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KuCoin Review: A Global Crypto Exchange with 700+ Assets
KuCoin exchange is a global cryptocurrency platform with an extensive selection of digital assets and strong security features. The site enables users outside the US to trade with confidence through a professional, user-friendly interface. As a crypto-only exchange, it offers advanced tools and a seamless experience.
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Pros
Supports over 700 cryptocurrencies, including popular and emerging altcoins
Low trading fees and extra discounts when using KuCoin Shares
Advanced trading tools like margin, futures, and integrated trading bots
Offers staking, savings, and crypto lending
Cons
No direct fiat withdrawals
Not licensed in the US; access is restricted and support for US users is limited
KYC verification is now required, removing anonymous trading benefits
Kucoin Review at a Glance
Notable Features
Supports over 700 tokens, spot, margin, and futures trading, passive income options, trading bots, and KuCard, alongside multilingual 24/7 support
Fees
Spot/margin trading starts at 0.1% (maker/taker); discounts with KCS token
Cryptocurrencies
700+
Security Features
Multi-factor authentication (2FA), withdrawal address whitelisting, Proof of Reserves, and more
KYC Requirements
Accessing all features requires KYC verification
Maximum Daily Deposit Amount
Individual fiat deposit: 150,000 USDT per day (may vary by region and deposit method)
Regulatory compliance
This exchange is registered with the Seychelles FSA,and is not available to users based in the US
In-depth Details: What’s to Like and What You Should Know
This KuCoin review kicks off with a few strong features. KuCoin offers access to a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, covering major coins and niche tokens. This exchange supports spot, margin, and futures trading, with simple and advanced interfaces to suit different skill levels. You can automate strategies using built-in trading bots and choose from multiple order types like market, limit, and stop-limit.
It is a crypto-only exchange but enables fiat purchases via third-party providers. It’s important to note that the exchange has limited access for US users after a regulatory crackdown. Although it retains some global operations, investors from the United States may have a difficult time accessing the platform. Other features include staking, savings products, and peer-to-peer lending. The KuCard enables you to spend crypto in supported regions. The multilingual app and regular feature updates ensure accessibility and ongoing platform improvements.
History and Background
This exchange was founded in 2017 by a group of blockchain developers who wanted to make cryptocurrency accessible to everyone. Headquartered in Seychelles, with regional offices in key markets like Hong Kong and Singapore, the brand quickly gained global attention for its user-friendly design and wide asset selection. Over the years, it has grown into one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges. Known as “The People’s Exchange,” the platform continues to expand its offerings and adapt to the evolving digital asset landscape.
Who can use this exchange?
The platform announced in January 2025 that it would be closing all US accounts and restricting access for American IP addresses after incurring penalties of nearly $300 million related to regulatory violations. However, it is still available in most European countries, many Asian countries, and some areas within Latin America.
Safety and Security
The platform uses a comprehensive security framework to protect your assets and data. All accounts are secured with mandatory identity verification (KYC) and multi-factor authentication. Most funds are held in offline cold wallets to minimize exposure to online threats. It maintains full transparency through Proof of Reserves reporting, robust encryption, and industry-recognized certifications, reinforcing user trust. Continuous audits, real-time risk monitoring, and insurance coverage further support its commitment to safeguarding the community.
Here are some of the things that caught my eye:
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): An extra layer of security for logins and withdrawals.
- Withdrawal whitelisting: Only pre-approved wallet addresses can receive withdrawals.
- Anti-phishing codes: Unique codes help you identify official emails and communications.
- 24/7 real-time risk monitoring: The system detects and blocks suspicious activities around the clock.
- Cold and hot wallet separation: Most assets are kept offline in cold wallets for enhanced safety.
- Proof of Reserves: Regularly published reports demonstrate transparent asset backing.
- SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certifications: Independently verified standards for data protection.
- Bug bounty program: Incentivizes external security researchers to find and report vulnerabilities.
- Account freezing: Allows for the quick freezing or unfreezing of accounts if suspicious activity is detected.
My Overview: One thing I love about KuCoin is how their trading bots do the heavy lifting. I can step away for a few hours, and the trading bots help me catch price swings I’d miss on my own.
Special features
This platform provides a robust suite of tools for active traders and passive investors. The KuCoin exchange features integrated trading bots (including grid, DCA, and AI-powered options), so you can automate strategies without coding. KuCoin Earn provides flexible staking, savings, and crypto lending for passive income. The Visa-linked KuCard enables real-time spending of crypto. The Crypto Airdrop Calendar helps you track and claim new token rewards. Spotlight Launchpad offers early access to emerging projects. Advanced analytics, custom widgets, and a rewards hub round out the exchange’s feature set.
Usability
I find this site very straightforward to navigate, whether I’m placing a quick spot trade or exploring more advanced features like margin or futures. I like that I can customize the layout to see just the data I need, like charts, order books, or recent trades. Switching between the app and desktop feels seamless, with consistent design and quick access to my favorites. The built-in tutorials and tooltips made it easy to grasp new features and keep my trading experience efficient.
Customer support
The exchange provides round-the-clock customer support through its 24/7 live chat and a detailed online help center. The live chat feature even connects you to support representatives if the automated solutions can’t assist. The self-help options include frequently asked questions, step-by-step guides, and platform updates. While response times may fluctuate during periods of high demand, the support team is known for offering knowledgeable assistance with both technical issues and account management queries.
Mobile Apps
There is a fully-featured mobile app for both iOS and Android, making it easy to trade and manage crypto on the go. The app supports spot, margin, and futures trading, along with features like staking, crypto lending, and built-in trading bots. You can view real-time charts, set price alerts, and place multiple order types directly from your phone. The interface is clean and responsive, with support for over 20 languages. With biometric login options and full account access, the app delivers a secure, streamlined experience that mirrors the desktop platform’s functionality.
Other useful features you should know about
- Spotlight Launchpad: Early access to new coin offerings and blockchain projects before they hit the open market.
- KuCoin Earn: Flexible and fixed savings products, as well as structured staking for earning passive income on various cryptocurrencies.
- Crypto Lending Marketplace: Peer-to-peer platform where users can lend or borrow digital assets with customizable terms.
- Pool: A mining pool for those interested in participating in mining supported coins with optimized payouts.
- Trading Bot Marketplace: Community-driven hub featuring pre-built, user-shared trading bot strategies in addition to in-platform bots.
- Advanced Analytics: Customizable dashboards and trading widgets for in-depth portfolio tracking and market analysis.
- Crypto Airdrop Calendar: Reliable resource for staying updated on upcoming airdrops and reward events.
- Rewards Hub: Complete tasks or participate in promotions to earn extra tokenized rewards.
- Referral Program: Earn bonuses by inviting new users to the platform.
- API Access: Programmatic trading and account management for developers and advanced users.
- NFT Marketplace (Wonderland): Buy, sell, and trade non-fungible tokens via an integrated NFT platform.
- Self-Custody Wallet (Halo Wallet): Option for users to maintain full control of their assets outside the exchange environment.
- Fiat On-Ramp Integration: Ability to purchase coins with credit/debit cards and third-party partners, supporting a range of global currencies.
KCS token benefits explained
The KuCoin token (KCS, for short) is the exchange’s native utility ERC-20 token and plays an essential role in its ecosystem.
Keeping a few KCS in your account has real advantages. If you hold at least 6 KCS, you automatically qualify for a slice of the platform’s trading fee revenue in the form of daily rewards. Those extra tokens add up quickly, especially if you’re already trading often. Plus, using KCS to pay fees can make each trade a bit cheaper. This simple move lets you unlock better rates, access exclusive token launches, and take part in regular promotions, all with minimal effort. These coins can also be used within the KuCoin Earn program, for staking, yield earning, or even for liquidity mining purposes.
The True Cost of Trading on This Exchange
No KuCoin exchange review would be complete, without a quick investigation into the platform’s fees. The platform has a comprehensive fee structure, which includes trading fees, futures fees, transfer fees, and even withdrawal fees.
Most notably, both spot trading and futures trading will incur maker and taker fees. Fees decrease through a tiered system that rewards higher monthly trading volumes or larger KCS holdings, with additional discounts available for paying fees with KCS. Fees will also vary depending on the token you choose, with the platform dividing its coins into three distinct classes:
- Class A – popular coins (BTC, ETH, BNB, AXE, etc.)
- Class B – lesser-known coins (CRO, POL, TIME, etc.)
- Class C – niche coins (MTV, KPOL, LAYER, etc.)
Here’s a quick overview of how it all plays out in practice:
Does KuCoin charge a monthly fee?
The platform does not charge a monthly fee to maintain an account or use its trading platform. The only exception is the KuCard, which charges an annual fee (waived if you spend a certain amount each year), along with specific inactivity fees if the card is not used for more than 90 days. For standard crypto trading, holding, and platform use, there are no recurring monthly fees.
💡 CryptoVantage Tip: You can earn a share of your friends’ trading fees just by inviting them to to the platform through the KuCoin Referral Program. There’s no limit to how many people you can refer, and as long as they keep trading, you keep earning. It’s an easy way to build passive rewards with little effort.
What Can You Buy on KuCoin?
You can buy a wide range of digital assets on the platform, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, hundreds of altcoins, stablecoins, and tokens linked to DeFi, gaming, and NFTs. It also supports direct purchases of popular cryptocurrencies with fiat currencies through third-party payment partners, making access to crypto straightforward for new and experienced users.
How To Set Up an Exchange Account Quickly
If you want to try out this platform for yourself, here’s what you need to do:
- Go to the official KuCoin website and click the “Sign Up” button in the top right corner.
- Choose to register with your email address or phone number, then enter the required information.
- If you have a referral code, enter it in the optional field.
- Read and agree to the Terms of Use by checking the corresponding box.
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification to prove you are not a robot.
- Click “Send Code” to receive a verification code via email or SMS
- Enter this code to verify your identity.
- Set a strong password for your account (10–32 characters, include upper and lowercase letters, and numbers).
- Click “Create Account” to finish the sign-up process.
- Log in to your new account, then set up additional security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Complete identity verification (KYC) if prompted, to unlock all platform features and increase withdrawal limits
Once your identity is verified, you’ll be ready to start trading. This usually takes a few minutes, but in times of high demand or if your account needs a manual review, this could take a few days. US-based users who are desperate to get on the platform, will need to get around the imposed restrictions, using a trusted crypto VPN.
KuCoin Alternatives
KuCoin is an excellent option if you’re looking for a comprehensive platform with a wide range of features, strong liquidity, and access to hundreds of digital assets. However, it is not an ideal option for American users who want a streamlined process. Explore our comparison articles to understand how it compares with other leading exchanges.
Final Thoughts: Is KuCoin Worth It?
From my experience, KuCoin delivers a solid balance of low fees, a broad selection of cryptocurrencies, and flexible trading features. I appreciate having access to trading bots, staking, and an easy-to-use mobile app. These features make my trading process more efficient. If you’re after variety, performance, and practical tools, KuCoin is well worth trying. However, users from the US looking for the best crypto exchange, may need to consider other options. In my opinion, the added hassle of having to download a VPN and risking limited support is just not worth it for long-term traders who are serious about growing their portfolios.
Why You Should Trust CryptoVantage: How I Reviewed KuCoin
The CryptoVantage methodology for rating the best crypto exchanges on the market incorporates different aspects of the digital asset trading experience. Some of the things we look at include:
- Trade volumes and asset availability
- Trading features and tools
- Security
- Transparency, reputation and support
- Fees and added costs
- Ease of use
FAQs
This platform uses strong security measures, including multi-factor authentication, withdrawal address whitelisting, and encrypted data storage. Plus, a substantial portion of funds are held in offline cold wallets. The exchange conducts regular security audits, maintains Proof of Reserves reports, and offers insurance coverage for certain incidents. No crypto platform is entirely risk-free, but the exchange’s security framework is robust and on par with other leading exchanges.
This exchange does not hold a license to operate in the United States. As a result, US citizens are not supported and may face restrictions when accessing or using the platform, especially with its strict KYC requirements.
Withdrawing is really as easy as heading to the Assets > Overview menus on the platform and selecting “Withdraw.” However, since this is a crypto-only exchange, it is important to note that you will need a trustworthy crypto wallet to send your coins to. Be sure to have your chosen token, network, and external wallet address ready to go, as you will need these details to complete the transaction.
Both are highly regarded crypto exchanges with wide asset selections and advanced trading features. KuCoin has extensive altcoin listings, trading bots, and passive income options – but the platform’s functionality is very limited within the States. Binance offers greater liquidity, direct fiat support, and a designated US-compliant platform, which makes it a better choice for traders located in the USA, and users looking for easy on- and off-ramping.
