Bybit vs Kucoin: Which is Better?
Bybit and KuCoin are two of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges in the world. Both platforms offer spot trading, futures trading, staking, and lending, but they cater to different types of users. Bybit is known for its high-leverage derivatives trading and lower fees, while KuCoin offers a wider range of cryptocurrencies and passive income options.
In this comparison, we will break down their differences in trading options, fees, security, supported assets, and overall usability to help you decide which is the best fit for you.
1. Overview of Bybit and KuCoin
Bybit Overview
- Founded in 2018, Bybit is primarily a derivatives trading platform offering futures, options, and margin trading.
- It provides high leverage (up to 100x), making it attractive to professional traders.
- Known for low trading fees and high liquidity for large trades.
KuCoin Overview
- Launched in 2017, KuCoin is one of the largest altcoin exchanges with 700+ cryptocurrencies.
- Offers spot trading, futures trading, staking, lending, and P2P trading.
- Known for KuCoin Shares (KCS), which gives users discounts on trading fees.
2. Key Differences Between Bybit and KuCoin
| Feature | Bybit | KuCoin |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Professional traders, derivatives | Altcoin trading, passive income |
| Trading Options | Spot, Futures, Options, Copy Trading | Spot, Futures, Margin, Staking, Lending, P2P |
| Leverage | Up to 100x (futures) | Up to 125x (futures) |
| Supported Cryptos | 350+ | 700+ |
| Trading Fees | 0.1% (spot), 0.01%-0.06% (futures) | 0.1% (spot), discounts with KCS |
| Deposit Methods | Crypto & limited fiat | Crypto, bank transfer, credit card, P2P |
| Regulation | Unregulated | Unregulated |
| Security | Cold storage, 2FA, strong encryption | Cold storage, 2FA, hack compensation fund |
| Passive Income | Staking on some cryptos | Staking, lending, KuCoin Earn |
| Customer Support | 24/7 live chat | 24/7 live chat, email |
| Ease of Use | Simple interface for pro traders | More complex, but great for altcoins |
3. Pros and Cons of Bybit and KuCoin
✅ Pros of Bybit
✔ Lower trading fees than KuCoin.
✔ High leverage (up to 100x) for futures trading.
✔ Deep liquidity for large trades.
✔ More user-friendly than KuCoin.
❌ Cons of Bybit
✘ Not available in the U.S. (requires VPN).
✘ Limited fiat deposit options.
✘ Fewer altcoins compared to KuCoin.
✅ Pros of KuCoin
✔ 700+ cryptocurrencies, ideal for altcoin traders.
✔ More passive income options (staking, lending, KuCoin Earn).
✔ P2P trading and fiat deposits available.
✔ Higher leverage (125x) than Bybit.
❌ Cons of KuCoin
✘ Higher trading fees than Bybit (unless using KCS tokens).
✘ Complex interface, not beginner-friendly.
✘ Security concerns (KuCoin was hacked in 2020 but refunded users).
4. Which One is Better?
✅ Choose Bybit if:
- You are an experienced trader looking for low fees and high leverage.
- You want fast order execution and deep liquidity.
- You prefer a simpler trading experience.
✅ Choose KuCoin if:
- You want access to 700+ cryptocurrencies.
- You’re interested in staking, lending, and passive income.
- You want P2P trading and more fiat deposit options.
5. Conclusion
Bybit is better for derivatives traders who need low fees and high liquidity, while KuCoin is better for altcoin investors who want more trading options and passive income features.
Would you like a deeper comparison of any specific feature? 😊