Best Crypto Trading Apps with Low Fees

August 07, 2024, 12:28 PM | The content is supplied by a Guest author

Searching for a cryptocurrency trading platform that doesn't break the bank can seem almost impossible at times. I know the frustration all too well - exploring the world of crypto exchanges, only to be discouraged by steep fees chipping away at my earnings.

But through diligent research, I've found that there are indeed platforms out there offering competitive rates without skimping on security or features. This blog aims to highlight those less-known jewels, ensuring your trading adventure is both affordable and seamless.

Get ready for some savings headed your way.

Key Takeaways

  • Binance.US offers low trading fees and a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, making it great for those who trade often.
  • Coinbase is super user-friendly, perfect for beginners with its simple platform and lots of helpful guides.
  • Kraken is best for advanced traders thanks to its deep analysis tools and competitive fees.
  • Gemini prioritizes security with strong measures like cold storage, appealing to safety-conscious traders.
  • Crypto.com stands out as the best mobile app for crypto trading with its easy navigation and access to DeFi activities.

Key Features to Look for in Low-Fee Crypto Trading Apps

Picking the right app to trade cryptos doesn't just come down to low trading fees. It's also about withdrawal charges, how safe your money is, how easy the app is to use, and whether you can get help when you need it.

Trading fees

Trading fees are a key part of trading cryptocurrencies. These charges can come as maker and taker fees. Maker fees apply when you add liquidity to the market by placing a limit order not matched immediately.

Taker fees kick in when taking liquidity away, with an order that matches immediately with an existing one. Each crypto exchange has its own schedule for these fees, often based on your trading volume over 30 days.

The more you trade, the lower your rate might be.

Exchanges like Binance.US and Kraken promote competitive trading fee structures to attract traders looking for low-cost options. For example, Binance.US starts low and goes even lower depending on how much you trade and if you use their native currency (BNB) to pay for fees.

Withdrawal fees also play into the total cost of using a platform but vary widely among exchanges—another critical consideration.

Understanding each element of fee structures is crucial to maximizing returns.

Withdrawal fees

I've noticed that the cost to move crypto from one place to another can add up. Different platforms have different charges for withdrawals. This means, every time you decide to transfer your digital assets out of an exchange, it costs you.

It's not just about trading fees; withdrawal fees matter too. Some exchanges charge a flat rate, while others base their fees on the cryptocurrency being withdrawn or even the network traffic at that time.

My experience showed me something surprising – these fees vary widely across platforms. For instance, withdrawing Bitcoin might cost more on one platform compared to another due to their set fee structure or because they calculate fees based on real-time blockchain conditions.

I always check this before choosing an exchange; it saves me money in the long run.

Exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are upfront about these costs, but you need to dig into their fee schedules or FAQs sometimes. What caught my attention was decentralized exchanges (DEXs) often have lower withdrawal fees since they lack the overhead of centralized counterparts.

Direct wallet-to-wallet transfers still incur network-specific charges which aren't within the control of any exchange, centralized or decentralized.

Using a crypto wallet wisely also plays a crucial role here. A hot wallet connected directly to an exchange simplifies transactions but might come with higher convenience costs compared to transferring from a cold wallet where I manage my private keys directly—trading off convenience against security and sometimes cost.

Looking back at my first few trades and withdrawals makes me wish I had paid more attention to these details earlier—it could’ve saved me some frustration and certainly some money.

Security features

Safety first, right? That's my motto when picking crypto trading apps. Each one needs top-notch security features to protect my hard-earned money. We're talking two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of safety every time I sign in.

Then there's the cold storage—where a good chunk of digital assets are kept offline, away from potential online threats like hackers.

I've seen it all—from basic password protections to advanced encryption techniques that scramble data into unreadable formats unless you have the key. Some platforms also use KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures, making sure each user is who they say they are by requiring identification verification.

It's this mix of personal and tech safeguards that keeps my investments secure and gives me peace of mind as I trade across various cryptocurrencies like Ethereum or Bitcoin on exchanges such as Coinbase or Binance.US.

User interface

I always pay close attention to the user interface on crypto trading apps. A smooth, intuitive design makes it easier for me to move through various features like market orders, limit orders, and checking my digital wallet balance.

Some apps really stand out because they make buying and selling cryptocurrencies—whether it's Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Dogecoin—a breeze even for someone new to this space.

My experience taught me that an app with a clean layout and simple navigation tools significantly reduces the time I spend figuring things out. For instance, Coinbase Exchange has a user-friendly interface that clearly displays options for using debit cards or bank transfers for transactions.

This straightforward approach helps in making quick decisions without getting lost in complex menus or technical jargon.

Customer support

Good customer support is like having a safety net while trading cryptocurrencies. I've learned this from my own experiences dealing with various exchanges. It's not just about solving problems; it's also about building trust.

Good platforms offer multiple ways to reach out, such as live chat, email, and phone support. They understand that issues don't stick to business hours – so neither should they.

Finding a platform with responsive and helpful customer service has saved me more than once during urgent situations. Whether I needed help figuring out a wire transfer or had questions about KYC procedures, getting quick responses made all the difference.

It reassured me that someone was there to guide me through the complexity of decentralized finance and crypto assets trading.

Now, let’s explore how these apps stack up in terms of withdrawal fees...

Best Overall Low-Fee Crypto Trading App: Binance. US

Looking for the top spot to trade crypto without high costs? Binance.US leads the pack. This platform gives you access to a wide range of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, all while keeping fees low.

It's easy to use, so whether you're new or have been trading for years, you'll find what you need quickly.

Features & Description (Binance.US)

Binance.US stands out as a top choice for traders looking for low trading fees and a vast selection of altcoins. It's the U.S. arm of the global cryptocurrency exchange platform, designed specifically to meet regulatory compliance while offering an impressive range of cryptocurrency trading options.

With features like futures trading, margin trading, and staking, Binance.US caters to both beginners and advanced traders. The platform supports various payment methods including wire transfers, debit cards, and even ACH bank transfers, making it easy to start trading.

The user interface is clean and intuitive, ensuring that I can move through my trades smoothly without any hassle. Security is also top-notch with two-factor authentication (2FA) and FDIC insurance on USD deposits for added peace of mind.

Customer support is accessible via email or chat when I need help or have questions about my account.

Binance.US has revolutionized how I trade crypto with its blend of low fees, wide coin selection, and strong security measures.

Pros & Cons (Binance.US)

I've spent a lot of time trading cryptocurrency on various platforms, and Binance.US stands out for many reasons. Here are the pros and cons based on my experience.

Pros:

  1. Low Trading Fees: Binance.US charges one of the lowest fees in the market. This is a big win for traders looking to maximize profits.
  2. Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies: They offer a vast selection, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, and Solana. It's like a crypto supermarket!
  3. User-Friendly Interface: Their platform, whether you're on a desktop or using their mobile app, is intuitive. Even beginners find it easy to navigate.
  4. Robust Security Features: With two-factor authentication (2FA) and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission compliance, I feel safer trading here.
  5. Effective Customer Support: Issues? They've got your back with responsive customer service.

Cons:

  1. Limited Services in Some States: Due to strict state regulations, it's not available everywhere in the U.S., which can be frustrating for some traders.
  2. Withdrawal Fees on Fiat Currency: If you want to move your fiat currency back to your bank account or credit card, they charge a fee for that.
  3. No Margin Trading for U.S Users: Advanced traders might find this disappointing as it limits trading strategies.
  4. The Learning Curve for Beginners: Despite a user-friendly interface, the sheer number of tools and options can overwhelm new users at first.

Choosing the right platform depends on what you value most - low fees, security, ease of use? For me, Binance.US offers a balanced mix that suits my trading needs well.

Best for Beginners: Coinbase Exchange

Coinbase Exchange makes starting with digital currencies easy for newcomers. Its simple platform and helpful guides teach you how to make trades confidently.

Features & Description (Coinbase Exchange)

I find Coinbase Exchange really stands out for newcomers in the crypto space. It breaks down complex cryptocurrency exchanges into something more manageable. With a clear and user-friendly interface, it makes buying, selling, and trading digital currencies like Ethereum (ETH), Cardano (ADA), and Solana (SOL) straightforward -- even if you're just starting out.

Think of it as your gateway to decentralized finance (DeFi). What impresses me is its strong security features, including two-factor authentication and a secure vault for storing assets, ensuring peace of mind.

What's more, there's no shortage of educational resources on Coinbase. As someone who values learning, I appreciate how they empower users with knowledge about blockchain technology and smart contracts through easy-to-digest articles and tutorials.

Plus, their support for various payment methods – from PayPal to Apple Pay – makes transactions seamless. With withdrawal fees that vary depending on the fiat currency involved but remain competitive, it fits budget-conscious traders perfectly.

Despite the complexities of cryptocurrency markets, my experience with Coinbase has been remarkably simple.

Pros & Cons (Coinbase Exchange)

After exploring what makes Coinbase Exchange stand out, I will analyze its pros and cons. As a crypto trader, understanding these points help me decide if it's the right platform for my trading style.

Pros:

  1. User-Friendly Interface: I find using Coinbase easy, thanks to its clean layout. This makes it ideal for beginners in decentralized finance (DeFi).
  2. Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies: From Bitcoin to lesser-known altcoins, Coinbase supports a variety of digital assets, making it easy to diversify my portfolio.
  3. Strong Security Measures: The use of two-factor authentication and storing 98% of customer funds offline give me peace of mind regarding the safety of my investments.
  4. Insurance Protection: In case the platform experiences a breach, Coinbase's insurance policy adds an extra layer of security for user funds stored on the exchange.
  5. Available Worldwide: With support in over 100 countries, I appreciate the flexibility Coinbase offers me as an investor constantly on the move.

Cons:

  1. Higher Fees Compared to Peers: Trading and withdrawal fees can add up quickly on Coinbase, especially when using credit cards or instant fiat currency transactions.
  2. Customer Support Issues: Despite its popularity, getting in touch with customer service has been challenging at times.
  3. Limited Advanced Trading Features: For those involved in more sophisticated trading strategies like crypto staking or dealing with crypto derivatives, other platforms might offer more in-depth tools suited to their needs.
  4. Account Freezes: Some users have reported their accounts being frozen unexpectedly due to the platform's strict Know Your Customer (KYC) policies which can be inconvenient and time-consuming to resolve.
  5. Geographic Restrictions on Certain Coins: Not all cryptocurrencies are available in every country due to local regulatory restrictions which limits trading opportunities for some users.

Through this list, I weigh the benefits against the drawbacks to make informed decisions about using Coinbase Exchange for my trading activities involving fiat currencies and various crypto tokens.

Best for Advanced Traders: Kraken

If you're ready for more complex trades, Kraken is your go-to. It offers deep analysis tools and high-level security for seasoned traders.

Features & Description (Kraken)

Kraken stands out in the crowded market of cryptocurrency exchange platforms. It appeals to both beginners and seasoned traders looking for advanced trading options. Its interface is user-friendly, making it easy to buy, sell, and trade a wide variety of cryptocurrencies from Bitcoin to stablecoins.

Kraken emphasizes security with robust measures in place, ensuring peace of mind for its users.

I appreciate Kraken for its competitive fees that favor active traders like me. It offers lower transaction fees compared to many other platforms. This makes it an attractive option for those who trade frequently or in large volumes.

Also, their customer support team is responsive and helpful—essential when I need swift assistance or have queries about my account or trades.

Kraken: Where security meets convenience in the crypto trading world.

Pros & Cons (Kraken)

After thoroughly examining Kraken's features and offerings, I'm now ready to break down the pros and cons. This will give you a solid understanding of what it's like trading cryptocurrencies on this platform.

Pros:

  1. Low Fees: Trading fees on Kraken are competitive, especially for high-volume traders. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to trade cryptocurrency without losing much to fees.
  2. Strong Security Measures: The platform employs state-of-the-art security technologies, including two-factor authentication and a global setting lock, which prevents any changes from being made within certain time frames after enabling.
  3. Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies: You have access to a vast array of currencies, from Bitcoin and Ethereum to less common options like Dogecoin and Cardano.
  4. Advanced Trading Features: Advanced traders appreciate Kraken for its comprehensive set of tools, including futures trading and margin trading with up to 5x leverage.
  5. High Liquidity: Kraken ensures your trades execute quickly at your desired price due to its high volume of daily transactions.
  6. Excellent Customer Support: With 24/7 support via live chat and email, getting help is easy whenever you need it.

Cons:

  1. Intimidating for Beginners: The wealth of tools and detailed interface can overwhelm newcomers who are just starting in decentralized finance (DeFi).
  2. Limited Payment Methods: While bank transfers are accepted, the lack of other common payment methods like PayPal or credit cards might deter some users.
  3. Not Available in All US States: Due to regulatory restrictions, residents in certain states cannot use Kraken's services.
  4. Downtimes During High Traffic Periods: In moments of extremely high demand, the platform has experienced slowdowns or temporary unavailability.

Through my own experience with Kraken, I've found that its strengths far outweigh the drawbacks—especially if you're someone deeply invested in crypto trading. The range of tools offered catifies both my basic needs as a casual trader and my more complex desires when delving deeper into what the market offers.

Best for Security: Gemini

For those who prioritize safety, Gemini stands out as a top choice. This platform shines with its top-notch security measures and easy-to-use design.

Features & Description (Gemini)

I've traded on Gemini, and I can tell you it's built for those who prioritize safety in the crypto world. It's a platform where both newbies and experienced traders find their groove, thanks to its heavy focus on security protocols.

Think of it as your digital fortress. With a user-friendly interface, even someone just starting out won't feel lost. Their customer support is quick to help if you ever hit a bump.

Gemini doesn't shy away from variety either—offering a wide range of cryptocurrencies to buy, sell, or trade. From my experience, I appreciate how they manage withdrawal fees; it’s transparent and predictable.

Plus, they offer unique features like earning interest on your crypto holdings directly through the app—a big plus for investors looking to grow their portfolio passively.

Trading on Gemini has taught me the value of security in an unpredictable market.

Pros & Cons (Gemini)

Gemini takes security seriously, making it a go-to for crypto traders who prioritize safety. With its user-friendly interface, I find trading on Gemini to be both smooth and efficient.

Pros:

  1. Top-notch Security: Gemini offers industry-leading security features. They use a cold storage system to keep the majority of assets offline and protected from online threats.
  2. Regulated in the US: As a regulated cryptocurrency exchange under the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYSDFS), Gemini meets high compliance standards.
  3. User-Friendly Interface: For someone new to crypto or seasoned traders, Gemini's platform is intuitive and easy to navigate.
  4. Insurance on Digital Assets: Unlike many other platforms, Gemini provides insurance on digital assets stored on their exchange, offering peace of mind.
  5. Multiple Currency Support: The platform supports multiple fiat currencies for deposits and withdrawals, making it convenient for global users.

Cons:

  1. Higher Fees Compared to Peers: Trading fees on Gemini might be higher than what you find on other exchanges like Binance.US or Kraken.
  2. Limited Selection of Altcoins: While they cover major cryptocurrencies, their selection of altcoins is relatively limited compared to competitors.
  3. Customer Support Issues: Some users report delays in response times from customer support.
  4. Complex Fee Structure: Understanding the fee structure can be complicated due to various conditions that apply.

Next up, let's compare how these apps stack up against each other in terms of fees...

Best Mobile App for Crypto Trading: Crypto. com Exchange

Crypto.com Exchange stands out for mobile users. It combines ease of use with powerful trading tools, making it a top pick for those on the go.

Features & Description (Crypto.com Exchange)

I found Crypto.com Exchange a powerful tool for traders like me who need low fees and a wide range of features. This platform allows trading in various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, among others.

The exchange boasts high security with a non-custodial wallet option, giving users control over their keys. Withdrawal fees are competitive, making it less costly to move funds around.

The user interface stands out—it's clean and easy to navigate. Even beginners can find their way without trouble. I appreciate the detailed charts and the option for decentralized finance (DeFi) activities directly on the app.

Customer support is responsive; they've always been quick to help whenever I had questions or issues. For traders who prioritize mobile access, Crypto.com's app doesn't disappoint—it's fast and reliable for managing investments on the go.

Pros & Cons (Crypto.com Exchange)

Exploring Crypto.com Exchange has been an enlightening journey. Here's what stood out to me, both good and bad.

Pros:

  1. Low trading fees: Crypto.com offers competitive trading fees that decrease with higher volume, making it attractive for frequent traders.
  2. Wide range of cryptocurrencies: With access to over 250 coins, it's perfect for diversifying portfolios or finding new investment opportunities.
  3. Strong security measures: The platform uses top-tier security protocols including offline cold storage for most assets, ensuring my investments are safe.
  4. User-friendly mobile app: The app is sleek and easy to navigate, making crypto trading accessible anytime, anywhere.
  5. Earn interest on crypto: By staking certain coins, I can earn interest, which boosts my overall returns.

Cons:

  1. Complex fee structure: Understanding the fee model took some time due to its complexity and variations based on different factors.
  2. Limited customer support options: Getting in touch with their support team can be challenging; response times were longer than expected.
  3. Staking requirements for best rates: To get the lowest fees and best interest rates, staking CRO (Crypto.com’s own token) is necessary, which might not appeal to everyone.

With these insights in mind, let's compare how these features stack up against other platforms in the market.

Comparing Fees Across Top Crypto Trading Apps

Alright, getting straight to the point, comparing the fees of top crypto trading apps is crucial for every trader out there. I've looked into several platforms, focusing on trading fees, withdrawal fees, and any hidden costs that might sneak up on you. Here's a breakdown in a simple table format to give you a clear view:

Crypto Trading App

Trading Fees

Withdrawal Fees

Hidden Fees

Binance.US

0.1% spot trading fee; 0.5% Instant Buy/Sell fee

Varies by asset

None

Coinbase Exchange

Up to 0.50% per trade;

Coinbase Pro: 0.04% to 0.50%

Varies; higher for direct card purchases

Network fees for transfers

Kraken

0.16% maker fee; 0.26% taker fee

Depends on currency; some free options

Minimal, mostly on fiat deposits and withdrawals

Gemini

$0.99-$2.99 for orders under $200;

1.49% for orders over $200

Free for first 10 withdrawals each month

Dynamic pricing for ActiveTrader

Crypto.com Exchange

Up to 0.40% trading fees; discounts available

Varies widely; some free withdrawals

May have staking requirements for best rates

With this table, comparing the fees across these platforms becomes a lot easier. Each app has its strengths and weaknesses, depending on your trading volume and style. For instance, Binance.US comes out as a strong contender for low spot trading fees, but keep an eye on those withdrawal costs, which can vary widely based on the cryptocurrency. Coinbase, meanwhile, offers a bit more simplicity with its fee structure, especially if you're using Coinbase Pro, but watch out for those network fees.

Kraken's maker and taker fees are competitive, especially if you're trading large volumes. Gemini offers a unique structure with its tiered flat fees for smaller trades and percentage-based fees for larger ones, making it an interesting choice if your trade sizes vary widely. Lastly, Crypto.com's fees are reasonable, but the potential staking requirements to get the best rates might not suit everyone.

Choosing the right platform isn't just about the lowest fees. Consider other factors like security, user interface, and customer support. Your perfect fit depends on balancing all these aspects to match your trading needs.

How to Minimize Fees When Trading Crypto

Cutting down on trading costs is key. Pick the right digital currency exchange and grasp fee structures—this puts money back in your pocket. Use limit orders to get better deals, helping you save more.

Choosing the right platform

Picking the right trading platform is key. I look for low fees on trades and withdrawals since they add up fast. I always check security features too. A good platform needs strong protection for my coins.

The user interface must be easy to use. If it's complicated, I might miss out on quick moves in the market.

I've tried several platforms like Binance.US and Coinbase Exchange. Both are great for different reasons. Binance.US has lots of tools but can feel overwhelming at first. Coinbase is super simple, perfect for beginners but with higher fees.

Customer support matters too—when things go wrong, I want help fast.

In my journey, understanding fee structures saved me money... Limit orders over market orders often mean lower fees but require patience... Using online brokers or decentralized exchanges sometimes offers better rates than big names...

Every crypto trader's path is different, but choosing wisely means more profit in the end.

Understanding fee structures

After picking the right crypto trading app, it's crucial to get a handle on fee structures. Fees can eat into profits faster than you’d think. Crypto exchanges usually charge two main types of fees: trading and withdrawal fees.

Trading fees occur each time you buy or sell cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. These can be fixed or percentage-based, varying widely between platforms like Binance.US and Coinbase Exchange.

Withdrawal fees kick in when you move your digital currency from the exchange to a private wallet or bank account. Each platform sets its own rates for withdrawals, making some more costly than others.

For example, withdrawing Bitcoin from an exchange could cost more due to blockchain network fees which are added on top of the exchange’s withdrawal fee. Knowing these details helps me avoid nasty surprises on my trading journey across decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and centralized exchanges (CEX).

Utilizing limit orders

Limit orders let me set my buy or sell price for a cryptocurrency. This means I decide the maximum price I'm willing to pay or the minimum I'll accept to sell. It's like setting a target, and once the market hits that price, my trade happens automatically.

This strategy helps me avoid overpaying during sudden spikes or selling too low when prices drop.

I've used limit orders on exchanges like Binance.US and Kraken. They're great because they give me control over my trades, ensuring I don't miss out on good deals or get caught in bad ones.

For instance, if Bitcoin’s trading at $40,000 but I want to buy it at $39,000, my limit order will only execute if the price drops to $39,000 or lower. It's a simple yet effective way to manage investments without having to watch the market every second.

Crypto Trading Apps FAQs

Wondering which app lets you trade digital currency with the tiniest fees or how to cut costs on exchanges? Check out our FAQs for all the answers and more insights.

Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees?

Binance.US often takes the crown for having the lowest fees among top crypto trading platforms. They offer a competitive fee structure that caters to both casual traders and more serious, high-volume investors.

The rates start as low as 0.1% for maker and taker fees, which is significantly lower than many of their competitors. For those using Binance Coin (BNB) to pay for trades, additional discounts apply, further reducing costs.

Choosing the right platform affects how much I pay in fees drastically. With Binance.US's tiered fee structure, active traders like me can benefit from even lower rates over time. This makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to trade cryptocurrencies without losing a significant portion of profits to fees.

Now, let's explore how we can minimize these expenses further....

How can I reduce fees on crypto exchanges?

I always look for ways to cut down on fees while trading on platforms like Coinbase.com or Kraken. One trick I've found is choosing the right platform from the start. Different exchanges have different fee structures, with some offering lower rates for market makers or discounts when using their native token.

For example, Binance.US often has lower fees compared to competitors.

Understanding each exchange's fee structure is crucial too. Some might charge more for withdrawals or deposits, which can add up over time if you're not careful. I also use limit orders instead of market orders whenever possible because this strategy usually incurs lower fees and gives me better control over my buy or sell price.

It's a simple way to ensure I'm not losing money unnecessarily on every trade.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Low-Fee Crypto Trading App

Picking the right app for crypto trading doesn't have to be hard. We talked about Binance.US, Coinbase Exchange, Kraken, Gemini, and Crypto.com Exchange. Each one has its pros and cons.

Think about what you need—low fees, easy use for beginners, advanced tools for seasoned traders, top-notch security, or a great mobile experience.

Then match those needs with the app that fits best. Don't forget to check out the fee structure carefully; it can save you a lot of cash in the long run. Limit orders might also help keep costs down.

In my journey through crypto trading apps with low fees—considering things like bitcoin exchanges and decentralized finance—the most vital part was finding an app that felt right for my trading style and financial goals.

And so can you.

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This author could be anybody, but he/she is not a member of TradingBeasts.com staff and the opinions in the article are solely of the guest writer and do not reflect the views of the TradingBeasts.com operator. Readers should do their own research if they want to take any action based on the information in this article.
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