Coinbase vs Kraken - Comparison for UK 2025
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Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Is Coinbase better than Kraken?
Coinbase is better for beginners and users seeking simplicity, built-in wallets, and U.S. regulatory confidence. Kraken is better for experienced traders needing low fees, advanced tools, and robust staking. Your choice depends on whether you value user-friendliness or professional-grade trading features.
At a Glance Table Comparison
| Feature | Coinbase | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Type | Centralized exchange | Centralized exchange |
| Crypto Assets | 250+ | 200+ |
| Advanced Tools | Coinbase Advanced & Prime | Kraken Pro |
| Staking Support | Yes (via Coinbase) | Yes (wide range, high APYs) |
| NFT / DeFi Access | Yes (Coinbase Wallet) | No NFTs; limited DeFi |
| Trading Fees | 0% with Coinbase One; otherwise high | Low maker-taker fees |
| Deposit Methods | Bank, card, crypto | Bank, card, crypto, SWIFT, SEPA |
| Withdrawal Fees | Varies by method | Lower average fees |
| Mobile Apps | Coinbase & Coinbase Wallet | Kraken & Kraken Pro |
| Security | Cold storage, FinCEN-regulated | Cold storage, ISO/IEC 27001 certified |
| Global Access | 100+ countries | 190+ countries |
| Best For | Beginners, U.S. users, regulated ecosystem | Active traders, stakers, global access |
Coinbase Overview
What Do Our Experts Say?
Coinbase is one of the easiest ways to buy and sell crypto, especially for beginners. With U.S. regulation, integrated wallets, and a clean interface, it appeals to retail investors. However, advanced users may find the fees high unless using Coinbase One or Prime.
- Beginner-friendly with clean UI
- Regulated in the U.S.
- Coinbase One offers zero fees
- Higher standard trading fees
- Limited staking options
- Fewer tools than Kraken Pro
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
Kraken Overview
What Do Our Experts Say?
Kraken is built for experienced traders. Its low fees, staking variety, and Kraken Pro platform attract serious users. While its basic interface is usable, it’s less beginner-focused than Coinbase. Kraken’s strong global presence and security record make it a trusted crypto platform worldwide.
- Low trading fees
- Deep liquidity via Kraken Pro
- Strong staking rewards and asset support
- Less intuitive for beginners
- Fewer educational tools
- No NFT marketplace
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
What Are the Key Differences Between Coinbase and Kraken?
Which platform supports more cryptocurrencies?
Coinbase supports over 250 cryptocurrencies, including most major and trending assets. Kraken supports 200+, with a focus on technical and DeFi coins. While Coinbase offers more tokens, Kraken emphasizes quality listings and trading depth over sheer quantity.
Who offers better tools for active traders?
Kraken Pro offers better tools for high-volume or institutional traders, including low latency, margin trading, and futures. Coinbase Advanced is suitable for mid-level users but lacks futures. Kraken is the go-to platform for serious traders needing speed, control, and full market access.
Do both platforms offer staking or passive income?
Yes. Kraken offers staking on a wide range of assets with up to ~20% APY. Coinbase offers staking on Ethereum and other major coins with lower yields. If staking is your priority, Kraken generally provides better flexibility, coverage, and returns.
Which Platform Is Easiest to Use?
How Smooth Is Sign Up & Verification?
Coinbase has a simple sign-up and identity verification process that typically completes in minutes. Kraken’s onboarding is slightly more involved, especially for users outside major regions. Both are secure and KYC-compliant, but Coinbase wins on ease of access.
Is the Website & App Beginner-Friendly?
Coinbase’s UI is streamlined for new users, with clear buy/sell buttons and easy navigation. Kraken’s interface is more functional and less visual, especially on the Pro platform. For crypto newcomers, Coinbase is easier to grasp and less intimidating.
What’s It Like Trading on Mobile?
Coinbase’s mobile app is clean and offers full trading and wallet access. Kraken offers two apps: Kraken for simple trading, and Kraken Pro for advanced users. Coinbase mobile is smoother for casual investors, while Kraken Pro caters to active, mobile-first traders.
Who Offers Lower Fees & Better Costs?
Fees Table Comparison
| Fee Type | Coinbase | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Fees | 0% with Coinbase One, otherwise ~0.6%+ | Maker: 0.16%, Taker: 0.26% (tiered) |
| Deposit Fees | Free for bank transfers, varies by method | Free for many methods; SEPA & SWIFT supported |
| Withdrawal Fees | Varies by method | Generally lower; varies per currency |
| Staking Fees | Platform takes a cut of rewards | Lower platform fees, better yield |
| Inactivity Fees | No | No |
How Do Trading & Withdrawal Fees Compare?
Kraken’s maker-taker model offers lower trading fees for most users. Coinbase charges higher fees unless using Coinbase One. For withdrawals, Kraken often provides cheaper options, especially for bank transfers. High-volume users typically save more with Kraken.
Are There Any Hidden Charges to Watch For?
Coinbase may bundle spread fees into displayed prices and charge extra on some methods. Kraken is more transparent, showing maker-taker fees clearly. Both platforms charge staking commission, but Kraken’s structure is more favorable. Always check fee disclosures before trading.
Which Platform Is Safer and More Regulated?
Is Kraken or Coinbase more transparent?
Both platforms disclose regulatory status and safety practices. Coinbase is a U.S. public company regulated under FinCEN. Kraken is also registered with FinCEN and operates under stricter security standards, including ISO certifications. Both are transparent, with slightly different compliance priorities.
How is crypto secured on both platforms?
Coinbase stores most customer funds in offline cold wallets with multi-layer protection. Kraken uses similar cold storage methods, adds PGP email encryption, and routinely publishes audits. Both exchanges prioritize crypto security, with Kraken emphasizing technical protections more heavily.
Have either suffered hacks or breaches?
Coinbase has not suffered any platform-wide breaches but has seen user phishing incidents. Kraken has never been hacked, maintaining a reputation for security leadership in the industry. Both are considered safe, but Kraken’s technical history is slightly stronger.
How Do They Handle Tax Reporting and Compliance?
Do they support tax reporting tools or downloads?
Coinbase provides detailed transaction records, CSV exports, and in-app tax summaries. Kraken also offers downloadable reports and exportable data suitable for tax reporting. Both platforms are sufficient for compliance, though Coinbase automates more steps in-app.
Are they integrated with crypto tax software?
Yes. Coinbase integrates directly with platforms like CoinTracker, Koinly, and TurboTax. Kraken supports CSV imports for most software but lacks deep native integration. Coinbase is more convenient for hands-off tax reporting; Kraken users may require manual setup.
Final Thoughts
Both Coinbase and Kraken are top-tier crypto exchanges, but they cater to different user types. Coinbase wins on simplicity, mobile usability, and regulatory ease—ideal for newcomers. Kraken offers lower fees, deeper trading tools, and broader staking—perfect for experienced users. Choose based on your trading style and priorities.
Buy, sell, and grow crypto simply
- Invest from £2
- Earn crypto rewards
- Stake & earn up to 6%
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more.
FAQs
Is Kraken better for advanced traders?
Yes. Kraken offers lower fees, margin trading, and a full-featured Pro platform designed for high-frequency and institutional users. It’s better suited for traders who value control, execution speed, and precision.
Does Coinbase offer more coins than Kraken?
Slightly. Coinbase supports around 250 cryptocurrencies, while Kraken supports over 200. Coinbase may list more emerging tokens, but Kraken emphasizes reliability and network quality when listing assets.
Which one is better, Kraken or Coinbase?
Kraken is better for advanced traders and those seeking lower fees, staking, and deep liquidity. Coinbase is better for beginners, mobile users, and those valuing ease of use and regulatory clarity. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize usability or professional-grade trading features.
Is Coinbase or Kraken better in the UK?
In the UK, both platforms are accessible and regulated, but Coinbase offers a simpler user experience and GBP bank support. Kraken offers lower fees and broader staking options. Coinbase suits beginners; Kraken is better for traders wanting advanced tools and lower long-term costs.
What is the disadvantage of Kraken?
Kraken’s main disadvantages include a steeper learning curve, fewer educational tools, and a less polished interface for beginners. It lacks NFT or DeFi integration and may overwhelm casual users. It’s built for serious traders, not those seeking an all-in-one crypto platform.
Is Kraken legal in the UK?
Yes. Kraken is fully legal and operates in the UK, offering GBP deposits via bank transfer and compliance with local KYC regulations. Users in the UK can access both Kraken and Kraken Pro with full functionality, including trading, staking, and withdrawals.
