Bybit vs Kraken
Side-by-side comparison of fees, features, and country availability. Last updated 2026.
Quick Verdict
Bybit is the better pick for most people. It scores higher in user ratings (4.6) and is best for derivatives trading and altcoin variety.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Bybit | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2018 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Dubai, UAE | San Francisco, USA |
| Maker Fee | 0.1% | 0.16% |
| Taker Fee | 0.1% | 0.26% |
| Spot Pairs | 1,200 | 280 |
| Min Deposit | $10 | $10 |
| US Users | No | Yes |
| KYC Required | Yes | Yes |
| Max Leverage | 100x | 5x |
| Staking | Yes | Yes |
| User Rating | ★ 4.6 | ★ 4.5 |
Bybit
- Low trading fees (0.1% spot, even lower with volume)
- Huge selection of altcoin futures with up to 100x leverage
- Strong mobile app and trading UX
- Generous referral and welcome bonuses
- Not available to US residents
- KYC verification required for most features
- Interface can feel overwhelming for true beginners
Kraken
- Strong security record (never hacked)
- Available to US residents in most states
- Transparent proof-of-reserves
- Good fiat on/off-ramp options
- Higher fees than offshore competitors
- Fewer altcoins than Binance or MEXC
- Leverage capped at 5x for US users
Which should you choose: Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit was founded in 2018 and is best known for derivatives trading and altcoin variety. Kraken, on the other hand, launched in 2011 and stands out for us users who want security and regulatory clarity.
Fees
On standard trades, Bybit charges a maker fee of 0.1% and a taker fee of 0.1%, while Kraken charges 0.16% and 0.26% respectively. For a trader doing $10,000 in monthly volume, that difference adds up to roughly $ 16.00 in saved fees per month on the cheaper side.
Country availability
Bybit does not support US residents. Kraken supports US residents. If you are in the US and neither supports you directly, you'll want to look at Kraken, Coinbase, or Gemini instead.
Bottom line
For most traders, Bybit is the better choice. It scores higher in user ratings (4.6) and is best for derivatives trading and altcoin variety. That said, if your priority is us users who want security and regulatory clarity, the other exchange may actually fit your use case better.
FAQ
Is Bybit safer than Kraken?
Both exchanges publish proof-of-reserves and have security measures in place. Bybit has been operating since 2018 and Kraken since 2011. Neither has a perfect record, so you should never store long-term funds on any exchange — use a hardware wallet for holdings you are not actively trading.
Can US residents use Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit is not available to US residents. Kraken is available to US residents. US traders should avoid using VPNs to access restricted exchanges — it violates terms of service and can freeze your funds.
Which has lower fees, Bybit or Kraken?
Bybit has lower taker fees (0.1% vs 0.26%), making it cheaper for active traders.