Krakenvs
SwissquoteCrypto Exchange Comparison
This matchup pits a native crypto exchange against a regulated multi-asset broker. The axis of tension centers on security, asset depth, and fee structures.
Our Verdict
Kraken winsby 0.5 pts
Kraken edges Swissquote on editorial score, driven by its security track record and US accessibility.
No commercial relationship. The verdict and scores are entirely editorial. No payment influences this comparison.
Key Differences
- 1Kraken operates a native exchange with its own platform.
- 2Coin coverage differs: around 200 on Kraken versus 20 on Swissquote.
- 3Proof of reserves provided by Kraken; Swissquote does not.
Who should choose Kraken vs Swissquote?
Find out which crypto exchange best suits your trading profile.
Choose Kraken if…
Choose Kraken if you want a native exchange with its own platform, 24/5 live chat, and proof of reserves.
Choose Swissquote if…
Choose Swissquote if you value FINMA oversight, crypto CFDs with real purchases, and phone support in a Swiss-banking account.
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 a hack-free track record and verifiable reserves.
Best for low fees
Recommended
Kraken vs Swissquote: Side-by-Side Crypto Exchange Comparison
| Criteria |  Kraken |  Swissquote |
|---|---|---|
| Editorial score | 4.6/ 5 | 4.1/ 5 |
| Min Deposit | No minimum▼ lower | $1,000 |
| Spreads From | N/A | 1.7 pips |
| Taker Fee | 0.26% | N/A |
Kraken vs Swissquote Crypto Exchange Pros & Cons
Pros
- Zero major exchange hacks since 2011
- FinCEN-registered, MiCA-compliant in EU
- Quarterly Proof of Reserves by Armanino
- Competitive maker fees (0.00% at volume)
- Available to US clients
- Client funds held in segregated accounts
Kraken vs Swissquote: Detailed Category Breakdown
A closer look at the specific criteria each exchange meets or misses within each scoring category.
5
Kraken
criteria wins
2
Swissquote
criteria wins
Highlighted rows show where the two exchanges differ
| Criteria | Kraken | Swissquote |
|---|---|---|
| Security | ||
| Cold storage for assets | Pass | Fail |
| Proof of reserves published | Pass | Fail |
| Segregated client funds | Pass | Pass |
| Top-tier regulator (FCA, ASIC, etc.) | Fail | Pass |
| Fees | ||
| No deposit fee | Pass | Pass |
| No inactivity fee | Pass | Fail |
| Transparent pricing page | Pass | Pass |
| Features | ||
| Staking available | Pass | Fail |
| DeFi integration | Fail | Fail |
| NFT trading | Fail | Fail |
| 500+ coins listed | Fail | Fail |
| Support | ||
| Mobile app | Pass | Pass |
| 24/5 live chat | Pass | Fail |
| Phone support | Fail | Pass |
Kraken vs Swissquote: Frequently Asked Questions
Kraken rates 4.6/5 versus 4.1/5 for Swissquote. Kraken edges ahead on our composite score, though both exchanges meet a reasonable standard for most traders.
Swissquote lists a spread from 1.7. 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 Swissquote requires at least $1000. This makes Kraken more accessible for traders looking to start with a smaller crypto investment.
Swissquote holds top-tier regulation (FCA, DFSA, FINMA), 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 Swissquote provides negative balance protection, capping losses at your deposit amount. Also compare demo account availability and educational resources before deciding.
Kraken offers up to 5:1 on perpetual or margin products, versus Swissquote's 2:1 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 Swissquote 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.
Kraken supports Kraken Pro, while Swissquote supports MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web/Mobile, MetaTrader 4. Kraken has exclusive access to Kraken Pro. Swissquote has exclusive access to MetaTrader 5 and Proprietary Web/Mobile and MetaTrader 4.
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 Swissquote 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.
