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15 Best KuCoin Alternatives for US Users

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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 a number of leading exchanges. If you’re in the United States and are looking for a KuCoin app alternative, this is for you. 

Why look for a KuCoin alternative?

As of April 2024, new customers in the U.S. will be required to complete identification checks to use KuCoin. Such measures are not an issue for most traders. Some, however, may be looking to move to new platforms in light of the regulation.

Why KYC regulation is important in crypto

This Chainalysis crime report has analyzed the importance of KYC on centralized crypto exchanges. In 2022, over $23.8 billion worth of cryptocurrency was sent by illicit crypto wallets. That’s a 60% increase from 2021.  

Money laundering in cryptocurrencies: Chainalysis
Money laundering in cryptocurrencies: Chainalysis

According to the report, “mainstream centralized exchanges were the biggest recipient of illicit cryptocurrency … because those exchanges are fiat off-ramps, where the illicit cryptocurrency can be converted into cash.”

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. 

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

The DOJ announced on March 26, 2024, 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. 

This development could have serious consequences for KuCoin. For instance, its U.S. operations could be restricted, and user trust in the exchange could be shaken. 

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.

What are the 15 best KuCoin alternatives 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. Bittrex

Best for advanced trading tools
Type
CEX
Pairs
704
Trading fees
0.25%

15. 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%

Factors to consider when choosing a KuCoin alternative

Regardless of what KuCoin alternatives you will land on for crypto trading, consider the following key factors:

  • Authenticity and security. Research the legitimacy and security protocols of the platform, including its measures against fraud and scams like pump-and-dump schemes.
  • Payment. 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.
  • Supported tokens. Exchanges vary greatly in the number of cryptocurrencies they support. Ensure your desired cryptocurrencies are supported.
  • Type of exchange. Consider if you prefer trading platforms (like Binance or Coinbase), P2P exchanges (like Cointal), or cryptocurrency brokers (like AvaTrade), as each operates differently.
  • Fee structure. Understand the exchange’s fee structure, including any discounts available for using the platform’s own tokens or for holding a certain amount of tokens.
  • User interface and experience. An intuitive interface and satisfactory user experience can greatly enhance your interactions with the platform.

Depending on your needs, you should research and consider all these topics. Don’t hesitate to try out several exchanges to find the best fit for you.

Is KuCoin the best exchange?

People often praise KuCoin for its competitive fees, its wise variety of supported cryptocurrencies, and unique features such as margin trading. However, KuCoin may not suit everyone, especially U.S.-based users looking to avoid KYC regulation.

Prior to the new regulations as of July 2023, KuCoin was often classified as a non-KYC crypto exchange because, being unregulated in the U.S., it couldn’t perform standard financial industry Know Your Customer (KYC) disclosures.

It’s important to reiterate again that the purpose of KYC is to help prevent criminal activity and money laundering. However, the practice, in some senses, contradicts some of the ethos of crypto, which many see as being about true decentralization and privacy. Note that even with efforts to secure the platform, hackers have targeted KuCoin, stealing over $280 million in assets in 2020. Potential users must assess these considerations in line with their personal trading needs, risk tolerance, and regulatory comfort.

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 US, 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, factors like ease of use, variety of supported tokens, robust security measures, advanced trading features, and customer service should be your priority when choosing a platform. It’s essential to conduct your own due diligence before settling on your preferred platform. 

Frequently asked questions

What is the alternative 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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