Derivvs
KrakenCrypto Exchange Comparison
Both score points in crypto comparison, but their approach diverges: Deriv blends CFDs with synthetic indices and low entry barriers, while Kraken offers a native exchange with robust regulation.
Our Verdict
Kraken winsClear Winner
Kraken outpaces Deriv with a higher editorial score, driven by stronger trust/regulation, broader platform tools, and better support.
Kraken
4.6/5
Deriv
3.4/5
Key Differences
- 1Kraken operates a native exchange; Deriv does not own an exchange
- 2Deriv lists 5 coins versus Kraken's around 200
- 3Kraken provides proof of reserves; Deriv does not
Who should choose Deriv vs Kraken?
Find out which crypto exchange best suits your trading profile.
Verdict by Trader Profile
Which exchange wins for each type of crypto trader, based on security, fees, coin selection, and editorial scoring.
Best for security
Recommended
Kraken is best for security due to zero major hacks since 2011 and proof of reserves.
Best for low fees
Recommended
Deriv vs Kraken: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  Deriv |  Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.4/ 5 | 4.6/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | $5 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads From | 0.5 pips | N/A |
| Taker Fee | N/A | 0.26% |
Deriv vs Kraken Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very low minimum deposit ($5), accessible entry to crypto CFDs
- DTrader and MT5 platforms with flexible order types
- 24/7 trading on synthetic indices alongside crypto
Cons
- Regulated primarily by VFSC (Vanuatu), offshore jurisdiction
- Crypto CFD selection is limited vs dedicated exchanges
Deriv vs Kraken: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
0
Deriv
criteria wins
5
Kraken
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | Deriv | 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.) | Fail | Fail |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Fail | Pass |
| Transparent pricing page | Fail | 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 | Fail | Fail |
Deriv vs Kraken: Frequently Asked Questions
Kraken is the stronger choice: it rates 4.6/5 versus 3.4/5 for Deriv, a gap that reflects clear differences across regulation, fees, and platform quality in our review.
Deriv lists a spread from 0.5. Current spread data is not available for Kraken. Check both exchanges' full fee schedules, including maker/taker rates, for up-to-date pricing.
Kraken has no minimum deposit, while Deriv requires at least $5. This makes Kraken more accessible for traders looking to start with a smaller crypto investment.
Deriv is regulated by FSC BVI, LFSA. Kraken is regulated by FCA, NYDFS. Confirm a exchange's current regulatory status on the relevant regulator's public register before opening an account.
For beginners, Kraken has no minimum deposit, removing the capital barrier entirely. Both exchanges otherwise share similar beginner-facing criteria in our data. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources on each exchanges's site.
Deriv 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 Deriv 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.
Deriv supports MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web/Mobile, DXtrade, while Kraken supports Kraken Pro. Deriv has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5 and Proprietary Web/Mobile and DXtrade. Kraken has exclusive access to Kraken Pro.
Kraken scores higher on security criteria, with cold storage and proof of reserves and segregated client funds. For crypto, cold storage and proof of reserves are key indicators that client assets are protected against exchange failure or hacks.
Kraken scores better on fee criteria (no deposit fee, no inactivity fee). Always check both exchanges' current fee schedules, as maker/taker rates and withdrawal fees vary and are subject to change.
Kraken offers staking while Deriv 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.
