Two brokers square off in a crypto comparison: ATFX offers regulated CFDs on MT4, while Kraken runs a native exchange. The tension centers on security, asset breadth, and platform depth.
Kraken edges ATFX on security, coin depth, and native exchange access, supported by proof of reserves and a broader asset list.
Find out which crypto exchange best suits your trading profile.
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
Kraken wins for security with a hack-free record, proof of reserves, and segregated funds.
| Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.6/ 5 | 4.6/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | No minimum | No minimum |
| Spreads From | 1.8 pips | N/A |
| Taker Fee | N/A | 0.26% |
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
| Criteria | ATFX | Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Fail | Pass |
| Proof of reserves published | Fail | Pass |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Pass | Fail |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Pass |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Fail | Pass |
| DeFi integration | Fail | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
Kraken rates 4.6/5 versus 3.6/5 for ATFX. Kraken edges ahead on our composite score, though both exchanges meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
ATFX lists a spread from 1.8. Current spread data is not available for Kraken. Check both exchanges' full fee schedules, including maker/taker rates, for up-to-date pricing.
Neither ATFX nor Kraken requires a minimum deposit, making both accessible regardless of starting capital.
ATFX holds top-tier regulation (FCA, FSCA, CySEC), providing stronger investor protections. Kraken may be regulated but does not hold top-tier status in our data. Verify regulatory status on each regulator's public register before depositing funds.
For beginners, ATFX provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each exchange's site before deciding.
ATFX offers up to 2:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus Kraken's 5:1 cap. Margin and futures trading carry higher risk than spot crypto; confirm product availability and jurisdiction-specific limits on each exchange's website.
Kraken charges $0.26 per trade on commission-based accounts. Commission details for ATFX are not currently available. Check their website for up-to-date pricing. Crypto fees are typically quoted as maker/taker rates rather than fixed per-trade commissions; check each exchange's fee schedule for volume-based discounts.
ATFX supports MetaTrader 4, while Kraken supports Kraken Pro. ATFX has exclusive access to MetaTrader 4. Kraken has exclusive access to Kraken Pro.
Kraken offers staking while ATFX does not according to our data. Staking lets you earn passive yield on your crypto holdings directly through the exchange. Check Kraken's supported coins, lock-up terms, and estimated yields before committing.
Kraken wins for low fees with 0.00% maker fees at volume.
ATFX is better for beginners due to no minimum deposit and protection.
Kraken offers staking and yield-earning options while ATFX does not, making Kraken the better choice for holders who want to earn passive income on their crypto.
| N/A |
| N/A |
| Inactivity Fee | None | None |
|---|
| Deposit Fee | Free | Free |
|---|
| Deposit methods | Bank transferCredit cardDebit cardSkrillNeteller | CryptoBank transferWire transfer |
|---|
| Withdrawal methods | Bank transferCredit cardSkrillNeteller | CryptoBank transferWire transfer |
|---|
| Withdrawal Fee | Free | Network fee only |
|---|
| Regulators | FCA FSCA CySEC | FCA NYDFS MiCA FinCEN |
|---|
| Cold Storage | No | Yes |
|---|
| Proof of Reserves | No | Yes |
|---|
| Staking | No | Yes |
|---|
| DeFi Integration | No | No |
|---|
| NFT Trading | No | No |
|---|
| 500+ Coins | No | No |
|---|
| P2P Trading | No | No |
|---|
| Crypto Earn / Savings | No | Yes |
|---|
| Token Launchpad | No | No |
|---|
| Active bonuses | None | 2 offers |
|---|
Dig deeper into each broker’s features, fees, and regulation.
Score 3.6 / 5
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