When trading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin on exchanges, transaction fees are inevitable. These fees vary across platforms, impacting your overall profitability. Below, we analyze the lowest-fee exchanges while emphasizing security—because high security is non-negotiable. Currently, Binance and OKX lead the market with competitive fee structures. Bonus: We’ll also share tips to further reduce fees!
1. Binance (Binance.com)
Binance Spot Trading Fees
- Taker Fee: 0.1%
- Maker Fee: 0.1%
- Discount: Using BNB (Binance Coin) for fee payments reduces rates to 0.075% (applies to both buy/sell orders).
Binance USDⓈ-M Futures Fees
- Maker Fee: 0.02%
- Taker Fee: 0.04%
Discounts:
- 10% off with BNB.
- BUSD trading pairs: As low as 0.0108% (maker) and 0.027% (taker).
Binance Coin-Margined Futures Fees
- Maker Fee: 0.01%
- Taker Fee: 0.05%
- No BNB discounts apply.
2. OKX (OKX.com)
OKX Spot Trading Fees
- Maker Fee: 0.08%
- Taker Fee: 0.1%
- No platform token discounts.
OKX USDⓈ-M Perpetual Contracts
- Maker Fee: 0.02%
- Taker Fee: 0.05%
OKX Coin-Margined Contracts
- Fees mirror USDⓈ-M rates (0.02% maker / 0.05% taker).
Key Takeaway: Binance edges out OKX in futures trading due to BNB/BUSD discounts. For spot trading, both platforms are comparable.
3. Top Low-Fee Cryptocurrency Exchanges in 2023
Here’s a quick comparison of 10 major platforms:
| Exchange | Spot Fee | Discounts | Notes |
|----------------|----------|------------------------------|--------------------------------|
| Binance | 0.1% | 30% off with BNB | Lowest futures fees with BUSD. |
| OKX | 0.1% | VIP-tier discounts | Strong liquidity. |
| Huobi | 0.2% | Promotional discounts | Wide coin selection. |
| Gate.io | 0.2% | GT token discounts | Niche altcoins available. |
| Kraken | 0.26% | High liquidity for EUR/USD | Trusted but pricier. |
👉 Compare all exchange fees side-by-side
FAQ
Q1: How are trading fees calculated?
A: Fees = Trade value × Fee rate. For example, a $1,000 trade at 0.1% costs $1.
Q2: Can I avoid fees entirely?
A: No, but holding exchange tokens (e.g., BNB) or using maker orders reduces costs.
Q3: Are low-fee exchanges safe?
A: Prioritize platforms like Binance or OKX—low fees + top-tier security.
Q4: Why do futures fees differ from spot?
A: Futures markets often incentivize liquidity providers with lower maker fees.
Warning: Avoid sketchy exchanges offering "zero fees"—many are scams or lack liquidity. Stick to reputable brands.
Pro Tip: Use limit orders (maker) to save on fees, and leverage exchange-native tokens for extra discounts.