When it comes to choosing a reliable cryptocurrency exchange, two names often rise to the top: Kraken and Crypto.com. Both platforms are known for strong security, user-friendly features, and broad market availability. But which one is the better fit for your crypto journey?
This in-depth comparison dives into key aspects like supported coins, fees, security, ease of use, and more—helping you make an informed decision based on your needs.
Core Keywords
- Cryptocurrency exchange comparison
- Kraken vs Crypto.com
- Best crypto exchange 2025
- Crypto trading fees
- Exchange security
- Supported cryptocurrencies
- Fiat currency support
- Noncustodial wallet options
Round 1: Vital Statistics
When evaluating exchanges, track record and reliability matter. Kraken has been operating since 2011, making it one of the oldest and most trusted names in the industry. It boasts a flawless history with no major security breaches and consistently high uptime.
Crypto.com, founded in 2016, has grown rapidly by launching aggressive marketing campaigns and expanding its ecosystem globally. While it offers a wide array of services, its shorter history means less long-term operational data compared to Kraken.
Kraken focuses on delivering a few high-quality services tailored to serious traders, while Crypto.com casts a wider net—targeting beginners with consumer-friendly products like its Visa debit card and mobile app.
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Winner: Kraken
Round 2: Supported Cryptocurrencies
If variety is what you're after, Crypto.com takes the lead. The platform supports over 250 cryptocurrencies, including major coins like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and numerous altcoins and DeFi tokens.
In contrast, Kraken offers around 200 supported assets. While this still covers all major and mid-tier cryptocurrencies, it’s more selective in listing new tokens—prioritizing regulatory compliance and security audits.
For users who enjoy exploring emerging projects or want access to niche tokens, Crypto.com provides greater flexibility.
Winner: Crypto.com
Round 3: Supported Fiat Currencies
Global accessibility plays a big role in exchange selection. Crypto.com supports fiat deposits in over 100 countries and accepts a wide range of local currencies beyond the usual USD, EUR, GBP, and CAD. This includes currencies from Asia, Latin America, and emerging markets.
Kraken, while available in many regions, has a more limited fiat on-ramp footprint—particularly outside North America and Western Europe. It supports standard methods like ACH (U.S.), SEPA (Europe), and wire transfers but lacks local payment integrations in many regions.
For international users or those outside major financial hubs, Crypto.com clearly wins in terms of fiat currency support.
Winner: Crypto.com
Round 4: Fees and Trading Costs
Low fees can significantly impact long-term profitability—especially for active traders.
Kraken uses a straightforward tiered fee model based on your monthly trading volume. High-volume traders benefit from zero maker fees, meaning you get paid to add liquidity. Taker fees start at 0.16% and go down with volume.
| Fee Type | Kraken | Crypto.com |
|---|---|---|
| Maker Fee | 0.00% – 0.25% | 0.075% – 0.40% (CRO staking helps) |
| Taker Fee | 0.16% – 0.40% | 0.075% – 0.40% |
| Deposit Fees | Free for crypto; low for fiat | Free for most methods |
| Withdrawal Fees | Varies by method and coin | Varies |
Crypto.com bases its fees on both trading volume and CRO token staking. The more CRO you stake, the lower your fees go—down to zero for top-tier users. However, this creates a barrier for those unwilling to lock up capital in a single token.
Kraken’s model is simpler, more transparent, and generally cheaper for makers—even without requiring users to hold a native token.
Winner: Kraken
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kraken safer than Crypto.com?
A: Both platforms are highly secure. Kraken has a longer track record with no breaches and emphasizes self-custody and proof-of-reserves. Crypto.com has obtained multiple third-party security certifications. In practice, both are safe—but Kraken edges ahead due to its proven longevity.
Q: Can I earn interest on my crypto with either platform?
A: Yes. Both Kraken and Crypto.com offer staking and yield-generating products. Kraken provides staking for select coins with transparent rewards. Crypto.com offers flexible and fixed-term crypto interest accounts with competitive APYs.
Q: Which exchange is better for beginners?
A: Crypto.com is designed with new users in mind—featuring an intuitive app, educational content, and a rewards-based debit card. Kraken’s interface is more complex and geared toward intermediate to advanced traders.
Q: Do either of these exchanges have a noncustodial wallet?
A: Only Crypto.com offers a dedicated noncustodial wallet—the Crypto.com DeFi Wallet, which supports multi-chain dApp interactions. Kraken does not offer its own noncustodial solution, though it encourages users to withdraw funds to personal wallets.
Q: Are there withdrawal limits on Kraken or Crypto.com?
A: Yes, both impose withdrawal limits based on verification level. Crypto.com’s limits are generally higher for verified users, especially those with staked CRO. Kraken’s limits are conservative but increase steadily with account maturity.
Round 5: Wallet Features
A built-in wallet can enhance convenience and control.
As mentioned, Crypto.com DeFi Wallet is a standout feature—a secure, noncustodial mobile wallet that supports Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, Solana, and more. It allows direct interaction with decentralized applications (dApps), NFTs, and cross-chain swaps.
Kraken does not offer a noncustodial wallet. While it promotes self-custody and allows easy withdrawals to external wallets, the absence of an integrated noncustodial option is a missed opportunity.
For users seeking full control over their private keys within the same ecosystem, Crypto.com wins decisively.
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Winner: Crypto.com
Round 6: Security Measures
Security is non-negotiable in crypto.
Kraken has never been hacked and employs institutional-grade security protocols—including cold storage for 95%+ of funds, multi-sig wallets, and regular proof-of-reserves audits. It also pioneered self-insurance mechanisms to protect user assets.
Crypto.com suffered a $35 million breach in 2022 but reimbursed all affected users promptly. Since then, it has ramped up security with ISO/IEC 27001 certification, penetration testing, and third-party audits from firms like Hacken and CertiK.
While both platforms are secure by industry standards, Kraken’s unblemished history and proactive approach give it the edge in this category.
Winner: Kraken
Round 7: Ease of Use
User experience varies significantly between the two.
Crypto.com’s app is sleek, intuitive, and beginner-focused. From buying your first Bitcoin to applying for a debit card, every step is guided with minimal friction. The dashboard is clean, and features are well-organized.
Kraken’s interface, especially on desktop, can feel overwhelming for newcomers. Its advanced trading tools—like margin trading, futures, and detailed charting—are powerful but not beginner-friendly. That said, experienced traders appreciate the depth and precision Kraken offers.
For simplicity and accessibility, Crypto.com wins hands-down.
Winner: Crypto.com
Final Verdict: Which Exchange Wins?
After seven rounds of head-to-head analysis:
- Kraken wins: Vital stats, fees, security
- Crypto.com wins: Supported coins, fiat currencies, wallets, ease of use
While Kraken excels in reliability and cost-efficiency for serious traders, Crypto.com emerges as the overall winner—especially for beginners and global users who value convenience, variety, and integrated financial tools.
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Ultimately:
- Choose Kraken if you're an experienced trader prioritizing low fees and proven security.
- Choose Crypto.com if you're new to crypto or want a full-service digital finance experience with global reach.
Both are excellent choices—your ideal pick depends on your goals, location, and level of expertise.