14 Best KuCoin Alternatives for US Users

14 mins
Updated by May Woods
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KuCoin, a cryptocurrency exchange based in Seychelles, has become popular among many traders worldwide. But if you’re searching for an alternative, what other options are out there? This guide looks into exchange fees, security features, user interface, supported cryptocurrencies, customer support, and KYC requirements for several leading exchanges. If you’re in the United States and are looking for a KuCoin app alternative, this is for you. 

Methodology

The best KuCoin alternatives for U.S. users in 2024

1. Coinbase

Best for new traders
Type
CEX
Pairs
525
Trading fees
0% – 0.3%

2. Uphold

The easiest way to invest
Type
DEX
Pairs
1000+
Trading fees
Most Stablecoins and major market FX: 0.25%, BTC, ETH: 1.4% – 1.6%
Type
CEX
Pairs
100
Trading fees
0.1%~0.3%

4. Kraken

Best for altcoins
Type
CEX
Pairs
644
Trading fees
0.10%

5. ApeX Pro

Best for crypto trades
Type
DEX
Pairs
15
Trading fees
0.02% maker and 0.05% taker

6. BingX

Best for copy trading
Type
CEX
Pairs
567
Trading fees
0.2%

7. Cash App

Best for P2P payment
Type
P2P app
Pairs
n/a
Trading fees
1.5%

8. Binance U.S.

Best for derivatives
Type
CEX
Pairs
184
Trading fees
0.10%

9. Gemini

Best for trading fees
Type
CEX
Pairs
107
Trading fees
Taker 0.10% – 0.25% Maker 0.0% – 0.25%

10. dYdX

Best for decentralized trading
Type
DEX
Pairs
n/a
Trading fees
Blockchain fees

11. Bitfinex

Best for advanced tools
Type
CEX
Pairs
479
Trading fees
Maker 0% – 0.10% Taker 0.10% – 0.20%

12. Crypto.com

Best for low-volume trades
Type
CEX
Pairs
504
Trading fees
0.16% to 0.02%

13. Bitstamp

Best for casual traders
Type
CEX
Pairs
167
Trading fees
0.10% – 0.25%

14. CEX.IO

Best for an all-in-one platform
Type
CEX
Pairs
369
Trading fees
Maker 0.0% – 0.16% Taker 0.10% – 0.25%

Why look for a KuCoin alternative?

Starting July 15, 2023 (UTC), newly registered users were required to complete their KYC to use KuCoin’s products and services. This identification check requirement was fine for most traders. However, some traders considered moving to new platforms in response to the regulation.

kucoin

KuCoin’s legal tussle with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) gives you another reason to consider switching to an alternative. 

On March 26, 2024, the DOJ announced that it had indicted KuCoin and two of its founders for operating as an unlicensed money transmitter. The indictment accuses KuCoin of failing to register with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and violating anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

According to the DOJ, KuCoin is legally required to register as a money services business (MSB) with FinCEN. It further states that as an MSB, KuCoin must implement programs to identify and report suspicious activity potentially linked to money laundering or other financial crimes. 

However, the indictment added, the exchange broke U.S. laws by processing billions of dollars in transactions from high-risk actors while willfully avoiding AML requirements. 

Investors react

Unsurprisingly, the news triggered a swift response from KuCoin users. Data from 0xscope reveals a substantial net outflow of cryptocurrency exceeding $1 billion within just 24 hours of the news.

Blockchain data analytics platform SpotOnChain provides further details on this movement. They reported that roughly $500 million had been specifically withdrawn from KuCoin’s Ethereum wallets shortly after the indictment. This withdrawal involved various cryptocurrencies, including 274 million USDT, 15,500 ETH, and significant amounts of ONDO, FET, and GHX.

KuCoin responds

KuCoin and its CEO, Johnny Lyu, were quick to respond to the news of the DOJ indictment. They acknowledged the ongoing regulatory matter and confirmed their legal team is investigating the details.  Lyu further assured users that the exchange was operating normally and user funds were safe.

Why KYC regulation is important in crypto

remote work guide

KYC (Know Your Customer) regulations play a crucial role in the cryptocurrency sector for several reasons. They help prevent financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing by requiring crypto exchanges to verify the identities of their customers. This verification allows the platforms to monitor and report suspicious transactions more effectively. 

Additionally, KYC crypto exchange measures contribute to the overall stability of financial markets by ensuring that only legitimate funds circulate, thereby reducing the risk of fraud and other financial crimes. This stability is crucial for attracting and retaining investors and also protects legitimate users by safeguarding their investments against potential identity theft and fraudulent activities.

As always, if you are still looking for a KuCoin alternative, be careful and always research any financial platform before sending your money for trading. Platforms that engage in illegal activities, such as money laundering, are a target for financial watchdogs and may go bankrupt or close down without notice. 

What to consider when choosing a KuCoin alternative

No matter which KuCoin alternative you decide to use for crypto trading, here’s some things to consider/actions to take.

  • Research the platform’s legitimacy and security protocols, including its measures against fraud and scams, such as pump-and-dump schemes.
  • Different platforms accept different payment methods, from bank transfers and PayPal to credit cards and cryptocurrency. Ensure the exchange supports a method convenient for you.
  • Exchanges vary greatly in the number of cryptocurrencies they support. Ensure your desired cryptocurrencies are supported.
  • Consider if you prefer trading platforms (like Binance or Coinbase), P2P exchanges (like Cointal), or cryptocurrency brokers (like AvaTrade), as each operates differently.
  • Understand the exchange’s fee structure, including any discounts available for using the platform’s tokens or for holding a certain amount of tokens.
  • An intuitive interface and satisfactory user experience can greatly enhance your interactions with the platform.

The best KuCoin alternative for you

The diversity and quality of KuCoin alternatives available to U.S. crypto traders are extensive. From mainstream exchanges like Coinbase, Binance U.S., and Kraken to peer-to-peer platforms and all the way to emerging decentralized exchanges such as ApeX and dYdX (non-KYC crypto exchanges), there is an alternative that fits every user’s unique needs and preferences.

However, when choosing a platform, factors like ease of use, variety of supported tokens, robust security measures, advanced trading features, and customer service should be your priority. Conducting your due diligence before settling on your preferred platform is essential. 

Frequently asked questions

What are some alternatives to KuCoin?

Which is better KuCoin or Huobi?

Is Binance better than KuCoin?

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Iulia Vasile
Iulia Vasile is a seasoned professional in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, working full-time in the field since 2017. With a background in computer engineering, she has the unique ability to write about complicated topics, including DeFi, NFTs, trading, and AI, in a way that is easy to understand. Iulia learned multiple programming languages while completing her Software Engineering degree in Bucharest at Politehnica University. Iulia brings her expertise and personal...
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