also usable but has a steeper learning curve. For absolute beginners, try our Exchange Finder quiz.
Which exchange has the better welcome bonus — Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit: $30,000 Bonus. Kraken: $30,000 Match. Check the conditions: some bonuses require minimum trading volume or deposits. Our affiliate links give you the best available terms.