FXOpenvs
KrakenCrypto Exchange Comparison
FXOpen operates as a regulated CFD/ECN broker, while Kraken functions as a native crypto exchange. This clash centers on security, asset depth, and fee transparency.
Our Verdict
Kraken winsClear Winner
Kraken is the overall winner on editorial score, with 4.6/5 versus FXOpen's 3.6/5 and higher trust and regulatory coverage.
Kraken
4.6/5
FXOpen
3.6/5
Key Differences
- 1Kraken operates a native exchange; FXOpen does not.
- 2Kraken provides 24/5 live chat; FXOpen does not.
- 3Kraken publishes quarterly Proof of Reserves; FXOpen does not.
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 wins for security with stronger regulatory coverage and a proven security track record.
Best for low fees
Recommended
FXOpen vs Kraken: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  FXOpen |  Kraken |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 3.6/ 5 | 4.6/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | $100 | No minimum▼ lower |
| Spreads From | 0 pips | N/A |
| Taker Fee | 3.00% | 0.26%▼ lower |
FXOpen vs Kraken Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- FCA and ASIC regulated, strong dual regulatory coverage
- ECN/STP execution with low crypto spreads
- MT4/MT5 with TickTrader proprietary platform option
Cons
- Smaller brand vs tier-1 competitors
- Limited proprietary research or educational content
FXOpen vs Kraken: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
2
FXOpen
criteria wins
5
Kraken
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | FXOpen | 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 | Fail | 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 | Fail | Pass |
| Phone support | Pass | Fail |
FXOpen vs Kraken: Frequently Asked Questions
Kraken rates 4.6/5 versus 3.6/5 for FXOpen. Kraken edges ahead on our composite score, though both exchanges meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
FXOpen lists a spread from 0. 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 FXOpen requires at least $100. This makes Kraken more accessible for traders looking to start with a smaller crypto investment.
FXOpen holds top-tier regulation (FCA, ASIC, 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, two factors stand out: Kraken has no minimum deposit, removing the capital barrier entirely, and FXOpen provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
FXOpen 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, lower than FXOpen's $3 per trade. Lower commissions benefit active traders who execute many trades per day. 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.
FXOpen supports cTrader, MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, while Kraken supports Kraken Pro. FXOpen has exclusive access to cTrader and MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4. Kraken has exclusive access to Kraken Pro.
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 FXOpen 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.
