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KuCoin Review – Is KuCoin Exchange Safe? KYC, Fees & Many More

KuCoin Review – Is KuCoin Exchange Safe? KYC, Fees & Many More

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Last updated: April 16, 2025
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20 mins read

KuCoin was launched in August 2017 and quickly became one of the most recognized crypto exchanges in the market. Its reputation grew over time as traders found value in the wide selection of coins, an interface that didn’t demand a steep learning curve, and trading options that covered everything from casual spot buying to more advanced tools.

With access to over 900 cryptocurrencies across 400+ markets, KuCoin attracts all kinds of traders. The platform’s layout feels clean and straightforward, but beneath that simplicity lies a suite of features that goes beyond the basics. Users aren’t boxed into just one style of trading, there’s room to experiment, adjust, and scale strategies without needing to jump between platforms.

In this review, the focus stays on how KuCoin actually functions in practice. Is it reliable? How smooth is the trading process? Are the tools practical or just shiny extras? These are the kinds of questions that matter. Instead of broad claims, this article breaks it down section by section to understand what KuCoin gets right, where it might fall short, and whether it still holds up as one of the go-to exchanges for crypto traders. Let’s take a look:

What Is KuCoin?

Since its inception in 2017, KuCoin and has grown into one of the most active crypto exchanges used today. It began operations in China, later shifted to Singapore, and then finally moved its base to Seychelles. These changes weren’t for expansion but were necessary responses to growing regulatory pressure, especially from Western governments. The exchange is still active today and is doing remarkably well compared to the majority of its competitors.

KuCoin supports over 900 cryptocurrencies, and that number keeps climbing. You’ll obviously find mainstream assets like Ethereum, but KuCoin also tends to list new coins before many others do which is part of its appeal. Traders who want early access to smaller-cap tokens often end up here, scanning for the next breakout.

The platform offers spot and futures trading, automated bots, and other tools that cater to both casual users and those who trade daily. It hasn’t suffered major outages either, which says a lot considering how active the exchange stays around the clock.

Users can trade through the KuCoin website or mobile app. The app runs on both Android and iOS and receives frequent mention for its simplicity. You don’t need a manual to figure it out. The ease of use, combined with the range of coins and features, keeps traders coming back.

Still, KuCoin faces serious challenges. Regulatory barriers limit its reach in some regions. It hasn’t been able to scale the way Binance has, and that gap is noticeable. But with over 40 million users worldwide, it remains an active player. Not perfect but still commendable.

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Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Offers low trading fees across all markets.
  • Provides access to over 900 cryptocurrencies and tokens.
  • Known for listing promising altcoins early.
  • User-friendly interface designed for all experience levels.
  • Supports a wide range of trading and earning options, including futures, staking, and lending.

Cons
  • Operates without formal regulatory oversight.
  • Unavailable to users residing in the United States.
  • Previously experienced a security breach, raising concerns over asset safety.

KuCoin Key Features

KuCoin stacks several tools under one roof, giving users a lot to work with. Some use everything. Most don’t. But the options are there, and that’s the point.

KuCoin Futures

These contracts let traders speculate on price movements without holding the actual asset. Perpetual contracts, leverage up to 125x, support for major tokens like BTC and ETH—it’s all available. There’s also the Futures Brawl, a gamified twist that lets users go head-to-head, place directional bets, and earn rewards based on outcomes. It’s part trading, part game.

Trading Bots

These bots automate strategies based on user input. Set your rules, walk away, and let the algorithm handle execution. Some use it to avoid manual trading. Others use it because it saves time. But it’s not free, and the cost can add up depending on usage.

A Wide Variety of Assets

KuCoin’s asset list is massive as you can trade over 900 assets on this platform. The exchange often lists tokens before they hit larger exchanges, giving early access to projects still under the radar. This has attracted a crowd that’s constantly scanning for the next mover. Some hit and some don’t. But the volume speaks for itself.

Low Fees

KuCoin also stands out in the trading fees department. Maker-taker rates are among the lowest in the industry. High-volume traders benefit the most, but even casual users won’t find fees eating into every trade.

Options Trading

KuCoin runs a European-style format Options trading with no early exercise. It’s a limited approach, but it lets traders hedge or speculate on price swings without directly holding the asset. Simple enough to understand, complex enough to experiment with.

KuCoin Earn and Lend

KuCoin Earn adds passive income streams through savings, staking, and time-limited promos. The lending platform runs alongside it. Users can loan out assets, earn interest, and define lending terms. Borrowers must post collateral, reducing the risk for lenders, but that doesn’t eliminate it completely.

All these features exist independently. You don’t need to use them all. But they’re there, and the exchange keeps adding more.

How to Create Your KuCoin Account

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Go to the KuCoin website

Open your browser and visit KuCoin’s official homepage. Find the Sign Up button at the top right corner and click it to begin the registration process.

Choose a registration method

You’ll land on the sign-up page. Here, you can register using an email address or a phone number. You can also choose to sign up using your Google or Apple account. Before continuing, read and agree to KuCoin’s terms and conditions. There’s a checkbox below the input fields—tick it to proceed.

KuCoin exchange Sign-up page

Verify your email or phone

KuCoin will send a verification code to the email or phone number you entered. Copy the code and enter it into the provided field to confirm your contact details.

KuCoin Exchange Account verification

Set a strong password

Create a password that’s hard to guess. Combine letters, numbers, and symbols. The stronger, the better.

KuCoin Exchange Create your password

Finish and access your account

Once your password is set and verification is complete, your KuCoin account will be ready. You can now access the platform, explore its features, or complete identity verification to start trading.

KuCoin Exchange dashboard

Does KuCoin Require KYC?

KuCoin doesn’t make KYC mandatory. Users can sign up, deposit crypto, and start trading without completing identity verification. However, there are limits in place for accounts that skip KYC.

Unverified users can withdraw up to 2 BTC every 24 hours. Fiat-to-crypto purchases are also capped at 1,400 USDT daily. For those who complete KYC, the withdrawal limit increases significantly—up to 500 BTC per day.

Verification also adds an extra layer of security to your account, which can be helpful in case of suspicious activity or if account recovery is needed. It’s important to note that users based in the United States are currently not eligible for KuCoin’s KYC process.

So, while it’s possible to use the platform without verification, completing KYC gives you access to higher limits and stronger account protection.

KuCoin Deposits and Withdrawals

To make a deposit on KuCoin, start by clicking on the “Add Funds” option in the top right corner of the homepage. From there, select “Deposit Crypto.” This will bring you to a page where you can choose which cryptocurrency to deposit—USDT, for example. After picking your asset, you’ll need to select the network address. KuCoin will generate a wallet address for you. Simply copy this address and paste it into the wallet you’re withdrawing from. The transaction is then complete.

KuCoin Exchange Deposits page

Withdrawing assets is almost identical. The steps are the same, but instead of generating a wallet address, you’ll paste the address of the wallet where you want to send the funds.

KuCoin also offers direct fiat deposits and the option to buy crypto directly on the platform. However, these services are available in select regions and require full KYC verification to access them.

KuCoin Exchange Withdrawals page

KuCoin Spot Trading

Spot trading on KuCoin allows users to make quick trades where the cryptocurrency is transferred instantly once the trade is executed. This type of trading is appealing because it offers immediate delivery of assets, meaning you don’t have to wait for a long processing time. In spot trading, the focus is on trading pairs. A trading pair is a combination of two cryptocurrencies that can be traded against each other, like BTC/USDT (Bitcoin to Tether). The first currency in the pair is the one you’re buying or selling, while the second is the one you’re trading it for. Traders can only trade cryptocurrencies within the available pairs, and they can switch between different pairs depending on which assets they want to trade.

  • To begin spot trading on KuCoin, first head to the Trade dropdown on the homepage and select “Spot Trading.” This will direct you to the spot market interface.
    KuCoin spot trading
  • From there, select the trading pair you want to trade. For instance, click on “BTC/USDT” at the top left and choose the desired pair from the dropdown menu.
  • Once you’ve picked a pair, focus on the right side of the screen in the order section. Choose your order type, input the price you’re willing to pay for a limit order, and enter the amount of BTC you want to buy. After confirming the details, click on “Buy” to execute the trade.
    KuCoin Exchange Place Order

KuCoin Spot Margin/Futures Trading

KuCoin offers both margin and futures trading, which attract traders seeking higher leverage and more opportunities. In margin trading, users can borrow funds to trade, amplifying their potential gains or losses. KuCoin’s leverage for margin trading is capped at 10x, which might seem lower compared to other exchanges. However, these trades are carried out on the spot market, distinct from the Futures market on KuCoin. In the Futures market, traders can access much higher leverage of up to 100x, and have the flexibility to go long or short on over 100 different trading pairs.

Futures trading on KuCoin Exchange

Before using margin trading, users must enable it on their account and agree to KuCoin’s terms and conditions. KuCoin’s Futures platform also includes a feature called the Futures Brawl, which allows traders to bet on Bitcoin’s price movements for a chance to earn rewards. Participants wager USDT, decide whether to go long or short, and are then matched with someone who has the opposite view. The outcome determines whether they win or lose tokens. This interactive element has become increasingly popular on the platform.

KuCoin offers the following products on its future trading platform:

  • USDT-Margined Contracts
  • USDC-Margined Contracts
  • Coin-Margined Contracts
  • Future Grid Bots

KuCoin Options Trading

KuCoin’s options trading feature provides a unique opportunity to gain exposure to price movements and market sentiment without owning the underlying assets. Unlike other options, KuCoin offers European-style options, where you can exercise the option only at expiration. This approach lets you manage risks effectively while offering the potential to limit losses.

Options trading on KuCoin Exchange

In options trading, you can choose between two types: call options and put options. A call option gives you the right to buy an asset, like Bitcoin or Ethereum, while a put option grants you the right to sell the asset. To participate, users pay a premium, which represents the maximum amount they can lose. This flexibility allows you to take advantage of market fluctuations without the obligation to buy or sell the assets.

KuCoin Leveraged Tokens

KuCoin leveraged tokens

KuCoin Leveraged Tokens offer traders a way to gain amplified exposure to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum without the usual risks of liquidation. These tokens allow users to increase potential profits through leverage. For example, a 3x long token (BTC3L) would rise by 3% if Bitcoin increases by just 1%. Popular assets such as BTC, ETH, ADA, and VeChain are available with 2x and 3x leverage, offering more opportunities to profit from market movements.

One of the major benefits of leveraged tokens is that they eliminate the risk of liquidation, unlike traditional margin trading. Additionally, there are no requirements for margin or loans. These tokens are easy to trade, much like spot market assets, making them a simpler option compared to margin trading.

KuCoin P2P Trading

KuCoin’s P2P marketplace lets users trade directly with each other off-exchange, offering a way to buy and sell popular cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, and USDT. It supports several payment methods, with ACH transfers and PayPal being the most common. Additionally, users can trade in various fiat currencies, including USD, CAD, and CNY. The benefit of this feature is that it allows traders to trade any asset on the P2P market at a price that is suitable to both the buyer and the seller. It also makes buying crypto convenient in many regions.

However, there’s a trade-off. To use the P2P marketplace, users must complete KYC verification on their KuCoin accounts. This requirement compromises the privacy aspect that a true P2P marketplace usually offers. As a result, the number of active listings on the platform tends to be low.

KuCoin Earn

KuCoin Earn is a feature that helps users generate passive income through several options: savings, staking, and promotions. With savings, users can earn interest on their digital assets simply by depositing them. Staking, on the other hand, allows users to earn passive income by letting KuCoin stake their supported coins. The returns are based on the annual percentage yield (APY) of the coins. Lastly, promotions offer a chance to earn higher returns for a short time. These promotions may be artificial but can still offer great opportunities for quick gains.

KuCoin Earn

Additionally, KuCoin offers a Learn-and-Earn feature. By watching educational videos and completing a quiz, users can earn cash rewards. This feature gives an easy way to learn while earning at the same time.

KuCoin Lend (Crypto Lending Pro)

KuCoin Crypto Lending Pro

KuCoin Lend allows users to earn interest by lending their digital assets to margin traders. Lenders set the interest rate, while borrowers provide collateral to ensure the loan is secure. KuCoin acts as the intermediary, making sure the borrowed funds are repaid. There are over 50 cryptocurrencies available for lending, with annual interest rates ranging from 2.9% to 5.4%. KuCoin promises that lenders will get their tokens back. The loan terms are flexible, lasting 7, 14, or 28 days, depending on the agreement.

For a hands-off approach, lenders can opt for “auto lend,” which automatically re-lends their funds as soon as the previous loan term ends. This provides a truly passive way to earn, as long as there are borrowers on the platform.

KuCoin Spotlight

KuCoin Spotlight gives users the chance to earn token rewards from new projects by committing KuCoin’s KCS token during each Spotlight event. Similar to DeFi launchpads, which offer Initial Token Offerings (ITOs), users simply find a project featured in the Spotlight and allocate some of their KCS tokens to it. After the Spotlight period ends, participants receive tokens from the project, proportionate to the amount of KCS they allocated.

This feature has become popular due to the opportunity to get in on token sales at deeply discounted prices which is typically a chance that was only available to venture capitalists and large investors. If you get into a coin early and it succeeds in the market, the profits can be substantial.  KuCoin Spotlight allows qualified users to gain access to early-stage projects that have been carefully vetted by the KuCoin team. Only promising projects make it to the Spotlight.

To take part, users must meet three criteria:

  • Complete advanced verification on the platform.
  • Reside in a supported jurisdiction. Specific projects may have regional restrictions listed on their Spotlight page.
  • Agree to the Purchase Agreement.

Additionally, there’s a minimum KCS token requirement for eligibility in Spotlight events.

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KuCoin Trading Bots

KuCoin offers crypto trading bots, which help automate trading strategies and make it easier to generate passive income. These bots execute trades without requiring users to constantly monitor the market. However, they can come with significant costs, so it’s crucial to have a clear strategy and configure the bots carefully to meet specific goals.

One of the main advantages of using trading bots is their ability to eliminate repetitive tasks. They also capitalize on trading opportunities automatically and can help manage risk. For beginners, KuCoin provides pre-loaded strategies like Dollar-Cost Averaging, Futures Grid, and Smart Rebalance. These ready-made options simplify the process and make KuCoin a solid choice for those looking to use automated trading bots.

Trading bots on KuCoin Exchange

KuCoin Security and Privacy

KuCoin adheres to high industry standards when it comes to security, safeguarding users’ funds with a mix of advanced technologies and protocols. A large portion of the platform’s funds is stored in cold storage, keeping them offline and secure from online threats. To ensure additional safety, KuCoin works with Onchain Custodian, a partner dedicated to securing crypto holdings.

In 2020, KuCoin was hacked, and hackers managed to steal $275 million worth of customer funds. However, the exchange acted swiftly to reimburse all affected users. Since that incident, KuCoin has significantly enhanced its security measures. As of now, the platform has not faced any similar issues.

KuCoin’s security setup includes robust encryption technology, aligned with industry best practices. The platform also has dedicated control departments that monitor user activity to detect and prevent suspicious behavior.

To keep users’ accounts safe, KuCoin provides several security features. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is mandatory for extra account protection. Anti-phishing safety phrases ensure users can verify authentic communications. There’s also a login safety phrase, trading password, and the ability to restrict login IP addresses, which adds an extra layer of security.

Additionally, KuCoin launched its Anti-Fraud Suite to combat scams and fraud attempts. This suite includes advanced anti-phishing tools and verification for business wallet addresses. With these added measures, KuCoin aims to ensure that only legitimate wallet addresses and communications are trusted.

Another key feature is KuCoin’s Proof of Reserves (PoR). This system guarantees that user funds are fully backed by real assets. As of April 2025, the platform reports a 100% reserve ratio for major assets like BTC, ETH, USDT, and USDC. This reserve ratio is independently verified by the audit firm Mazars, ensuring transparency and trust.

KuCoin Fees

KuCoin adopts a tiered fee structure for trading, which is quite common among exchanges. The fees vary depending on the user’s 30-day trading volume. Most traders will face a Maker and Taker fee of 0.1%. However, if fees are paid using KuCoin’s native KCS token, users can get a discount of up to 20%.

For futures trading, the funding fees on KuCoin Futures are adjusted based on the relative funding rates, which can be either positive or negative. During normal periods, the funding fee for perpetual futures can be reduced to 0%. These adjustments happen every 8 hours, keeping the system responsive to market conditions.

Here is a breakdown of KuCoin’s fee structure for both spot and futures market.

KuCoin spot trading fees
KuCoin Futures Trading fees

Deposit and Withdrawal Fees

When it comes to deposits and withdrawals, KuCoin offers free crypto deposits. However, withdrawal fees depend on the token and the network used. To stay updated on the latest fees, users are advised to check the KuCoin Fees Page. For crypto purchases made with fiat, a transaction fee is charged when using the Fast Pay option, but the exact fee isn’t specified upfront; it will be shown on the confirmation page.

KuCoin doesn’t accept fiat deposits directly. Instead, it relies on third-party payment processors, and the fees of these partners are not disclosed on the site.

KuCoin Customer Support

KuCoin provides several ways for users to get help. The platform offers an online help center that covers frequently asked questions and basic troubleshooting. A chat box is also available on the site, though it mostly offers automated responses and often takes time to connect with a human representative.

For direct assistance, users can reach out through the official support email. KuCoin is also active on social media, including Twitter, Telegram, and Reddit. Among these, the Telegram channel is known for faster replies, especially for quick queries or account-related concerns.

Some users have reported delays and limited resolution through the chat service. While the email and community channels offer alternatives, the response time can vary depending on the issue.

Final Takeaway

KuCoin has earned its spot among major crypto exchanges by offering access to a wide range of assets, especially lesser-known altcoins that are often hard to find elsewhere. Its deep liquidity and trading features appeal to both new and experienced users, while the platform’s emphasis on expanding market options sets it apart from competitors.

That said, the lack of direct fiat withdrawal continues to be a major limitation. Users often treat KuCoin as a secondary platform that is ideal for trading and holding but relies on other exchanges for converting crypto to fiat. This extra step may not suit everyone. Still, for users who value market variety, competitive fees, and advanced tools, KuCoin is undoubtedly a solid choice. Its steady growth, consistent listing activity, and focus on trader-focused features make it worth considering especially as a complement to more fiat-friendly platforms.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Is KuCoin a safe exchange?

Yes, KuCoin takes security seriously, though it has faced a breach in the past. It now uses strong safety measures to protect users.

Is KuCoin available in the US?

No, KuCoin isn’t officially available in the United States right now.

Does KuCoin require KYC verification?

KYC is optional for basic trading, but withdrawal limits and some features are restricted without verification. Completing KYC increases access and limits.

What is KuCoin used for?

KuCoin is used to trade crypto, access margin and futures markets, and earn through staking or lending.

Can I withdraw money from KuCoin?

Yes, you can withdraw crypto anytime. Fiat withdrawals are only available in some regions.

Where is KuCoin based?

KuCoin is based in Seychelles, off the east coast of Africa.

What are KuCoin’s trading fees?

KuCoin charges 0.1% for both makers and takers. KCS holders get trading discounts.

Can I buy crypto on KuCoin with fiat?

Yes, but KuCoin uses third-party payment providers. It doesn’t accept direct fiat deposits and doesn’t disclose partner fees.

How many cryptocurrencies does KuCoin support?

KuCoin supports over 900 cryptocurrencies, including major coins like BTC, ETH, and XRP.

Does KuCoin report to the IRS?

No, KuCoin doesn’t report to the IRS. But U.S. users must report their crypto activity on their own.

Are there deposit fees on KuCoin?

Crypto deposits on KuCoin are free.

How can I contact KuCoin support?

Support is available through an online help center, email, Telegram, subreddit, and a website chatbot. Response quality may vary.

Can I earn interest on my crypto with KuCoin?

Yes, KuCoin Earn offers ways to earn yield on holdings through flexible and fixed terms.

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