VS
Quick verdict
Choose Coinbase if you want the simplest app and a publicly listed, heavily regulated US company. Choose Kraken if you want slightly lower entry-level trading fees on its Pro platform and a long, clean security record.
Side-by-side comparison
Feature
Coinbase
Kraken
Entry-level trading fees
0.50% maker / 0.90% taker (US, Advanced)
0.40% maker / 0.80% taker (Kraken Pro)
How to lower fees
Volume or USDC balance tiers
Volume or assets-held tiers
Simple buy
Coinbase fee + spread
Instant Buy fee + spread
Ease of use
Excellent for beginners
Very good; Pro has a learning curve
Security record
Majority of assets in cold storage, hardware key support
Founded 2011, publishes proof of reserves
Company
Publicly listed in the US
Private, long-running exchange
Staking
Yes, selected assets
Yes, selected assets
Availability
US, UK, EU and 100+ countries
US (most states), UK, EU and more
Fees as of our latest review and for base tiers; they vary by region and change often. Always confirm on each exchange's fee page.
Fees: Kraken is slightly cheaper to start
Both exchanges use maker/taker pricing on their advanced platforms. For a new US trader, Kraken Pro's 0.40% / 0.80% starting rates are a little lower than Coinbase Advanced's 0.50% / 0.90%. Both drop as your 30-day volume or balance grows. On either platform, avoid the simple Buy button for larger purchases and use limit orders instead. Estimate the impact with our profit calculator.
Security: both are top tier
Neither exchange has suffered a major theft of customer funds of the kind seen at Binance in 2026. Kraken has a long track record and publishes proof-of-reserves attestations; Coinbase is a publicly listed company subject to extensive disclosure. For long-term holdings, a hardware wallet is still safest.
Ease of use: Coinbase wins for beginners
Coinbase's app is the most beginner-friendly way to buy your first crypto. Kraken's app is also simple, but its Pro platform is aimed at more active traders.
Coinbase vs Kraken FAQ
Is Kraken cheaper than Coinbase?
At entry-level tiers on their advanced platforms, yes: Kraken Pro starts at 0.40% maker / 0.80% taker versus Coinbase Advanced at 0.50% / 0.90% for US accounts.
Which is safer, Coinbase or Kraken?
Both are considered among the safest exchanges. Kraken is known for its long security record and proof of reserves, while Coinbase benefits from being a publicly listed, regulated company.
Which is better for beginners?
Coinbase, thanks to its very simple app and onboarding. Read our how to buy Bitcoin guide to get started.